India and Spain Strengthen Bilateral Ties Key Agreements from PM Sánchez’s Visit

In a significant diplomatic move, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez arrived in India this week for a high-profile visit aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation. During discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Baroda, both leaders emphasized a mutual commitment to run joint development programs across South America, marking a new chapter in international collaboration.

Defense Cooperation Takes Center Stage

A pivotal outcome of the talks was the agreement to bolster defense relations between India and Spain. Both nations plan to explore opportunities for joint manufacturing of defense equipment and warships, leveraging Spain’s expertise as one of the top ten global exporters of defense technology. The inauguration of the C-295 military transport aircraft manufacturing plant a collaborative venture between Tata and Airbus highlights this commitment and symbolizes a new era in defense collaboration.

Cultural and Economic Partnerships

Recognizing the potential for cultural exchange and tourism, the leaders designated 2026 as the Year of Cooperation in culture, tourism, and artificial intelligence. Each year, approximately 250,000 Indians travel to Spain, while around 40,000 Spanish tourists visit India, showcasing significant opportunities for growth in this sector.

Comprehensive Agreements Across Multiple Sectors

In addition to defense, a letter of intent was signed covering cooperation in railways, transport, investment, and customs. These agreements reflect a holistic approach to strengthening economic ties and facilitating smoother trade relations between the two countries.

During their discussions, Sánchez and Modi also addressed critical global issues. Spain expressed its support for India’s stance on the Ukraine conflict, advocating for resolution through diplomacy. Both leaders condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Israel and highlighted the urgent need for a humanitarian response in Gaza, reaffirming their commitment to a two-state solution for lasting peace in the region.

Furthering diplomatic engagement, Spain recently opened a new consulate in Bangalore, while India established a consulate in Barcelona. These developments are expected to facilitate deeper connections and cooperation in various fields.

The visit of PM Pedro Sánchez not only underscores the importance of India-Spain relations but also sets the stage for increased collaboration across multiple sectors. As both nations navigate shared challenges and opportunities, their partnership promises to evolve into a robust alliance with far-reaching implications for the Indo-European landscape.