Minister Albares agrees with his counterpart Jaishankar to promote the Spain-India Dual Year and strengthen the diplomatic presence in light of the 50% growth in bilateral trade.
![[Img # 66386]](https://empresaexterior.com/upload/images/01_2026/4718_espana-e-india-elevaran-su-relacion-a-asociacion-estrategica-y-abriran-un-nuevo-consulado-en-bangalore.jpeg)
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, has concluded his official visit to the India agreeing with his counterpart, Subrahmanyam Jaishankarto elevate the bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership. The tour has served to announce the opening of a consulate in Bangalore and to promote the economic agenda within the framework of Dual Year.
Strengthening political ties and a new presence in the Indo-Pacific
The visit of the head of Spanish diplomacy to Nueva Deli responds to the invitation extended by the minister Jaishankar after passing through Madrid in early 2025. During the meetings, which culminated in an audience with the President of the Republic, Draupadi MurmuThe two leaders reviewed key international issues and laid the groundwork for future cooperation. strategic partnership.
José Manuel Albares highlighted the specific weight of India —the world's fourth largest economy and the most populous country— in Spanish foreign policy. This relevance is crystallized in the accession of España to Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, a project led by the Indian government to foster cooperation in maritime transport, connectivity, science and disaster management.
On an operational level, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs It will implement a diplomatic redeployment to meet the growing demand for services and institutional support. The current offices in Nueva Deli and to the Consulate General in Mumbai (operational since 2006), will be added the opening of a third consulate in BangaloreThis new headquarters will have jurisdiction over the southern states of the country, a key area for the technology industry and innovation.
Figures on bilateral trade and support for the EU-India agreement
The economic aspect was central to the agenda, which included meetings with Spanish businesspeople. Albares He described the commercial evolution as "very positive" and emphasized the shift towards more balanced growth. The minister reiterated his support for España upon the conclusion of a free trade agreement between the Unión Europea and India.
Below, we break down the key data of the current business relationship:
| Indicator | Data / Evolution |
|---|---|
| Growth of bilateral trade | More than 50% in recent years |
| Spanish exports (since 2024) | Growth close to 20% |
| India's position on Spain | 2nd largest trading partner in Asia |
| Spain's position on India | 6th largest trading partner within the EU |
Spain-India Dual Year: Agenda 2026
During the visit, the official logo of the Dual Year España-India, an initiative agreed upon during the president's visit Pedro Sánchez in October 2024 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026. The logo merges the colors of both flags and symbolizes unity through art and culture.
The Dual Year program will not be limited to cultural aspects, but will have a strong business and scientific component, highlighting the following milestones on the calendar:
- February 19 and 20 (New Delhi): Within the framework of the AI World Summit, the largest bilateral university meeting to date will be held, connecting the top 20 Indian universities with rectors from 80 Spanish universities.
- May 25 and 26 (Deli): First major meeting of Chambers of Commerce. Around 80 Spanish chambers and the top 200 from the world will participate. India to promote projects among SMEs.
- End of 2026 (Spain): Closing meeting of the university sector to evaluate the increase in agreements and joint research projects.
Key points and frequently asked questions about Spain-India relations
What does joining the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative entail?
It involves the integration of España within a framework of regional cooperation led by Indiafocusing on strategic sectors such as maritime security, logistical connectivity, science and natural disaster risk reduction.
Where will the new Spanish diplomatic mission be located?
The minister Albares has confirmed the opening of a Consulate in BangaloreThis office will cover the southern states of the India, complementing the embassy's work in Nueva Deli and the consulate of Mumbai.
What is the objective of the Chambers of Commerce meeting in May?
The event aims to create a diverse network that facilitates connections between SMEs in both countries, which often face greater challenges in internationalizing. It will bring together approximately 80 chambers of commerce. España with the top 200 Indian chamber entities.
