Global South's concerns, meeting with Trump: What's on agenda for PM Modi at G7 Summit 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the G7 Summit in Evian, France, on June 16 and 17. This marks India's eighth consecutive invitation to the summit, where Modi intends to champion the "aspirations of the Global South." He stated that India's participation reflects the trust its partners place in the nation and its increasing global standing.

Ahead of his departure from Slovakia, Modi emphasized that India will not only speak for itself but also give voice to the concerns and developmental needs of nations in the Global South. India has been actively positioning itself as a representative voice for these countries on international platforms like the G20 and the United Nations, advocating for reforms such as expanding permanent seats in the UN Security Council.

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India’s presence at the G7 reflects the trust our partners place in us and our growing global profile. This is the 8th consecutive G7 Summit to which India has been invited. At the G7, India will not only speak for itself, but it will also give voice to the aspirations of the Global South.

Adding to the summit's agenda, Modi is scheduled for a bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump. This meeting occurs against a backdrop of significant friction between India and the United States. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has summoned the US Chargé d’Affaires twice recently to protest attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf of Oman, which resulted in the deaths of Indian mariners.

These maritime incidents have further strained already turbulent relations, which have also been impacted by a tariff dispute and India's purchase of Russian oil. Despite these tensions, both nations are engaged in various forms of cooperation, highlighting the complex nature of their bilateral relationship.

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A strong protest was lodged with him regarding the continuing attacks by US naval forces on commercial vessels carrying Indian mariners in the Gulf of Oman, which have already resulted in the tragic and avoidable loss of three Indian lives.