India and the European Union (EU) have agreed to elevate the longstanding India-EU Strategic Partnership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ursula von der Leyen of the European Commission met on February 27-28, 2025, and their discussions covered key areas such as trade, defence, technology, and cooperation on global challenges, marking a significant chapter in India-EU relations.
Free Trade Agreement and Economic Cooperation
One of the main highlights of the discussions was the advancement of negotiations for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the EU. Both leaders acknowledged the importance of growing bilateral trade and committed to concluding the FTA by the end of the year. As has been reported previously by FinancialExpress.com, this agreement aims to remove trade barriers, enhance market access, and foster closer economic ties between the two entities.
In parallel, both sides underscored the significance of expanding defense cooperation. The EU welcomed India’s interest in participating in the EU’s Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) projects and agreed to explore further defense and security partnerships.
Joint exercises between the Indian Navy and EU maritime security entities were highlighted as an example of the growing collaboration in this domain.
Strategic Cooperation in Technology and Sustainability
Another major focus was technological collaboration, especially in critical areas such as semiconductors, 6G networks, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Both recognized the importance of building secure, sustainable, and trusted technological ecosystems. They also committed to advancing joint research in green technologies, such as green hydrogen and offshore wind energy, which were featured in the India-EU Green Hydrogen Forum and the upcoming India-EU Business Summit on Offshore Wind Energy.
In the area of sustainability, both parties underlined their commitment to tackling climate change and promoting clean energy solutions. Their cooperation in sectors like solar energy, sustainable urban mobility, and battery recycling further reinforces their shared vision for a greener future.
Joint Vision for Regional and Global Security
The discussions also centered around regional security, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, stability, and sovereignty in the region, with a particular focus on the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). This partnership signals a shared interest in preserving maritime security and enhancing regional cooperation.
On the defence front, the leaders agreed to intensify efforts to combat terrorism, with a focus on tackling cross-border terrorism and financing. They also discussed opportunities for joint initiatives in global security frameworks.
Key Commitments
The two leaders outlined concrete steps for deepening the India-EU partnership:
Expedite FTA negotiations to conclude by the end of 2025.
Enhance defense cooperation, including through joint military exercises and collaboration on maritime security.
Strengthen technology and innovation ties, particularly in AI, 6G, and clean energy technologies.
Advance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and global security efforts, including counter-terrorism.
Expand people-to-people ties through educational exchanges, tourism, and migration initiatives.