Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico for Slovakia’s support in advancing negotiations on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, saying both sides would work towards its early implementation to benefit industries, startups and traders in both countries. Addressing the joint press address along with the Slovak Prime Minister in Bratislava today, Prime Minister Modi said the successful conclusion of the FTA would mark a significant milestone in India-EU economic relations and open new opportunities for bilateral economic engagement between India and Slovakia. Highlighting the growing role of technology in the partnership, the Prime Minister said digital technology will be a key pillar of future cooperation between the two countries. He noted that a Memorandum of Understanding signed on digital technology would unlock new possibilities in digital public infrastructure and innovation-led collaboration. Prime Minister also underlined the deep cultural and people-to-people ties between India and Slovakia, describing them as a strong foundation for bilateral relations. He cited the translation of India’s ancient Upanishads into the Slovak language as an example of cultural closeness between the two nations. He further said that the Indian diaspora in Slovakia is contributing meaningfully to the country’s economy and society, strengthening mutual goodwill and understanding. On global issues, the Prime Minister said India and Slovakia are working in close coordination on the international stage and share the belief that all disputes and tensions should be resolved peacefully. Speaking on defence cooperation, PM Modi said the sector reflects growing mutual trust and strategic convergence between the two countries. He stated that a Letter of Intent signed in the defence sector would provide fresh momentum to joint development, joint production, and industrial collaboration. The Prime Minister also said that an India Chair on Artificial Intelligence at a Slovak university, stressing that the future of AI must be built on innovation as well as trust, responsibility, and human dignity. Calling the visit historic, Prime Minister Modi noted that this is the first visit by any Indian Prime Minister to Slovakia. On this occasion, both countries agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership, which he said reflects shared values, priorities, and a common vision for the future. Delivering the joint press statement with Prime Minister Modi, the Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico, said that India should be included in the UN Security Council as a permanent member. He pointed out that the Slovak Republic and India are countries which are connected by a number of common topics. The Slovakian Prime Minister added that Slovakia welcomes the agreement that was reached between the EU and India for free trade and called it one of the most ambitious free trade agreements ever signed. He said that Slovakia is also interested in cooperation in the field of the defence industry. Mr Fico congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on becoming the longest-serving Indian Prime Minister. Prime Minister Fico also pointed out that India is faster than Western countries in digitalization and AI.
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