European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, with 20 EU commissioners, is in New Delhi to revitalize FTA talks with Prime Minister Modi amid U.S. tariffs threats. The meetings will address trade, defense cooperation, and technology sectors. The visit aims to deepen strategic ties as bilateral trade with the EU expands significantly, highlighting India’s role as a dependable partner for Europe.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, alongside 20 members from the EU’s College of Commissioners, has arrived in New Delhi for crucial discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This meeting aims to reinvigorate talks on a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) while addressing the challenges posed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose 25% tariffs on EU goods, reinforcing India’s strategic importance to Europe.
During her visit, Von der Leyen expressed the need for global cooperation, stating, “In an era of conflicts and intense competition, you need trusted friends. For Europe, India is such a friend and a strategic ally.” This dialogue comes in the wake of Trump’s assertion regarding high tariffs targeting the EU, as he claimed the bloc was originally created to undermine the United States.
The meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) is scheduled to coincide with Von der Leyen’s visit, originating from the revival of FTA negotiations in 2022 after a nearly ten-year pause. Key focal points include enhanced collaboration in sectors such as technology, defense, and climate change initiatives, indicating a broader ambition beyond mere trade agreements.
Discussions will encompass defense cooperation, notably concerning joint naval exercises between the Indian Navy and EU member states, and evaluating India’s participation in EU-led defense initiatives. This partnership is considered vital, with plans for deploying a European liaison officer at the Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre, enhancing maritime security along important shipping routes.
Von der Leyen commenced her trip by honoring Mahatma Gandhi at his memorial, emphasizing the significant ties between India and the EU. India has maintained a firm stance regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, expressing willingness for dialogue while affirming its non-participation in sanction violations, thereby fostering balanced international relations.
As the EU solidifies its trading partnership with India, which is currently its largest trading partner with bilateral trade soaring to $135 billion, the collaborative effort is likely to yield substantial outcomes in both trade and technology. India’s position as a reliable ally for Europe continues to strengthen, indicating a promising future for India-EU relations.
The visit of the EU Commission President underscores the importance of India-EU relations, emphasizing trade and strategic cooperation in key sectors. Amidst challenges posed by U.S. tariff threats, both parties are set to engage in meaningful dialogues that could significantly bolster their partnership. Enhanced collaboration is expected across various domains, including defense, technology, and climate initiatives, further solidifying the ties between India and the European Union.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
