New Delhi – The impending visit of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to India underscores the deepening strategic and economic partnership between the European Union (EU) and India, according to Herve Delphin, Ambassador of the European Union’s Delegation to India.
Set to take place on February 27-28, 2025, this high-profile visit will also mark the first time that the entire European Commission College of Commissioners, equivalent to the EU’s government, will participate in bilateral negotiations in New Delhi.
Strengthening the India-EU Relationship
Speaking ahead of the visit, Ambassador Delphin highlighted that this engagement is a testament to how much the EU values its relationship with India. “This week will be significant for the relationship between the EU and India,” Delphin said. He emphasized that the visit is a strong indicator of mutual trust and shared global responsibilities.
“The significance of the EU’s relationship with India is shown by this visit, which is quite significant. In addition to being partners of choice, we both perceive each other as positive forces,” Delphin added.
Key Areas of Discussion
The visit will involve comprehensive discussions between President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside engagements between European Commissioners and Indian Union Cabinet ministers. The primary topics on the agenda include:
- Trade and Investment: Discussions on the progress of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the EU, with a focus on reducing trade barriers and enhancing market access for both sides.
- Geopolitical Stability: In light of ongoing global uncertainties, both leaders will explore cooperative mechanisms for ensuring peace and security, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Climate Change and Sustainability: Reinforcing commitments to green energy transitions, carbon neutrality, and sustainable development initiatives.
- Technology and Innovation: Strengthening collaborations in digital economy, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and space technology.
According to sources, Ursula von der Leyen’s visit will set the stage for an EU-India Summit later in 2025, where both sides hope to finalize a new strategic roadmap that will define their collaboration for the next decade.
A Global Stabilizing Force
Delphin reiterated that in the current global landscape, stabilizing forces are necessary. “We need stabilizing forces in this world right now. This visit will explore all the possibilities of these relationships, providing opportunities to advance our collaboration,” he said.
As India continues to emerge as a key player on the world stage, its ties with the European Union are becoming increasingly crucial. The visit is expected to lead to tangible agreements that will benefit both partners economically, strategically, and diplomatically.
Ministry of External Affairs Statement
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed in an official statement that Ursula von der Leyen and the European Commission College of Commissioners will be in India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
With the potential signing of key agreements and deeper cooperation across multiple sectors, this visit could mark the beginning of a new chapter in EU-India relations, reinforcing their status as global partners in growth and stability.
(With inputs from ANI)
