EU Chief Hails India as a Key Strategic Ally Upon Arrival in New Delhi

Synopsis

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, arrives in New Delhi with the EU College of Commissioners for a two-day visit, emphasizing India's role as a strategic ally for Europe. This historic visit aims to strengthen ties and explore deeper collaboration with Prime Minister Modi.

Key Takeaways

Ursula von der Leyen lands in New Delhi for a two-day visit.
First-ever visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India.
Discussion on enhancing the India-EU strategic partnership.
Scheduled meetings with PM Modi and EAM S. Jaishankar.
Focus on deepening bilateral ties established in 2004.

New Delhi, Feb 27 (NationPress) Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, along with the European Union College of Commissioners - marking a historic moment in India-EU relations - touched down in New Delhi on Thursday afternoon for a two-day visit, at the invitation of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

"Arrived in Delhi with my team of Commissioners. In times of conflict and fierce competition, having trusted allies is crucial. For Europe, India stands as such an ally and strategic partner. I look forward to discussing with Narendra Modi how we can elevate our strategic cooperation," the President of the European Commission shared on X after her arrival in the Indian capital.

This marks Ursula von der Leyen's third trip to India, following her earlier official bilateral visit in April 2022 and her attendance at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in September 2023. The two leaders have also consistently met during various multilateral engagements.

In an effort to enhance the India-European Union multifaceted partnership, this is the inaugural visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India, and one of the first since the commencement of the current European Commission's term in December 2024 post the European parliamentary elections held in June 2024.

The President was warmly welcomed by Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel at the airport.

On Friday, PM Modi is set to engage in delegation-level discussions with President Ursula von der Leyen. The visit will also feature the second ministerial meeting of the India–EU Trade and Technology Council alongside bilateral meetings between European Commissioners and their Indian counterparts.

According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) prior to the EU President's arrival, "India and the European Union have been strategic partners since 2004, with their bilateral relations expanding across various sectors. As we step into the third decade of our strategic partnership, the visit of President von der Leyen and the EU College of Commissioners is expected to further fortify our bilateral ties based on increasing convergences."

Later on Thursday, the President of the European Commission is also scheduled to meet with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar.