European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited New Delhi on February 27 for a two-day engagement with India, her third visit to the country. The visit marks the first joint visit of the EU College of Commissioners and aims to strengthen ties in trade, technology, and defense amidst shared goals for a stable Indo-Pacific and peace in Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in New Delhi on February 27 for a two-day visit, accompanied by the European Union College of Commissioners. This marks her third visit to India, following earlier trips in April 2022 for a bilateral official meeting and in September 2023 during the G20 Leaders’ Summit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has met regularly with President von der Leyen on various multilateral platforms.
This visit is significant as it is the first joint visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India since the current mandate of the European Commission began in December 2024. The timing of this visit highlights both parties’ interest in enhancing bilateral relations regarding connectivity, trade, technology, defense, and security in the context of their longstanding strategic partnership, which began in 2004.
As the strategic partnership enters its third decade, the visit aims to promote further collaboration between India and the European Union. Together, both sides reaffirm their commitment to fostering a free, open, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, especially amid the evolving geopolitical landscape. Moreover, the EU’s involvement in the Indo-Pacific region has been positively acknowledged by India.
Emphasis was placed by both parties on respecting the rules-based international order, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty and peaceful resolution of disputes. Furthermore, a comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine was underscored as a shared goal, aligning with the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter.
In summary, President Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to India, alongside the EU College of Commissioners, represents a commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between India and the European Union. This visit aims to enhance cooperation in trade, technology, and security, and underscores mutual support for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and Ukraine. The reinforced dialogue and engagement signal a promising path forward for both parties.
Original Source: www.indianewsnetwork.com
