PM's visit to France, Germany, Canada reflects India's 'Link West' policy: MEA

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to France, Germany and Canada reflects the link west aspect of India's foreign policy.

Prime Minister Modi will be paying official visits to the three nations from April 9-16.

"We see this as an opportunity to reinforce our strong links with each of these countries, with a focus on investment and technological tie ups," said MEA official spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin.

"His first destination will be France. In France, he will meet President Francois Hollande. He will interact with different sections of the society as well as the leadership there and members of the Indian community," he added.

The Prime Minister's second destination will be Germany, starting from April 12-14, where he would inaugurate the Hannover Messe Festival with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

"India is a partner country at this year's Hannover Messe. The Prime Minister will also have bilateral discussions with Chancellor Angela Merkel and other senior leaders in Germany before his departure for his next destination Canada," said Akbaruddin.

The Prime Minister will have discussions with his Canadian counterpart Stephen Harper in the last leg of his visit.

"He will interact with the business community there and also the large Indian community in Canada," added Akbaruddin.

Prime Minister Modi is also expected to visit other cities in each of these three countries besides the capitals.