This was the first-ever Foreign Minister-level visit between the two nations since diplomatic ties were established in 1994

A historic Foreign Minister-level meeting between India and Andorra on Monday culminated in the signing of a declaration for friendship and cooperation between the two sides.

Andorra's Minister of Foreign Affairs Maria Ubach Font and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks in New Delhi where they discussed all aspects of their bilateral ties. They also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

This was the first-ever Foreign Minister-level visit between the two nations since diplomatic ties were established in 1994.

During the meeting, India and Andorra signed a Joint Declaration of Intent for Friendship and General Cooperation. According to the MEA, this lays the framework for cooperation between the two countries on education, culture, science, information, youth, sports, tourism, diplomacy, health and other areas. "Both countries will encourage conclusion of agreements in specific fields of mutual interest in future," the MEA added.

During the meeting, EAM Jaishankar thanked the Andorran Foreign Minister for support to India’s positions and candidatures at multilateral fora. He also congratulated Andorra for their leadership on the UN Mountain Partnership initiative and admission to the IMF.

According to the MEA, they discussed Andorra’s efforts to upgrade its relationship with EU. They discussed Ibero-American cooperation and the Ibero-American Summit, last held in Andorra la Vella. Both ministers welcomed the opening of an Indian Honorary Consulate in Andorra la Vella. They also agreed to hold regular Foreign Office Consultations, the MEA said.

The visiting Foreign Minister had several other engagements as well. Font met with the NITI Aayog Vice Chairman to discuss the SDGs, Agenda 2030, and ways that India and Andorra can collaborate to tackle global challenges like climate change.

At CII, she interacted with industry representatives. She delivered a talk at the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service on 'The challenges of a European microstate in the context of the new international arena'.

"This first-ever ministerial-level official visit from Andorra to India is of historical significance and reflects India’s desire to engage with all States as we celebrate 75 years of independence," the MEA said.