India and Spain Reaffirm Commitment to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

India and Spain reaffirm their commitment to stronger bilateral ties across trade, investment, defence, security, culture and tourism as they mark 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2026.

India has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with Spain, focusing on trade, investment, defence, security, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges. The renewed commitment comes as both countries celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations through the India-Spain Dual Year of Culture, Tourism and Artificial Intelligence in 2026.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (West), Sibi George, represented the country as the chief guest at Spain’s National Day celebrations in New Delhi. During the event, he highlighted the positive momentum in bilateral relations and reiterated India’s intention to expand cooperation across key sectors.

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The ongoing Dual Year initiative is designed to deepen engagement between the two countries through cultural exchanges, tourism promotion and collaboration in artificial intelligence. The initiative also provides a platform for strengthening institutional, business and people-to-people connections.

Economic cooperation remains an important component of the partnership. During a visit to Spain in July 2026, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal held discussions with Spanish government representatives and business leaders on expanding trade, investment and industrial collaboration. Areas identified for cooperation included renewable energy, green hydrogen, advanced manufacturing, digital technologies and infrastructure. Both countries also explored ways to improve market access and strengthen supply chains.

Defence cooperation has also gained attention, with both countries pursuing closer industrial and maritime engagement. The collaboration includes the C-295 military aircraft programme involving Airbus Spain and Tata Advanced Systems, which supports India’s domestic aerospace manufacturing ambitions.

The renewed commitment reflects the broader effort by New Delhi and Madrid to translate their longstanding diplomatic relationship into practical economic and strategic outcomes. Through continued engagement in trade, technology, defence and cultural exchanges, both countries aim to expand cooperation and create new opportunities for businesses and citizens.

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As the Dual Year progresses, India and Spain are expected to continue building connections across sectors that support innovation, economic growth and closer bilateral engagement.