Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the strategic alliance between India and the European Union, calling it “organic and natural” and based on democratic principles and trust.
With an emphasis on mutual advancement and success, this alliance has undergone tremendous change over the past 20 years. PM Modi underlined the significance of strengthening and expediting this collaboration through a number of initiatives during a meeting with Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, in New Delhi.
Plans for a free trade agreement, which is anticipated to be finalized by the end of 2025, were discussed. The two sides have also decided to strengthen their collaboration in fields like trade, technology, investment, innovation, green growth, security, skill development, and mobility.
These important areas are included in the cooperation blueprint that has been prepared. Notably, as a sign of their dedication to clean energy and sustainable development, India and the EU have agreed to conduct an offshore wind energy business summit and a green hydrogen forum in addition to starting a space discussion.
With agreements to collaborate on cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and marine security, the collaboration also encompasses security cooperation.
Additionally, PM Modi was upbeat about the India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), seeing it as a potential engine for sustained growth and international trade. The strengthening strategic relations between India and the EU are further highlighted by the EU’s participation in projects like the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.
The EU has been a major partner for India in recent years, investing heavily in a number of initiatives. The European Investment Bank, for example, has pledged €1 billion to help India’s green hydrogen initiatives.
Strong interpersonal relationships are another aspect of the partnership; hundreds of Indian academics and students have benefited from EU funding and scholarship programs. All things considered, the strategic cooperation between the EU and India is certain to grow even more in the upcoming years as it tackles possibilities and problems that both parties face.