Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish President Pedro Sanchez convened in Vadodara, Gujarat, where they signed several memorandums of understanding (MOUs). Their discussions at the Laxmi Vilas Palace spanned a range of topics, including the situations in Ukraine and West Asia, as reported by Tanmaya Lal, Secretary (West) at the Ministry of External Affairs.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, right, shakes hand with his Spanish counterpart Pedro Sanchez in front of Laxmi Vilas Palace before their meeting in Vadodara. (AP /Gujarat State Press Information Bureau)
In their exchange, both leaders shared perspectives on Ukraine, with Prime Minister Modi underscoring India’s position that conflicts should be settled through dialogue and diplomacy. He stated, "This is not the time for war; this cannot be resolved on the battleground. It is necessary that direct discussion takes place between both the parties." India also reiterated its commitment to a free and peaceful Indo-Pacific region.
India-Spain Partnership Agreements
India and Spain have signed agreements covering key sectors like infrastructure, railways, culture, and tourism. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on rail transport was established, focusing on collaboration in the planning and development of railway infrastructure. This includes stations, facilities, and equipment for long-distance passenger and freight networks, as well as urban rail systems.
Both nations also agreed to celebrate 2026 as the India-Spain Year of Culture, Tourism, and Artificial Intelligence. Additionally, a cultural exchange program for 2024-28 was signed to promote bilateral exchanges in music, dance, theatre, literature, museums, and festivals.
Cooperation in Customs and the Opening of Consulates
A cooperation and mutual assistance agreement concerning customs matters has been signed, enabling the exchange of information to prevent and combat customs offenses. Furthermore, Spain is set to establish a consulate in Bengaluru, Karnataka, while India's consulate general in Barcelona began operations in August of this year.
The Spanish delegation comprised two ministers and 15 CEOs from prominent companies. The bilateral discussions wrapped up with a lavish banquet lunch hosted by PM Modi at the grand palace.
Inauguration of the TASL-Airbus Facility
Earlier in the day, Modi and Sanchez inaugurated the Tata Advanced System Limited (TASL)-Airbus facility in Vadodara, which will produce C-295 military aircraft in India.
The meeting between India and Spain underscored their dedication to enhancing collaboration across multiple sectors, with both countries seeking to promote cooperation that benefits their economies and cultures.
Joint Statement
“The leaders expressed their deepest concern over the war in Ukraine and reiterated the need for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with international law, and consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the joint statement said.
Modi and Sanchez “shared their firm commitment to achieving peace and stability in the Middle East, and expressed their deep concern at the escalation of the security situation in West Asia and called for restraint by all concerned”, the joint statement said.
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