The EU has proposed a new strategic agenda to raise bilateral relations with India to a higher level, with the aim of better coordinating cooperation, and enhancing prosperity and security for both partners.
“India is one of the most important players in the world today and a natural partner for the European Union,” said the EU’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas: “There are many areas where our interests, strengths and political will align. Boosting our collaboration – which we are proposing today – will benefit the security and prosperity of citizens and businesses on both sides. There are areas where we disagree. Ultimately our partnership is about defending a rules-based international order. Our negotiations will address these challenges.”
Following the College’s visit to India in February, the Joint Communication outlines the EU’s strategic vision for enhancing cooperation with New Delhi.
It identifies five areas of shared interest and complementary strengths, building on existing ties while addressing areas that present potential for increased engagement. Amid shifting geopolitical realities, closer EU–India relations are increasingly vital for strengthening economic growth and security, and diversifying supply chains in response to today’s uncertain global order. Beyond the bilateral dimension, the new strategic agenda highlights EU-India joint engagement on global issues and with third partners, reflecting India’s growing global influence.
In 2024, the European Union traded goods worth some €120 billion, making the European Union India’s largest trading partner, ahead of the U.S. and China.
“A commercially meaningful EU-India Free Trade Agreement would unlock vast potential,” said EU Commissioner Maros Sefcovic. By tackling both tariff and non-tariff barriers, we can drive new waves of trade and investment, strengthen our supply chains, and help safeguard open, rules-based global commerce.”
Over 6,000 European companies now operate in India, employing 2 million people directly, and supporting another 6 million jobs indirectly.
EU investment in India has nearly doubled to €140 billion in just five years, making the EU one of India’s top investors.
