Deepens Europe's planned ties with India
EU Proposes New Strategic Agenda to Elevate Relations with India
The European Union (EU) has proposed a news strategic agenda to strengthen its bilateral relations with India, aiming to address global issues, diversify supply chains, and unlock potential for trade and investment.
According to the EU Commissioner Maros Sefcovic, a Free Trade Agreement with India could drive new waves of trade and investment. In 2024, the EU traded goods worth some €120 billion with India, making the EU India's largest trading partner. EU investment in India has nearly doubled to €140 billion in just five years, with over 6,000 European companies operating in India directly employing 2 million people and supporting another 6 million jobs indirectly.
The strategic agenda identifies five areas of shared interest and complementary strengths with India. These include climate change, digital transformation, sustainable and inclusive growth, migration and mobility, and foreign, security, and defence policy. The EU's strategic vision for enhancing cooperation with New Delhi is outlined in the Joint Communication.
The EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, stated that India is a significant global player and a natural partner for the EU. The EU-India strategic agenda emphasizes the importance of defending a rules-based international order. The operation of over 6,000 European companies in India directly employs 2 million people and supports another 6 million jobs indirectly.
The negotiations between the EU and India will address challenges and disagreements in their partnership. Tackling both tariff and non-tariff barriers is crucial for the success of the proposed Free Trade Agreement, according to Commissioner Sefcovic. The EU's strategic agenda addresses areas that present potential for increased engagement with India amid shifting geopolitical realities.
The EU-India strategic agenda highlights joint engagement on global issues and with third partners, reflecting India's growing global influence. It aims to strengthen economic growth and security, and diversify supply chains in response to the uncertain global order. The EU's negotiations with India will be a significant step towards deepening the EU-India partnership and strengthening the rules-based international order.
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