India-Slovakia Relations – Modi and Fico Strengthen Cooperation Through New Agreements
India-Slovakia Relations – Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced a series of initiatives aimed at deepening cooperation between India and Slovakia during high-level discussions held in Bratislava on Monday. The leaders highlighted progress in several areas, including labour mobility, digital technology, and social security, reflecting a growing partnership between the two nations.
New Agreement to Support Skilled Workforce Movement
Speaking during a joint press briefing, Prime Minister Modi revealed that both countries have agreed on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on labour migration. The agreement is expected to facilitate easier movement of professionals and skilled workers between India and Slovakia, creating fresh opportunities for employment, collaboration, and knowledge exchange.
Modi noted that the initiative represents another step toward stronger bilateral ties and reflects the shared commitment of both governments to enhance cooperation in areas that directly benefit their citizens. He also stated that discussions are progressing on a separate social security agreement, which is expected to be finalized in the near future.
Shared Commitment to Peaceful Global Engagement
The Indian Prime Minister emphasized that India and Slovakia maintain similar views on international issues and support peaceful solutions to global disputes. According to Modi, both countries believe that dialogue and diplomacy remain essential tools for addressing tensions and conflicts around the world.
He said the expanding relationship between New Delhi and Bratislava demonstrates how nations can work together constructively while contributing positively to international stability and development.
Digital Technology Emerges as a Key Area of Partnership
A significant part of the discussions focused on technology and innovation. Modi announced the signing of an MoU on digital technology, describing it as an important framework for future collaboration in digital public infrastructure and emerging technologies.
The agreement is expected to encourage cooperation in digital governance, technological innovation, and the development of modern digital systems. Modi also welcomed the decision by a Slovak university to establish an India-focused academic chair dedicated to artificial intelligence studies.
He described the initiative as a valuable platform for promoting research, academic exchange, and deeper understanding of technological advancements between the two countries.
Invitation Extended to Slovak Citizens
During the event, Modi extended an invitation to the people of Slovakia to visit India and experience its culture, economy, and development firsthand. He expressed satisfaction that the invitation had been warmly received, highlighting the importance of people-to-people connections in strengthening bilateral relations.
The Prime Minister said such exchanges can play an important role in enhancing mutual understanding and expanding cooperation beyond government-level engagement.
Slovak Prime Minister Praises India’s Growth Story
Addressing the media, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico commended India’s remarkable progress in recent years. He pointed to the country’s strong economic performance, rapid digital transformation, and growing leadership in artificial intelligence as examples of its development trajectory.
Fico observed that India has achieved significant advances across multiple sectors and has emerged as one of the world’s most influential economies. He noted that the country continues to expand its global presence while setting ambitious goals for future growth.
Recognition of India’s Technological Progress
The Slovak leader specifically highlighted India’s achievements in digitalisation and AI, stating that the country has made strides that place it ahead of many developed nations in certain technological fields. He praised the pace of innovation and the successful implementation of digital solutions across various sectors.
Calling it a privilege to host Prime Minister Modi, Fico also acknowledged India’s growing role on the global stage. He described India as a major economic power with considerable influence and significant potential for continued expansion in the years ahead.