Bratislava, Slovakia — June 16: India and Slovakia have taken significant strides toward enhancing their economic partnership. On Monday, during a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, both leaders agreed to revitalize the India-Slovakia Joint Economic Committee (JEC) to uncover and promote new areas for collaboration.
The joint statement from their discussions highlighted a shared goal to boost trade and investment across diverse sectors, particularly in automotive, electronics, and advanced manufacturing. Both leaders emphasized the importance of utilizing Slovakia’s robust industrial base alongside India’s strengths in scale and innovation.
They also committed to exploring ways to significantly increase their bilateral trade and investments. The collaboration intends to focus on high-value industries that can benefit both nations.
Furthermore, the leaders welcomed the progress made in the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is set for completion in January 2026. They believe that this agreement would offer new opportunities for trade and investment. Both called for timely signing and implementation of the FTA to maximize the potential of their economic cooperation.
Connectivity was recognized as a key area in their partnership, with both countries aiming to strengthen joint ventures, technology sharing, and skills development, particularly in the automotive and railway sectors. They noted Slovakia’s advantageous location as a transport hub in Central Europe and India’s manufacturing capacity as factors that could greatly enhance trade and connectivity.
Additionally, they expressed interest in establishing direct air links between India and Slovakia to facilitate business exchanges and foster closer ties between their peoples.
These developments mark an important moment in India-Slovakia relations, notably as Prime Minister Modi’s visit is the first by an Indian leader since Slovakia gained independence in 1993. The two nations have now elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership, collaborating in areas including defense, technology, trade, and innovation.
