EU Delegation Visits India to Strengthen Trade and Diplomatic Ties
The EU’s leading team, headed by Ursula von der Leyen, embarked on a groundbreaking visit to India aimed at enhancing trade and diplomatic ties while diversifying from the US. The discussions will focus on areas such as trade agreements, digital technology cooperation, and clean energy, highlighting India’s key role as a strategic partner for Europe.
On Thursday, the foremost European Union (EU) delegation, led by EU chief Ursula von der Leyen, embarked on a landmark visit to India with the intent to enhance both commercial and diplomatic relationships. This visit is described as unprecedented and is a strategic maneuver to diversify ties, particularly in light of recent tensions with the United States.
During their two-day visit, von der Leyen and her team will engage with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss advancing their strategic partnership. As she noted on social media, “In this era of conflicts and intense competition, you need trusted friends. For Europe, India is such a friend and a strategic ally. I will discuss with Narendra Modi how to take our strategic partnership to the next level.”
The discussions will primarily focus on increasing trade relations, reducing tariffs on goods entering India’s rapidly growing market, and ensuring resilient supply chains in context to the Asia-Pacific region and China’s expanding influence. Von der Leyen initiated her visit by honoring Mahatma Gandhi at the Raj Ghat memorial before meeting with India’s foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.
The delegation also aims to tackle various subjects, including artificial intelligence and energy. Von der Leyen expressed a desire to advance free trade agreement negotiations, enhance cooperation in digital technologies (especially AI), and accelerate work on sustainable technologies such as electric vehicles and green hydrogen in an interview.
This unique visit marks a significant shift in EU-India relations as nearly all 26 EU commissioners accompany von der Leyen, a first for this collective since taking office. The EU has sought to reinforce its ties with alternative partners, especially following developments that have complicated relationships with the United States, particularly after Trump reassumed the presidency.
India has traditionally adhered to a policy of strategic autonomy in its foreign relations, maintaining historical ties with Russia. Despite Western appeals to distance itself from Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine, India continues to engage with multiple global partners. The visit is expected to signal Europe’s commitment to strengthening partnerships beyond the West, with Indian officials noting the potential for collaboration.
The EU currently stands as India’s largest trading partner, accounting for over €124 billion ($130 billion) in goods trade, representing more than 12 percent of India’s total trade in 2023. Despite the prospects offered by India’s burgeoning market, the EU accounts for only 2.2 percent of its total goods trade due to high tariffs.
Von der Leyen indicated that preparations for the 10th round of trade negotiations will proceed in Brussels and expressed optimism regarding achieving a significant breakthrough. “There is more work to be done at a technical level, but I am convinced we can cross the finish line if we both commit to it,” she stated in the interview.
The EU seeks enhanced access to the Indian markets for products including automobiles and wines, although these will meet resistance from domestic lobbies. Conversely, India anticipates greater investment, collaborations with local partners, and an easier migration process for its skilled workforce in sectors such as IT and healthcare.
The EU delegation’s visit to India underscores a pivotal moment in strengthening EU-India relations amidst shifting geopolitical circumstances. With an emphasis on dialogue across diverse sectors, including trade, technology, and sustainability, the partnership holds the potential for significant economic and strategic advancements.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
