Slovakia Backs India’s UNSC Bid, Elevates Ties to Comprehensive Partnership

India and Slovakia have significantly upgraded their bilateral relationship by establishing a Comprehensive Partnership , a move aimed at expanding cooperation across defence, technology, trade, education and security. The development was accompanied by Slovakia's renewed endorsement of India's candidature for a permanent seat on a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC) , giving fresh momentum to New Delhi's long-standing push for greater representation in global institutions.

The elevation of ties was announced after talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico during Modi's visit to Bratislava, the first by an Indian prime minister since Slovakia became an independent nation in 1993.

In a joint declaration, the two countries highlighted the need to modernise international institutions to better reflect current geopolitical and economic realities. They advocated expansion of the UNSC in both permanent and non-permanent categories, with Slovakia reiterating its support for India's inclusion in an enlarged Security Council.

The backing carries diplomatic importance as India continues to seek reforms in global governance structures, arguing that emerging powers and developing nations deserve a stronger voice in international decision-making.

As part of the upgraded partnership, India and Slovakia concluded 11 agreements and cooperation arrangements covering labour mobility, defence collaboration, digital innovation, higher education and advanced technologies. The two sides identified opportunities for deeper engagement in sectors such as automotive manufacturing, rail transport, clean energy, healthcare, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, research, start-ups and space technology.

Defence cooperation emerged as a key pillar of the relationship, with both countries agreeing to enhance collaboration in defence production, research and capacity building. They also pledged closer coordination on cybersecurity, protection of critical digital infrastructure and preparations for future challenges posed by quantum technologies.

The leaders welcomed progress on the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement , expressing hope that its early implementation would boost trade, investment and business linkages.

India and Slovakia also strengthened cooperation against terrorism by agreeing to establish a Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism. Reaffirming their commitment to a free and rules-based international order, the two countries pledged closer engagement in multilateral forums and greater coordination on global and regional issues.