Ambassador Dinesh K. Patnaik met with participants in the Indian Leaders 2025 Program, focusing on Eco-Startups: Green Innovation and Entrepreneurship | VIII edition activity summary
As usual, the agenda of the Leaders Program includes a private meeting with the Ambassador of India in Spain, during which participants can learn about the bilateral work carried out by his government with Spain in various areas: politics and trade, tourism, cultural promotion and bilateral cooperation.
Diplomatic relations between Spain and India formally began in 1956, with the opening of the Spanish embassy in New Delhi. Since then, ties between the two nations have evolved towards a more strategic cooperation. In 2016, both countries celebrated the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic relations with a series of cultural and commemorative events in Madrid and New Delhi.
Today, Spain and India maintain a network of bilateral agreements ranging from defense cooperation to sustainable urban development. In January 2025, during the visit of the Indian Foreign Minister to Madrid, new agreements were signed on sports cooperation and urban development, reflecting mutual interest in expanding collaboration in key sectors.
In the economic sphere, India is one of Spain's strategic partners in Asia. Both countries have intensified bilateral trade and investment in sectors such as renewable energy, technology, automotive and infrastructure. Spanish companies such as Acciona, Gestamp and Indra have an active presence in India, while Indian companies see Spain as a gateway to the European market.
In addition to trade, the relationship has been enriched by cultural, educational and tourism exchanges. The Indian film Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, shot in Spain, significantly boosted Indian tourism to the country. Academic ties have also been strengthened through exchange and cooperation programs between universities in both countries.
