India and the European Union (EU) on Tuesday reviewed the entire spectrum of their strategic ties and issues like cyber security, counter-terrorism and maritime security here during the 9th India-EU Foreign Policy and Security Consultations. The two sides also explored possibilities to further enhance cooperation in these fields.

Giving details of the meeting, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) said the consultations were co-chaired by Sanjay Verma, Secretary (West), MEA and Enrique Mora, Deputy Secretary General for Political Affairs, European External Action Service.

During the consultations, both sides were pleased to note the enhanced intensity and political momentum in the India-EU relationship, a start towards which was made during the 15th India-EU Summit held in July 2020 and which was further strengthened by the India-EU Leaders’ Meeting in May 2021.

They took stock of key bilateral developments, including the India-EU Trade and Technology Council, announced by Prime Minister and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen during the latter’s visit to India in April 2022 as Chief Guest for the Raisina Dialogue.

They also welcomed the progress in negotiations on the India-EU trade and investment agreements, in line with the decision taken during the Leaders’ Meeting in May 2021.

They expressed hope on the timely conclusion of negotiations, two rounds of which have already been concluded. They agreed on the need for greater ambition in the implementation of the India-EU Connectivity Partnership.

The two sides also reviewed the working of various institutional mechanisms between India and the EU, including on cyber security, counter terrorism, maritime security and disarmament and non-proliferation.