H.E. Mr. Robert Maxian
Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to India
Diplomatist had the privilege of interviewing H.E. Mr. Robert Maxian, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to India, on the evolving landscape of Indo-Slovak relations. Looking back on over three decades of diplomatic ties, Ambassador Maxian reflected on the milestones that have shaped the partnership, the growing strategic and economic engagement, and the shared vision that binds the two nations. From political dialogue within the EU framework and dynamic trade opportunities to collaborations in innovation, culture, and people-to-people ties, his insights shed light on how Slovakia and India are charting a future of deeper cooperation rooted in mutual respect and shared values.
1. Looking back over three decades of diplomatic ties, what milestones do you consider most significant in shaping the India–Slovak partnership?
The journey of Indo-Slovak relations has been marked by mutual respect, shared democratic values and a commitment to building a partnership that transcends geographical boundaries. India was among the first countries to recognise Slovakia after its independence in 1993 and by 1995 India had established its Embassy in Bratislava – signalling a strong intent to nurture this relationship from the outset.
Over the years, the relationship has deepened significantly across political, economic and cultural domains. Slovakia sees India as a dynamic and rising global power – an economic powerhouse and hub of innovation. Meanwhile, India views Slovakia as a valuable partner within the EU and NATO, with advanced industrial capabilities and growing R&D potential.
Recent milestones are particularly noteworthy. In April 2025, after 29 years, Slovakia had the honour of welcoming the President of India. Over the last three years alone, our foreign ministers have officially met five times – an unprecedented political engagement. In 2024, our bilateral trade surpassed €1 billion for the first time, and remarkably, in just the first half of 2025, we’ve already exceeded that figure.
Trade dynamics have also evolved significantly. While India traditionally exported mostly low value added products like textiles to Slovakia, today’s Indian export includes a wide spectrum of items – mobile phones, auto-parts, pharmaceuticals, medicine and more. Slovakia, in turn, has become more active in the Indian market, exporting luxury passenger cars, ball bearings, engineering and electrical equipment’s. Even more encouraging is the growing trend of Slovak companies investing in India – an important and symbolic milestone reflecting deepening trust and long-term commitment.
2. As Slovakia plays a strong role within the EU, how do you see India–Slovak relations contributing to the broader India–EU political dialogue?
Slovakia has consistently advocated for deeper, more strategic engagement between India and the European Union. A prime example is our support for the India – EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which holds the potential to unlock tremendous economic opportunities across both regions. We have championed the resumption and meaningful advancement of these negotiations, recognising the mutual benefits they can bring – growth, innovation, and job creation.
Beyond trade, there are several key areas of alignment. Slovakia’s strengths in digital transformation and green technologies complement India’s priorities under initiatives like Digital India and the National Green Hydrogen Mission. Collaborative projects in these domains can serve as blueprints for EU – India cooperation, showcasing how joint innovation can address global challenges such as climate change, digital inclusion, and energy transition.
3. What new strategic sectors do you envision propelling Indo-Slovak trade further – such as water management or cybersecurity?
The future of our economic partnership lies in high-value, forward-looking sectors where both countries bring complementary strengths. Slovakia, despite its size, has built a robust innovation ecosystem supported by public and private investment, EU funding and a strong network of universities and research institutions.
The electric vehicle (EV) industry is a standout. Slovakia leads the world in car production per capita and is projected to have the highest share of BEV (battery electric vehicle) production in Europe in 2025. This aligns perfectly with India’s ambitious EV programs such as PM e-DRIVE and FAME-II.
ICT is another area brimming with potential – cybersecurity, AI, smart cities, GIS, and space software solutions all represent avenues for collaboration, given both countries histories in the tech sector.
Water management and climate monitoring are a particularly perspective and promising fields. Slovakia’s advanced water treatment technologies can greatly support India’s efforts to ensure access to clean and sustainable water. Similarly, the renewable energy sector – especially biofuels and green hydrogen – presents exciting opportunities for joint development.
4. Are there emerging regional opportunities in India you’d like to spotlight for Slovak businesses – perhaps in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, or Odisha?
Absolutely. India’s regional diversity creates a wealth of investment opportunities for Slovak businesses, each region offering unique advantages aligned with our expertise. Slovakia emphasizes the need to focus on the state-level initiatives – rather than concentrating only on the central government – to ensure tailored, effective development of local state economies.
Uttar Pradesh, with its vast agricultural resources and pro-investment policies, is ideal for biofuel projects, agri-tech, and food processing. West Bengal, as the gateway to eastern and northeastern India, offers a strong industrial base and excellent infrastructure for trade, green technology and connectivity. Odisha, rich in minerals and rapidly industrializing, is particularly promising for collaboration in renewable energy, skill development, and engineering.
Slovakia took part in the EU-Kerala Blue Economy Conclave, held on 18 – 19 September 2025 in Thiruvananthapuram, organised by Government of Kerala and the EU Delegation in Delhi. The event focused on fisheries, aquaculture, marine logistics, renewable energy, tourism, innovation and education. We also see potential also Karnataka but also in other India states, particularly in ICT, health technologies, aviation, and water management. Practically all states are fostering robust ecosystems for innovation and collaboration.
Slovak businesses can find a long-term, strategic partner in India’s states – where growth is not only strong, but also inclusive and future-oriented.
5. How can Slovak firms support India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission in areas like electric mobility and advanced manufacturing?
India’s push for self-reliance through the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative is ambitious, and Slovakia is well-positioned to be a valuable partner in this endeavour. Our industrial strengths-particularly in automotive, engineering, robotics and high-tech manufacturing are directly relevant to India’s goals of becoming a global manufacturing hub.
Slovakia is projected to have the highest share of BEV production in Europe in 2025, and our expertise in automation and smart manufacturing can help Indian companies adopt cutting-edge technologies and meet global quality standards.
Slovak firms can also contribute by forming joint ventures, establishing local production units, and engaging in technology transfers. Such partnerships not only boost local job creation and skills development but also support India’s vision of reducing import dependency while strengthening global competitiveness.
6. How have cultural engagements – like film and art exchanges – shaped soft power ties between the two nations?
Culture has the unique power to bring people together and build bridges beyond diplomacy and trade. Over the years, Indo-Slovak cultural exchanges have played a vital role in shaping public perception and strengthening people-to-people ties.
At our Embassy events, we proudly showcase Slovakia’s history, nature, and traditions through poster exhibitions and performances. The year 2024 was especially vibrant – four Slovak folklore ensembles performed across various Indian cities, and the Slovak films were screened at the Chennai International Film Festival.
One particularly meaningful milestone was the translation of the Upanishads into Slovak, reflecting the deep philosophical and cultural curiosity that binds our nations.
Looking ahead, we’re excited about the upcoming Days of Slovak Culture in India this November. It will bring together artists, musicians and creators to share both contemporary and traditional Slovak culture with Indian audiences- a celebration of friendship and shared values.
7. We know you speak some Hindi. Has this helped you connect more deeply with Indian people – and does it reflect in stronger people-to-people ties?
Yes, speaking some (little bit) of Hindi has certainly deepened my connection with the people of India. Even a few phrases can open doors, spark smiles, and create a warm atmosphere. It’s a small gesture, but it carries great meaning – it shows the respect for the local culture, which is always appreciated.
Whether it’s walking through the vibrant streets of Chandni Chowk, engaging with local artisans, or simply exchanging greetings, speaking Hindi allows for a more authentic and personal experience. These connections may seem small, but collectively, they contribute to a deeper and more enduring partnership between our nations – rooted not just in policy, but in shared humanity and mutual respect.
Leave a Reply