Romania a natural and valuable partner: President Murmu at Business Forum in Bucharest
Bucharest, July 24
President Droupadi Murmu on Friday highlighted the growing economic partnership between India and Romania, saying the two countries have vast potential to expand trade and investment, particularly with the conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, while encouraging businesses to explore collaboration across key sectors.
President Murmu, alongwith Romanian President Nicusor Dan, addressed the India-Romania Business Forum in Bucharest during her state visit to Romania. In a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs said she "highlighted the growing economic partnership between India and Romania and the vast potential to further expand trade and investment, particularly with the conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement."
The MEA further said that the President "encouraged businesses from both countries to explore new opportunities in innovation, energy, renewable energy, digital technologies and the transportation and logistics sector."
In her her address, President Murmu said, "Romania, with its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, highly skilled human resources, advanced industrial capabilities and strong integration with the European Union, remains a natural and valuable partner for India. Romania serves not only as an important destination for investment but also as a gateway to the wider European market."
Murmu addressed the India-Romania Business Forum at Bucharest today in the presence of the President of Romania, Nicusor Dan, members of the Government of Romania, business leaders from India and Romania and representatives of Industry Associations of India and Romania.
Highlighting India's long-term development vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047', President Murmu said, "Our vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047' aims to transform India into a developed nation by the centenary of our Independence. This journey presents immense opportunities for international partnerships, investment and technology collaboration."
Speaking about technology cooperation, highlighting India's recognised Digital Public Infrastructure, ecosystem and information technology, the President said, "India's globally recognised Digital Public Infrastructure, thriving start-up ecosystem and leadership in information technology can complement Romania's strengths in software engineering, cyber-security, research and advanced technologies."
She further added that both countries' businesses can build resilient supply chains and create sustainable prosperity for people. She said, "Our businesses can build resilient supply chains, generate employment, promote innovation and create sustainable prosperity for our peoples."
Earlier in the day before the address, President Murmu met Romanian Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan and held discussions on advancing the India-Romania partnership.
The MEA said in a post on X that the leaders held "fruitful discussions on advancing the India-Romania partnership" and discussed strengthening cooperation in "trade, investment, clean energy, connectivity and emerging technologies."
Later in the day after the address, President Murmu paid her respects at the 'Tomb of the Unknown Soldier' in Bucharest.
In a post on X, the President's Office said, "embodies Romania's gratitude to its fallen soldiers and is a national symbol of patriotism, unity, and peace."
— ANI
Reader Comments
I hope the India-EU FTA gets concluded soon—it's been dragging for years. Romania seems keen on Indian investment in renewable energy and logistics, which is promising. But we need to ensure Indian workers and businesses get fair access, not just one-sided benefits for European companies.
Viksit Bharat 2047 sounds ambitious but achievable with the right partnerships. Romania's strong industrial base and our IT skills could be a powerful combo. Also, respectful that President Murmu paid tribute at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier—diplomacy is about more than just business. 🇮🇳
Romania is indeed a natural partner—they have a similar history of overcoming communist rule and now thriving in the EU. Our cultural diplomacy needs more such engagements beyond just trade. But I wonder if India can match the scale of Chinese investments in Eastern Europe. We need to move fast!
As an IT professional, I'm particularly excited about the digital public infrastructure cooperation mentioned. India's experience with Aadhaar and UPI can really help Romania digitize their public services too. This could be a true win-win—not just for businesses but for ordinary citizens. 😊
Interesting developments! As someone who follows EU-India relations, Romania is indeed a strategic entry point for Indian companies looking at Eastern Europe. The focus on clean energy and cybersecurity is smart—these are areas where both countries have complementary strengths. Looking forward to seeing concrete projects emerge.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.