The European Union’s decision to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) was recently hailed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a sign of the EU and India’s growing strategic partnership.
With an emphasis on issues like environmental preservation, sustainable development, and freedom of passage, India formed the IPOI in 2019 with the goal of fostering collaboration and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific area.
PM Modi emphasized the significance of peace, security, stability, and development in the area while applauding the EU’s involvement. For equitable and sustainable development in Africa and the Indo-Pacific, both parties have committed to working together on triangle development initiatives.
PM Modi emphasized the importance of the EU’s participation in the IPOI during his meeting with Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, pointing out that it demonstrates the mutual trust and shared values between India and the EU.
Described as “unprecedented,” the visit of the College of Commissioners and the President of the European Commission to India was a major turning point in the two countries’ bilateral ties.
With hopes to finalize a bilateral Free commerce Agreement by the end of the year, the two parties also talked about expanding their collaboration in sectors including commerce, technology, and security.
The EU’s choice to join the IPOI is consistent with its larger Indo-Pacific cooperation strategy, which places a strong emphasis on investment, sustainable and equitable trade, and upholding democratic principles.
The Indian Ocean plays a vital role in international trade, and President von der Leyen emphasized the need of maritime security and the possibility of increased collaborative naval drills.
It is anticipated that the EU-India relationship will promote stability and economic prosperity in the area while utilizing their strategic alliance to tackle global issues.
