NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India and South Korea are jointly projecting a message of “peace and stability” at a time of rising global tensions, following his talks with President Lee Jae Myung during the latter’s State Visit to India. The two leaders also unveiled a roadmap to upgrade bilateral relations into what PM Modi described as a “futuristic partnership.”

Welcoming President Lee on his first visit to India, PM Modi praised his journey, calling it an example of perseverance and dedication to public service. He noted that despite this being Lee’s first trip to the country, his warmth toward India had been evident since their initial interaction.

PM Modi highlighted the importance of the visit, the first by a South Korean president in eight years, emphasizing shared democratic values, commitment to a market economy, and respect for the rule of law. He added that both countries also align closely in their vision for the Indo-Pacific, which has helped deepen ties over the past decade.

Announcing a new phase in relations, PM Modi said the partnership would expand across a wide range of sectors, including technology, manufacturing, energy, and the environment. He stressed that the collaboration would create fresh opportunities and drive mutual growth.

The Prime Minister also revealed a target to boost bilateral trade from the current $27 billion to $50 billion by 2030. To achieve this, both sides agreed on several initiatives, including the launch of an India-Korea Financial Forum, the creation of an Industrial Cooperation Committee, and the start of an Economic Security Dialogue focused on critical technologies and supply chains. Plans are also underway to establish a Korean Industrial Township in India and upgrade the existing trade agreement within a year.

Looking ahead, PM Modi said both nations are investing in future-oriented collaboration through initiatives like the India-Korea Digital Bridge, which will focus on areas such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and information technology. Agreements were also signed in sectors including shipbuilding, sustainability, steel, and port development.

On cultural ties, PM Modi pointed to the long-standing historical connections between the two nations, referencing the legend of Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya and King Kim Suro. He noted the growing popularity of Korean pop culture in India, alongside increasing recognition of Indian cinema in South Korea. To further strengthen cultural exchange, the two countries plan to host an India-Korea Friendship Festival in 2028.

He also underlined the importance of enhancing people-to-people connections through greater collaboration in education, research, and tourism.

Addressing global challenges, PM Modi said India and South Korea are committed to promoting peace and stability, and welcomed Seoul’s participation in initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. He added that both nations support reforms in global institutions to better address emerging challenges.

Concluding his remarks, PM Modi invoked Rabindranath Tagore’s description of Korea as the “Lamp of the East,” saying the country is now an important partner in India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. He expressed confidence that the strengthened partnership would contribute to the prosperity of both countries and the wider world.