PM Modi and Prince Alois Forge Stronger Ties in Historic State Visit
PM Narendra Modi holds delegation-level talks with Hereditary Prince Alois of Liechtenstein to boost trade, innovation, and diplomatic cooperation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday engaged in high-level delegation talks with the Hereditary Prince Alois of Liechtenstein at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. This meeting marks a pivotal moment in the diplomatic journey between the two nations, occurring during the Prince's second state visit to India, aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation and economic synergy.
A Royal Welcome in New Delhi
The visit began with a grand ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Hereditary Prince Alois and Hereditary Princess Sophie. The royal couple's presence in the capital follows their earlier visits to Mumbai and Vadodara, signaling a comprehensive approach to engaging with India's economic hubs.
In a gesture of respect and remembrance, the royal couple visited Rajghat to pay their tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. During the wreath-laying ceremony, they signed the visitors' book, accompanied by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Jayant Chaudhary.
The Power of TEPA: Driving Economic Growth
Central to the discussions was the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), which entered into force a year ago. Hereditary Prince Alois described the agreement as a "significant milestone" that underscores the importance Liechtenstein places on its relationship with India.
The Prince highlighted several key sectors where the two nations can leverage their complementary strengths for mutual benefit:
- Innovation and Technology: Exploring new frontiers in digital and technical advancement.
- Advanced Manufacturing: Enhancing industrial capabilities through shared expertise.
- Financial Services: Strengthening ties in the global financial landscape.
- Education: Creating opportunities for academic and skill-based exchange.
"I am very honoured to be in India on the occasion of Liechtenstein's first state visit to this remarkable country. This historic visit bears testimony to the importance that Liechtenstein attaches to the relationship with India," stated Hereditary Prince Alois.
Diplomatic Momentum and Future Outlook
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also met with the Hereditary Prince, noting the "strong momentum" currently defining the bilateral partnership. In a post on X, Jaishankar emphasized that the opportunities enabled by the India-EFTA TEPA are driving cooperation across a wide range of domains.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has described this visit as the start of a "new chapter" in India-Liechtenstein engagement. The royal couple was accompanied by a high-level official delegation and a business delegation consisting of prominent industry leaders, ensuring that the diplomatic talks are backed by practical commercial interests.
As the visit unfolds, the focus remains on expanding diplomatic, trade, and economic cooperation, with high-ranking officials including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also involved in the state visit's proceedings.