Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in France to begin the first leg of a two-nation trip that also includes Slovakia. Ahead of the trip, Modi says India’s participation in the G7 reflects the trust partners place in the country and highlights its growing global profile. He also frames his presence at the summit as an opportunity to voice the aspirations of the Global South and to reinforce India’s engagement with Europe and the G7. Modi adds that India remains committed to advancing collective efforts for a more sustainable and prosperous planet, language echoed in his departure remarks as well as comments on his expected priorities at the summit.
Reporting also notes that Modi meets with French President Emmanuel Macron in Nice before proceeding to Slovakia. He is expected to discuss issues affecting developing countries, including the consequences of the West Asia conflict such as an energy crisis, and to stress the importance of freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Modi later returns to France to attend the Evian G7 Summit on June 16–17, after the visit to Slovakia.
