Spanish President Pedro Sanchez touched down in Vadodara, Gujarat, early Monday morning for a three-day visit to India. During his trip, he will engage in delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Upon his arrival, the Ministry of External Affairs welcomed Sanchez on the social media platform X, stating, “Bienvenido a India!” They added, “President of the Government of Spain Pedro Sanchez touches down in Vadodara, marking the first visit by a Spanish President to India in 18 years. An official visit to elevate India-Spain relations to new heights.”
Sanchez was greeted at the Vadodara International Airport by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. His visit includes the inauguration of the Final Assembly Line Plant for C295 aircraft, a key “Make in India” initiative in the aviation sector, alongside PM Modi. This plant is being established by Tata Advanced Systems in collaboration with Airbus Spain.
Before his arrival, Vadodara was beautifully illuminated in preparation for the visit, highlighting the significance of Sanchez’s first trip to India in nearly two decades.
Following his time in Vadodara, President Sanchez will travel to Mumbai. There, he will participate in official events and meet with leaders from trade, industry, think tanks, and the film sector. He is set to address the 4th Spain India Forum, organized by the Spain-India Council Foundation and the Observer Research Foundation. Additionally, he will visit prominent film studios and interact with major figures in the Indian film industry, aiming to strengthen collaboration between the Indian and Spanish media and entertainment sectors.
During his visit, several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements are expected to be signed, which will enhance bilateral cooperation. According to the MEA, Sanchez’s trip offers a chance to review the full scope of India-Spain relations and to deepen partnerships across various sectors, including trade, investment, information technology, innovation, infrastructure, renewable energy, defense, security, pharmaceuticals, agro-tech, biotech, culture, and tourism
