European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited India with the EU College of Commissioners to strengthen relations covering trade, technology, and security. This historic visit comes as both parties aim to enhance cooperation and commitment to a free Indo-Pacific while addressing international challenges like the situation in Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in New Delhi on February 27, accompanied by the European Union College of Commissioners, for a two-day visit aimed at strengthening India-EU relations. This marks her third visit to India, following bilateral talks in April 2022 and attendance at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in September 2023. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President von der Leyen regularly engage during multilateral meetings, emphasizing the importance of this diplomatic relationship.
The EU College of Commissioners’ trip to India is historic as it is their first joint visit since the current European Commission assumed office in December 2024. The trip represents a significant step in enhancing bilateral ties amid efforts by both India and the EU to deepen their cooperation on various strategic issues such as trade, technology, connectivity, defense, and security.
India and the European Union have been strategic partners since 2004, with their relationship evolving across multiple sectors. The recent visit seeks to build on existing convergences as both sides enter the third decade of their partnership. In addition to trade and technology, the two parties reaffirmed their commitment to promoting a free and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
India has expressed approval of the European Union’s increasing focus on the Indo-Pacific, aligning with their mutual interests. Both sides stressed the necessity of upholding a rules-based international order that respects sovereignty and resolves disputes peacefully. They also highlighted the importance of achieving a “comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine” in accordance with international law.
The visit of President Ursula von der Leyen and the European Commission College underscores a pivotal moment in India-EU relations, marking a commitment to enhance cooperation on vital issues such as trade, technology, and security. With their strategic partnership flourishing since 2004, both sides aim for continued engagement in the Indo-Pacific while advocating for respect for international law.
Original Source: www.indianewsnetwork.com
