EU Chief Praises India Partnership After Modi Meeting
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Synopsis
On February 28, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed gratitude to PM Modi for hosting the EU College of Commissioners in New Delhi. The significant meeting highlighted the strong partnership between India and the EU, with discussions on enhancing cooperation in various sectors.
Key Takeaways
- Ursula von der Leyen's gratitude for India's hospitality.
- Focus on enhancing the India-EU Strategic Partnership.
- Discussion of the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor.
- Opportunities in sectors like AI, semiconductors, and Green Hydrogen.
- First visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India.
New Delhi, Feb 28 (NationPress) Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for hosting the European Union (EU) College of Commissioners - a landmark event in the India-EU relationship - Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, remarked on Friday that the delegation's visit exemplifies the EU's appreciation for its partnership with India.
"Dear Narendra Modi, I sincerely thank you for welcoming us in New Delhi. The EU Commission's visit signifies how much we cherish our partnership with India and the personal friendship we share," von der Leyen shared on X following her meeting with PM Modi at the Hyderabad House.
During their discussions, both parties engaged in comprehensive talks aimed at enhancing the India-EU Strategic Partnership and highlighted crucial connectivity initiatives such as the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor.
"As we embark on the third decade of the EU-India strategic partnership, one thing is evident: the greatest achievements are still ahead. Together, we can influence the future and establish one of the most significant partnerships of this century," declared the EU chief.
Previously, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, along with Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting, Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw, participated in the 2nd India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting, which reviewed the substantial advancements made in digital collaboration, clean energy initiatives, trade, investments, and resilient supply chains.
"We discussed new opportunities in semiconductors, AI, 6G, EVs, Green Hydrogen, and a mutually beneficial trade framework. I am optimistic that today’s discussions will lead to fresh economic, trade, and technological connections," stated EAM Jaishankar.
The President of the European Commission, along with the European Union College of Commissioners, arrived in New Delhi on Thursday afternoon for a two-day visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi.
"Touchdown in Delhi with my team of Commissioners. In a time of conflicts and fierce competition, trusted friends are essential. For Europe, India is such a friend and strategic partner. I will discuss with Narendra Modi how to elevate our strategic partnership," the European Commission President posted on X after arriving in the Indian capital.
This marks Ursula von der Leyen's third visit to India, having previously visited for a bilateral official meeting in April 2022, and later attended the G20 Leaders’ Summit in September 2023. Prime Minister Modi and the EU President have also regularly met on the sidelines of various multilateral events.
Aiming to enhance the multifaceted India-European Union partnership, this visit marks the inaugural appearance of the EU College of Commissioners in India and is among the first such visits since the commencement of the current European Commission's mandate in December 2024, following the European parliamentary elections held in June 2024.
