MEA Special Briefing on PM Modi’s visit to UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy | India

Ajouté : 2026-05-16

[00:00:00]by uh Shrimati Puja Kapoor additional secretary North Europe, Sri Pu Sharav, additional secretary Europe West best and Shri Ashin Mahaj additional secretary Gul. With that I turn it over to Secretary West. Sir, the floor is yours. Thank you. Thank you.

[00:00:20]My colleagues, additional secretaries Puja Kapoor, Push Sastava and Aim Mahajin. My dear friends from the media, uh this uh visit is about five countries. So my opening remarks will be slightly longer. So we will be very happy to take uh questions after that.

[00:00:45]Honorable Prime Minister S. Narendra Modi will be undertaking a five nation tour from 15 to 20 May which includes the United Arab Emirates and four European nations.

[00:00:59]the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy. Prime Minister will begin his visit from the UAE on 15th May where he will meet the president of the UAE, his highness shik Muhammad bin Zahed alahan and exchange views on bilateral relations in particular energy cooperation as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest.

[00:01:25]There are regular high level exchanges between both the countries. You would recall that the UAE president paid an official visit to India on 19th January this year. The crown prince of Abu Dhabi, his higher shake Khaled was also visited India in February this year to participate in the AI impact summit.

[00:01:47]We share a comprehensive strategic partnership with the UAE which has continued to deepen in all spheres of relationship. During the visit, both the leaders will discuss avenues to further deepen our bilateral ties in areas including trade, investment, energy, technology, culture, and of course, people-to-people connect.

[00:02:14]As our MA spokesperson said yesterday in his press briefing, discussions will be held on strengthening our bilateral cooperations. Discussions will also focus on strengthening our energy security. I repeat, energy security, which is an important aspect of our relationship. As you are aware, we have a community of over 4.5 million Indians in the UAE, which is a living bridge of our relationship. My colleague, additional secretary G, Mr. Siman will uh further brief you on the uh visit uh to UAE.

[00:02:55]So, let me now proceed with the other part of the visits. The visit to the four European countries comes in the backdrop of the India EU FTA that we finalized earlier this year and the India F tape which was entered into in uh 2025 during the visit. The third India Nordic summit will also take place in our Amritkal journey. Next 20 years when we strive to become a big Sid Bharat in 2047, India considers these countries as important partners in our making India initiative aimed at transforming India into a manufacturing hub. These visits will focus on our three T's. Trade and investment, technology, particularly green technology, innovation, startups, and of course again people-to-people connect. Let me now uh brief you on each of the visits to the European countries.

[00:04:00]On May 15 to 17, Prime Minister is will be in Netherlands.

[00:04:06]This would be Prime Minister's second visit to the Netherlands. Last one was in 2017.

[00:04:11]The visit comes at an important juncture in our bilateral ties. During the visit, Prime Minister will hold bilateral talks with the Prime Minister of Netherlands.

[00:04:21]He will also meet their majesties King William Alexander and King Maxima. Prime Minister is also expected to address the Indian community and meet top business leaders of the Netherlands. Our partnership has considerably deepened over the last few years across traditional sectors of trade, investment and priority sectors of WA that is water, agriculture and health as well as people-to-people ties. In recent years, cooperation has further expanded into strategic areas of technology, innovation, defense, security, semiconductors, renewable energy, education, and the maritime domain. Further, people-to-people ties remain a key aspect of India, Netherlands bilateral relationship. The Netherlands is home to over 90,000 non-resident Indians and persons of Indian origin alongside over 200,000 members of the Surami Hindustani community. Around 3,500 Indian students are currently enrolled in various universities there. The forthcoming visit carries a rich and substantive agenda. It is expected to consolidate the new and strategic dimensions of the partnership that have emerged through the sustained efforts of both sides. Now let me proceed to Sweden. On 17th May, Prime Minister Modi will undertake an official visit to Gothberg, Sweden. This will be Prime Minister Modi's second visit to Sweden after his landmark visit in 2018 for the first ever India Nordic summit.

[00:06:07]The forthcoming visit reflects the growing depth of India Sweden ties under the India Sweden innovation partnership announced in 2018. Sweden today is one of the world's most innovative economies and India and Sweden increasingly view each other as complimentary innovation and technology partners. During the visit, honorable prime minister will hold consultations with the prime minister of Sweden covering the school spectrum of bilateral relations including trade and investment, green transition, AI and emerging technologies, resilient supply chains, defense cooperation, space collaboration, climate action and people-to-people ties. Prime Minister will be the chief guest at the European roundt for industry a high level pan European CEOs forum representing business leaders from European Union IFA and UK Prime Minister and President of the European Commission. Her excellency Miss Usula Wonder would also address the forum. The economic and commercial relationship between India and Sweden is on an upward trajectory with the bilateral trade reaching USD 7.75 billion in 2025 and presence of over 280 Swedish companies in India and over 75 Indian companies in Sweden. There is robust cooperation in climate action and sustainable industrial transition. India and Sweden jointly launched the leadership group for industry transition lead uh the first multilateral initiative aimed to recarbonize hard to abate sectors at the UN climate action summit in New York in 2019 in partnership with the world economic forum. The two prime minister subsequently launched 2.0 Indo at COP 28 in Dubai in 2023.

[00:08:12]During the AI impact summit in February this year, India and Sweden signed a statement of Indian to establish the Sweden India technology and AI corridor to strengthen cooperation in AI emerging technologies and innovation ecosystems.

[00:08:30]Defense cooperation has also emerged as an important pillar of the bilateral relationship. Swedish company SAB has established its cargo staff manufacturing facility in Hana which is SAB's first such manufacturing facility outside Sweden and the first facility in India under the 100% FDA root in the defense sector. India and Sweden also enjoy longstanding cultural and academic linkages. Indian diaspora in Sweden numbering over 90,000 serves as an important bridge between the two countries. Prime Minister's visit will impart fresh momentum to the India Sweden partnership and open new avenues of cooperation across the three T's trade, technology and talent. Let me move on to Norway. On 18th May, Prime Minister will travel to Norway at the invitation of the Prime Minister of Norway for an official visit for bilateral engagement and the third India Nordic summit to be held on 19th May.

[00:09:36]This will be the first visit of Prime Minister Modi to Norway and will mark the first Prime Mini will visit from India to Norway in 43 years.

[00:09:47]On 18th May 2026, Prime Minister will hold talks with uh uh on 18th May 2026, Prime Minister will hold talks with Prime Minister Ro. It will provide an opportunity to shape and develop an ambitious agenda of cooperation in the areas of trade and investment, innovation, clean and green tech, new economy and cuttingedge advancements.

[00:10:13]Prime Minister also have an audience with their majesties in Haralt five and Kuna. Prime Minister Modi along with Prime Minister Store will address the India Norway business and research summit focusing on trade technology and investment to promote implementation of India FTA trade and economic partnership agreement.

[00:10:36]There are ongoing discussions on climate action including cooperation in carbon capture and storage, offshore wind, battery technology, energy efficiency, etc. India and Norway have been jointly undertaking several research expeditions and capacity building initiatives in the Arctic region. There is ongoing collaboration in the space sector as well. In 2026, ISRO installed its antennas at the KSAX facility in Swalbad. The discussions of the prime ministers will between the prime ministers will shape the direction of a forwardlooking India Norway partnership.

[00:11:16]The third India Nordic summit will take place in Oslo on 19th May. Prime Minister Modi will be joined by the Prime Minister of Norway, Prime Minister of Denmark, Prime Minister of Finland, Prime Minister of Iceland and Prime Minister of Sweden for the summit.

[00:11:33]Nordic countries are important partners of India in tech and innovation, sustainability, renewable energy and digitization. The summit will be an opportunity to review the progress of India Nordic relations since the second India Nordic summit held in Copenhagen in May 2022.

[00:11:53]India's relationship with Nordic countries has been on onward uh has been on an upward trajectory since then with a deeper trade and investment linkages and growing sectoral cooperation in the areas where Modi countries have great strengths. India's bilateral trade in goods and services with NAI countries has reached US dollars 19 billion with exports at USD 9.25 to 5 billion and imports also at around USD 9.5 billion.

[00:12:27]Over 700 Nordic companies operate in India and around 150 Indian companies have a presence in Nordic region.

[00:12:38]So there are very important milestones in our engagement with Nordic in the last few years. This summit will help in expanding our multiverse sector cooperation with the region and provide an opportunity to exchange views on global and regional issues of mutual interest. It will also impart a more strategic dimension to our relationship with the Nordics in tech and innovation.

[00:13:05]Prime Minister will also hold bilateral meetings with the prime ministers of Denmark, Iceland and Finland on the margins of the third India Nordic summit. Now let me move on to Italy. At the invitation of the Italian Prime Minister um Madame Melani, Prime Minister Modi will play pay an important uh official visit to Italy on 1920 May on final leg of his tour tour to Europe.

[00:13:31]This would be Prime Minister Modi's first bilateral visit to Italy and third overall. Prime Minister's program in Rome includes a call on the president of the Italian Republic and bilateral engagement with the prime minister of Italy. Prime Minister will also have an interaction with select Indian and Italian CEOs. In addition to the bilateral element, Prime Minister will also visit the headquarters of the role based UN agency Food and Agriculture Organization FAO. India is a founding member of FAO since 1945.

[00:14:07]The visit to FAO underlines India's commitment to multilateralism, global efforts to address food security, sustainable agriculture and rural development. The visit to Europe, a visit to Italy is taking place in the backdrop of growing momentum of India Italy relations. The two prime ministers have met seven times since 2023. Their regular dialogue has been instrumental in driving the upward trajectory of bilateral relationship India. The visit will be an opportunity to review Congress and identify new areas for collaboration under joint strategic action plan 2025 2029. A comprehensive road map for cooperation across various domains of bilateral cooperation adopted by both leaders in 2024.

[00:15:00]Economic and commercial cooperation is a key element of our partnership with Italy. Bilateral trade is currently to the tune of Euro40 billion. We had three business war last year which has further provided boost to our bilateral trade in sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, machinery, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, textiles, infrastructure, logistics, food processing and renewable energy. Science and technology and innovation will be another area of focus of cooperation which we will explore cooperation in emerging technologies, clean energy, joint research and mobility of academic and researchers.

[00:15:44]Our defense cooperation has also borded with regular dialogues, service to service ties and exchange of port visits. As you may be aware, the Italian defense minister had a fruitful visit to India last month. Both sides are also exploring avenues for defense industrial collaboration, co-development, co-production of defense equipment. Both sides will also discuss on enhancing maritime security cooperation.

[00:16:12]Both India and Italy strongly collaborate in security domain. The two prime ministers had announced joint initiative to counter financing of terrorism last year. We have a vibrant Indian diaspora in Italy, estimated around 2.5 lakhs. More than 6,000 Indian students are pursuing academic courses in various universities and institutes across Italy. Discussions will also further focus on expanding enhancing this collaboration. Several key key agreements andus are expected to be signed during the visit which will further strengthen the institutional framework and diversify areas of cooperation. Prime Minister's visit will further deepen the India Italy strategic partnership, expand cooperation across a wide range of sectors and enhance coordination on regional and global challenges.

[00:17:08]Let me conclude by saying this. coming in the backdrop of the conclusion of the historic India EU FTA earlier this year as well as the signing of the India EU security and defense partnership and the comprehensive framework of cooperation on mobility at the EU level. The visit of the prime minister will further reinforce India's ties with Europe in key sectors of trade, investment, innovation, defense, security, technology, green energy, and people-to-people ties. We will share more details as the visit progresses.

[00:17:47]I will stop here. We will be very happy to take questions. Thank you.

[00:17:54]Before that uh Aim, would you like to add some elements of our energy partnership with UAE? I would request you please. Thank you. Uh as all of you are aware uh and already it has been briefed that the honorable prime minister will be visiting UAE at the first part of his uh leg of the current visit with UAE. We share a very vibrant partnership in the area of energy. The UAE is an important partner in our energy security. Last year, the UAE was the fourth largest source of crude oil meeting nearly 11% of our requirement.

[00:18:33]In the area of LNG, Indian companies and the UAE Abu Dhabi National Oil Company Adno Gas have entered into long-term supply contracts for cumulative of 4.5 mm TTA LNG to India.

[00:18:49]These some of the recent contracts include between IOCL and Gale signed agreements with ADMNO in February 2024 for 1.2 MMTPA and.5 MMTPA respectively.

[00:19:03]IOC signed a third long-term contract for 1 MMTPA in September 2024 and HPCL signed a 10-year agreement with Adnock Gas for.5 MMTA beginning in 2028 during the visit of his highness president of UA to India in January 2028.

[00:19:23]This makes India the biggest buyer of UA's LMG.

[00:19:28]UA is also the largest source of LPG for India meeting nearly 40% of our requirement.

[00:19:36]Uh on the UA is also the second largest destination of petroleum, oil and lubricants export for Indian refiners.

[00:19:49]Indian companies have also invested over US dollars 1.2 2 billion in the upstream sector in the UA in the UAE. In 2018, a consortium of Indian companies OVL, BPRL, IOCL took up 10% stake in more Zakum block in the UAE. In 2019, Indian joint venture company Private Limited JB between BPRL and ICL has taken up stake in Abu Dhabi onshore block 1. In January 2026, BPRL has confirmed an oil discovery in Abu Dhabi's onshore block one. These are the first of their time upstream investments by India in the region. The UA is also the first country to partner with India in the strategic petroleum reserves. In 2018, ISPRL and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company Adno entered into an agreement for the UAE to store over 5 million barrels of crude oil in ISPL's facility in Mangalore. India and UAE are also expanding cooperation in the area of renewable energy. An agreement has been signed between Maar and the government of the state of Rajasthan in October 2024 for setting up of 60 gawatt of renewable energy capacity. Besides this, both both countries are also working on a feasibility study for electricity integrid connection. UA is also an active founding member of the global biofuels allows alliance that was launched in September 2023 during the during India's presidency of the G20. So as I've explained we have a multifaceted partnership in the area of energy with UAE and we continue to strengthen this further. Thank you.

[00:21:46]>> Thank you. Uh with that we open the floor for questions. We start with Sat.

[00:21:52]Hi S, I'm Satan from Senior News and I have two questions. One regarding prime minister's visit to UAE. Asim sir rightly pointed out we already have deep cooperation with UAE and since now UAE is out of OPC OPC plus u it would be more feasible for us to be buying more energy from UAE. talk a little bit about this uh as this is prime minister's first visit after UA coming out of uh opening second. there is uh not been talked about uh the pipeline uh thing which is uh which is being planned. Is there going to be any uh significant announcement uh uh regarding that during prime minister's visit? And sir, second question to security jobs sir. Sir uh as far as the ASML uh in Netherlands is concerned, in fact there was uh this team from India which visited uh Netherlands uh the ASML uh unit and we have been trying uh best to bring them and be a part uh as far as semiconductor 2.2 uh project is concerned. So is there going to be any announcement perhaps for a for a partnership with ASML for semiconductor projects going on in Gujarat? Thank you.

[00:23:10]Uh this is Yishi Si from Business India.

[00:23:12]I have two questions. Uh one is has the conflict in West Asia impacted uh the supply of uh energy products to India and if yes how many are there any ships stuck in Hamus where you sourced the the oil or the gas from UAE and are there going to be uh any discussions on I2U2 so good evening this is a sha from I have two questions first on UA the energy aspect of the relationship. Um as CNC mentioned in his remarks earlier this year, India announced a 10-year energy supply agreement with UA which is beginning in 2028. Uh during the prime minister's visit to UA, will there be talks to further expand energy cooperation uh including more energy supplies given the recent tensions in West Asia? Second question sir, will there be any discussion on the IM corridor uh both with the UAE president and also with uh his Italian counterpart? Thank you.

[00:24:15]Manish India rights network. Uh so what is the overall contribution of NIC countries uh to our energy security calculus and secondly uh you know China is a major trading partner uh of all these Nordic countries. We trade in much much larger volume than India. What are our uh competitive strengths uh you know when we look at scaling up relations with uh uh with MAI countries and related to that is that this is uh this summit will be held after hiatus of 4 years. What will be the showpiece outcome here? Thank you NJ message.

[00:25:40]So we can take these questions and then come back for more.

[00:25:47]Thank you. Uh thank you very much. uh in fact uh uh questions I would uh uh cover together but you know a few questions were related to the uh visit to UAE and also on the outcome of the visit. You know, as I briefed in my uh opening remarks, we have a very concrete uh agenda covering the entire spectrum of bilateral relationship with each of the countries with the UAE, with the Netherlands, with the Sweden and Norway and of course the other members of the Nordic countries. you have a very concrete agenda which is included in the discussions and also engagement with the business community in these places. So as far as the particular outcome of the visit is concerned, we will continue to brief you as the visit uh progresses.

[00:26:45]Then the question again related to uh you know uh as you said about UAE cities coming after uh UAE came out of the topic on the pipelines you know all this we will continue to brief after uh after the discussions proceed again on ASML uh with regard to the semiconductors. Of course, this is an important semiconductors is an important area of cooperation and collaboration with Netherlands and uh we will continue to engage Netherland at every uh level on this and it is part of the discussions honorable uh prime the delegation will have during the visit of the uh of honorable prime minister. Again I would uh uh we would be briefing you after the visit on the whether you know the topics which would be covered particularly with regard to the ITU2 IMAC all these have been raised but you know we'll continue to update you as and when the visit takes place uh on the situation in the halls the ships etc. I think uh uh we have regular briefings being given by our joint secretary, our uh spokesperson um along with other colleagues in the ministry of shipping and uh uh petroleum. So I think uh uh that would be the best forum to answer the questions related to that.

[00:28:15]uh on devel countries their contribution yes it is happening after a few years but uh again energy is an important area of cooperation but the most important element is that there is considerable complimentarities what are we looking for at this stage as I mentioned it is the three T's trade and technology and talent peopleto-people connect in each of these trade and investment green technology innovation the countries um these majority countries are doing very well.

[00:28:47]They're small economies but total GDP would be 1.7 trillion US do you know around 2 trillion uh USD is the uh you know GDP of these countries together. So it's an important partner for us particularly when it comes to treats for us. So there is huge complimentarities and we look forward to uh taking it forward. So three TS technology uh trade and tourism uh we look forward to working with these countries. Uh then I think uh I leave it at that again if you wanted to add something. Thank you sir. On uh on the question of energy as I tried to highlight earlier that UAE is a very important partner for us in the area of energy. I did mention that it is the fourth largest source of it was the fourth largest source of crude oil last year, the third largest source of LNG for India and and the big largest source for LPG for India. Uh during this visit also we have various we partnership in the area of energy will be an important area of discussion and uh we have various agreements which are also under discussion but I would not like to prejudge their outcome. So as sir has mentioned we will brief you post visit. Thank you.

[00:30:09]We'll take some more questions. We'll go from there. How will you?

[00:30:21]So I'm shar from uh hi out here sir from CNBC TV18. I have two questions. Uh so firstly uh any reason why uh uh the finance minister's Russia visit has been cancelled and so secondly the US treasury department had given a waiver for a month for Russian oil. So has there been any conversation on any further extension or will India stop the purchase of Russian oil?

[00:30:51]Uh first so I'mma sit and I've got two questions.

[00:30:58]One uh by when do you ex say here sir >> uh by when do you uh the India FDA is expected to be uh uh done signed and my second question is we are already buying LPG from Norway. So would there be any kind of an agreement or an MOU signed to expand that uh buy from there?

[00:31:32]So the only like significant understanding whether there is any possibility of a long-term uh you know um not a gas contract but uh you know oil contract that we are looking at and also on the security and the cooperation front uh what kind of discussions are likely sir by Newateg.

[00:32:03]partnership, partnership already.

[00:32:34]Uh sir I'm a curious from News countries are supposedly very good in green technology clean technology so what type of cooperation are we going to announce in this visit and also sir will there be a joint in after the Indian summit.

[00:32:54]>> Mhm.

[00:32:58]>> Thank you sir. I a question to Mr. Mahazan sir. They just wanted to know after the uh the bus station war currently happening there. Is there any change in the Indian strategic thinking of increasing the reservoir of the petroleum from the Gulf countries like offshore onshore to meet the Indian demands? Thank you.

[00:33:20]So we can take these questions.

[00:33:24]>> Uh thank you again. Uh you know I think I will not uh would like to respond to the questions related to Russia or uh the Russian oil and other things. We have articulated our position on many occasions and also you know our spokesperson would be the right person to respond to the such questions in his uh weekly press conferences.

[00:33:47]uh on the India EU FTA. Yes, you know that is that is a priority. We are working with uh uh European Union to uh have it u uh agreed to at the earliest.

[00:33:59]So we will be please uh keep uh tuned in for um respond I mean you know an uh immediate uh outcome coming up on the energy cooperation with uh Norway. Of course that is a very important uh element uh uh you know we would be discussing the energy engagement with Norway and also with other countries. I have seen your interview recently on related to Norway. So I I know why where that question is coming from uh uh in the uh long-term uh you know gas uh agreement or you know related to UAE you know I would give it to uh and also on the UAE energy strategic uh partnership again my colleagueuh as will respond to those questions uh India Italy strategic partnership yes it's a very important partnership as I have briefed that defense cooperation constitutes an important uh element in that relationship. We will be uh having uh a very I would say productive discussions on the defense and security collaboration uh with Italy in the forthcoming uh summit meetings and we would uh definitely make uh keep you informed about the progress on uh on that front.

[00:35:23]uh India, Nordic there would definitely be a joint declaration uh which would be released after the uh summit meeting uh which would uh which would cover also the issue which you raised about uh green technology. So please again remain tuned. We will keep up keep you updated.

[00:35:47]Thank you sir. I as I mentioned earlier and I reiterated it again that energy is a very important pillar of our partnership with UAE. Uh we I have earlier listed out multiple long-term you know contracts on LNG which we have signed with them and I have also mentioned that we continue to discuss with them in this important area of uh cooperation.

[00:36:12]There are agreements which are under discussion between both sides and uh I would urge you to wait for our post visit uh briefing because these are under discussion and as I said that we would not like to prejudge the outcome.

[00:36:28]There was a question on the strategic petroleum reserves. I did mention that UAE was the first country to partner with India in the area of strategic petroleum reserve and these discussions of course uh strategic petroleum reserves discussions continue and uh I think there was a question on IMAC also I I can just supplement that question with this that the India Middle East Europe economic corridor is a is a important project for both countries and especially in the context of UAE uh we had signed an intergovernmental framework agreement on IMAC in February 2024 under this uh initiative and both sides are working on a virtual trade corridor which is a matri interface. We have uh highlighted this on multiple other uh occasions also how it will facilitate trade and and you know improve the ease of doing business and other various uh other benefits of the virtual trade culture. So that is what I have. Thank you sir.

[00:37:34]Uh yes defense and security are also important areas uh between uh both countries. uh you mentioned about uh as as I have mentioned that we will uh we will of course uh continue our discussions uh in this area but I would not like to on the defense cooperation especially it has emerged as a strong pillar of our comprehensive strategic partnership in the last few years there are service level exchanges between army navies and air forces which are active uh the visit of his ISO Crown Prince of Dubai and the defense minister in April 2025 was also an important u visit in this context and as you are aware we had signed a letter of intent for the conclusion of a strategic defense partnership uh framework which uh which was signed during the UAE president's visit in uh January 2026 and both sides continue to work on the implementation of uh this vision and discussions on defense cooperation given uh it strategic importance are a very likely feature of the meeting between the both leaders.

[00:38:50]My colleague additional secretary west will add a few points.

[00:38:57]>> Yeah. Uh thank you sir. Uh good evening friends. I just wanted to add uh there was a question on uh ASML and technology collaboration with the lands. uh beands is very important partner as far as technology especially semiconductor and digital domain is concerned. uh if you recall recall we recently signed an MOU on semiconductor and critical emerging technologies with Netherlands and there is also institutionalized collaboration between the institutes top technology institutes from India like IIIT along with the uh institutes in uh Netherlands supported by industry uh from our side there are top industries like Tata and all and from their side and XP and discussions are continuing with all the companies in Netherlands. One important thing is that it is the largest investor from EU and fourth largest overall in India with the volume of over $55 billion and trade also it's among the largest trade partners in EU particularly for exports uh India Netherlands uh is third largest destination of Indian exports and of course largest in EU and last bit is on Italy on With respect to IMET as my colleague has already mentioned this is an important corridor uh also in the present geopolitical context and it is a very important partner uh in this regard as you may be knowing very recently they hold uh they held a uh meeting of a stakeholders uh at least some couple of months back. So this will also be an important area of discussion. Thank you.

[00:41:09]Uhchech.

[00:41:37]Agreement.

[00:41:49]Puja would you like to add some facts and figures about since we are talking about trade and investment all these countries are very important investment partners for India and I would just like my colleague to talk a little about the kind of investment partnership we have with countries such as Norway Sweden etc. Thank you Reandhir. Uh just to add to what Secretary West has already said. Uh apart from foreign direct investment of which we get substantial amounts uh from various European partners, another investment that we get from Norway for instance is from the government pension fund which is about uh $28 billion and we are looking to increase basically uh the investment that they have in Indian capital markets.

[00:42:34]Um other than that um in all things green and blue uh the Nordics are our partners of choice. So whether it's the green transition, uh green energy, green shipping, green hydrogen, uh green everything, uh and the blue economy, uh you will see u a number of u partnerships and interesting um decisions coming out over the coming days on which uh as Zachary West, we will brief you in real time. Thank you.

[00:43:14]So was at any state was a a stop over in the Vatican planned as reports had suggested or is it uh will happen?

[00:43:23]>> This visit is to visit to Italy going to visit Italy the capital. Okay. So that is where it is.

[00:43:39]So this is a from ADP. Uh high level representative from UAE is supposed to reach uh Delhi by tomorrow and prime minister is expected to meet all uh bricks foreign ministers before uh his trip to UAE. Can you throw some light on that meeting?

[00:44:01]So bricks several leaders from across the world some have already arrived others will be arriving for the bricks foreign minister's meeting uh we have shared with you some of the details of the bricks foreign minister's meeting they will also be calling on jointly uh calling on the prime minister and we shall keep you updated with developments in regard to the bricks FM thank you uh With that uh ladies and gentlemen uh please do follow us on these these uh upcoming five nation tour of the prime minister. Uh there is going to be a lot of substance lot of agreements and lot many things that led to our growth and development trajectory. So stay tuned.

[00:44:51]Thank you very much.

[00:45:01]between both the countries. You recall that the president made paid an official visit to India on 19th January this year. The grand of Abu Dhabi, his high Khan was also visited India in February this year to participate in the AI impact summit.

[00:45:21]We share a competency strategy partnership with the UA which has continued to deepen in years of relationship. During the visit the leaders will discuss to further people our bilateral in areas including trade, investment, energy, technology, culture and of course we're going to be connect as our spokesperson said yesterday in his presentation. Discussions will be held on strengthening our bilateral cooperations. discussion should also focus on strengthening our energy security. I repeat energy security which is an important aspect of our relationship.

[00:46:09]As you know, we have a community of over 4.5 million Indian which is a bridge of relationship to so the other part of the visit to the four European countries comes in the back of the India UF FA that we finalized earlier this year and the India of TEP which was in uh 2025 visit the third India summit will also take place in our Amuta journey 20 years when we start to become a legacy in 2047.

[00:47:03]India considers these countries as important partners in our making India initiative a related to transforming India into a manufacturing hub. This series will focus on our three keys to investment technology particularly green technology innovation startups and of course peopleto people connecting each of the visits to the European countries from May 15 to 17 is will be in Netherlands this will be second visit to the Netherlands last one was in 2017 council at an important juncture in our bilateral ties. During the visit prime minister will hold bilateral talks with the prime minister of Netherlands. He will also meet their majesties king William Alexander and King Maxima is also expected to address the Indian community and meet top business leaders of the Netherlands. Our partnership has considerably deepened over the last few years because traditional sectors of trade, investment and sectors of war that is water, agriculture and health as well as people to advertise in recent years. Corporation has further expanded into strategic areas of technology, innovation, defense, security, semiconductors, renewable energy, education and humanitaria, Netherlands bilateral relationship. The Netherlands is home to over 90,000 members Indians and Mus of Indian origin alongside over 200,000 members of the Hindustani community. Around 3,500 Indian students are currently enrolled in various universities there. The forthcoming visit carries a rich and substantial agenda. It is expected to consolidate the new and strategic dimensions of the partnership that have emerged through the sustained efforts of both sides.

[00:49:23]Proceed to Sweden on 17th May will undertake an official visit to mark Sweden. This will be the second visit to Sweden after his landmark visit in 2018 for the first ever India Olympic summit.

[00:49:41]The wcoming visit reflects the growing depth of India's freedom high under the India freedom immovation partnership launched in 2018.

[00:49:51]Sweden today is one of the world's most innovative economies and India and Sweden increasingly view each other as innovation and technology partners will hold consultations with covering the full spectrum of relations including investment transition and emerging technologies supply chains cooperation, space collaboration, climate action and people will be the chief guest of the European table for industry and European serious representing business and UK and president of the European Commission.

[00:50:46]is also under the economic and commercial relationship between India and Sweden is one to reaching USD 7.75 billion in 2025 and presence of 280 Swedish companies in India and 75 Indian companies in Sweden. There is robust cooperation in climate action and sustainable industrial transition. India and Sweden jointly launched the leadership group for industry transition.

[00:51:25]The first multilateral initiative aim to decarbonize hard to sectors and the climate action summit in New York in 2019 economic floor.

[00:51:42]at 28th in July in 2023 in February this year. India and Sweden signed a statement of India to establish the Sweden India technology and AI corridor to cooperation in AI emerging technologies and innovation ecosystems.

[00:52:04]Corporation is also emerged as an important pillar of the bilateral relationship. Swedish company S has established itself manufacturing facility in Indiana which is first such manufacturing facility and the first facility in India and the 100% of new root in the defense sector India and Sweden also enjoy longstanding culture and academic linkages in Sweden number 90,000 serves as an important bridge between the two countries to brought fresh momentum to the India partnership and new avenues of cooperation across the trade technology and talent to Norway travel to Norway identification of the prime minister of Norway for an official visit for engagement and the third India summit to be held on me. This will be the first visitor to Norway and will mark the first visit from India to Norway in 43 years.

[00:53:21]May 2026 will hold talks with May 2026 hold talks with Prime Minister. It would provide an opportunity to shape and develop an ambitious agenda of cooperation in the areas of trade and investment, innovation, green and green tech, new economy and cutting edge advancements.

[00:53:46]Prime Minister also have an audience with her majesties in kar and prime minister along with Prime Minister India business and research summit focusing on trade technology and investment to promote implementation of India FD trade and economic partnership agreement.

[00:54:10]There are ongoing discussions on carbon tax including cooperation in carbon capture and storage technology energy efficiency etc. India and have been jointly undertaking several research expeditions and capacity building initiatives in the Arctic region. There is no collaboration in the space sector as well. In 2026, ISO installed its antennas and size facility in SWAT. The discussions of the diagnosis between will change the direction of a forward looking India Norway partnership.

[00:54:49]The third Indian summit will take place in Moscow on 19th May. Prime Minister will be joined by the Prime Minister of Norway, Prime Minister of Denmark, Prime Minister of England, Prime Minister of Iceland and Prime Minister of Sweden for the summit. All countries are important partners of India in tech and innovation, sustainability, renewable energy and digitization.

[00:55:15]The summit will be an opportunity to review the progress of India Nordic relations since the second India Nordic summit held in Copenhagen in May 2022.

[00:55:27]India's relationship with many countries has been on uh has been on an upward trajectory since then with deeper trade and investment linkages and growing sector cooperation in the areas where many countries have great strengths. US marketing goods and services with countries has reached US 19 billion sports at USD 9.5 billion and import USD 9.5 million over 700 companies operate in India and around 1550 Indian companies have a presence in Nordic region.

[00:56:12]There are many very important milestones in our engagement with MAC in the last few years. This summit will help in expanding our multifactor cooperation in the region and provide an opportunity to exchange views on global and regional issues of mutual interest. It will also impart a new strategic dimension to our relationship with impact and innovation.

[00:56:38]Prime Minister will also hold bilateral meetings with the prime ministers of Denmark, Iceland and Finland on the margins of the third India summit.

[00:56:49]to Italy.

[00:56:51]of the Italian prime minister important official visit to Italy in 192 the president of the Italian Republic engagement with the prime minister of Italy also an interaction with Senate Indian and Italian CEOs. In addition to the bilateral element, Prime Minister will also visit the headquarters of the based agency organization FAO.

[00:57:36]India is a founding member of since 1945 under India's commitment to multilateralism efforts to address food security sustainable agriculture and rural development. The visit to a visit to Italy is increasing the back of momentum of India Italy relations. The two have met seven times since 2023.

[00:58:06]has been instrumental in driving the upward trajectory of bilateral relationship.

[00:58:13]their opportunity to review goals and identify new areas for collaboration under strategic action plan 2025 2029 for cooperation across various domains of bilateral cooperation adopted by both leaders in 2024.

[00:58:36]Cooperation is a key element of our partnership with the market is currently to the tune of 14 billion. We have three business last year which has provided most in sector such as manufacturing automating machinery chemicals infrastructure logistics food processing and renewable energy. Science and technology innovation will be another area of focus of cooperation which cooperation in emerging technologies control research and mobility of academic and researchers.

[00:59:18]Defense corporation has also borded with regular dialog to studies and exchange of visits. As you may be aware defense minister had a fruitful visit to India last month. are also exploring avenues for defense industrial collaboration, co-development, cooperation of defense equipment.

[00:59:41]We also discuss on enhancing maritime security cooperation.

[00:59:46]Both India and Italy strongly collaborate in security domain. The two fin have announced joint initiative to counter financing of terrorism last year. We have a wide Indian estimated around 2.5 lakhs. More than 6,000 Indian students are pursuing academy courses in various universities and institutes each discussions that focus on expanding enhancing this collaboration. Three key agreements are expected to be signed the visit which will further stand in framework and diversify areas of cooperation.

[01:00:29]Further deepen the India strategic partnership expand cooperation across a wide range of sectors and enhance coordination on regional and global challenges.

[01:00:42]Let me conclude by saying this. coming in the backdrop of the conclusion of the historic India EU FDA earlier this year as well as the signing of the India EU security and defense partnership and the comprehensive framework of cooperation and mobility and the EU government the visit of the further reinforce India in key sectors of trade investment innovation defense security technology energy and people ties. We will share more details as the visit progresses.

[01:01:21]I will stop here. We will be very happy to take questions. Thank you.

[01:01:29]Before that would like to add some elements of our energy partnership with you. I request you please. Thank you. Uh part of his music partnership in the area of energy is an important partner in our energy security. Last year the was the fourth largest source of coal meeting only 11% of our requirement of energy companies and the UAE national oil company gas into long-term supply contracts of 4.5K to India some of the recent contracts include signing February 2024 for 1.2 mpa and.5 mm respectively.

[01:02:37]Signed the third contract for 1 in September 2024 and HPC signed the 10 with gas 4.5 beginning in 2028 of his president to India in January 2028.

[01:02:57]This makes India the biggest buyer of UA's energy.

[01:03:02]UA is also the largest source of LPG for India nearly 40% of our requirement and UA is also the second largest destination of petroleum oil and lubricants export from Indian refiners.

[01:03:23]Indian companies have also invested US in 2018 consortion of Indian companies to 10% state in the UA 2019 Indian joint venture company private limited between has taken up in Abu Dhabi onshore block one in January 2026 has confirmed an oil discovery in Abu Dhabi's on block one we are the first of their off investments by India in the region is also the first country to partner with India in the strategic petroleum reserves in 2018 and Abu Dhabi national oil company ID entered will be an imp to store over 5 million barrels of mobile ISPs facility in India and are also expanding cooperation in the area of renewable energy and agreement has been signed between MASTAR and the government of the state of Rajasthan in October 2024 for setting up of 60 of renewable energy capacity.

[01:04:46]Besides this both countries are also working on study for city connection is also an active founding member of the global bio fuel launch alliance that was launched in September 2022 during the India's presidency of so as I explained we are a multifaceted partnership in UAE and We continue to strengthen this further. Thank you.

[01:05:21]We open the floor for questions.

[01:05:33]Heat. Heat.

[01:05:57]Heat. Heat.

[01:06:07]Yeah. Heat.

[01:06:17]Yeah.

[01:06:20]Heat.

[01:06:37]Thank you.

[01:06:43]Heat. Heat.

[01:07:02]And we're going to be discussions.

[01:07:13]This is relationship.

[01:07:21]Heat. Heat.

[01:07:31]expanded discussion.

[01:07:46]Thank you.

[01:07:57]Yeah.

[01:08:01]Heat.

[01:08:13]Heat. Heat.

[01:08:25]Yes.

[01:08:27]Come here. Thank you.

[01:08:42]Heat.

[01:08:53]Heat.

[01:09:02]Heat. Heat.

[01:09:14]So we can take these questions and then come back for more.

[01:09:21]Thank you.

[01:09:23]Thank you very much. Uh in fact uh uh questions a few questions were related to the uh visit to also the outcome of the visit.

[01:09:39]As I briefly my uh remarks, we have a very concrete uh agenda covering the entire spectrum of dil relationship with each of the countries with the Netherlands with the Swed and of course the other members of the countries. We have a very concrete agenda which is included in the discussions and also engage in debate the business community in these places.

[01:10:11]So as far as the particular outcome of the visit is concerned, we will continue to brief you as the visit progresses.

[01:10:19]The question is coming after continue to leave after after the discussions.

[01:10:39]regard to the semiconductor is an important area of cooperation and collaboration with continue to engage with activity.

[01:10:53]This is part of the discussions we have after continue to update you.

[01:11:23]spacecraft and so I think uh that will be the best way to answer the questions too but their contribution as it is happening after a few years but uh energy is an important area of corporation the most important element is that there is consumable comparities what are we looking for at this stage as I mentioned it is the three keys training technology and people of this investment technology the countries are countries 1.7 USD for us when it comes to treat for us. So there is hugeities and we look forward to taking it forward. So treaties, technology, trade and tourism. We look forward to working with this two countries.

[01:12:54]I think uh I think that if you wanted to have something thank you sir on uh on the question of energy as I tried to highlight earlier that UAE is a very important partner for us in the area of energy. I mention that the fourth largest source of the fourth largest source of last year the third largest source of energy for India and the largest source of energy for India also we have various energy of energy will be an important area of discussion and we have various segments which are also under discussion but I would not like to judge the outcome.

[01:13:41]Thank you questions.

[01:13:55]Heat. Heat.

[01:14:10]Heat. Heat.

[01:14:27]question.

[01:14:29]So I got two questions. One uh by when do you say yourself uh by when do uh the India FTA is expected to be uh done sign? And my second question is we are already buying LPG from Norway. So would there be any kind of an or sign to expand it by looking Yeah.

[01:15:47]Heat.

[01:15:57]Heat. Heat.

[01:16:11]Heat. Heat.

[01:16:22]Yeah.

[01:16:32]Heat.

[01:16:51]Thank you.

[01:16:54]So take these questions and thank you again. uh I think I would not uh like to respond to the questions related to Russia or other things we have to position on our spokesperson right to respond to the such questions in this uh weekly press conferences.

[01:17:23]Yes, that is that is a priority we are working with uh uh European to uh have it uh to a list. So we will be please uh keep uh tuned in for um I mean you know immediate uh outcome coming up on the energy cooperation with of course that is a very important uh element you know we will be discussing the energy engagement and also with other countries I have seen your interview recently related to so I I where that question is coming from.

[01:18:08]I guess I would strategic partnership questions partnership partnership that corporation question relationship and uh I would say discussions on the difference in security collaboration in the for make uh keep you informed about the progress and I think uh India there will definitely be a joy declaration which will be released after the uh meeting which would uh which will and also be sure that you technology. So please remain tuned to keep you updated.

[01:19:21]Thank you sir. As I mentioned earlier and I reiterated again that energy is a very important pillar of our partnership with UAE.

[01:19:32]I have multiple long contracts on which we signed with them and I also mentioned that we continue to discuss with them in this important area of agreements which are under discussion between both sides and I would urge you to wait for our post uh meeting because we are under discussion and as I said we would not like to prejudge the outcome.

[01:20:02]There was a question on the strategic petroleum reserves. I did mention that UAE was the first country to partner with India strategic petroleum reserve and I do a discussion of course uh strategy reserves discussions continue and uh I think there was a question I make also I I can just question the context of framework work agreement on I in February 2024 under this uh initiative and both sides are working on a virtual corridor which is a interface. We have highlighted this on multiple other occasions also how to facilitate trade and improve business and other various other benefits of commercial that is yes defense and security are also important areas between those countries. uh you mentioned about uh as as I mentioned that we will uh we will of course uh continue our discussions uh in this area but I would not like to defense corporation especially has emerged as a strong pillar of our competency strategy partnership in the past few years exchange between army and air forces which are active uh conference of the defense minister in April 202 defense partnership which was signed in the UA president in January 2026 and both sides continue to work on the implementation of this vision and discussions on missions corporation Uh but yeah just there was a question and technology collaboration with lens.

[01:22:42]uh is very important part as far as technology especially semiconductor and digital is concerned. uh if you recall every semiconductor critical emerging technologies and there is also institutionalized collaboration between the institutes topology institutes from India like I along with institutes industry from other side there are industries like and from in the next week and discussions are continuing with all the companies.

[01:23:24]One important thing is that it is the largest investor from and largest overall in India with their volume of over $55 billion and also it's the largest trade partners in exports India is third largest destination of Indian exports and of course largest and last with respect I was already mention this is an important geopolitical context important partner in this regard as you know very recently they hold they stakeholders uh at least some couple of months back so this will also be an important area of discussion. Thank you.

[01:24:35]North like to add some facts and about talking about investment. All these countries are very important investment partners for India and I would just like my colleague to talk with you about the kind of investment partnership we have with countries such as Norway, Sweden etc. Thank you. Uh just to add to this is already said uh apart from foreign direct investment of which we get substantial amounts from the European partners. Another investment that we get from Norway for instance is from the government fund which is about $28 billion and we are looking to increase basically every investment that they have in Indian capital markets.

[01:26:08]Um other than that green of choice so transition energy green sugar hydrogen everything over the coming days which sacri brief you. Thank you.

[01:26:57]This is to so that it is.

[01:27:13]So this is So this leaders from across the world already others will be arriving for the next meeting.

[01:27:47]We have shared with you some details of the next foreign minister's meeting. We will also be calling on jointly calling on the prime minister next. Thank you.

[01:28:05]Ladies and gentlemen, so stay tuned. Thank you very much.

[01:28:29]Welcome you to this special press briefing on Prime Minister's upcoming five mission tour. For this briefing, we have Secretary West to give us an update on the developments that will happen during the course of the mission. briefing is being assisted by addition secretary secretary best and she addition secretary with that I turn it over to secret the floor is yours thank you thank you secret and my dear friends from the media.

[01:29:22]Uh this uh message is about five countries. So my opening remarks will be slightly lower. So we'll be happy to take uh questions after that.

[01:29:36]They will be undertaking a five nation tour from 15 to 20 which includes the United Arab Emirates and four European nations, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy.

[01:29:54]will begin his visit from the on 15th May where he will meet the president of the His Muhammad bun and exchange views on bilateral relations in particular energy cooperation as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest.

[01:30:15]There are exchanges between both the countries.

[01:30:19]We recall that the president made an official visit to India on 19th January this year. The governance of Abu Dhabi his high Khan was also visited India in February this year to participate in the AI impact summit.

[01:30:37]We share a competency strategy partnership with the UA which has continued to deepen in those years of relationship. During the visit, we leaders will discuss to further deepen our bi areas including trade, investment, energy, technology, culture and of course connect.

[01:31:03]As our spokesperson said yesterday in his presentation, discussions will be held on strengthening our bilateral cooperations. discussion should also focus on strengthening our energy security. I repeat energy security which is an important aspect of our relationship.

[01:31:24]As you know, we have a community of over 4.5 million in which is a million of relationship to so the other part of the visit to the four European countries comes in the backdrop of the India U FTA that we finalized this year and the India of TE which was entered into uh 2025 visit the third India summit will also take place in our car journey 20 years when we start to become a legacy in 2047.

[01:32:19]India considers these countries as important partners in our making India initiative aim to transforming India into a manufacturing hub. businesses will focus on our three keys to investment technology integrating new technology innovation startups and of course people to people connecting each of the visits to the European countries from May 15 to 17 is will be in this second visit to the Netherlands last one was in 2017 the visit considered at an important juncture in our bilateral ties. During the visit prime minister will hold bilateral talks with the prime minister of Netherlands. He will also meet their majesties king Alexander and Maxima is also expected to address the Indian community and meet top business leaders of the Netherlands. Our partnership has considerably deepened over the last few years because traditional sectors of trade, investment and priority sectors was that is water, agriculture and health as well as able to be precise. In recent years, corporation has further expanded into strategic areas of technology, innovation, defense, security, semiconductors, renewable energy, education and maritime domain. Further remain the key aspect of India Netherlands bilateral relationship. The Netherlands is home to over 90,000 members Indians and persons of Indian origin alongside over 200,000 members of the industry community around 2,500 Indian students are currently engulfing visit carries a rich and substantive agenda. It is expected to consolidate the new and strategic dimensions of the partnership that have to sustain efforts of both sides.

[01:34:39]Proceed to Sweden on 17 will undertake an official visit to mark Sweden. This will be the second visit to Sweden after his landmark visit in 2018 for the first ever India summit.

[01:34:57]This upcoming visit reflects the depth of India under the India innovation partnership in 2018. Sweden today is one of the world's most innovative economies and India and Sweden increasingly view each other as innovation and technology partners will hold consultations with the social covering the spectrum of relations including investment transition and energy technologies supply chains business cooperation, space collaboration, climate action and people will be the chief guest of the European director for industry and European serious forum representing business and UK and president of the European Commission.

[01:36:02]is also under the foreign the economic and commercial relationship between India and Sweden with USD 7.75 billion in 2025 and business of 280 Swedish companies in India and over 75 Indian companies in Sweden. There is robust cooperation in climate action and sustainable industrial transition. India and Sweden jointly launched the leadership for industry transition.

[01:36:41]The first multinational initiative aimed to decarbonize hard sectors climate action summit in New York in 2019 in particular this year India and Sweden signed a statement of India to establish the Sweden India technology and AI corridor to strong cooperation in AI emerging technologies and innovation ecosystems is also emerged as an important pillar of the bilateral relationship. Swedish company has established itself manufacturing facility in Indiana which is first manufacturing facility and the first facility in India and 100% of new growth in the defense sector India and Sweden also enjoy longstanding culture and economic linkages in Sweden number 90,000 serves as an important bridge between the two countries is brought to the India partnership and open new avenues of cooperation across the trade technology and talent to Norway to know the identification of the prime minister of Norway official visit for engagement and the third India summit to be held on This will be the first visitor to Norway and will mark the first prime minister visit from India to Norway in 43 years.

[01:38:36]18th May 2026 hold talks with uh May 2026 hold talks with Prime Minister. It will provide an opportunity to shape and develop an ambitious agenda of cooperation in the areas of trade and investment, innovation, clean and green tech, new economy and cutting edge advancements.

[01:39:03]We also have an audience with their majesties in Haralt and California.

[01:39:08]Prime Minister Modi along with Prime Minister will address the India business and research summit focusing on trade technology and investment to promote implementation of India FD trade and economic partnership agreement.

[01:39:25]There are ongoing discussions on climate tax including cooperation in carbon capture and storage technology energy efficiency etc. India and NASA have been jointly undertaking similar research explorations and capacity building initiatives in the Arctic region. There is ongoing collaboration in the space sector as well is installed its antennas and science facility in SWAT. The discussions of the diagnosis between shape the direction of a forward looking India Norway partnership.

[01:40:05]The third economic summit will take place in Oslo on 19th May. Prime Minister will be joined by the Prime Minister of Norway, Prime Minister of Denmark, Prime Minister of England, Prime Minister of Iceland and Prime Minister of Sweden for the summit. All countries are important partners of India in tech and innovation, sustainability, renewable energy and digitization. The summit will be an opportunity to review the progress of Indian Nordic relations. Since the second Indian summit held in Copenhagen in May 2022, India's relationship with many countries has been onward uh has been on an upward trajectory since then with a deeper trade and investment linkages and growing sector cooperation in the areas where many countries have great strengths. US goods and services within countries has reached US 19 billion sports act 9.5 billion and import USD 9.5 million over 700 companies operate in India and around 1550 Indian companies have a presence in Nordic region.

[01:41:28]So there are many important milestones in our engagement with in the last few years. This summit will help in expanding our multifactor cooperation in the region and provide an opportunity to exchange views on global and regional issues of mutual interest. It will also impart a new strategic dimension to a relationship with the mics in tech and innovation. Prime Minister also hold bilateral meetings with the prime ministers of Denmark, Iceland and Finland on the margins of the third India Nic summit.

[01:42:04]to Italy.

[01:42:07]of the Italian prime minister.

[01:42:10]Madam important official to Italy in 192 the president of the Italian Republic and bilateral engagement with the prime minister of Italy will also have an interaction with the Senate Indian and Italian singles. In addition to the bilateral element, Prime Minister will also visit the headquarters of the based UN agency organization FAO. India is a founding member of since 1945 under India's commitment to multilateralism efforts to address food security, sustainable agriculture and rural development. A visit to a visit to Italy is taking place in the back group of growing momentum of India interior relations. The two have met seven times since 2023.

[01:43:22]has been instrumental in driving the trajectory of bilaterals and identify new areas for collaboration and joint strategic action plan 2025 2029 road map for cooperation across various domains of bilateral cooperation adopted by both leaders in 2024 Our cooperation is a key element of our partnership with the biological trade is currently to the tune of 14 billion. We had three business last year which has provided boost to our biological trade in sector such as manufacturing, automotive, machinery, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, textiles, infrastructure, logistics, food processing and renewable energy.

[01:44:19]Science and technology and innovation will be another area of focus of cooperation which will explore cooperation in emerging technologies and joint research and mobility of academic and researchers. The business corporation has also regular dialog service to service and exchange of visits. As you may be aware, the Italian defense minister had a fruitful visit to India last month. Are also exploring avenues for defense industrial collaboration, co-development, cooperation of defense equipment.

[01:44:56]Service will also discuss on enhancing maritime security cooperation.

[01:45:02]Both India and Italy strongly collaborate in security domain. The two fin have announced joint initiative to counter financing of tourism last year.

[01:45:13]We have a vibrant Indian estimated around 2.5 lakhs. More than 6,000 Indian students are pursuing academy courses in various universities and institutes across Italy. Discussions will also further focus on expanding enhancing this collaboration.

[01:45:33]three key agreements and are expected to be signed the visit which will further stand the institutional framework and diversify areas of cooperation will further deepen the India strategic partnership expand cooperation across a wide range of sectors and enhance coordination on regional and global challenges.

[01:45:57]Let me conclude by saying this. coming in the backdrop of the conclusion of the historic India EU FTA earlier this year as well as the signing of the India EU security and defense partnership and the framework of cooperation on mobility and the EU government the message of the prime minister will further reinforce India's ties in key sectors of trade investment innovation defense security technology energy and peopleto people ties. We will show more details as the visit progresses.

[01:46:37]I will stop here. We will be very happy to take questions. Thank you.

[01:46:44]Before I assume we like to add some elements of our energy partnership with you, I would request you please. Thank you.

[01:46:55]as you know partnership in the area of energy is an important partner in energy security last year was the first largest source