India-EU Forge a Dynamic Partnership Roadmap for Post-2025 Era
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Synopsis
India and the EU are set to launch an ambitious roadmap for their collaboration beyond 2025, focusing on trade, technology, and defense, as discussed during a press conference with PM Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Key Takeaways
- India and EU to launch a roadmap for partnership beyond 2025.
- Focus on FTA, technology, and sustainable development.
- Increased cooperation in defense and security.
- Joint initiatives on green energy and urban development.
- New visa regime to enhance mobility for Indian youth.
New Delhi, Feb 28 (NationPress) In a significant move, India and the European Union (EU) have announced an ambitious roadmap aimed at enhancing their partnership beyond 2025, covering areas from the bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to establishing a secure and reliable value chain across various industries. This initiative is set to be unveiled at the upcoming summit, as disclosed on Friday.
During a joint press conference with European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that the strategic partnership, which has evolved over two decades, is both natural and organic.
"Its foundation is rooted in trust, a shared commitment to democratic values, and a collective aspiration for prosperity and progress. In this context, we have conducted nearly 20 ministerial-level discussions across different sectors in the past two days," PM Modi stated.
Describing the ongoing visit of the European Commission President and the College of Commissioners to India as unprecedented, PM Modi remarked: "We have crafted a framework for collaboration across trade, technology, investment, innovation, green growth, security, skill development, and mobility."
"We have instructed our teams to finalize a mutually advantageous Bilateral Free Trade Agreement by year-end. Discussions have also been held regarding advancing the Investment Protection and GI Agreement to bolster the investment framework," the Prime Minister added.
The two leaders concurred on enhancing collaboration in areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and 6G technology, alongside initiating a Space Dialogue.
“We plan to establish a Green Hydrogen Forum and an Offshore Wind Energy Business Summit. Joint research initiatives will focus on electric vehicle batteries, marine plastics, and green hydrogen. We will also advance our Joint Plan on Sustainable Urban Development,” according to the joint statement.
In terms of connectivity, decisive actions will be taken to progress the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
“Our expanding cooperation on defense and security matters illustrates our strong mutual trust. We will enhance our collaboration in cybersecurity, maritime security, and counter-terrorism,” stated the two leaders.
Both parties acknowledged the significance of peace, security, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
PM Modi welcomed the EU's decision to participate in the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.
“We will collaborate on Triangular Development projects aimed at fostering sustainable and inclusive growth in the Indo-Pacific and Africa,” he added.
India and the EU established a new agreement to enhance academic, research, and industry partnerships.
“I believe that the combination of India’s youthful talent and Europe’s innovation can unlock endless opportunities. We welcome the new visa cascade regime from the EU, which will facilitate better mobility for India’s skilled youth,” PM Modi concluded, expressing anticipation for the next India-EU Summit.
The President of the European Commission, along with the College of Commissioners, arrived in New Delhi on Thursday for a two-day visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi.
This marks the first joint visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India and their inaugural trip outside of Europe since assuming office in December 2024, indicating a new chapter in bilateral relations as both sides enter the third decade of their strategic partnership.
Expressing gratitude to PM Modi for hosting the EU delegation, Ursula von der Leyen remarked that the visit illustrates the EU's high regard for its partnership with India.
