Spain’s top diplomat Jose Manuel Albares landed in New Delhi for a crucial two-day trip, kicking off with high-level talks alongside India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The Wednesday meeting spotlighted India’s pivotal role in international affairs and the need to bolster mutual partnerships.
Albares was vocal in his support for sealing the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement. ‘Finalizing this FTA would send a strong message,’ he remarked, praising India’s adherence to global norms and the UN framework. Such a deal, he added, aligns perfectly with shared values of trust and cooperation.
Business synergies took center stage too. The Airbus Spain-Tata Advanced Systems alliance was hailed as a prime instance of fruitful collaboration that both nations aim to expand. On the horizon, President Pedro Sanchez’s impending visit to India was confirmed, with invitations extended for PM Modi to head to Madrid.
Beyond trade, the dialogue ventured into strategic realms. Spain seeks to upgrade bilateral relations to a ‘strategic association’—its most elevated partnership category. Albares conveyed gratitude for India’s support during Spain’s recent tragedies, reciprocating EAM Jaishankar’s sympathies for the Admuruz rail disaster victims.
Commitment to multilateral forums and the Indo-Pacific region was reiterated. Albares brought along a special letter to mark Spain’s eager participation in these efforts. As global challenges mount, this exchange lays groundwork for enduring India-Spain synergy across trade, defense, and diplomacy.