PM Modi Kicks Off Tour of UAE and Europe to Enhance Global Partnerships

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a six-day journey across the United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy, aimed at bolstering India's connections with vital international allies amidst prevailing geopolitical upheavals and economic hurdles.

This tour prioritizes discussions on energy security, trade relations, advanced technologies, defense partnerships, and investment prospects. It unfolds during a period of uncertainty in global energy markets, which have been influenced by escalating tensions in West Asia.

As per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Modi plans to engage with numerous global leaders to enhance India's international collaborations and broaden joint efforts in crucial sectors.

Visit to the UAE

Modi's first destination is the UAE, where he will meet President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Their discussions will center on reinforcing the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership while also assessing the evolving scenario in West Asia.

The two nations are anticipated to finalize two significant agreements concerning liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and strategic petroleum reserves.

Moreover, the leaders will address topics such as trade, investment, and the well-being of the Indian diaspora, which numbers over 4.5 million in the Gulf nation.

The UAE ranks as India’s third-largest trading partner and a vital source of foreign capital.

Trip to the Netherlands

Following his UAE visit, Modi will head to the Netherlands from May 15 to 17. This marks his second trip to the nation since 2017.

During his stay, Modi will meet King Willem-Alexander, Queen Máxima, and Prime Minister Rob Jetten.

Conversations are expected to address defense, security, innovation, semiconductors, green hydrogen, and water resource management cooperation.

The Netherlands is one of India's significant trade allies in Europe, with bilateral trade reaching USD 27.8 billion by 2024-25. It is also the fourth-largest investor in India.

Sweden Visit

PM Modi will continue to Sweden from May 17 to 18, following an invitation from Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.

The discussions will likely cover areas including environmental transition, artificial intelligence, start-ups, climate initiatives, defense, cutting-edge technologies, and robust supply chains.

India-Sweden bilateral trade reached USD 7.75 billion in 2025.

During his visit, Modi and Kristersson will also participate in the European Round Table for Industry alongside Ursula von der Leyen.

Norway Visit

Next, PM Modi will make his way to Norway from May 18 to 19 for the third India-Nordic Summit in Oslo. This serves as Modi’s inaugural visit to Norway and marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years.

In Norway, Modi will converse with King Harald V, Queen Sonja, and Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

Their discussions will center on trade, investments, clean energy, green technologies, and the blue economy.

The India-Nordic Summit will feature leaders from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden, and aims to fortify India’s strategic relationships with these Nordic nations.

Italy Visit

Concluding the tour, PM Modi will visit Italy from May 19 to 20, responding to an invitation from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

He will also meet with President Sergio Mattarella.

Key topics for discussion include investments, defense collaboration, clean energy initiatives, science and technology advancements, and innovation.

Currently, India and Italy are executing the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029 aimed at enhancing cooperation in diverse sectors. Bilateral trade between both countries reached USD 16.77 billion in 2025.

Overall, this six-day diplomatic mission is seen as a significant endeavor by India to solidify economic and strategic alliances during a time of global uncertainty.