From UAE to Italy: PM Modi To Begin Five-Nation Tour Today, Major Deals Expected

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a visit to five countries — UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy — between May 15 and May 20. This is not an ordinary foreign tour. Experts believe that the pivot of this entire tour is to further strengthen India's hold on the front of trade, investment and new technology.

What will be so special in UAE, that everyone's eyes are fixed there?

Modi will start his visit in UAE, where he will meet UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. There is full hope that there will be talks on energy, investment and further deepening of relations between the two countries. Economic relations between India and UAE are already very strong, but this time's talks can take them to a new level.

Which leaders will PM Modi meet in Netherlands?

After UAE, Modi will stay in Netherlands from 15 to 17 May. There he will meet Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetton. Apart from this, there will also be a meeting with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima. It is believed that some important things may happen between the two countries regarding trade and new technology.

What issues will be discussed the most during the Sweden tour?

On May 17 and 18, Modi will reach Sweden, where he will hold bilateral talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Christerson. AI, emerging technologies, semiconductors, defence and strong supply chains – these are the issues that can remain at the centre of this meeting. There is also news that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen may also be a part of the meeting — which makes it even more weighty.

Which is the big event in Norway in which PM will participate?

On May 19, Modi will participate in the third India-Nordic summit in Oslo, the capital of Norway. There will be a meeting with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre here. Leaders of Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Sweden will also be present at this summit. Trade, innovation and green technology could be on the main agenda of this meeting.

After all, how important is this entire tour for India?

The government is continuously trying to deepen India's relations with big countries of the world in areas like technology, energy and investment. Seen from this perspective, Modi's visit is not just a diplomatic visit but another milestone in India's growing global identity, the results of which can be seen in the times to come.