New Delhi: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced that the European Union (EU) is exploring a potential security and defense partnership with India. The announcement came ahead of her meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Friday.
Von der Leyen arrived in India on Thursday for a two-day visit, accompanied by her team of commissioners, in an effort to bolster diplomatic and economic ties with the world’s fifth-largest economy. The visit comes amid growing concerns over the EU’s strained relations with its long-standing ally, the United States.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Speaking at a public event in the Indian capital, Von der Leyen said, “I can announce that we are exploring a future Security and Defence Partnership with India, similar to our partnerships with Japan and South Korea.” She emphasized that such an agreement would enhance cooperation on cross-border terrorism, maritime security threats, cyberattacks, and critical infrastructure protection.
The EU-India trade relationship is already significant, with the bloc being India’s largest trading partner. In 2023, bilateral trade between the two reached 124 billion euros ($130 billion), accounting for more than 12% of India’s total global trade. However, India’s share of EU goods trade remains low at 2.2%, primarily due to high tariffs.
Economic and Trade Prospects
The EU is keen to address supply chain resilience, artificial intelligence governance, and China’s growing influence in the Asia-Pacific region through its partnership with India. Brussels is also pushing for a trade agreement that would lower tariffs and ease market access for European products such as automobiles, wines, and spirits.
India, on the other hand, is looking for greater EU investments in renewable energy, water management, and urban infrastructure. Additionally, the Modi government is advocating for more relaxed immigration laws for skilled Indian professionals and deeper collaboration between local businesses and European enterprises.
Von der Leyen emphasized the significance of a free trade agreement between the EU and India, stating, “A free trade agreement between the EU and India would be the largest deal of this kind anywhere in the world.” She acknowledged the challenges but reaffirmed the commitment to finalizing the agreement within the year.
Geopolitical Considerations
The discussions between the two leaders are also expected to cover Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Despite Western pressure to distance itself from Moscow, India continues to maintain strong ties with Russia, its longstanding defense supplier.
With evolving global geopolitics and economic realignments, the EU-India partnership is set to play a crucial role in shaping regional and global security dynamics.
