“From chips to ships” India- South Korea Elevate a Trusted Partnership to Futuristic partnership

On April 20, 2026, during a joint press statement with the visiting South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi aptly remarked that India and South Korea are set to elevate a trusted partnership to a futuristic partnership. “From chips to ships, from talent to technology, and from environment to energy, we will realize new opportunities for cooperation across all sectors. Together, we will ensure the progress and prosperity of both our nations,” PM Modi remarked. The Indian visit of South Korean President has resulted in an elevation of the relations between the two countries.

The most significant outcome of the visit was the announcement of a Joint Strategic Vision for 2026-2030. The Joint Strategic Vision acknowledges the mutual strategic significance of both countries to each other. For India, South Korea is a vital cog in its Act East Policy while for South Korea’s New Southern Policy, India carries major strategic connotations. The two nations also share an aligned vision of a rules-based and secure Indo-Pacific region.

South Korea joining the Indo Pacific Oceans Initiative marks an important step in this regard. The Joint Strategic Vision highlights the importance of regular high-level political exchanges in renewing bilateral engagement momentum.