Evian, France, June 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump are expected to hold bilateral talks on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, with discussions likely to focus on the situation in West Asia, the Strait of Hormuz, energy cooperation and the proposed India-US trade agreement, according to sources.
The meeting, scheduled for June 17, comes amid concerns over regional instability and its impact on global energy supplies and maritime trade.
Sources said both countries are looking to strengthen long-term cooperation in the energy sector, particularly in light of disruptions to global supply chains caused by tensions in West Asia. Discussions are also expected to cover increased energy imports from the United States.
The proposed India-US trade agreement is reported to be in its final stages, with negotiations progressing steadily. Sources indicated that work on the agreement is expected to be completed in the coming weeks. The two countries had reached an interim trade arrangement in February following extensive negotiations.
The White House has confirmed that advancing the proposed bilateral trade agreement will be a key focus of the meeting.
The talks are taking place against the backdrop of continuing instability in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime routes for the transportation of oil and natural gas. Disruptions in the region have affected global energy markets and international trade.
Earlier, while addressing the Outreach Session on “Forging New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity” at the 52nd G7 Summit, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the impact of disruptions in maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz.
Welcoming ongoing peace efforts in West Asia, the Prime Minister said the conflict had resulted in loss of life and property in countries across the region and had affected the global economy through disruptions to maritime trade. He also noted that several Indian nationals had lost their lives.
Modi emphasized that lasting solutions to global conflicts can be achieved through dialogue, diplomacy and international cooperation. He also underlined the need to ensure the safety and security of seafarers engaged in global maritime trade.
Referring to a recent incident in the Gulf of Oman in which three Indian nationals were killed aboard a Palau-flagged oil tanker, the Prime Minister said ensuring secure sea routes and the safety of maritime personnel remains a collective international responsibility.
He reiterated India’s readiness to work with international partners to safeguard maritime trade routes and address emerging global challenges.India is participating in the G7 Summit as a partner nation, marking its 13th appearance in the summit’s outreach process.