India and Spain strengthen ties through collaboration in education, technology, culture, and urban development, paving the way for future partnerships.
As India marches toward fulfilling its potential as a global powerhouse, nations across the world are deepening engagement with its people, its markets, and its ideas. Among them is Spain — a country with a rich history, a deep tradition of urban design, and an eye on future partnerships with India. In an exclusive interview with The Sunday Guardian, Juan Antonio March Pujol, the Spanish Ambassador to India, shares his thoughts on education, innovation, urban development, food, and the visit of the President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez — the first by a Spanish head of government in 18 years — in October last year.
“We all greatly looked forward to the official visit of the Honorable President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, to India from 27th to 29th October 2024,” the Ambassador said. “It was a landmark occasion — his first visit to India and the first visit by a Spanish head of government in 18 years.”
The visit marked a high point in India–Spain relations and came with a packed agenda. “President Sánchez held high-level discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with a strong focus on strengthening our strategic partnership,” he explained.
A key moment in the visit was the joint inauguration of the Final Assembly Line for the C295 aircraft in Vadodara — a flagship ‘Make in India’ project symbolizing India’s self-reliance in defence and the growing synergy between Tata Advanced Systems and Airbus Spain.
President Sánchez’s itinerary also included Mumbai, where he engaged with industry leaders, academics, and representatives from the film sector. “India and Spain signed several memorandums of understanding (MOUs), further enhancing cooperation in areas like trade, renewable energy, defence, biotech, rail transport, and cultural exchange,” the Ambassador noted.
Historically, India has always held a special place in the Spanish imagination.“When we first set out to explore the world — even when Christopher Columbus sailed west — the destination he sought was India,” the Ambassador pointed out. “It has long been a land of fascination for us, with its incredible diversity, rich spiritual traditions, and vibrant culture.”
He believes that modern India continues to surprise and inspire. “Every time I visit, I find that India exceeds expectations — it offers more than one could fully absorb in a lifetime.”
Spain, he says, brings to this relationship a legacy of urban sophistication. “If you look at cities like Barcelona, you will see how our urban design — with its hexagonal grid patterns and integrated architecture — reflects a sophisticated approach to organizing space and community life.”
In contrast, India stands at a turning point in its urban evolution. “With its rapidly growing population and expanding economy, urban development will play a central role — from planning where to build schools to preserving green spaces and ensuring sustainable growth,” he emphasized.
The Ambassador sees potential for rich collaboration. “As a young and dynamic society, India is walking a transformative path, and the choices made today will define where it stands 20 years from now. In this journey, Spain has much to share — in ideas, experiences, and partnerships.”
The growing presence of Indian students in Spain is another encouraging trend. “Spain is an increasingly attractive destination for Indian students. Many of our universities now offer programs entirely in English, which reduces the language barrier,” he said.
Beyond academics, students enjoy broader European exposure. “Being part of the Schengen area allows them to travel and experience other European cultures. The climate is pleasant, the people are warm, and Spanish culture is deeply enriching,” he said.
Spain, he added, is committed to making the student journey smooth. “We make every effort to ensure that the visa process is efficient. Indian students bring incredible energy and talent, and we’re always happy to welcome them.”
Culture often begins on the plate, and Spain is happy to find takers for its Mediterranean culinary values in India.“Spanish cuisine is quite unique — part of the Mediterranean diet, with an emphasis on fresh vegetables, olive oil, and salads. It resonates with India’s appreciation for vegetarian food and is considered one of the healthiest diets in the world,” he shared.
Spanish food is making inroads into Indian dining. “Here in New Delhi, The Claridges hosts a beautiful Spanish-themed restaurant named Sevilla, offering a taste of our culinary heritage.”At the same time, Indian food is gaining popularity in Spain. “Many Indian restaurants have established themselves there, and this exchange is a testament to how food connects cultures,” he said.
The Ambassador also applauded the work of Instituto Cervantes in India. “Spanish is a language that opens doors not only to Spain, but to a vast world of Spanish-speaking countries across Latin America and beyond,” he noted. “The Institute plays a key role — not just in teaching the language but in promoting the broader Hispanic culture.”
Speaking about his novel Momentum, a recent book that reflects on the global impact of AI and geopolitics. “It’s not just about technology — it’s about the future of humanity,” he said. The book follows Nour, an AI expert traveling from Mumbai to Uzbekistan, unveiling 15 AI innovations tied to specific localities. The Ambassador describes it as a metaphor for our times: “It argues that unless we create a bold new global political framework, we risk letting chaos overwhelm the opportunities AI presents.”
Spain, he believes, is ready to collaborate with India on these challenges — from innovation and technology to culture and governance. “The future belongs to the younger generations, and together we can help shape it into one that is more organized, equitable, and full of promise.”
The visit of President Pedro Sánchez resulted in great success. The Ambassador’s message is clear. “In the great global transformation underway, India and Spain are natural partners,” he said. “We share values, we share aspirations, and now, we must share solutions. If we want a better future, we must build it together.” Both governments declared 2026 the dual year of Spain and India for Culture, Tourism and Artificial Intelligence. This will open new horizons to our societies.