European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited India from February 27-28, accompanied by the EU College of Commissioners. This significant visit aims to enhance the India-EU strategic partnership, focusing on trade, technology, and security. It is also a platform to reaffirm commitments to regional stability and international law as both sides address global challenges.
Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, arrived in New Delhi on February 27 for a two-day visit, accompanied by the EU College of Commissioners. This marks her third trip to India, following her previous visits in April 2022 and September 2023. The Indian Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, welcomed her at the airport.
This visit is significant as it is the first for the full EU College of Commissioners to India, occurring shortly after the commencement of the current European Commission’s term following the European parliamentary elections in June 2024. The primary objective of this visit is to fortify the strategic partnership between India and the EU, enhancing collaboration in areas such as connectivity, trade, technology, defense, and security.
Since becoming strategic partners in 2004, India and the European Union have strengthened their bilateral relations, which span various sectors. With this visit, the two sides aim to reinforce their ties as they enter the third decade of their partnership. The discussions will focus on areas of mutual interest, including trade, technology, and fostering a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
India has expressed its support for the EU’s growing involvement in the Indo-Pacific and both parties have emphasized the importance of a rules-based international order that respects sovereignty and territorial integrity. Moreover, both sides reiterated their commitment to achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine while upholding international law and the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter.
The visit by President Ursula von der Leyen and the European Commission marks a pivotal moment in the India-EU strategic partnership, aimed at bolstering collaboration across key sectors. As both parties reaffirm their commitment to mutual interests, including regional stability and international norms, this engagement signals a renewed focus on strengthening ties and shared objectives in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.indianewsnetwork.com
