PM Modi brings up Real Madrid's shocking defeat to Barcelona in conversation with Spanish PM Sanchez

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez that his country's love for football is shared by Indians, too.

In his speech welcoming Sanchez to India on his first state visit in Vadodara, on Monday, Modi congratulated Spanish football club Barcelona on its victory against rival Real Madrid.

The Prime Minister also took this moment to shed light on the 'rivalry' that supporters of these two football clubs share.


"Barcelona's spectacular victory was also discussed in India and I can say with a guarantee that like Spain there was verbal spat between fans of both clubs in India as well," said Modi.

Modi-Sanchez hold bilateral talks

The leaders held bilateral talks at the Darbar hall of Laxmi Vilas Palace, later in the day.

While Modi said that the Spanish PM's visit infused a new energy and enthusiasm in relations between the two countries, Sanchez quipped that Spain looks forward to advancing the great cooperation.

"People to people contact provides a strong foundation for our relations. The Indian young talent is contributing to Spain's green and digital transitions," said Modi.

Meanwhile, Sanchez said that his visit would reinforce bilateral relations.

"Our voice and influence multiply when we work together," he said.

India-Spain deepen ties

Sanchez expressed pleasure at endorsing an ambitious joint declaration outlining various collaborative areas.

He celebrated the signing of agreements in investment, railways, customs, and cultural exchanges, looking forward to further strengthening the rich ties between the two nations.

The Spanish PM also spoke on the upcoming Spain-India Year for Culture, Tourism, and Artificial Intelligence in 2026.

"Our countries complement each other. India plays a significant role in the Indo-Pacific and beyond, while Spain has strong ties in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, along with a leading voice in the EU," Sanchez said.

Further, Sanchez said that this geopolitical framework presents numerous opportunities for closer relations, emphasizing shared goals like strengthening the multilateral order and promoting peace and democracy.

(With inputs from PTI)