A number of Indian students and university professors are benefiting from the opportunities offered by this Programme. We hope to encourage an equal level of enthusiasm in Spanish academic circles towards Indian languages and cultural studies. We have in recent years, witnessed a growth in trade and economic relations between our two countries. There is, however, considerable scope for enhancing cooperation even further in these areas. The Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement signed during the Crown Prince's visit last year is a step in this direction.
Ample opportunities exist for augmenting bilateral trade and investment.
I am confident, Mr. Ambassador, that your efforts will provide a catalytic boost that will help us achieve the full potential of economic cooperation between our two countries. We value the special affection, which the Spanish Royal family has for India. We have particularly pleasant memories of the State Visit of Their Majesties to India in 1982. We are privileged to have this linkage which provides a unique quality to our bilateral relationship. Spain's membership of the European Union also constitutes an important dimension of the relationship between our two countries.