India and Spain Strengthen Cooperation Against Terrorism and Global Challenges

India and Spain have reaffirmed their commitment to jointly combat terrorism and enhance cooperation across key sectors, including trade, defence, security, and technology. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held talks with Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares in New Delhi, where both leaders stressed a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism and the need for stronger international collaboration to address the threat.
Highlighting shifts in the global order, Jaishankar underscored the importance of countries working together on shared challenges. The two sides reviewed progress in bilateral ties, noting strong engagement in trade and investment, with Indian companies playing an active role in Spain across IT, pharmaceuticals, and automotive sectors.
Defence cooperation emerged as a major pillar of the partnership, particularly the joint project to manufacture C-295 military transport aircraft in India. The initiative reflects growing defence industrial collaboration, with the first India-made aircraft expected later this year.
The ministers also discussed cooperation in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, agreeing on the importance of ethical, responsible, and inclusive AI development. In addition, both countries committed to promoting greater mobility, educational exchanges, and people-to-people connections.
Looking ahead, India and Spain will mark 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2026, which will be celebrated as a dual year of culture, tourism, and AI, symbolising the deepening partnership between the two democracies.