What happened?
India and South Korea held a joint forum in Seoul to explore enhanced cooperation in trade, investment, advanced manufacturing, and renewable energy. The forum comes amid rising global protectionism, including new US reciprocal tariffs affecting both nations. Officials acknowledged that current cooperation falls short of potential. Meanwhile, South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace signed a $253.6 million deal with India to supply K9 howitzers by 2030, expanding on a similar 2017 contract. The agreement involves local partner Larsen & Toubro.
Why it matters to India:
Amid trade tensions and global tariff shifts, India is strategically diversifying trade and defence partnerships. Deepening economic ties with South Korea—India’s special strategic partner since 2015—helps boost advanced manufacturing and renewable sectors. The K9 howitzer deal also supports India’s defence modernization and “Make in India” initiative. As both countries seek resilient supply chains and tech-driven cooperation, the forum reflects New Delhi’s intent to forge deeper, sustainable economic and strategic links beyond traditional partners.
