New Delhi: India and Romania have agreed to work towards doubling their bilateral trade over the next three years as the two countries decided to deepen cooperation in trade, defence, technology, education and innovation during President Droupadi Murmu’s State Visit to Bucharest.
The commitment came after Murmu held delegation-level talks with her Romanian counterpart Nicusor Dan at the Cotroceni Palace in Bucharest. The two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral ties and agreed to strengthen cooperation across priority sectors, according to an official statement.
President Murmu said India and Romania have shared a warm and enduring friendship for more than seven decades, built on mutual trust, respect and strong people-to-people ties. She said the partnership is now entering a new phase with greater ambition, stronger cooperation and a shared vision for the future.
Economic cooperation remained a key focus of the talks. The two sides agreed to promote trade and investment, strengthen resilient supply chains and encourage closer collaboration between their business communities. They also agreed to work towards doubling bilateral trade over the next three years.
The president described Romania as an important partner for India within the EU. She said the India–EU Free Trade Agreement would open new opportunities for industries and skilled professionals in both countries.
India and Romania also agreed to expand cooperation in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, renewable energy, green hydrogen, agricultural products, fertilizers, science and technology, digital public infrastructure and artificial intelligence.
The president will also address the India–Romania Business Forum during her visit to promote stronger business partnerships.
Defence cooperation also featured prominently during the discussions. The two countries agreed to enhance collaboration through regular exchanges, training, capacity building and closer engagement between their defence industries.
Education, culture and people-to-people ties remained the foundation of bilateral relations. Three agreements were signed in these areas during the visit.
The two countries will expand joint research and development under the Programme of Cooperation in Science and Technology. An Indian Studies Chair will be established at the University of Bucharest with the support of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations. A Memorandum of Understanding signed during the visit will also strengthen cooperation in sports.
India announced that it will double the number of training opportunities for Romania under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme. The expanded programme will include courses on artificial intelligence.
India’s Foreign Service Institute has also offered training opportunities for Romanian diplomats through its Professional Course for Foreign Diplomats. The programme will include specialised modules on artificial intelligence and cyber diplomacy.
The two countries reaffirmed their cooperation under the International Solar Alliance, of which Romania is a member. President Murmu also welcomed Romania’s intention to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and the Global Biofuels Alliance.
