New Delhi: Spanish Foreign Minister Mr. José Manuel Albares met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan as India and Spain commemorated the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
Welcoming the Spanish Foreign Minister, President Murmu said that the relationship between India and Spain dates back centuries and has been enriched by trade, cultural exchanges, and shared democratic values. She noted that the milestone year is being celebrated as theIndia–Spain Dual Year of Culture, Tourism and Artificial Intelligence, reflecting the evolving and forward-looking nature of bilateral ties.
The President highlighted the steady growth in economic relations between the two countries, marked by increasing trade and investment. She observed that Spain’s expertise in areas such as engineering, railways, renewable energy, urban services, and defence aerospace aligns well with India’s development priorities and infrastructure goals. She also expressed confidence that the proposedIndia–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA)would further enhance bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
Emphasising multilateral engagement, President Murmu stated that India and Spain, as strong supporters of multilateralism, should continue working together on global platforms such as theUnited Nations and the G-20to promote peace, prosperity, and global stability.
On security matters, the President reiterated that both nations share a common and firm stance against terrorism. She stressed the need for enhanced cooperation and collective efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, which remains a major threat to global peace.
The President also underlined the growing strength of India’s relationship with Europe and the European Union. She expressed her anticipation in welcoming thePresident of the European Council and the President of the European Commissionas Chief Guests at India’s77th Republic Day celebrations, marking a new chapter in India–EU relations.
