Ursula von der Leyen will visit India to discuss efforts to prevent sanctioned technologies from reaching Russia. The talks will also cover high tariffs on imports as part of free trade agreement negotiations. India is increasingly recognized as a significant supplier of dual-use goods to Russia, complicating its foreign relations, especially with the EU and the US.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to discuss measures aimed at preventing the transfer of restricted technologies from countries like India to Russia during her visit to India. Kimmo Lähdevirta, Finland’s ambassador to New Delhi, emphasized that Indian businesses must not bypass sanctions that prohibit providing Russia with dual-use items, which include electronics that can serve both civilian and military purposes. He stated that ensuring such compliance is essential for India to be seen as a “responsible nation” in the international arena.
In addition to sanctions discussions, von der Leyen will address issues surrounding greater market access and India’s high tariffs on goods like automobiles and wine, a topic of significance in ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA). Lähdevirta noted that the elevated tariffs concern the EU and hinted at positive trends in trade relations, while cautioning that substantial tariff reductions are necessary for a deal to materialize. Negotiations, which had been paused for nearly nine years, resumed in 2022.
Recent reports indicate that India has become the second-largest supplier of dual-use goods to Russia, a partnership troubling to efforts aimed at curtailing military supplies to President Vladimir Putin amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Following a meeting between EU and Indian sanctions diplomats in October, there was a strong focus on identifying ways to prevent dual-use materials from being exported to Russia.
While Russia remains a critical trade ally for India, supplying significant amounts of military equipment and crude oil, New Delhi has refrained from publicly condemning the invasion of Ukraine, instead advocating for diplomatic dialogue to help resolve the situation. A senior official from India’s Ministry of External Affairs assured that both nations are collaborating to address issues related to sanctions violations and that India’s trade ministry is actively monitoring compliance.
Despite the complexities of negotiations, including the potential impact of US tariffs on international trade, the importance of cooperation between India and the EU was highlighted. Lähdevirta remarked that it is imperative for India and the EU to strengthen their partnership, particularly in light of shifting geopolitical dynamics that have transformed significantly over the past decade.
The forthcoming discussions between the EU and India, led by Ursula von der Leyen, are poised to focus on preventing the flow of sanctioned technologies to Russia, while also addressing trade tariff concerns. This dialogue comes amid India’s growing role as a supplier to Russia, raising international compliance issues. A successful outcome will depend on India’s willingness to make necessary tariff reductions and strengthen its commitments against sanctions violations. The changing geopolitical landscape further underscores the necessity for enhanced collaboration between India and the EU.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
