Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday scripted history by becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Slovakia since the country gained independence. During his visit, India and Slovakia agreed to elevate their bilateral ties to the level of a Comprehensive Partnership, signaling a new phase in relations between the two nations.
The announcement came after delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Modi and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in the Slovak capital, Bratislava.
India and Slovakia Deepen Strategic Cooperation
Addressing a joint press conference after the talks, Prime Minister Modi said the upgraded partnership reflects the growing trust and cooperation between the two countries.
He emphasized that India and Slovakia are committed to expanding collaboration across multiple sectors, including defence, trade, innovation, technology, and industrial development.
According to Modi, the new framework will strengthen long-term cooperation and create fresh opportunities for businesses and strategic stakeholders in both countries.
Defence Partnership Gets Fresh Push
One of the key outcomes of the visit was the signing of a Letter of Intent on defence cooperation. The agreement is expected to boost collaboration between the defence industries of India and Slovakia.
The Prime Minister said the defence relationship demonstrates the mutual confidence shared by both countries and will contribute to deeper strategic engagement in the coming years.
Slovakia Supports India-EU Trade Deal Efforts
Prime Minister Modi also thanked Slovakia for its support in advancing negotiations on the long-pending India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
He expressed optimism that both sides would work toward concluding the agreement at the earliest, describing it as an important step for enhancing economic ties between India and European countries.
Slovak PM Praises India’s Economic Rise
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico congratulated India on its remarkable economic achievements and growing global influence. He highlighted India’s rapid progress in digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and technological innovation.
Fico noted that India has emerged as one of the world’s leading economies and praised its ability to maintain strong growth while many developed regions continue to face economic challenges.
He also pointed to India’s advances in AI and digital infrastructure, saying the country has moved ahead of several advanced economies in adopting emerging technologies.
Ceremonial Welcome Marks Historic Occasion
Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial welcome upon arriving in Bratislava, including a Guard of Honour and a traditional Slovak greeting involving bread and salt, symbolizing friendship and hospitality.
The visit also featured cultural performances by Slovak folk artists, reflecting the strong people-to-people ties between the two nations.
Modi later met Prime Minister Fico at Bratislava Castle and toured an art exhibition before holding formal discussions.
Focus on Trade, Investment and Innovation
The talks between the two leaders covered a wide range of issues, including trade, investment, automobile manufacturing, railway modernization, innovation, and technology cooperation.
Analysts believe the historic visit could open new avenues for Indian businesses in Central Europe while strengthening Slovakia’s engagement with one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies.
The visit follows a series of high-level exchanges between the two countries over the past year, highlighting growing momentum in India-Slovakia relations.
