Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently concluded a whirlwind five-day tour spanning Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia, a strategic move yielding significant gains for India on the global stage. This multi-nation visit, characterized by bilateral meetings and participation in the G7 Summit, underscores India's growing influence and its commitment to fostering international cooperation across various sectors.

Deepening Ties with Cyprus

The Prime Minister's visit to Cyprus marked a historic moment as the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the island nation in over two decades. This visit signals a renewed focus on strengthening bilateral ties and strategic partnerships. Discussions with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides covered a wide range of areas, including trade and investment, education, maritime cooperation, digital connectivity, and regional security. Cyprus has consistently supported India's stance on critical issues such as Kashmir, cross-border terrorism, and reforms within the United Nations Security Council, further solidifying the relationship between the two nations. Economically, Cyprus forms part of the energy corridor connecting India with Europe through the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC). The visit also aimed to firmly anchor Cyprus in this strategic economic corridor.

Engagement at the G7 Summit

PM Modi's participation in the G7 Summit in Canada marked his sixth consecutive appearance at this global forum. Discussions at the summit revolved around pressing global issues such as energy security, emerging technologies, and the AI-energy nexus, with a specific focus on quantum technologies. On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi held a constructive bilateral meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, agreeing to take calibrated steps to restore stability of the strained relationship. A key outcome of the meeting was the agreement to reinstate high commissioners in each other's capitals. They also committed to revive discussions in key areas such as trade, clean energy, digital infrastructure, AI, food security, and critical minerals.

First Visit to Croatia

The Prime Minister's visit to Croatia was particularly significant as the first high-level visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country. Croatia is viewed as a potential partner in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, and the visit served as a major milestone in strengthening India-Croatia relations. An MoU on Agriculture and Allied Sectors was signed.

Key Gains and Strategic Implications

Here are some identified key takeaways from PM Modi's recent 5-day trip:

• Strategic Partnerships: Strengthened strategic partnerships with key nations like France and the U.S., focusing on defense, trade, and technology cooperation. India and France will also declare 2026 the India-France Innovation Year.
• Defense Cooperation: Enhanced defense cooperation with the US, including potential co-development of advanced defense equipment and increased interoperability.
• Economic Growth: Advanced discussions on trade and investment, including a goal to significantly increase bilateral trade with the U.S. and attract foreign investment into India's burgeoning sectors.
• Global Influence: Reaffirmed India's commitment to multilateralism and its role in addressing global challenges, including climate change and AI governance.
• Energy Security: Secured commitments for increased energy cooperation, including U.S. support for India to join the International Energy Agency and collaboration on civil nuclear energy projects.
• Technological Advancement: Enhanced collaboration on emerging technologies like AI, with joint initiatives planned with France and other nations.
• Diaspora Engagement: Connected with and addressed the Indian diaspora in multiple countries, reinforcing their role as important contributors to India's global outreach.
• Counter-Terrorism Efforts: Furthered discussions on combating terrorism and securing support for India's position on cross-border terrorism.
• Regional Connectivity: Promoted regional connectivity through initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, positioning India as a key player in global trade and infrastructure development.
• Diplomatic Influence: Reinforced India's diplomatic presence and influence in key regions, including the Mediterranean and the Indo-Pacific.

Overall Impact

PM Modi's five-day diplomatic outreach has solidified India's position as a key player in international affairs. By strengthening bilateral ties, engaging in multilateral forums, and promoting strategic initiatives, India has secured several gains that will contribute to its economic growth, security, and global influence. This proactive approach to foreign policy underscores India's commitment to shaping a new global order while safeguarding its national interests.