Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), a major international event is taking place in Seville, Spain, from 30 June 2025 to 3 July 2025. On Tuesday Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, met with different global leaders to strengthen partnerships and explore new areas of cooperation.
Some global leaders whom Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met in the event
European Investment Bank (EIB) President Nadia Calvino
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She talked about expanding EIB’s work in India, which already includes support for metro rail and urban transport projects.
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They also discussed working together in other sectors like water and sanitation.
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Importantly, they explored how India’s success in digital technology (like digital payments and online services) could be shared with other countries, using a partnership between India and the EIB.
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Calvino expressed interest in strengthening ties with India.
New Zealand’s Minister Shane Reti
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Sitharaman met Dr. Shane Reti from New Zealand, who handles areas like science, technology, universities, and Pacific affairs.
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They discussed collaboration in defence, education, technology, and agriculture.
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The Indian minister highlighted the role of GIFT-IFSC in Gujarat as an emerging global hub for financial and technological services.
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Education was a key focus—many Indian students study in New Zealand, and both sides want to grow this connection.
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Reti also shared how New Zealand works with Pacific island nations.
Peru’s Foreign Minister – PeruElmer Schialer Salcedo
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Met with PeruElmer Schialer Salcedo, Peru’s Foreign Minister .
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They discussed working together in FinTech, trade, mining, railways, and defence.
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India offered to share its expertise in building railway infrastructure and showed interest in contributing to railway development projects in Peru.
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They also talked about increasing trade, such as exporting Indian products (cars, medicines, textiles, etc.) to Peru and importing important minerals like copper and lithium from Peru, which are needed for clean energy and industry.
Germany’s Minister Reem Alabali-Radovan
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With the German minister, Sitharaman discussed cooperation under the India-Germany Green and Sustainable Development Partnership..
- This partnership focuses on areas like promoting renewable energy (such as solar and wind power), developing environmentally friendly cities, improving urban transportation systems, and creating jobs that support long-term sustainability and environmental protection.
India is strengthening ties with various countries by sharing its knowledge and skills in areas like digital technology, infrastructure development, education, and clean energy. At the same time, it is seeking to import important resources—such as minerals and energy materials—that are essential for its development. Through these efforts, India aims to create partnerships that benefit both sides and support shared economic growth and progress.