India’s Ambassador to Spain and Andorra, Jayant N Khobragade, spoke about the robust development of diplomatic relations between India and Spain. He noted the increase in high-level exchanges and expanding trade ties as pivotal elements in strengthening bilateral connections. While attending an exhibition titled ‘Journey with the Divine Flow,’ Khobragade remarked, “The relationship between India and Spain is flourishing. It resembles family ties where visits occur back and forth, helping to nurture the bond.” He emphasized the role of leadership engagement, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Spain in 2017 as a significant turning point in the relationship.

Significance of Economic Cooperation

Khobragade elaborated on the economic cooperation between the two nations, indicating that the trade partnership has reached nearly USD 10 billion, with exports from India amounting to around USD 7 billion and imports valued at USD 3 billion. He highlighted the current year as a milestone, marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Spain. “We are celebrating this year as the India-Spain Year of Culture, Tourism, and Artificial Intelligence,” he stated.

Details of the Exhibition

During the conversation, Khobragade also described the exhibition he was attending, explaining the theme behind ‘Journey with the Divine Flow.’ He explained, “The inspiration for the title came from the belief that beauty often embodies an element of divinity.” He further shared that the exhibition is curated around three main themes: Nature, Music and Dance, and Civilizational Connect, which together underscore the cultural richness of both nations.

Cordial Relations Since 1956

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India and Spain have upheld amicable relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1956, with continuous high-level interactions enhancing their partnership. Prime Minister Modi’s official visit in May 2017 stands out as a pivotal event. Further engagements, including dialogues on the sidelines of G20 Summits and various telephonic conversations, have contributed to amplifying mutual trust and collaboration.

High-Level Engagements and Trade Expansion

Regular ministerial exchanges, such as meetings between India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares, have reinforced the diplomatic bond. The relationships have not only grown in terms of political dialogue but also in economic terms. Spain has emerged as India’s sixth-largest trading partner in Europe, with bilateral trade reaching USD 9.9 billion in the year 2023.

Composition of Trade

The MEA highlighted that India’s exports to Spain primarily consist of mineral fuels, chemicals, textiles, and machinery, while imports largely include mechanical appliances, chemicals, and plastics. The growing investment landscape was also noted, identifying Spain as the 16th largest investor in India. This signifies a promising trajectory in bilateral economic interactions as both nations look to further solidify their partnership.

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