Prime Minister Narendra Modi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Monday unveiled an ambitious roadmap to transform India-South Korea relations into a “futuristic partnership,” announcing 25 key outcomes following delegation-level talks during President Lee’s State Visit to India.
The announcements were made after bilateral discussions at Hyderabad House, covering strategic, economic, technological, and cultural cooperation between the two nations.
Strategic Vision and Key Frameworks
At the core of the outcomes is a Joint Strategic Vision for the India-Republic of Korea (ROK) Special Strategic Partnership, alongside major frameworks in shipbuilding, maritime logistics, sustainability, and energy security. These initiatives aim to deepen collaboration across critical sectors and strengthen long-term cooperation.
Wide-Ranging MoUs and Agreements
A series of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and frameworks were signed to boost cooperation across multiple domains. These include agreements in ports, steel supply chains, small and medium enterprises, science and technology, climate action, and cultural industries.
Key highlights include:
* Establishment of an Industrial Cooperation Committee
* Framework for the India–Korea Digital Bridge focusing on AI, semiconductors, and IT
* Resumption of negotiations to upgrade the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
* Agreements on financial cooperation, digital payments, and maritime heritage
* Cultural Exchange Programme for 2026–2030 and cooperation in sports and creative industries
Major Announcements
Both sides also launched several new initiatives, including:
* An Economic Security Dialogue to strengthen supply chains and critical technologies
* A Distinguished Visitors Programme to enhance people-to-people ties
* New dialogues between foreign ministries on global issues such as climate change, Arctic cooperation, and maritime affairs
South Korea also joined key India-led global initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, while India will join the Global Green Growth Institute.
Both countries also announced plans to commemorate 2028–29 as the Year of India-ROK Friendship.
Trade Target and Future Cooperation
PM Modi said the two countries have set a target to increase bilateral trade from $27 billion to $50 billion by 2030, supported by new institutional mechanisms such as the India–Korea Financial Forum and measures to facilitate investment, including a proposed Korean Industrial Township in India.
He emphasised that cooperation will expand across sectors ranging from “chips to ships, talent to technology, and environment to energy,” reflecting a comprehensive approach to partnership.
Message of Stability Amid Global Tensions
Highlighting the broader geopolitical context, PM Modi said India and South Korea are sending a joint message of “peace and stability” in an era of global uncertainty. He noted that both nations share democratic values and a common vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
The leaders also underlined the need for reforms in global institutions and pledged to work together in multilateral forums to address emerging global challenges.
Cultural and People-to-People Connect
The two sides reaffirmed their deep civilisational ties, dating back thousands of years, and emphasised growing cultural exchanges. With Korean pop culture gaining popularity in India and Indian cinema finding audiences in South Korea, both nations aim to expand cooperation in creative industries, tourism, education, and research.
