External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Spain’s President Pedro Sanchez, highlighting the ongoing India-Spain partnership.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Spanish President Pedro Sanchez on Tuesday, emphasizing the enduring partnership between India and Spain. During the meeting, he provided updates on the advancements in bilateral cooperation.
Mr. Jaishankar, who commenced his two-day official visit to Spain on Monday, also had an audience with King Felipe VI.
In a statement, he expressed, “Called on President Sanchez today in Madrid. Conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”
He reflected on President Sanchez’s previous visit to India and noted, “Briefed him on my discussions in Madrid and apprised him of the progress on our bilateral agenda.”
President Sanchez’s inaugural visit to India occurred last October, during which he engaged in delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Modi.
Following his meeting with King Felipe VI, Mr. Jaishankar stated, “Honoured to call on His Majesty King Felipe VI today in Madrid and relayed warm wishes from President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi.” He added that he appreciated the monarch’s guidance in enhancing India-Spain relations.
Additionally, Mr. Jaishankar engaged in “productive” discussions with Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles, focusing on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation.
Earlier, he participated in a session organized by the Spain-India Council Foundation, alongside his Spanish counterpart Jose Manuel Albares. At the session titled ‘Strategic Alliances for a Changing World: Spain and India in the 21st Century’, he emphasized the importance of India-Spain collaboration in the current global context.
“India-Spain collaboration is vital in today’s turbulent world, supporting the global economy and facilitating talent training and mobility,” he stated.
Mr. Jaishankar highlighted Spain’s role in elevating relations with the EU, Mediterranean, and Latin America, urging collaboration among governments, businesses, and institutions to harness future opportunities for India-Spain ties.
During his visit, the minister also interacted with the Indian community in Spain and held discussions with his Spanish counterpart about various regional and global issues.
Published – January 15, 2025 01:05 am IST
