By Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday concluded a packed six-day visit to France and Slovakia, wrapping up a diplomatic tour that combined high-level political engagements, economic outreach and discussions on global challenges. The visit saw India strengthen ties with European partners while also amplifying its voice on key international issues at the G7 Summit.
From innovation and technology to trade, strategic cooperation and global governance, the Prime Minister’s engagements reflected India’s growing role in shaping international conversations. The trip also underscored New Delhi’s efforts to deepen partnerships across Europe at a time when geopolitical and economic uncertainties continue to reshape global priorities.
Before departing for New Delhi, Modi described the visit as productive and outcome-oriented. In a message shared on social media, he highlighted the broad range of events and meetings held across multiple French cities before concluding the final leg of the tour.
The visit began in Nice, where Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly inaugurated the Bharat Innovates programme. The event brought together Indian startups, investors, researchers and technology leaders, showcasing India’s expanding innovation ecosystem and its ambitions to become a global hub for technology-driven growth.
From Nice, the Prime Minister travelled to Evian to participate in the G7 Summit, where he engaged with leaders of major economies on issues ranging from economic stability and energy security to artificial intelligence and international cooperation. India’s participation once again highlighted the country’s growing influence in global policymaking despite not being a formal member of the G7.
The tour also included extensive engagements in Paris, where Modi addressed the VivaTech 2026 conference, one of Europe’s leading technology and startup events. He used the platform to promote India as a destination for innovation, investment and digital transformation, while encouraging global companies and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in the country.
Beyond official meetings, the Prime Minister interacted with business leaders, chief executives and members of the Indian diaspora. These engagements focused on expanding investment partnerships, strengthening people-to-people ties and exploring new areas of cooperation in emerging technologies.
A significant milestone of the tour was Modi’s visit to Slovakia, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country. The visit opened a new chapter in bilateral relations, with discussions centred on trade, defence cooperation, innovation and broader European engagement.
Expressing gratitude at the conclusion of the trip, Modi thanked French President Emmanuel Macron, the French government and the people of France for their warm hospitality. He said the India-France partnership would continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.
As the Prime Minister returns to New Delhi, the visit is being seen as another step in India’s strategy of strengthening global partnerships while positioning itself as a key voice in technology, innovation and international diplomacy
