Madrid, Spain: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares to enhance India-Spain relations and strengthen India’s engagement with the European Union (EU). The meeting emphasized expanding cooperation across trade, defence, technology, and cultural sectors.
Agreements on Sports and Urban Development
During the bilateral discussions, the two nations signed agreements in the fields of sports and sustainable urban development. Jaishankar highlighted these agreements as indicative of the growing collaboration between the countries.
“We value Spain’s role within the EU and are striving for a closer partnership. Spain’s support in Brussels can deepen India-EU ties,” said Jaishankar.
Collaborations in Trade and Defence
The EAM urged Spanish companies to invest in India, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative. “There are already 230 Spanish companies in India, and we welcome more to collaborate in design and manufacturing,” he added.
He also pointed to significant achievements in defence collaboration, referencing the recent delivery of the C295 aircraft. “We look forward to intensifying defence and security cooperation,” Jaishankar noted.
Focus on AI, Culture, and Talent Exchange
As part of future goals, 2026 will be celebrated as the year of culture, tourism, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) between the two nations. “This initiative aims to strengthen people-to-people ties and foster technological collaboration,” Jaishankar remarked.
Spain’s plans to open a consulate in Bengaluru were also discussed, alongside the importance of skilled talent mobility.
Strategic Importance of the Mediterranean
Jaishankar emphasized India’s growing interest in the Mediterranean region, with annual trade surpassing $80 billion. He highlighted potential collaboration in green hydrogen projects and fertilizers while reiterating India’s commitment to peacekeeping efforts in the region.
Global and Regional Issues Discussed
The two leaders exchanged views on global issues, including the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and the Ukraine conflict. “In today’s volatile world, a strong India-Spain relationship and robust India-EU partnership can act as stabilizing factors,” Jaishankar stated.
A History of Progress
Recalling his 2017 visit to Spain with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jaishankar acknowledged the significant progress in India-Spain ties since then. The bilateral trade between the two countries now stands at €10 billion, with opportunities in railways, urban technology, and green innovations.
Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares affirmed Spain’s commitment to advancing its relationship with India and EU collaboration, with a focus on funding for global development initiatives.
