PM Modi to visit France and Slovakia to further deepen India's partnerships
New Delhi, June 9
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on an official visit to France and Slovakia from June 13-19, the Ministry of External Affairs stated on Tuesday.
At the invitation of the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, PM Modi will be undertaking an official visit to Nice, France, from June 13-14, and Evian and Paris, from June 16-19.
PM Modi will hold bilateral meetings with Macron in Nice on June 14, where the two leaders will review the full spectrum of the India-France bilateral relationship.
According to MEA, both leaders will also jointly inaugurate the 'Bharat Innovates' event, which will bring together top innovation startups and Venture Capital funds from India, France, and other countries.
"Being held during the 'India-France Year of Innovation', this signature event reinforces the vibrant innovation partnership that exists between the two countries," MEA noted.
From June 14-16, PM Modi will pay a State Visit to Slovakia at the invitation of the country's Prime Minister Robert Fico.
This will be the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Slovakia since its independence in 1993.
PM Modi will hold talks with Fico and explore new avenues of cooperation. Prime Minister will also call on the Slovak President Peter Pellegrini.
"The visit will reaffirm India's commitment towards strengthening its bilateral relationship with Slovakia in various sectors, including trade, investment, and automobile and railway manufacturing," read the statement issued by MEA.
On the third leg of the visit, Prime Minister Modi will participate in the G7 Summit in France's Evian on June 16-17. During the Summit, he will exchange views with the G7 leaders, and those from invited partner countries and international organisations.
PM Modi will visit Paris on June 18 on his final leg of the visit, where he will have further bilateral engagement and attend the VivaTech Summit, Europe's largest technology and start-up event.
He is also expected to address the members of the Indian community in Paris.
"Prime Minister's upcoming visit to Europe will further deepen India's partnership with France, Slovakia, and the G7. Prime Minister's presence at the G7 reflects India's standing as a leading voice of the Global South and a key partner in addressing global challenges," the MEA stated.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally, PM Modi visiting Slovakia for the first time! This will open new doors for trade and investment, especially in automobiles and railways. Good move to diversify our partnerships beyond the usual big players.
The G7 Summit is a big stage for India. Being invited shows we are a key global player. PM Modi's focus on the Global South is crucial, hope he raises issues like climate finance and technology transfer for developing nations.
As a Western diplomat living in India, I think this is a strategic trip. Strengthening ties with France (nuclear, defence) and Slovakia (manufacturing) is smart. I'm also glad PM Modi will address the Indian diaspora in Paris – they are a huge bridge for partnerships.
A packed schedule over a week – France, Slovakia, G7, VivaTech. PM Modi's energy is commendable. This level of engagement will definitely boost our startup ecosystem and attract investment from Europe. The India-France Year of Innovation is a great initiative.
I'm impressed by the depth of these visits. From high-level bilateral talks to engaging with startups and the diaspora. It's a holistic approach to diplomacy. I hope tangible outcomes result in better trade deals and technology sharing.
A small correction – it
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