PM Modi embarks on five-nation tour to bolster energy and strategic ties

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed on Friday for a high-stakes five-nation tour spanning May 15–20. The visit, which includes the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy, is designed to fortify India’s strategic alliances in trade, energy security and green technology.

As New Delhi seeks to expand its footprint in the Gulf and Europe, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) has hailed the trip as a "crucial juncture" for the nation's economic interests.

The UAE: A partnership reaching ‘New Mountaintops’

The tour begins in Abu Dhabi, where the PM will hold talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Al Hashimy described the Prime Minister as a "true treasure" for the people of the Emirates, adding that the relationship is poised to scale "new mountaintops" in trade and technology.

European engagement and green growth

Following the UAE, the Prime Minister will head to the Netherlands (May 15–17) to discuss semiconductors and green hydrogen with PM Rob Jetten. The focus then shifts to Sweden and Norway.

Sweden: PM Modi and PM Ulf Kristersson will address the European Round Table for Industry alongside EC President Ursula von der Leyen.

Norway: The Prime Minister will attend the 3rd India-Nordic Summit in Oslo, engaging with leaders from across the Nordic region on sustainable growth.

FIEO President SC Ralhan noted the importance of these high-level talks, stating, "The Prime Minister's high-level engagements with the leadership of the UAE and major European nations underline India's growing stature as a trusted economic partner and a key driver of global growth."

The final leg: Italy

The tour concludes in Italy (May 19–20), where PM Modi will meet with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella. Discussions are expected to centre on clean energy and defence cooperation.

With collective bilateral trade exceeding $70 billion across these five nations, the visit is expected to provide a massive boost to Indian exporters. According to Ralhan, "The visit is expected to create substantial opportunities for Indian exporters across sectors, including engineering, clean energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, food processing, textiles, logistics and digital trade." 

ANI