Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, is visiting New Delhi to enhance strategic ties with India. This visit marks the first instance of the EU College of Commissioners visiting India together. The trip emphasizes the importance of India as a trusted partner for Europe and entails discussions with Prime Minister Modi and other Indian leaders on deepening bilateral relations.
Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, arrived in New Delhi on a two-day visit aimed at enhancing strategic ties between the European Union and India. This marks the first instance of the entire European Union College of Commissioners visiting India together. The visit, initiated at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscores the EU’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with India amid global challenges.
Upon her arrival, President von der Leyen expressed the importance of trusted friendships in tumultuous times, emphasizing that India serves as such a friend and strategic partner to Europe. She plans to meet with Prime Minister Modi to discuss advancing their strategic partnership. This occasion represents her third visit to India, following her previous engagements in April 2022 and September 2023 at the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
The visit is significant as it aims to elevate the multifaceted partnership between India and the European Union, which has developed since they established strategic ties in 2004. Notably, this trip is among the first undertaken by the new European Commission after the 2024 elections. A warm reception was extended to President von der Leyen by Union Minister Anupriya Patel at the airport during her arrival.
During her stay, Prime Minister Modi is expected to engage in delegation-level talks with President von der Leyen and participate in the second ministerial meeting of the India–EU Trade and Technology Council. A joint statement from the Ministry of External Affairs noted that this visit would facilitate further deepening of bilateral relations as both parties explore common interests in various sectors.
President von der Leyen is also scheduled to meet with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar later on Thursday to continue discussions on bilateral cooperation. Together, these interactions signify the growing commitment of both India and the European Union to collaborate more effectively in light of shared goals and challenges.
In conclusion, President Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to India represents a pivotal opportunity to strengthen strategic ties between the European Union and India. With discussions planned with key Indian leaders, the visit aims to enhance cooperation across numerous sectors. As both regions navigate an era marked by conflict, their partnership is poised to grow, reflecting shared values and mutual interests.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
