The India–Republic of Korea (ROK) Joint Strategic Vision (2026–2030) is a major five-year roadmap aimed at elevating bilateral relations into a “futuristic partnership”. Unveiled in April 2026 during South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s state visit to New Delhi, it shifts the focus from purely economic ties to a comprehensive strategic alliance spanning security, high technology, and climate cooperation.
Economic and Trade Goals
-
- Trade Target: Doubling bilateral trade to$50 billion by 2030, up from the current $27 billion.
- CEPA Upgrade: Formal commitment to restart and fast-track negotiations for upgrading the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to address trade imbalances.
- Industrial Cooperation Committee: A new ministerial-level body launched to oversee collaboration in automobiles, shipbuilding, chemicals, semiconductors, and telecom.
- MSME Integration: An MoU signed between India’s Ministry of MSME and Korea’s Ministry of SMEs and Startups to link small businesses and startups in global supply chains.
Technology and Digital Innovation
-
- India-Korea Digital Bridge: A framework for cooperation in Artificial Intelligence (AI), data governance, and semiconductor design.
- Financial Linkage: Phased integration of NPCIL (India) and KFTC (Korea) to enable real-time, cross-border digital payments.
- Space Exploration: Establishing an ISRO-KASA Joint Working Group for lunar mapping missions and satellite navigation.
Defense and Maritime Security
-
- KIND-X (Korea-India Defence Accelerator): Initiated to facilitate startups in developing drone and aerospace tech.
- Maritime Cooperation: A framework for strengthening shipbuilding capabilities and improving logistics infrastructure.
- Indo-Pacific Alignment: Integrating India’s “Act East Policy” and South Korea’s “New Southern Policy” to foster a free, open, and secure maritime environment.
