Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a week-long official visit to Europe, arrived in Bratislava marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Slovakia. The visit underscored a significant diplomatic milestone in India–Slovakia relations and set the tone for deeper strategic engagement between the two nations.
During the bilateral discussions, both sides agreed to elevate their relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership, a step described as reflecting shared beliefs, shared priorities, and a shared future. Prime Minister Modi stated that the decision symbolises a strengthened framework for long-term cooperation across multiple sectors.
The two leaders placed strong emphasis on expanding bilateral trade and economic engagement. Prime Minister Modi conveyed appreciation to Slovakia for its cooperation in advancing the India–European Union European Union Free Trade Agreement and expressed confidence in its early implementation. He stated that both sides would work towards its earliest execution to ensure that industries, startups, and traders in both countries can fully benefit from the agreement.
In response, Prime Minister Robert Fico described the proposed agreement as one of the most ambitious trade arrangements ever concluded. He affirmed Slovakia’s support for the pact and pledged that his government would undertake the necessary practical steps to ensure its effective implementation.
Defence cooperation also emerged as a key pillar of the discussions. Both sides agreed that the strengthening of defence ties reflects deep mutual trust and strategic convergence. Following the talks, a Letter of Intent on defence cooperation was finalised, aimed at boosting collaboration between the defence industries of India and Slovakia, including joint development and production initiatives. The agreement is expected to provide new momentum to bilateral defence industry engagement.
The leaders further highlighted that the expanded partnership marks a new phase in India–Slovakia relations, built on growing economic ties, strategic alignment, and increasing institutional cooperation. The discussions concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration in the years ahead.
The elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Partnership and the advancement of trade and defence cooperation underscore a significant transformation in relations between India and Slovakia, positioning both nations for a stronger and more structured strategic engagement in the future.
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