Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday began a five-nation diplomatic tour aimed at strengthening India’s energy security, expanding trade relations, and deepening strategic partnerships across the Gulf and Europe. The visit, which runs from May 15 to May 20, 2026, is expected to include high-level discussions on investment, defence cooperation, clean energy, and emerging technologies.
According to official sources, the tour begins in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), followed by visits to the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. In the UAE, PM Modi is scheduled to meet President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to review bilateral ties, with a strong focus on long-term energy cooperation, including crude oil supply, LNG agreements, and strategic petroleum reserves.
The UAE leg is considered particularly significant amid global energy market volatility. India, which is heavily dependent on imported oil, is seeking stable and diversified energy partnerships. Reports suggest that both sides are likely to sign agreements related to LPG supply and strategic oil storage, reinforcing energy security as a key pillar of the relationship.
After the UAE visit, the Prime Minister will travel to Europe, where discussions are expected to centre around trade expansion, green hydrogen, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and industrial cooperation. The visit also includes participation in the India-Nordic Summit in Norway, where India and Nordic countries will explore deeper collaboration in sustainable development and innovation.
Officials have described the tour as part of India’s broader diplomatic strategy to strengthen its position as a reliable global partner amid shifting geopolitical and economic conditions. The engagements are also expected to open new opportunities for Indian exporters in sectors such as engineering, pharmaceuticals, clean energy, textiles, and digital services.
The five-nation tour highlights India’s growing focus on balancing energy security with strategic global partnerships, while also boosting economic growth through international cooperation.
