Vadodara, Gujarat: Spanish President Pedro Sanchez arrived in Vadodara late on October 28, marking his first visit to India in nearly 20 years. This landmark visit, set to boost diplomatic and industrial ties, will include a grand roadshow with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the launch of the Tata Advanced Systems-Airbus project, a cornerstone of India’s “Make in India” initiative.
Strengthening Diplomatic and Industrial Bonds with ‘Make in India’ Airbus Project
On the morning of October 29, President Sanchez and PM will inaugurate Tata Advanced Systems Limited’s (TASL) new Airbus project in Vadodara. The collaboration, valued at over ₹21,935 crore ($2.7 billion), involves producing 56 C295 military transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). While the first 16 aircraft will arrive from Spain ready to fly, the remaining 40 will be domestically manufactured by TASL in Vadodara, advancing India’s indigenous defense production and aligning with the “Make in India” vision.
Following the inauguration, the leaders will participate in a vibrant roadshow from the Tata plant, showcasing the strong partnership between the two nations and celebrating shared goals of technological innovation and self-reliance. Later, they will proceed to Vadodara’s iconic Lakshmi Vilas Palace for a formal luncheon, accompanied by a cultural showcase celebrating Indian heritage.
Bilateral Talks and Industrial Engagements
The historic visit includes bilateral discussions between PM and President Sanchez, with a focus on expanding trade, defense, and technology partnerships. Both leaders are scheduled to meet key industrialists, underscoring Spain’s commitment to deepening investments in India’s industrial sector and the mutual pursuit of economic growth.
In September 2021, India’s Ministry of Defense signed the substantial contract with Spain’s Airbus Defense and Space SA, cementing India’s defense ties with Spain. This collaborative project is anticipated to bolster India’s capabilities, with Tata Advanced Systems manufacturing 40 aircraft domestically, providing a significant boost to India’s aerospace sector.
The Majestic Lakshmi Vilas Palace, Venue of Historic Diplomacy
Vadodara’s Lakshmi Vilas Palace, where the leaders will meet, is itself a symbol of Indo-European collaboration. Built in the Indo-Saracenic style, the palace boasts 170 opulent rooms, grand marble urns, Italian sculptures, and lush lawns. Larger than even London’s Buckingham Palace, the palace exemplifies India’s rich architectural heritage and offers a grand setting for the event, underscoring the significance of this diplomatic milestone.
As cultural performances enliven the atmosphere, PM and President Sanchez’s visit is expected to create lasting impacts, fostering stronger India-Spain ties and contributing to India’s defense self-sufficiency and economic growth through collaborative ventures like TASL’s Airbus project.
