India, Slovakia elevate ties to comprehensive partnership, to focus on defence and EU Trade Pact
India and Slovakia on Monday elevated their bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Partnership following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Bratislava.
The upgrade in ties is expected to strengthen cooperation in key areas including trade, defence, technology, and innovation.
Both leaders agreed to accelerate efforts toward the early implementation of the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is expected to significantly boost economic engagement between India and European markets.
Prime Minister Modi, in his statement, said the new partnership reflects shared priorities and mutual trust between the two countries. He also thanked Slovakia for its support in advancing negotiations on the India-EU trade deal.
The two sides also agreed to deepen defence cooperation, with a Letter of Intent on defence collaboration being finalised during the talks. Officials said this will open new avenues for cooperation between defence industries of both countries.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico welcomed the India-EU FTA, describing it as one of the most ambitious trade agreements in recent times, and assured Slovakia’s support for its implementation.
India said the agreement will benefit industries, startups, and traders on both sides by improving market access and boosting investment opportunities.
The visit marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has travelled to Slovakia, signalling growing engagement between New Delhi and Central Europe.
