President of the Republic of India Droupadi Murmu was preparing to leave for Romania, as part of her 3-nation European tour from July 19 to July 25, 2026, when she answered a few questions on the timing and purpose of her visit.
Madam President said: “India and Romania have travelled a long journey together. I firmly believe that the years ahead will be even more significant than those behind us. I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Romania and look forward to writing, together, a new and inspiring chapter in the enduring friendship between our two nations.”
Here are some excerpts.
Q. Madam President, your State Visit to Romania is the first by an Indian Head of State in more than three decades. Why is this visit taking place now, and what message does it convey?
Answer: This State Visit comes at a defining moment in the evolution of India-Romania relations. Our longstanding friendship has always been characterized by mutual respect, trust and shared democratic values. Today, however, the global landscape is changing rapidly, and our partnership is becoming increasingly significant.
India is one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies, while Romania has emerged as an increasingly important economic and trusted partner within the European Union. The convergence of our strengths presents unprecedented opportunities for cooperation. As global supply chains are being reconfigured and countries seek trusted partners for technology, manufacturing, innovation and investment, India and Romania are naturally positioned to work more closely together.
This visit, therefore, is not merely a celebration of our longstanding friendship; it is about shaping our shared future. It reflects our common ambition to expand cooperation in trade and investment, defense, digital technologies, innovation, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, education, mobility of skilled professionals and people-to-people exchanges.
The recently concluded India-European Union Free Trade Agreement marks another important milestone. It opens new avenues for businesses, investors and innovators on both sides, and I believe Romania will play an increasingly significant role in India’s expanding engagement with Europe.
My hope is that this historic visit will be remembered as the beginning of a new chapter, one in which India and Romania transform a warm and enduring friendship into a dynamic and forward-looking partnership that delivers prosperity, innovation, and opportunities for future generations.
Q. Romania’s economic and strategic importance within the European Union has grown significantly in recent years. How do you see Romania’s role in India’s engagement with Europe?
Answer: For India, Romania is far more than a bilateral partner. It is an important gateway for expanding our economic engagement with Europe. Romania’s manufacturing ecosystem, logistics infrastructure, including the Port of Constanța, and growing innovation landscape complement India’s own strengths in manufacturing, technology and services.
The India-European Union Free Trade Agreement creates an enabling framework for a new era of economic cooperation. I see tremendous opportunities for Romanian companies to expand their presence in India and for Indian enterprises to make Romania an important destination for investment, manufacturing and research within the European Union.
Beyond trade and investment, I believe our two countries can work together to build resilient supply chains, strengthen industrial cooperation and advance technological partnerships in areas that are shaping the global economy. Romania is therefore an important pillar of India’s broader engagement with Europe, and I am confident that our partnership will continue to grow in depth, ambition and lasting significance.
Q. In an increasingly uncertain world, India has emerged as an influential global voice while strengthening its partnerships across regions. How do you see India’s role in the international order, and where does Romania fit into that vision?
Answer: The world is experiencing profound geopolitical, economic and technological transformations. At such a time, the need for dialogue, mutual trust and international cooperation has never been greater.
India’s foreign policy is guided by the principles of strategic autonomy, mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and the conviction that diplomacy remains the most effective means of resolving differences. Our approach is inspired by the timeless Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the world is one family-which reminds us that lasting peace and prosperity can only be achieved through cooperation and shared responsibility.
India has emerged as a bridge between the Global South and the developed world, advocating a more inclusive and representative international order while strengthening partnerships with countries across every continent. We believe that today’s global challenges-whether climate change, health security, food and energy security, resilient supply chains or emerging technologies-require collective solutions and effective multilateral institutions.
Romania is an important partner in this endeavor. As a respected member of the European Union, and a country that shares India’s commitment to democracy, the rule of law and a rules-based international order, Romania has an important role to play in strengthening cooperation between India and Europe.
Working together, our two countries can contribute to resilient supply chains, sustainable development, digital transformation, innovation, energy security and global stability. I see India and Romania as trusted partners working not only for the prosperity of our own peoples but also for a more peaceful, inclusive and resilient international community.
Q. Trade between India and Romania has been growing steadily. How do you see the future of our economic partnership?
Answer: The steady growth in bilateral trade over recent years reflects the growing confidence that businesses in both countries have in one another’s economies. Yet I believe that we have only begun to realize the enormous potential of our economic partnership.
India and Romania possess complementary strengths. There are significant opportunities to deepen cooperation in pharmaceuticals, information technology, engineering, digital technologies, defense manufacturing, automotive components, agriculture and food processing, clean energy, logistics, healthcare, infrastructure, research and innovation. New sectors such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing offer equally exciting possibilities.
Romania’s strategic location, industrial capabilities and skilled workforce make it an attractive destination for Indian investment within the European Union. At the same time, India’s scale, innovation ecosystem, competitive manufacturing base and rapidly expanding consumer market present exceptional opportunities for Romanian businesses.
The India-European Union Free Trade Agreement provides a strong framework for expanding trade, investment, technology partnerships and industrial collaboration between our two countries. I am confident that it will encourage businesses to explore new opportunities with greater confidence and ambition.
I am particularly pleased that more than forty leading Indian business leaders from diverse sectors are accompanying me on this State Visit. Together with President Nicușor Dan and Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, I look forward to addressing the India-Romania Business Forum. I hope the Forum will identify new avenues for investment, industrial cooperation, innovation and technology partnerships, and facilitate direct engagement between our business communities.
It is my hope that, through sustained efforts by our governments and private sectors, we will double our bilateral trade by 2030. More importantly, we will move beyond a traditional trading relationship towards one founded on investment, co-development, innovation and enduring partnerships. That, I believe, will define the next chapter of India-Romania economic relations.
Q. India is increasingly recognized as a global hub for manufacturing, innovation and technology. How can Romanian businesses benefit from India’s growth story?
Answer: India today offers one of the world’s most attractive destinations for investment, manufacturing and innovation. With sustained economic growth, a stable policy environment, world-class digital infrastructure and one of the youngest workforces in the world, India presents immense opportunities for international businesses.
Flagship initiatives such as Make in India, Digital India, Start-up India and the Production Linked Incentive programme have strengthened India’s manufacturing capabilities and encouraged innovation across a wide range of sectors. Today, India is not only a large market but also an increasingly important center for research, design, advanced manufacturing and technology development.
Romanian companies can partner with Indian enterprises in pharmaceuticals, engineering, information technology, digital services, clean energy, automotive manufacturing, defense production, logistics, food processing, research and emerging technologies. Equally, Indian companies are exploring opportunities to invest in Romania’s manufacturing sector, digital ecosystem, infrastructure and innovation landscape, viewing Romania as an important partner within the European Union.
I encourage businesses in both countries to think beyond conventional trade and focus on joint ventures, technology partnerships, research collaborations and co-development. The future of India-Romania economic relations lies not only in buying and selling goods, but in creating value together.
I am confident that growing economic cooperation, supported by the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement will open a new era of enhanced partnership between the two countries.
Q. Defense cooperation between India and Romania has gained renewed momentum in recent years. How do you see this partnership evolving?
Answer: India and Romania share a relationship founded on mutual trust, shared democratic values and a common commitment to peace, security and stability. As the global strategic environment evolves, I believe defense and defense-industrial cooperation can become one of the defining pillars of our bilateral partnership.
India has made remarkable progress in developing a modern, self-reliant and globally competitive defense manufacturing ecosystem. Through the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, India has emerged not only as one of the world’s largest defense markets but also as a trusted partner in the design, development, co-production and export of advanced defense systems and technologies.
I am encouraged by the productive discussions held during the recent meeting of the India-Romania Joint Committee on Defense Cooperation, which reaffirmed our shared commitment to expanding collaboration.
We see considerable opportunities in defense manufacturing, research and development, defense innovation, training, cyber security, dual-use technologies and industrial partnerships. I am also pleased that several Indian defense companies have shown interest in exploring long-term investments and partnerships with Romanian industry.
By bringing together our technological capabilities and skilled human resources, we can build a mutually beneficial partnership that promotes innovation ecosystem.
Q. India has become a global leader in Digital Public Infrastructure and is also emerging as a leader in Artificial Intelligence. How can India and Romania work together in the digital economy?
Answer: The digital revolution is transforming economies and societies across the world. India has demonstrated that technology, when designed to serve people, can become a powerful force for inclusion, transparency and economic growth.
Our Digital Public Infrastructure, including Aadhaar, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and DigiLocker, has enabled hundreds of millions of citizens to access banking, healthcare, education and public services efficiently and securely. Today, many countries are looking at India’s experience as a model for building inclusive digital ecosystems. Romania has developed an impressive reputation in software engineering, cyber security, artificial intelligence and digital innovation. These complementary strengths create exceptional opportunities for collaboration.
I see great potential for partnerships in digital governance, fintech, artificial intelligence, cyber security, quantum technologies, semiconductors, digital health, start-up ecosystems and advanced digital skills. Our universities, innovation centers and technology companies can also work together to develop solutions for global markets.
India hosted the AI Impact Summit in February 2026, where 20 Heads of State/Government participated including significant participation by European countries. Artificial Intelligence, in particular, must remain ethical, transparent, inclusive and human-centric. India believes that technology should empower humanity, reduce inequalities and promote sustainable development. By combining India’s digital scale with Romania’s technological excellence, our two countries can become trusted partners in shaping the digital economy of the future.
Q. Climate action and energy security are among the defining challenges of our time. How can India and Romania strengthen cooperation in these areas?
Answer: Climate change and energy security are global challenges that require collective action and innovative partnerships. India has demonstrated that economic development and environmental sustainability and environmental sustainability can advance together. Guided by our nationally determined commitments and emphasis on sustainable lifestyles through Mission LiFE, we remain committed to ensuring affordable, reliable and secure energy for all.
India and Romania have significant opportunities to expand cooperation in renewable energy, green hydrogen, solar power, energy efficiency, battery technologies, smart grids, sustainable mobility and climate-resilient infrastructure. Romania’s expertise in clean energy, including civil nuclear energy, together with India’s rapid expansion of renewable energy capacity, creates important opportunities for technological collaboration and investment.
I am particularly pleased that Romania has joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA), an India-led global initiative that promotes greater deployment of solar energy. We also look forward to Romania joining other important global initiatives championed by India, including the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA). These platforms bring together countries committed to building resilient infrastructure and advancing sustainable energy solutions through innovation and international cooperation.
I am confident that, by working together, both bilaterally and through these global partnerships, India and Romania can contribute meaningfully to a cleaner, greener and more resilient future.
Q. India is often described as the “pharmacy of the world.” How do you see cooperation between India and Romania in healthcare and pharmaceuticals?
Answer: Healthcare is one of the most promising areas of cooperation between India and Romania. India has earned global recognition as a reliable supplier of affordable, high-quality medicines and vaccines. Our pharmaceutical industry has become an integral part of global healthcare, serving millions of people across the world. At the same time, India has made significant investments in biotechnology, medical devices, digital health and pharmaceutical research.
Together, our countries can build partnerships in pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology, vaccine research, medical devices, digital health solutions, clinical research and healthcare innovation.
Beyond commercial cooperation, we can strengthen collaboration between our universities, research institutions, hospitals and regulatory agencies to promote research, capacity building and knowledge sharing.
Healthcare is ultimately about improving people’s lives. I believe India and Romania have the expertise, experience and shared commitment to make a meaningful contribution to global health security while creating new opportunities for our industries and research communities.
Q. Romania is facing demographic changes and an increasing demand for skilled professionals. How can India and Romania work together to build a long-term partnership in human resources and skills?
Answer: India is one of the world’s youngest nations, with a large pool of highly skilled professionals, engineers, healthcare workers, technicians and trained personnel. As Romania continues to modernize its economy and address workforce requirements, our two countries can work together to develop transparent, orderly and mutually beneficial mobility partnerships.
Indian professionals have earned an excellent reputation in Romania for their professionalism, adaptability, dedication and strong work ethic. Today, they are making valuable contributions across healthcare, information technology, engineering, manufacturing, construction, hospitality and other important sectors. Their success reflects not only their professional competence but also the growing trust and understanding between our two societies.
As Romania undertakes reforms to make its labor market more responsive to the needs of a modern economy, I see considerable scope for expanding cooperation in skills development, vocational training, recognition of professional qualifications and mobility of skilled workers. Such collaboration can help address Romania’s workforce requirements while creating new opportunities for Indian talent.
Ultimately, our partnership is about investing in people, strengthening our economies and building enduring human connections. The growing Indian community in Romania has become an important bridge between our countries, and I am confident that, with the right institutional frameworks, we can create an ecosystem of growth, competitiveness and innovation.
Q. People-to-people ties have become one of the strongest pillars of India-Romania relations. How do you see the contribution of the Indian community to Romania, and what more can be done to strengthen these bonds?
Answer: One of the greatest strengths of the India-Romania relationship lies not only in the friendship between our governments but also in the growing bonds between our peoples. Today, thousands of Indian professionals, entrepreneurs, students and skilled workers are contributing meaningfully to Romania’s economy and society. Whether in healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, construction, hospitality, research or higher education, they have earned appreciation for their professionalism, dedication and hard work.
One particularly moving example is that of Mr. Vipan Kumar in Craiova, whose courageous act of risking his own life to save a Romanian child from drowning touched the hearts of people across Romania. His selfless action became a powerful symbol of the shared human values that unite our two nations, compassion, courage and humanity.
At the same time, people-to-people ties are flourishing through culture, education, tourism and academic exchanges. The growing interest in yoga, Ayurveda, Indian cinema and classical dance, as well as the increasing number of Romanian students and scholars engaging with India, reflects the warmth and curiosity that exist between our societies.
I hope we will continue to encourage greater exchanges among our students, artists, researchers, entrepreneurs and young professionals. Lasting partnerships are ultimately built by people, and I am confident that the friendships being forged today will become the strongest foundation of India-Romania relations in the decades ahead.
Q. Young people, education and innovation are increasingly shaping international partnerships. How can India and Romania work together to empower the next generation?
Answer: India is one of the world’s youngest nations, with more than sixty-five per cent of its population below the age of thirty-five. Our young people are driving India’s transformation through innovation, entrepreneurship, scientific research and technological advancement. I believe the youth of India and Romania can become one of the strongest pillars of our future partnership.
Our two countries have enormous potential to deepen cooperation in higher education, scientific research, innovation and skills development. I would like to see many more Indian and Romanian students studying in each other’s universities, greater exchanges of faculty and researchers, joint research programs, partnerships between centers of excellence and closer collaboration in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, digital technologies, advanced manufacturing, clean energy and space sciences.
Innovation flourishes when ideas, talent and cultures come together. By connecting our universities, research institutions, start-ups and innovation ecosystems, we can create opportunities that benefit not only our two countries but also the wider world.
As India and Romania prepare to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, I would be delighted if we could jointly dedicate that milestone as an “Year of Innovation.” It would provide an inspiring platform for organizing academic exchanges, research partnerships, innovation challenges, start-up collaborations and youth programs throughout the year, reflecting both our proud history and our shared confidence in the future.
To the young people of Romania, I would simply say: remain curious, embrace lifelong learning and continue building bridges across cultures. The future belongs to those who innovate together, learn from one another and work collectively for the common good.
Q. India and Romania are both proud of their rich cultural traditions. What role do culture and civilization values play in strengthening relations between our two countries?
Answer: Culture has a unique ability to bring people together. It transcends borders, languages and geography, creating understanding and friendship where formal diplomacy alone cannot.
India and Romania are both ancient civilizations with rich literary, artistic and philosophical traditions. We share a deep appreciation for culture, family values and respect for diversity. These common values provide a strong foundation for our partnership.
India’s civilisationnel philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam-“the world is one family”-continues to guide our engagement with the international community. It reminds us that mutual respect, dialogue and understanding are essential for peaceful coexistence.
I hope to see even greater exchanges in literature, cinema, music, dance, visual arts, tourism and cultural heritage. Increased cooperation between museums, universities, cultural institutions and artists will help our people understand one another even better.
Ultimately, the strongest and most enduring partnerships are those built not only on economic interests but also on shared values and mutual appreciation of each other’s cultures.
Q. In a rapidly changing world, what message would you like to convey about the future of India-Romania relations?
Answer: I believe India and Romania stand at the threshold of a new era in their relationship. For more than seven decades, our friendship has been built on trust, goodwill, and mutual respect. Today, we have an opportunity to transform that friendship into a comprehensive and future-oriented partnership.
The possibilities before us are truly remarkable. We can expand trade and investment, strengthen defense and industrial cooperation, advance innovation and digital technologies, deepen collaboration in healthcare, clean energy, education and research, and create new opportunities for our businesses, universities and young people.
The recently signed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement provides an important framework for expanding our economic engagement, while our shared democratic values and commitment to a rules-based international order give our partnership an even stronger foundation.
I am confident that by working together with vision, ambition and trust, India and Romania can become important partners in shaping a more prosperous, innovative and resilient future, not only for our own peoples but also for Europe, the Indo-Pacific and the wider international community.
Q. Finally, what message would you like to convey to the people of Romania?
Answer: The people of India regard Romania as a trusted friend. Our relationship has been nurtured over generations through mutual respect, goodwill and a shared belief in the importance of dialogue, peace and cooperation. As I undertake this historic State Visit after more than three decades, I do so with great optimism about the future of our partnership. I see immense opportunities for our countries to work together in trade, investment, technology, defense, innovation, healthcare, education, clean energy, culture and tourism.
Above all, I hope this visit inspires businesses to invest, universities to collaborate, researchers to innovate, artists to exchange ideas and young people to build lasting friendships. These human connections will ensure that our partnership continues to flourish for generations to come.
India and Romania have travelled a long journey together. I firmly believe that the years ahead will be even more significant than those behind us. I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Romania and look forward to writing, together, a new and inspiring chapter in the enduring friendship between our two nations.
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