The EU leadership, led by Ursula von der Leyen, convened with Indian PM Modi to discuss advancing a free trade agreement amidst U.S. tariff threats. The meetings focus on strengthening cooperation in technology, defense, and climate action. An important agenda item includes the India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting, which is significant for deepening strategic ties. The discussions also touch on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and respective sanctions.
On Friday, India and the European Union (EU) leadership met to advance talks on a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA), particularly in light of President Donald Trump’s looming tariff threats against the EU. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, along with 20 members of the EU’s College of Commissioners, arrived in New Delhi to engage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his cabinet members, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. This visit marks the College of Commissioners’ inaugural trip to India.
Following her arrival, Von der Leyen emphasized the strategic partnership between Europe and India on social media, 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 assertion follows Trump’s indication of imposing a 25% tariff on EU goods, a move he claims is due to the bloc’s perceived unfair practices towards the United States.
The EU is set to respond swiftly to any unfair trade tariffs, affirming their commitment to addressing the challenge. The ongoing negotiations for the India-EU FTA, which were reinitiated in 2022 after nearly ten years, are expected to be a core agenda item for discussions between Modi and von der Leyen. The discussions aim to enhance cooperation in sectors such as technology, defense, security, space, and climate initiatives.
Additionally, the second ministerial meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) will unfold on the same day, focusing on strategic technologies and resilient supply chains. This council is notable for being a platform for collaboration on critical advancements such as telecommunications, 6G, artificial intelligence, and semiconductors. With the EU having established similar councils only with India and the US, the relationship is deemed significant by officials.
Strengthening defense ties is also a priority, involving enhanced collaboration between the Indian Navy and EU navies, notably in the Red Sea, along with proposed agreements to secure participation in EU-led defense projects. The EU plans to assign a liaison officer at India’s Information Fusion Centre in Gurugram to bolster maritime security in the Indian Ocean region.
Upon her arrival, von der Leyen honored Mahatma Gandhi at his memorial, and Jaishankar expressed his appreciation for her visit, reflecting on its significance for India-EU relations. An EU official noted the intention behind this visit seeks to reframe the strategic agenda, spanning trade, investment, technology, and digital connectivity. While discussions are expected regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict and associated EU sanctions on Russia, India has maintained that all parties must be included in peace negotiations.
The recent meeting between Indian and EU leadership signifies a pivotal moment for enhancing trade relations amidst external pressures like U.S. tariffs. Key areas such as technology, defense cooperation, and climate action will guide the objectives of the India-EU partnership. The engagements aim not only to foster economic ties but also to solidify mutual strategic alliances in a dynamic global landscape.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
