EU leaders, led by Ursula von der Leyen, are visiting India to strengthen diplomatic and commercial ties, highlighting India’s role as a strategic ally amid changing global dynamics. They aim to reduce tariffs, boost trade, and explore collaborations in areas like artificial intelligence and clean technology during this unprecedented two-day trip.
The European Union’s leading officials commenced their momentous visit to India on Thursday, intending to enhance commercial and diplomatic relations amid fluctuating ties with the United States. During the two-day engagement, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to confer with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his administration.
“In this era of conflicts and intense competition, you need trusted friends,” von der Leyen expressed after her arrival. She emphasized India’s role as a strategic ally for Europe, indicating a commitment to elevating the existing partnership during her discussions with India’s Prime Minister.
The delegation’s agenda includes advancing trade relations with India, which is recognized as the world’s most populous nation, advocating for reduced tariffs to facilitate entry into its burgeoning market, and constructing resilient supply chains focused on the Asia-Pacific region, especially against the backdrop of China’s increasing influence.
Kicking off her visit, von der Leyen paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat in New Delhi before engaging in talks with India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. A critical meeting with Prime Minister Modi is scheduled for Friday, where they will explore topics such as artificial intelligence and energy collaboration.
Von der Leyen articulated goals to promote discussions on a free trade agreement, enhance cooperation in digital technologies including AI, and expedite initiatives in clean technologies like electric vehicles and green hydrogen. She noted that nearly all 26 EU commissioners are accompanying her on this landmark visit, described as the first of its kind to India for this esteemed group.
With shifting global dynamics, particularly following the election of President Donald Trump in the United States, the EU aims to forge stronger partnerships, such as with India, while recalibrating its approach towards existing alliances, as reported by The Hindu.
The EU stands as India’s leading trading partner, with trade valued at 124 billion euros in 2023, constituting over 12 percent of India’s overall trade. India offers vital opportunities in various sectors despite current trade barriers, which restrict EU goods to a mere 2.2 percent share.
The EU is preparing for its 10th round of trade negotiations, hoping to secure more favorable access for European products like automobiles, spirits, and wines, amid existing domestic pressures on both sides. Conversely, India anticipates deeper investment partnerships and collaborative ventures, particularly in technology and skilled workforce mobility.
The European Union’s unprecedented visit to India signifies a strategic effort to cultivate closer ties, enhancing diplomatic and commercial engagements between the two. With key discussions on trade agreements and cooperation in technology and clean energy, both parties aim to solidify their partnership amid evolving global dynamics. This visit may potentially reshape EU-India relations, providing mutual benefits in various sectors well suited to both economies.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
