EU considers security and defence partnership with India
The European Union is considering an agreement with India on security and defence cooperation, Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said during a visit to New Delhi. The two parties also want to reach a free trade agreement by the end of 2025.
“We have asked our teams to work towards concluding a mutually beneficial free trade agreement by the end of this year," Indian prime minister Narendra Modi told reporters on Friday.
The EU is India’s biggest trading partner, and trade has tripled over the last two decades, Von der Leyen said at the joint press briefing. There are, however, many opportunities to facilitate further trade.
In particular, the EU is calling for the Indian market to be opened up to its cars and alcohol, while India would like to sell its textiles and medicines more easily in Europe. India also wants Brussels to issue more visas to its nationals. Negotiations on a deal were relaunched in 2022 but stalled.
Stronger relations
With Donald Trump’s return as US president and the looming tariff war, tensions with China and sanctions against Russia are pushing the EU to build stronger relations with other trading partners worldwide.
Von der Leyen arrived in India on Thursday for a two-day visit. The aim is to strengthen ties between Europe and India, the world’s largest country by population. A security, technology and defence partnership is also being considered.
“This will help us step up our work to counter common threats whether on cross-border terrorism, maritime security threats, cyberattacks or the new phenomenon we see: attacks on our critical infrastructure,” Von der Leyen said in a speech.
Stability and prosperity
India has traditionally been an ally of Russia, which accounts for most arms deliveries. Military cooperation with the EU could focus on sectors such as cybersecurity, space or drones, in which India and Europe share technology and expertise.
“This is not only about stability in our respective regions,” she said. “But it is also a key part in strengthening our economic security and ultimately our prosperity. And this is why security should be a core part of our new strategic partnership with India.”
The EU has signed similar agreements with Japan and South Korea.
Belgium's Princess Astrid is also visiting India this week, leading a major economic mission. The delegation, including more than 300 business and government representatives, aims to strengthen trade ties.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Indian prime minister Narendra Modi, at a joint press conference in New Delhi, 28 February 2025 © PHOTO MONEY SHARMA / AFP
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