NEW DELHI: On his way back from France, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has scheduled a visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The purpose of his visit is to engage in extensive discussions with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE and the ruler of Abu Dhabi. The talks will focus on strengthening bilateral ties in crucial areas such as energy, food security, and defense.

Prime Minister Modi's visit to Abu Dhabi will take place on July 15, following the conclusion of his two-day visit to Paris.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and the UAE has been progressively growing stronger. The Prime Minister's visit will serve as an opportunity to explore avenues for further collaboration in various domains, including energy, education, healthcare, food security, fintech, defense, and culture.

Moreover, the visit will provide an occasion to discuss cooperation on global issues, particularly in light of the UAE's Presidency of COP-28 and India's G-20 Presidency. The UAE, being a "special invitee" to the G-20, makes this discussion significant.

In the context of his visit to France, Prime Minister Modi will be attending the Bastille Day parade in Paris on July 14 as the guest of honor. Notably, a Tri-Services Indian armed forces contingent will be participating in the parade.

President Emmanuel Macron of France will host a state banquet and a private dinner in honor of the Prime Minister. Additionally, the two leaders will engage in comprehensive discussions.

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to meet the Prime Minister of France, as well as the Presidents of the Senate and the National Assembly of France, further strengthening diplomatic ties.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister will have separate interactions with the Indian diaspora in France, CEOs of Indian and French companies, and prominent French personalities.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between India and France. The Prime Minister's visit will provide an excellent opportunity to set the course for the future of this partnership in diverse sectors, including strategic, cultural, scientific, academic, and economic cooperation, as highlighted by the MEA.

A Tri-Services contingent comprising 269 members of the Indian armed forces departed for Paris last Thursday, traveling aboard two C-17 Globemaster aircraft. Moreover, it is expected that three Rafale fighter jets from the Indian Air Force will participate in the flypast over the Champs Elysees alongside French jets on this occasion.

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