External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, on a two-day visit to Spain, highlighted India’s rising global prominence and deepening ties with Spain during an address to the Indian diaspora in Madrid.

BulletsIn

• Jaishankar was invited by Spain’s Foreign Minister to address its global ambassadors, a first for any foreign ambassador.
• Emphasized India’s position as the world’s fifth-largest economy, projected to be the third-largest.
• Highlighted India’s unique ability to engage diverse nations, facilitating dialogue between conflicting parties like Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Iran.
• Stressed India’s role in global vaccine distribution during the pandemic, supplying vaccines to over 100 nations.
• Spain’s President Sanchez personally sought India’s help for Hydroxychloroquine during COVID-19.
• Bilateral trade between India and Spain valued at €10 billion annually, with potential for growth in railways, clean technologies, and space collaboration.
• Announced a new Spanish consulate in Bengaluru to enhance cultural and business ties.
• Indian diaspora acknowledged for bolstering India’s global reputation.
• 2026 to be a “dual year” for India-Spain collaboration in culture, AI, and tourism, promising long-term benefits.