Bratislava: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Slovakia’s highest civilian honour, the Order of the White Double Cross (First Class), during his two-day visit to the Slovak capital, Bratislava. The recognition marks a significant milestone in India-Slovakia relations and adds to the growing list of international honours conferred upon the Indian Prime Minister. With this award, Modi has now received the highest civilian honours from 32 countries.
Expressing gratitude after receiving the prestigious award, Prime Minister Modi dedicated the honour to the people of India and the enduring friendship between the two nations. In a message shared after the ceremony, he thanked the government and people of Slovakia and stated that the recognition belonged to the 1.4 billion citizens of India.
The visit also witnessed a major advancement in bilateral ties as India and Slovakia agreed to elevate their relationship to the level of a Comprehensive Partnership. The decision was announced following delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Modi and his Slovak counterpart Robert Fico at the Bratislava Palace.
As part of the strengthened partnership, the two countries signed 11 agreements aimed at expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, including migration, digital technology, defence, education, innovation, and cultural exchanges. The agreements are expected to provide a framework for deeper engagement and greater collaboration between the two nations in the coming years.
During a joint press conference, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the significance of the upgraded partnership, describing it as a reflection of mutual trust, shared priorities, and a common vision for the future. He also thanked Prime Minister Fico for Slovakia’s support in advancing negotiations on the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
A notable outcome of the visit was the announcement of an India Chair in Artificial Intelligence at a Slovak university. According to Modi, both countries share the vision that artificial intelligence should be used as a force for human progress and societal development. The initiative is expected to encourage academic collaboration, research, and innovation in emerging technologies.
Defence cooperation also emerged as a key area of engagement. The two sides signed a Letter of Intent aimed at strengthening defence collaboration, which Modi described as evidence of the deep trust and strategic alignment between India and Slovakia.
Cultural ties received attention as well, with Modi noting that the translation of India’s ancient Upanishads into the Slovak language represents a meaningful example of the close cultural connections between the two countries.
Economic relations between India and Slovakia continue to expand steadily. Bilateral trade is estimated to reach approximately ₹17,000 crore in 2025. India’s exports to Slovakia, valued at around ₹14,500 crore, include automobile components, mobile phones, textiles, and garments. Meanwhile, India imports vehicles, industrial machinery, electrical equipment, electronics, and processed rubber products from Slovakia.
Slovakia, a Central European nation with a population of around 5.4 million, is one of Europe’s major automobile manufacturing hubs, producing more than one million passenger vehicles annually. Global automotive companies such as Volkswagen, Kia, Jaguar Land Rover, and Volvo operate in the country, with the sector contributing nearly 14 percent of Slovakia’s GDP.
The Indian community in Slovakia has also grown in importance, with more than 9,000 Indians currently residing in the country, primarily working in information technology, development centres, and the broader technology sector. As a member of the Schengen Area, Slovakia offers access to 26 European countries through a single visa system, making it an attractive destination for professionals and businesses.
