The strengthening of EU-India ties offers a promising path towards stability, prosperity and technological advancement
The European Union’s outreach to India has gained significant momentum, marking a new chapter in their strategic relationship. In the wake of global disruptions, including the shifting stance of the United States under Donald Trump-characterised by tariffs, the withdrawal of support for Ukraine, and disengagement from Gaza-the strengthening of EU-India ties emerges as a stabilising force in global geopolitics. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s recent visit to India underscores the EU’s commitment to deepening ties with New Delhi. Meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House, von der Leyen expressed the EU’s high regard for India as a partner. She emphasised that as the two enter the third decade of their strategic partnership, “the best is yet to come.†This sentiment reflects the EU’s vision of India as a key player in shaping global economic and political landscapes. A focal point of their discussions was the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a crucial initiative aimed at boosting connectivity, trade and energy cooperation.
Given the evolving geopolitical dynamics, this corridor could serve as a counterbalance to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, ensuring a more diversified and resilient global supply chain. A significant highlight of the India-EU partnership is its deepening engagement in digital and technological arenas. With India emerging as a technological powerhouse and the EU striving for digital sovereignty, collaboration in these areas can create a formidable synergy. The EU’s focus on clean energy aligns with India’s ambitious renewable energy goals. Such initiatives can help India and the EU lead the global transition towards a sustainable future. Beyond technology and energy, trade remains a cornerstone of EU-India ties. Both sides are actively negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that could unlock significant economic potential. The EU is India’s second-largest trading partner and a comprehensive trade agreement would not only boost exports but also enhance supply chain resilience, particularly in a world grappling with economic volatility. With Trump’s protectionist policies disrupting global trade, an EU-India trade pact could serve as a counterweight, ensuring that both economies remain competitive and open to global commerce. The collaboration on supply chain resilience will also be crucial in mitigating risks associated with overdependence on specific markets. With Trump’s policies creating uncertainty in trans-Atlantic relations and global trade, the EU’s pivot towards India reflects a strategic recalibration. The EU recognises India’s growing role as a stabilising force in global affairs-both as a democratic counterweight to authoritarian regimes and as a crucial player in maintaining a rules-based international order. The EU-India partnership stands at a defining moment. With digital collaboration, green energy initiatives, and robust trade negotiations at the forefront, this relationship could reshape global economic and political alignments.
