How Will the India-EU Trilateral Cooperation Agreement Benefit the Global South?

Synopsis
The India-EU trilateral cooperation agreement marks a significant step in their partnership, focusing on sustainable development and global collaboration. With implications for the Global South, this initiative promises to enhance connectivity, trade, and energy solutions. Join us as we explore the outcomes of this pivotal agreement.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened India-EU relations
- Focus on sustainable development
- Support for Global South projects
- Enhancement of connectivity initiatives
- Collaboration in green shipping and clean energy
Brussels, June 11 (NationPress) India and the European Union (EU) officially entered into an agreement on Trilateral Cooperation on Wednesday, aimed at addressing joint priorities and facilitating pilot projects in third countries.
This agreement enhances India–EU collaboration in key areas such as connectivity, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), green shipping, and clean energy. It was signed in the presence of External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar and Jozef Sikela, the European Commissioner for International Partnership.
Both parties expressed that the trilateral cooperation agreement will have positive implications for the Global South.
"To fully unlock the potential of the EU–India partnership, today we signed a Cooperation Agreement on Trilateral Cooperation with Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar. This new initiative will support pilot projects in third countries, focused on driving sustainable development with a strong emphasis on climate action and digital inclusion," Sikela stated on X.
EAM Jaishankar also conducted a meeting with Maros Sefcovic, the European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, in Brussels. Both sides acknowledged the ongoing discussions regarding a comprehensive and meaningful Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union.
"Delighted to meet Maros Sefcovic, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security in Brussels this morning. Recognised the progress in our discussions for a comprehensive, balanced and meaningful FTA agreement between India and EU. We agreed that it would elevate our strategic partnership, which is rapidly acquiring new dimensions and facets," EAM stated on X.
Earlier in the day, EAM also engaged with the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola. They deliberated on further strengthening India-EU parliamentary ties, building on shared values of democracy and pluralism. EAM Jaishankar appreciated her positive sentiments on promoting the India-EU partnership in trade, technology, and security.
During his discussions with Members of the European Parliament, including Angelika Niebler, Urmas Paet, Winkler Gyula, Vladimir Prebilic, and Pilar del Castillo, EAM welcomed the support from European leaders for stronger India-EU relations. He also acknowledged their recognition of India's right to defend itself against terrorism as both sides exchanged views on global developments and regional matters.
On Tuesday, EAM Jishankar met with the Prime Minister of Belgium, Bart De Wever, conveying warm greetings from PM Narendra Modi. The two leaders discussed enhancing cooperation in trade, security, defense, investment, clean energy, semiconductors, and innovation between the two nations.
The External Affairs Minister is on an official visit to France, the EU, and Belgium from June 8 to 14, aimed at deepening India's friendly relations and revitalizing ongoing collaborations across various sectors.