New Delhi (AFP) – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began a five-nation tour on Friday, heading to the United Arab Emirates before Europe, overshadowed by energy and supply-chain worries due to the Iran war.

Issued on: 15/05/2026 - 03:30

Modified: 15/05/2026 - 10:25

Disruptions around Gulf shipping routes and the Strait of Hormuz continue to drive volatility in oil and gas markets, increasing pressure on energy-importing economies, including India.

But the trip also reflects India's wider effort to diversify economic and strategic partnerships while positioning itself as a major manufacturing and technology hub.