PM Modi's Historic Slovakia Visit: Strengthening India-Europe Ties In Trade And Technology
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bratislava for a two-day visit, marking the first by an Indian PM since Slovakia’s independence in 1993, to strengthen bilateral ties in trade, technology, and manufacturing. The discussions with Slovak President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico aim to expand cooperation in sectors like AI, automobile production, and railway manufacturing, while also positioning Slovakia as a key partner for India’s broader EU engagement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi began a two-day visit to Slovakia on June 15, the first by an Indian leader since the country’s independence in 1993. The trip is part of a three-nation European tour and focuses on deepening economic and technological ties between New Delhi and Bratislava. Modi met Slovak President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico, with discussions centered on trade, investment, and cooperation in automobile manufacturing, railway production, and technology. The visit follows high-level exchanges, including President Droupadi Murmu’s state visit to Slovakia in April 2025 and President Pellegrini’s attendance at India’s AI Impact Summit in February 2026. Modi emphasized the historic nature of the trip, calling it a chance to strengthen bilateral relations and explore new avenues for collaboration. He also received a traditional bread-and-salt welcome, a gesture symbolizing hospitality in Slovakia. Business leaders from both countries are expected to discuss opportunities for joint ventures and market expansion. India views the visit as a stepping stone for deeper engagement with the European Union, of which Slovakia is a member. The discussions align with India’s broader strategy to enhance ties with Central and Eastern European nations. After Slovakia, Modi will attend the G7 Summit in Evian, France, on June 16–17, where he will engage with global leaders on economic growth and artificial intelligence. His tour concludes in Paris on June 18, where he will participate in VivaTech 2026, Europe’s largest technology and startup event, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. The visit underscores India’s focus on diversifying its European partnerships beyond Western nations, with Slovakia serving as a bridge for trade and innovation. Modi’s engagements in Bratislava combine diplomacy, economic diplomacy, and technology-focused discussions, reinforcing India’s push for global cooperation in key sectors.
This content was automatically generated and/or translated by AI. It may contain inaccuracies. Please refer to the original sources for verification.