NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived to participate in the G7 Summit, where he is expected to engage in discussions with global leaders on pressing international issues, including energy security, economic resilience, technology, artificial intelligence, geopolitical conflicts and the concerns of developing nations. India has once again been invited as an outreach partner despite not being a member of the G7, highlighting its growing influence in global affairs.
This year’s summit, hosted by France in Évian-les-Bains from June 15 to 17, has brought together leaders from the world’s largest advanced economies along with invited nations and international organisations. Prime Minister Modi’s participation marks another significant chapter in India’s increasing engagement with global decision-making platforms.
Before arriving at the summit venue, Modi completed his engagements in Slovakia, where he strengthened bilateral ties and received the country’s highest civilian honour. His presence at the G7 summit comes during a period of major global uncertainty marked by ongoing conflicts, economic challenges and disruptions in energy supply chains.
During the summit, India is expected to emphasise the priorities of the Global South, focusing on issues affecting developing countries such as food security, climate financing, affordable energy access and equitable technological development. New Delhi has consistently advocated for greater representation of emerging economies in international institutions.
One of the major highlights of Modi’s visit is the possibility of several bilateral meetings with influential leaders on the sidelines of the summit. Diplomatic attention remains focused on potential discussions with US President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron and other leaders regarding trade, strategic cooperation and global security matters.
Trade relations are expected to feature prominently in conversations between India and the United States. Officials from both countries have indicated that discussions will continue regarding tariff concerns, market access and efforts to advance a broader bilateral trade agreement. However, reports suggest that no final deal is expected to emerge immediately from the summit itself.
Energy security will also be among the key themes under discussion. Nations are seeking ways to diversify energy sources while ensuring affordability and stability amid continuing geopolitical tensions in various parts of the world. India is likely to advocate for balanced energy transitions that do not disproportionately affect developing economies.
The summit also presents an opportunity for India to strengthen relationships with Western countries at a time when global alliances are evolving rapidly. Analysts believe India’s strategic position, economic growth and geopolitical significance have made it an indispensable partner in international discussions.
Apart from energy and trade, leaders are expected to deliberate on artificial intelligence governance, supply chain resilience, critical minerals, climate action and regional conflicts. India has been advocating for responsible and inclusive use of emerging technologies while protecting the interests of developing nations.
Prime Minister Modi has repeatedly stressed that global challenges require collective solutions and that the voices of developing countries must be integrated into international policymaking. His participation at the G7 summit reflects India’s broader diplomatic objective of serving as a bridge between advanced economies and the Global South.
Following the summit, Modi is expected to continue his overseas engagements as part of a broader diplomatic outreach aimed at strengthening India’s partnerships across Europe and beyond. The visit underscores India’s expanding role in shaping conversations on global governance, security and sustainable development.
