The mango that broke a market
It is peak mango season in India. The Alphonso harvest is at its richest, the Kesar at its most fragrant.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Monday held extensive bilateral talks in New Delhi, committing to elevate their longstanding partnership into a “futuristic partnership” driven by collaboration in technology, trade and shared strategic priorities in the Indo-Pacific.
Speaking at a joint press conference, Modi termed President Lee’s visit —after a gap of eight years — “extremely significant”, highlighting the strong alignment between the two nations. “Democratic values, a market economy, and respect for the rule of law are part of the DNA of both our countries,” he said, adding that India and South Korea share a “common outlook” on the Indo-Pacific region.
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Outlining a forward-looking agenda, Modi said both countries are ready to expand cooperation across a wide spectrum of sectors. “From chips to ships, from talent to technology, and from entertainment to energy, we will realise new opportunities for cooperation across all sectors,” he said, adding, “Today, we are laying the foundation for success stories of the next decade.”
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A major outcome of the talks was the launch of the India-Korea Digital Bridge, aimed at boosting collaboration in artificial intelligence, semiconductors and information technology. Both sides also expressed confidence in enhancing trade and investment ties, with efforts underway to upgrade the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and nearly double bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030 from $25.7 billion at present.
The meeting marked the third in-person interaction between the two leaders since President Lee assumed office last year, underscoring growing momentum in bilateral engagement. Several memoranda of understanding were signed to strengthen cooperation in areas including shipbuilding, emerging technologies and people-to-people exchanges.
Emphasising the deep-rooted cultural ties between the two nations, Modi referred to the shared heritage linking India and Korea. “The story of Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya and King Kim Suro of Korea from 2,000 years ago is part of our shared heritage,” he said, while also noting the rising popularity of Korean pop culture in India and increasing recognition of Indian culture in South Korea.
Against the backdrop of global uncertainties, Modi underscored the broader significance of the partnership. “In this time of global tensions, India and Korea together send a message of peace and stability,” he said, welcoming South Korea’s participation in initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.
President Lee, who is on a three-day state visit to India from April 19 to 21, was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he was received by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi. He also paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, accompanied by First Lady Kim Hea Kyung.
During his visit, President Lee held discussions with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and engaged with a high-level delegation comprising ministers, senior officials and business leaders. The leaders also exchanged views on key regional and global issues, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the ‘Special Strategic Partnership’.
In a symbolic gesture reflecting the growing partnership, the two leaders planted a tree together, signalling a shared long-term vision for cooperation. The visit, President Lee’s first to India since assuming office, is seen as a key step in expanding a multifaceted relationship grounded in shared democratic values, economic synergy and increasing strategic convergence in the Indo-Pacific.
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