India and Romania Seek Comprehensive Partnership as President Murmu Visits After Three Decades
India and Romania are working to build a comprehensive partnership, with a focus on expanding trade, investment, technology cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges. This was stated by officials from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday, as President Droupadi Murmu continues her state visit to Romania — the first by an Indian President in 30 years.
The visit comes at a time when the Russia-Ukraine conflict has intensified, with attacks on cargo ships in the Black Sea. Romania, a European Union member and a key Black Sea nation, offers India a trusted gateway to Europe and a partner in maritime security.
During the visit, India and Romania have announced the strengthening of defence cooperation. Both sides welcomed the growing engagement between their defence establishments. President Murmu arrived in Romania at the invitation of her counterpart, President Nicușor Dan.
On Friday, President Murmu paid her respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Bucharest, a symbolic gesture honouring those who died in service. The trip aims to enhance bilateral ties across multiple sectors, building on a relationship that has seen steady growth in recent years.
The MEA briefing highlighted that the comprehensive partnership will cover not only defence but also trade, investment, and technological collaboration. The two countries are expected to sign several agreements to facilitate cooperation in these areas.
The visit underscores India's foreign policy focus on strengthening ties with European nations, particularly in the context of the shifting geopolitical landscape following the conflict in Ukraine. Romania, as a NATO member and EU state, is seen as a stable partner in the region.
People-to-people exchanges are also a priority, with both sides encouraging tourism, education, and cultural linkages. The Indian diaspora in Romania, though small, has contributed to the bilateral relationship.
The last visit by an Indian President to Romania was in 1993. President Murmu's visit signals a renewed push to deepen ties, with expectations of concrete outcomes in economic and strategic cooperation.
