PM Modi Holds Talks With South Korean President Lee

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to hold extensive bilateral talks with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in New Delhi on 20 April 2026, aimed at strengthening strategic, economic, and technological cooperation between the two nations. President Lee’s three-day State Visit to India marks his first official trip to the country and is expected to further deepen the India–South Korea Special Strategic Partnership built on shared democratic values and longstanding civilisational ties.

Strategic Sectors Take Centre Stage

The discussions between the two leaders will focus on critical sectors such as shipbuilding, trade, investment, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, clean energy, and other emerging technologies. With both nations seeking stronger supply chain resilience and industrial cooperation, shipbuilding and semiconductor partnerships are likely to receive special attention. South Korea’s expertise in advanced manufacturing and India’s growing industrial base make this partnership strategically significant.

Trade and Investment Relations to Expand

India and South Korea are expected to push for stronger economic engagement by enhancing bilateral trade and investment flows. Both sides may also discuss the further upgradation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which has been central to bilateral trade since 2010. South Korean companies such as Samsung, Hyundai, LG, and Kia have already made substantial investments in India, particularly in automobiles, electronics, and heavy industries.

Strengthening Cultural and People-to-People Ties

Apart from economic priorities, the leaders will also discuss enhancing cultural exchanges and people-to-people relations. Shared Buddhist heritage, educational collaborations, tourism, and growing academic partnerships continue to strengthen bilateral goodwill. Prime Minister Modi will host a lunch in honour of President Lee, reflecting the diplomatic warmth between the two countries and the importance attached to the visit.

Important Facts for Exams

• India and South Korea elevated their relationship to a Special Strategic Partnership in 2015.
• The India–South Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) came into force in 2010.
• South Korea is among India’s top investors in sectors like automobiles, electronics, and semiconductors.
• President Lee Jae Myung’s visit is his first official visit to India as South Korean President.

High-Level Engagements and Regional Issues

President Lee will also meet President Droupadi Murmu and hold discussions on expanding bilateral cooperation further. External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, who met President Lee earlier, welcomed his commitment to strengthening ties across multiple sectors. The leaders are also expected to exchange views on regional and global developments, including Indo-Pacific security, maritime cooperation, and resilient global supply chains. The visit is seen as an important milestone in advancing India–South Korea cooperation in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment.