External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the importance of increased cooperation between India and Spain in addressing shared challenges, especially in the fight against terrorism. During a meeting with Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares in New Delhi, Jaishankar emphasized the necessity for nations to work together in the face of evolving global dynamics. He underscored the critical need for a united stance against terrorism, a threat both countries have experienced.
Jaishankar noted the strong and amicable ties between India and Spain, based on mutual democratic values, multilateralism, and adherence to a rule-based order. This year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, with plans for joint celebrations in 2026 focusing on culture, tourism, and artificial intelligence. The upcoming events symbolize the commitment to blending cultural heritage with forward-looking collaboration.
The External Affairs Minister mentioned India’s forthcoming AI Impact Summit and highlighted the country’s human-centric and ethical approach to artificial intelligence, aligning closely with European principles. Economic partnership stands as a significant aspect of the bilateral relationship, with Spain being a key trade partner within the EU. The trade volume between the two countries has surpassed US $8 billion in recent years, with substantial involvement of Spanish companies in India and vice versa.
Jaishankar pointed out the increasing defense cooperation between India and Spain, noting the anticipated rollout of the first Made in India C295 aircraft by September. This development signifies the deepening defense industrial collaboration and the shared commitment to bolstering manufacturing capabilities. The partnership is further enriched by robust cultural connections, evident in the popularity of Indian practices like yoga and Ayurveda in Spain, as well as the growing interest in Spanish culture and language in India.
Tourism serves as a vital and expanding element of the bilateral relationship, fostering people-to-people links between India and Spain. Both countries are dedicated to facilitating enhanced mobility, educational exchanges, and institutional partnerships to strengthen the bond between their citizens.
