EU chief Ursula von der Leyen leads a top delegation to India to strengthen diplomatic and trade relations amid US tensions. The visit includes discussions on trade agreements, technological cooperation, and investments. The meeting signifies the importance of ties between the EU and India, particularly in light of shifting geopolitical landscapes.
The European Union’s top leadership, led by chief Ursula von der Leyen, commenced an unprecedented two-day visit to India aimed at strengthening diplomatic and commercial ties in light of strained relations with the United States. The delegation is poised to engage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his administration in New Delhi to discuss areas such as trade expansion, tariff reductions, and bolstering resilient supply chains that focus on the Asia-Pacific region in response to China’s influence.
Upon arrival, Von der Leyen expressed the importance of fostering partnerships in a competitive global landscape, stating, “In this era of conflicts and intense competition, you need trusted friends. For Europe, India is such a friend and a strategic ally.” Her itinerary includes a meeting with Modi to cover topics including artificial intelligence, energy cooperation, and the progression of a free trade agreement.
The significance of this visit is emphasized by the participation of nearly all of the EU’s 26 commissioners, marking it as a landmark engagement with India. In previous contexts, EU relations have shifted following pivotal events, including U.S. political changes and India’s strategic autonomy in foreign policy, particularly its historical ties to Russia.
The EU currently ranks as India’s principal trading partner, with goods trade amounting to €124 billion, representing over 12 percent of India’s total trade. However, barriers such as high tariffs limit EU market access to just 2.2 percent of Indian goods trade. Von der Leyen mentioned ongoing preparations for a 10th negotiation round in Brussels, expressing optimism about finalizing an agreement if both sides commit.
India seeks enhanced investments and cooperation from the EU, particularly in clean energy and urban infrastructure, where it offers vast market potential. The Indian Foreign Ministry has indicated that the synergy between EU technology and India’s scale presents a promising avenue for collaboration in various sectors, including defence, agriculture, and clean energy.
The visit of the EU leadership to India underscores the strategic partnership’s importance amidst evolving global dynamics. Focused on expanding trade and addressing technological cooperation, the discussions between the EU and India highlight a mutual commitment to deepen relations. The EU aims to navigate trade barriers while India is poised to leverage European expertise for development across numerous sectors.
Original Source: www.nbcrightnow.com
