Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit several European nations in May, with discussions expected to centre on trade ties, security cooperation and ongoing global conflicts.
As per a report by the Hindustan Times, trade and security cooperation, the conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, and disruptions in energy and trade supply chains are expected to be in focus, people familiar with the matter said.
The visit, scheduled between May 15 and 20, is likely to include stops in the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy. Officials indicated that the Prime Minister may also make a brief stop in the United Arab Emirates, either at the beginning or end of the trip.
India-Nordic summit to be key highlight
A major highlight of the visit will be Modi’s participation in the third India-Nordic Summit in Norway. The forum brings together leaders from India and Nordic nations, including Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, focusing on economic ties, sustainability and innovation.
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ANI Netherlands visit to boost tech and trade ties
In the Netherlands, discussions are expected to cover sectors such as clean energy, water management, defence and semiconductors. A potential collaboration in chip manufacturing is being closely watched. Earlier this year, an Indian delegation visited Eindhoven to explore opportunities in the semiconductor ecosystem, while Dutch firm ASML has announced plans to expand its presence in India.
The visit will also facilitate the first in-person meeting between Modi and his Dutch counterpart Rob Jetten, who assumed office in February.
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In Sweden, talks are expected to review cooperation in innovation, trade and technology under an existing joint action framework. Italy, another key European Union partner, will host discussions aimed at strengthening economic and strategic ties, with attention also on the proposed India-EU free trade agreement.
UAE stopover to address energy, diaspora and BRICS
The possible stop in the UAE will include talks with President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Discussions are likely to cover energy cooperation, welfare of the Indian diaspora and preparations for the upcoming BRICS Summit to be hosted by India.
PM Modi and UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan ANI Officials noted that the UAE remains a significant energy partner for India, contributing nearly 6 percent of its crude imports and serving as a key supplier of LPG and petroleum products.
Modi had earlier planned a similar European tour in May 2025, which was cancelled following India’s military response to a terror attack in Pahalgam and the subsequent four-day conflict with Pakistan.
