India–Spain relations in spotlight as Spanish Foreign Minister meets President Murmu

Welcoming Albares, the President said that India–Spain relations date back centuries, shaped by trade, cultural exchanges and shared democratic values such as pluralism and inclusivity.

She noted that 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, which is being commemorated through the India–Spain Dual Year of Culture, Tourism and Artificial Intelligence.

President Murmu highlighted the steady growth in economic ties, with expanding trade and investment between India and Spain. She said Spain’s strengths in engineering, railways, renewable energy, urban services, and defence aerospace align well with India’s development priorities.

Expressing confidence in the future of bilateral trade, the President said the proposed India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would further strengthen economic cooperation between India and Spain.

She also underscored the importance of multilateral cooperation, noting that as strong supporters of multilateralism, India and Spain should work closely on platforms such as the United Nations and the G20 to advance shared objectives of peace, prosperity and global stability.

The President emphasised that India and Spain share a common position on countering terrorism, which continues to pose a serious threat to international peace and security. She called for pooling resources and capabilities to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

President Murmu further noted that India’s engagement with Europe and the European Union is steadily deepening, adding that India looks forward to welcoming the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission as Chief Guests at the 77th Republic Day celebrations.

The President said that India’s relationship with Europe and European Union is growing steadily, and that we are looking forward to welcoming the President of European Council and the President of European Commission as Chief Guests for our 77th Republic Day.