PM Modi’s Slovakia visit signifies India’s expanding diplomatic engagement with wider Europe

On June 15, 2026, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a state visit to Slovakia. This visit to a CEE (Central and East European) country marks an important chapter in the Indian diplomacy in Europe, and strengthens Indian outreach beyond the traditional Western European partners. Modi’s visit was the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the country since its independence in 1993.

On account of its geostrategic location, a rapidly expanding industrial market, and its growing importance in the European Union, Slovakia has emerged as a key partner in expanding and diversifying India’s diplomatic outreach. The most significant outcome of PM Modi’s Slovakia visit was the elevation of the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership. ” Slovakia was one of the major EU countries that welcomed the signing of the EU-India FTA.

In January 2026, Slovak Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic, Juraj Blanár, described EU-India FTA as an unprecedented success that will open a completely new chapter in trade and investment relations.