Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accelerated a global diplomatic blitz, visiting at least 20 countries since August 2025 to hedge against U.S. trade turbulence. Following 25 percent tariffs imposed by President Trump and a subsequent 25 percent penalty on Russian oil purchases, India seeks to diversify its economic partnerships. Modi's itinerary includes key stops in France, New Zealand, and the Seychelles, securing submarine technology from Germany, student visas from France, and cheaper Scotch whisky from the UK.

The urgency stems from India's heavy reliance on the Strait of Hormuz for 80 percent of its crude oil imports. Beyond energy, India pursues defense technology, critical minerals, and artificial intelligence partnerships. While Modi cultivates ties with Japan and Australia to contain China, he is also expected to meet President Vladimir V.

Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit. This "plurilateral" strategy aims to build resilience through smaller, targeted goals, ensuring India maintains strategic autonomy amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and protecting its status as the world's fastest-growing large economy.