PM Modi will visit UAE as a stopover following his trip to France

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to embark on an official visit to France and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 13-15 July 2023. At the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, PM Modi will visit Paris from 13-14 July. This visit is of particular significance as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of the India-France Strategic Partnership. The alliance, formed in September 2022 during the United Nations General Assembly, focuses on collaboration in areas such as nuclear and solar energy, climate change, and biodiversity.

During his time in France, PM Modi has been invited as the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day celebrations, which commemorate the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution in 1789. This year, India has been chosen as the guest of honour at the parade. The Indian Tri-service officials are currently in Paris for the parade rehearsals. The close personal relationship between PM Modi and President Macron adds further significance to their interactions.

President Macron is expected to extend a warm welcome to PM Modi, which may include multiple meetings such as a private dinner and a joint meeting with CEOs. A State Banquet is also likely to be hosted at the renowned Louvre Museum on Bastille Day.

PM Modi's visit will involve engaging with key political leaders in France, including President Macron, Prime Minister Borne, and the Presidents of the Senate and National Assembly. Notably, an agreement for the acquisition of 26 Rafale-Marine fighters for the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier is expected to be signed. Furthermore, there are anticipations for an additional order of three Scorpene (Kalveri) class submarines through the "Make in India" initiative at Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL).

Following his visit to France, PM Modi will proceed to the UAE for a day, where he will hold meetings with top leaders, including President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This visit to the UAE builds upon previous interactions between PM Modi and President Al Nahyan, including a stopover during PM Modi's return from the G7 Summit in Germany last year.