PM Modi with G7 leaders and partner countries during the family photo at the 2026 Summit in Évian, France.
Evian-les-Bains, France: The 52nd G7 Leaders’ Summit concluded today in the scenic French town of Evian after three days of intense discussions on global security, economic stability, technology, and international cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi represented India as a key partner nation and used the platform to strongly advocate for the concerns of the Global South.
India’s participation underscored its growing influence. This marked Modi’s seventh consecutive G7 appearance and India’s 13th overall. The summit brought together leaders from the G7 nations along with partners including India, Brazil, Kenya, and South Korea.
Summit Overview and Key Discussions
Leaders focused on pressing issues such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, developments in West Asia including Iran, supply chain security for critical minerals, artificial intelligence governance, balanced global growth, and efforts to tackle migrant smuggling and drug trafficking.
France, as the 2026 G7 host under President Emmanuel Macron, emphasised rebuilding international solidarity and forging new partnerships. G7 leaders adopted several joint statements covering mutually beneficial international partnerships, resilient economic growth, secure critical minerals supply chains, and a safer digital space for minors.
Modi Champions Trust, Equal Partnerships, and Global South Concerns
In his address during the high-level outreach session on “Forging New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity,” Modi stressed that mutual trust, respect, and equal partnerships are essential in today’s world. He highlighted the shortage of trust globally and called for inclusive approaches that benefit all nations, especially developing countries.
Modi showcased India’s development model of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” (Together with All, Development for All) as an example of inclusive growth. He proposed initiatives like the IMPACT partnership for better trade connectivity and a Global Skills Partnership to link youth from developing nations with opportunities in aging economies. He also raised concerns about the safety of Indian seafarers and the security of maritime routes, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.
Positive Signals from Modi-Trump Bilateral on Trade and Security
A major highlight was the bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Modi and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the summit. Trump described the conversation as “very good” and noted that the two countries are working on trade deals. He called Modi a “tough negotiator” while expressing optimism about future progress.
Discussions covered ongoing trade negotiations, energy security, and regional stability in West Asia. Modi specifically raised the safety of Indian seafarers following recent incidents in the Strait of Hormuz. The leaders acknowledged the human cost and the need for secure maritime routes. No final trade agreement was signed at the summit, but both sides signalled continued momentum, with further talks expected soon, including a visit by the US Trade Representative to India.
India-France Ties Get Fresh Boost with 13 Key Outcomes
Modi’s visit to France for the G7 also advanced the India-France Special Global Strategic Partnership. The two sides announced 13 major outcomes spanning technology, artificial intelligence, trade, education, space, defence, and digital cooperation.
Key pillars included an Innovation Roadmap 2030 for joint work in critical technologies and higher education, strengthened space and defence collaboration, and expanded people-to-people ties. These announcements built on the strong personal rapport between Modi and Macron and reinforced France as a key partner for India in Europe.
Other Fruitful Bilateral Engagements
On the sidelines, Modi held productive talks with several leaders:
– German Chancellor Friedrich Merz: Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, defence, IT, and the circular economy. Modi described the talks as “very fruitful.”
– EU leaders: Emphasis on advancing the India-EU Free Trade Agreement and broader strategic ties.
– Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni: A warm interaction that included light moments.
– Other partners: Engagements with leaders from the UAE, Kenya, and others to strengthen ties across trade, energy, and development.
Broader G7 Outcomes Relevant to India
The summit produced commitments on secure supply chains for critical minerals (important for India’s manufacturing and green energy goals), support for balanced and resilient global growth, and efforts to address geopolitical tensions. India’s voice helped ensure that perspectives from the Global South received attention in discussions on partnerships and solidarity.
India’s Rising Global Stature
The G7 platform once again highlighted India’s position as a bridge between major powers and emerging economies. Modi’s consistent participation and proactive diplomacy reinforced India’s role as a trusted voice for inclusive, rules-based international order.
As the summit wrapped up, Modi thanked the hosts and fellow leaders while reaffirming India’s commitment to global cooperation for peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.
The outcomes from Evian are expected to shape India’s diplomatic and economic engagements in the coming months, particularly on trade with the US and strategic ties with France and Europe. India continues to punch above its weight on the world stage under Modi’s leadership.
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