The European Union has rolled out a fresh strategic plan aimed at deepening its ties with India in key areas including defence, trade, and technology. The announcement comes at a time when New Delhi is navigating challenges in global commerce, particularly in the wake of U.S. tariff policies under President Donald Trump.

 

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the initiative as a decisive moment to strengthen cooperation. “Now is the time to reinforce partnerships built on common interests and shared values. With this new EU-India strategy, we are elevating our relationship,” she said on September 17 while presenting the proposal. The policy paper was introduced in Brussels by the European Commission together with the EU’s foreign affairs chief, Kaja Kallas.

 

Kallas noted that while the EU values closer engagement with India, certain issues remain obstacles. “India’s involvement in Russian military exercises and its continued purchase of Russian oil limit the scope of deeper cooperation. Our partnership is not just about trade but also about upholding a rules-based international order,” she remarked. She added that both sides would continue discussions with the goal of agreeing on a joint roadmap at the EU-India summit scheduled for early 2026.

 

Von der Leyen emphasised that Europe already stands as India’s largest trade partner and expressed confidence about concluding the long-pending Free Trade Agreement before the year ends. “Europe is open to business and investment. We are fully committed to building a shared future with India,” she underlined. The progress on the FTA is seen as crucial, especially against the backdrop of shifting global trade patterns and following the EU’s recent agreement with the United States.

 

According to the European Commission, strengthening its relationship with India has become essential due to changing geopolitical realities, with a focus on boosting economic growth and security cooperation. Data shows that the EU remains India’s top trade partner, with bilateral trade in goods touching 135 billion dollars in 2023–24.

 

Diplomatic voices have also highlighted the potential of this partnership. Swedish Ambassador to India, Jan Thesleff, recently noted that the EU-India trade deal could be the largest in the world, benefiting nearly two billion people.

 

Shortly after the launch of the agenda, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a phone call from Ursula von der Leyen, who also conveyed birthday wishes. During their conversation, both leaders reiterated their commitment to finalising the free trade pact by the year’s end. Modi expressed his appreciation for the EU’s adoption of the new strategy, stressing India’s readiness to strengthen ties further.

 

“India looks forward to advancing the EU-India partnership to new heights. It reflects our joint responsibility, vision, and determination. We also remain committed to a peaceful and timely resolution of the Ukraine conflict,” the Prime Minister said in his statement on social media.

 

The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that both leaders welcomed efforts to enhance the strategic partnership, with the aim of boosting prosperity, addressing global challenges, and ensuring stability under a rules-based order.