PM Modi Holds Talks with Liechtenstein's Prince Alois

New Delhi, October 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Hereditary Prince Alois of Liechtenstein in New Delhi on Tuesday, focusing on strengthening cooperation between the two countries in trade, investment, science, technology and innovation. The meeting forms part of Prince Alois’s four-day state visit to India from October 25 to 28.

The discussions are aimed at expanding economic engagement and identifying new opportunities for cooperation between India and the small European principality. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the leaders are also discussing people-to-people exchanges and exchanging views on regional and global developments.

Prince Alois, who is serving as Liechtenstein’s acting head of state, is accompanied by his wife, Hereditary Princess Sophie, along with a high-level official delegation and business representatives. The visit comes at a time when India is seeking to strengthen its economic partnerships with European countries and attract investment in advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.

Trade and Investment in Focus

A major area of discussion is the India–European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), which came into force on October 1, 2025. The agreement involves India and the four EFTA countries: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

The pact aims to deepen trade relations and encourage investment in India. Under the agreement, EFTA countries have committed to work towards mobilising $100 billion in investment over 15 years and supporting one million direct jobs in India. These are collective targets for the four EFTA countries, rather than a separate commitment by Liechtenstein.
Both sides see opportunities to expand collaboration in manufacturing, financial services, technology, education and innovation. Greater engagement between businesses could also create opportunities for Indian enterprises seeking access to European markets.

Other High-Level Engagements

During his visit, Prince Alois is also scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu, who will host an official banquet in his honour. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and other senior Indian ministers are participating in the diplomatic engagements.

India and Liechtenstein established diplomatic relations in 1993. The current visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to bilateral ties and encourage partnerships in emerging areas of mutual interest.

Strengthening India–Europe Relations

The talks reflect India’s broader efforts to expand international economic cooperation, promote technological partnerships and attract investment into its manufacturing and innovation sectors.

The outcomes of the discussions could help identify areas for future collaboration between Indian companies and Liechtenstein’s businesses. Further details of any agreements or specific initiatives announced during the meeting will depend on official statements from both governments.