Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi starts a five-nation trip on Friday, beginning in the United Arab Emirates before moving to Europe. Multiple outlets say the agenda is shaped by concerns over energy markets and supply-chain stability amid the ongoing war in Iran. Disruptions affecting shipping routes in the Gulf and activity around the Strait of Hormuz are cited as ongoing factors contributing to volatility in oil and gas prices, which places pressure on energy-importing countries such as India.
The trip also aligns with India’s broader strategy to deepen and diversify economic and strategic partnerships. One outlet notes that India and the European Union have recently agreed on a free trade arrangement, signed in January and promoted by Modi as the “mother of all deals,” framing part of the Europe leg around closer commercial ties.
Overall, sources describe the visit as combining efforts to expand trade links and investment opportunities with steps aimed at addressing energy and logistics risks, reflecting how regional conflicts and trade routes influence policy priorities for India and its partners.
