India and Slovakia Elevate Relations to Comprehensive Partnership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced that India and Slovakia have elevated their bilateral relations to the status of a "Comprehensive Partnership." This milestone was declared during a joint press conference with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Bratislava.
PM Modi expressed gratitude towards his Slovak counterpart, calling him an "experienced leader and a true friend of India." He stated that Fico's friendship and unwavering commitment have played a special role in taking India-Slovakia relations to new heights.
Highlighting the historic significance of the event, PM Modi noted that his visit is the first by any Indian Prime Minister to the European nation. He affirmed that the elevation in partnership reflects shared trust, common priorities, and a vision for the future.
"I am pleased to have had the opportunity today to meet him and witness a historic moment in our relations. This visit marks the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Slovakia. I am delighted that on this historic occasion, we have decided to elevate our ties to a Comprehensive Partnership. This reflects our shared trust, common priorities, and a shared vision for the future," PM Modi said.
PM Modi also emphasized the cultural connections between the two countries, noting the translation of Indian Upanishads into the Slovak language and the contributions of the Indian diaspora in Slovakia. He described these as providing a "strong foundation" for bilateral relations.
"Deep cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries provide a strong foundation for our relations. The translation of India's ancient Upanishads into the Slovak language is an excellent example of our cultural proximity. People of Indian origin living in Slovakia are making significant contributions to the country's economy and society," PM Modi added.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Fico at the historic Bratislava Castle. The Indian delegation included External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George, and Additional Secretary Puja Kapur.
PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome in Bratislava, including a Guard of Honour, as he began the second leg of his European tour. Before the formal talks, the two leaders visited an art exhibition together.
