India, Slovakia agree on strengthening ties

India and Slovakia have forged a comprehensive partnership, marking a significant step in their bilateral relations. The agreement, reached during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, encompasses cooperation in crucial sectors like defense, labor mobility, digital technologies, and cybersecurity.

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I express my special gratitude to the PM for Slovakia’s support in finalising the India-European Union (EU) free trade agreement. We will work towards its early implementation so that industries, startups and businesses in both countries can derive maximum benefit.

Modi, the first Indian premier to visit Slovakia since its independence, emphasized the shared trust and priorities between the two nations. He pointed to substantial potential for collaboration in advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, automobiles, railways, and space technology. The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of the India-European Union free trade agreement, urging its early implementation to benefit businesses in both countries.

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We emphasised the need to enhance cooperation between the industries and experts of both nations in this sector.

Defense cooperation is set to gain new momentum with a signed letter of intent, fostering joint development and production between the defense industries. Civil nuclear energy was identified as a priority, building on the successful launch of Slovakia's first satellite by India in 2017. Additionally, a memorandum of understanding on labor migration aims to enhance the mobility of professionals and skilled workers, with a social security agreement expected soon.

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Slovakia supports the reform of the United Nations and backs India to be part of an expanded Security Council as a permanent member.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico affirmed a shared vision on sovereign foreign policy, international law, and multilateralism. He voiced Slovakia's support for UN reform and India's bid for a permanent seat on an expanded Security Council. Fico also anticipates benefits for Slovakia's automobile sector from the India-EU trade deal and expressed interest in attracting Indian investments, particularly in public-private partnerships.

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While welcoming the conclusion of negotiations between India and the EU on “one of the most ambitious FTAs”, Fico said Slovakia’s automobile sector will benefit from the trade deal.