EU Delegation Visits India to Strengthen Strategic Ties and Trade

The European Union’s leadership, led by Ursula von der Leyen, embarked on a historic visit to India to enhance trade and diplomatic relations while addressing changing dynamics with the United States. Key discussions will involve reducing tariffs and expanding market access, with a focus on strategic collaboration in technology and sustainable energy. This visit underscores the growing partnership between the EU and India amidst global geopolitical shifts.

The European Union’s foremost leadership team arrived in India on an unprecedented visit aimed at enhancing both commercial and diplomatic relations amid concerns about diminishing ties with the United States. EU President Ursula von der Leyen and her commissioners will be engaging Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration in New Delhi over the course of two days, focusing on trade expansion and strategic partnerships.

Upon her arrival, Von der Leyen emphasized the significance of maintaining trusted alliances during periods of global conflict. She stated, “For Europe, India is such a friend and a strategic ally. I will discuss with Narendra Modi how to take our strategic partnership to the next level.”

The discussions will prioritize increasing trade, lowering tariffs, and ensuring resilient supply chains with a focus on the Asia-Pacific region and the influence of China. Furthermore, Von der Leyen is scheduled to address various topics with Modi, including artificial intelligence and energy solutions.

The comprehensive delegation, comprising nearly all of the EU’s 26 commissioners, signals a historic first visit to India for this new assembly, which commenced its term in December. This approach follows a strategic reevaluation of relationships prompted by shifts in U.S. foreign policy under President Trump.

India’s longstanding policy of strategic autonomy, particularly in foreign relations, has historically aligned it closer to Russia regarding military support. Consequently, it has resisted Western pressures to sever ties with Moscow despite geopolitical tensions arising from the Ukraine crisis, as reported by The Hindu newspaper.

The EU ranks as India’s largest trading partner, recording a substantial 124 billion euros ($130 billion) in trade for the year 2023. Despite this, India remains protective with high tariffs, limiting EU’s trade share to a mere 2.2 percent. Elevated negotiations are anticipated to stimulate discussions for a more favorable trade environment, particularly in light of potential U.S. tariffs.

Von der Leyen remarked on the ongoing preparations for the 10th round of trade negotiations in Brussels, exuding optimism for achieving a conclusive agreement. She stated, “There is more work to be done at a technical level, but I’m convinced we can cross the finish line if we both commit to it.”

India seeks increased EU investment along with collaborative ventures, capitalizing on Europe’s technological expertise in sectors such as clean energy and urban infrastructure. An Indian official highlighted this complementarity, indicating, “They have the technology and competency — and we have the scale.”

In conclusion, the EU’s visit to India aims not only to solidify existing relations but also to foster new opportunities in trade and technology. With both regions aiming for strategic alignment, the outcome of these discussions could significantly reshape their bilateral ties.

The EU’s visit to India represents a pivotal effort to strengthen diplomatic and commercial partnerships, particularly in the context of changing global dynamics. Focusing on trade agreements and technological collaboration, the meetings hold potential for evolving strategic alliances that could benefit both entities. Failure to address existing barriers may hinder the realization of these mutual goals, highlighting the importance of commitment from both sides.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr