New Delhi, October 27, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Hereditary Prince Alois of Liechtenstein on Tuesday to explore opportunities for strengthening cooperation between the two countries in trade, investment, science, technology and innovation.
The meeting took place during Prince Alois’s state visit to India from October 25 to 28. Prince Alois is serving as the Acting Head of State of the Principality of Liechtenstein and is accompanied by Hereditary Princess Sophie, a high-level official delegation and business representatives.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the discussions focused on expanding bilateral cooperation across key economic and technological sectors, strengthening people-to-people exchanges and sharing perspectives on regional and global developments.
Trade and Investment in Focus
India and Liechtenstein are looking to build on their growing economic relationship, particularly following the implementation of the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) in October 2025.
The agreement involves the four EFTA member states—Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein—and is expected to create fresh opportunities for trade, investment and business partnerships.
Under the agreement, EFTA countries have committed to facilitating USD 100 billion in investment in India over 15 years, alongside the creation of one million direct jobs in India over the same period.
The partnership provides a framework for expanding economic engagement and encouraging businesses to explore new areas of cooperation.
Technology and Innovation Offer New Opportunities
Science, technology and innovation featured prominently in the discussions between Prime Minister Modi and Prince Alois. Both countries are exploring opportunities to strengthen collaboration in emerging technologies and other sectors with potential for mutual economic benefit.
Liechtenstein, a small European country with an internationally connected economy, offers opportunities for industrial and business partnerships, while India brings a large market, a growing technology ecosystem and an expanding manufacturing base.
Greater cooperation could help businesses from both countries explore partnerships in advanced manufacturing, technology, innovation and other areas of shared interest.
Strengthening Diplomatic Engagement
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 is also engaging with the visiting dignitary as part of the diplomatic programme.
The visit reflects the continued efforts of India and Liechtenstein to deepen bilateral engagement and identify new areas of cooperation.
The two countries have maintained friendly relations, with economic cooperation gaining further momentum following the operationalisation of the India-EFTA TEPA.
Looking Ahead
The discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Hereditary Prince Alois underline the importance both countries attach to expanding cooperation in trade, investment, technology and innovation.
As India strengthens its economic engagement with European partners, closer ties with Liechtenstein could create additional opportunities for businesses, investors and technology-driven industries.
The ongoing visit is expected to provide further impetus to bilateral relations and encourage collaboration in emerging areas of mutual interest.
Source: NewsOnAir and the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.
