India signs MoUs with Slovakia to boost education, research, and digital technology ties

India and Slovakia have agreed to expand cooperation in higher education, research, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico during Modi's visit to Slovakia on June 15.

The discussions focused on strengthening academic exchanges, technology partnerships, and innovation-driven collaboration between the two countries.

In a post on X, the Ministry of Education said, "India and Slovakia are strengthening their partnership in higher education and research, AI and emerging technologies".

According to the ministry, the talks and the signing of key agreements in the digital technology sector mark a new phase of cooperation between the two nations.

The leaders reviewed the outcomes of the AI Impact Summit 2026 held in New Delhi, which was attended by Slovak President Peter Pellegrini.

They also welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Digital Technologies, aimed at creating a structured framework for deeper collaboration in the digital domain.

Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, startups, innovation ecosystems, research institutions, and technology companies to support innovation-led growth and mutually beneficial partnerships.

The discussions also covered opportunities in emerging technologies, including 5G applications, 6G standardization, the Internet of Things (IoT), and machine-to-machine (M2M) technologies.

India and Slovakia further agreed to explore partnerships between their space sectors, particularly in satellite technology and related applications.

The two leaders emphasized the importance of greater engagement among scientific institutions, research organizations, and industry stakeholders to advance innovation and the development of next-generation space technologies.

A key focus of the talks was expanding the mobility of students, academics, and researchers. Both countries agreed to encourage greater exchanges, especially in STEM and humanities disciplines, to strengthen educational and scientific collaboration.

The leaders also reviewed existing partnerships between universities and higher education institutions in India and Slovakia and called for broader and more diverse academic cooperation.

Additionally, the two sides welcomed the conclusion of a Memorandum of Understanding between their respective education ministries on higher education and research.

The agreement is expected to provide a formal framework for strengthening academic ties and promoting long-term institutional partnerships between universities and research organizations in both countries.