NEW DELHI. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the visit of the European Commission’s President Ursula von der Leyenand College of Commissioners to India as a historic milestone in India-EU relations, setting the stage for a deeper and more strategic partnership between the two sides.
“This isn’t just the European Commission’s first visit to India, but also the first such comprehensive engagement of the Commission in any single country,” Modi said in joint his address to the media with Leyen following delegation-level talks. “I warmly welcome the President and the College of Commissioners to India on this unprecedented occasion.”
The Prime Minister emphasised that the two-decade-long India-EU strategic partnership is built on trust, shared democratic values, and a mutual commitment to prosperity and progress.
“Over the past two days, we have held nearly 20 ministerial-level meetings covering various sectors,” he stated. “Our discussions have been sincere and meaningful, leading to important decisions that will accelerate and elevate our partnership.”
A major highlight of the talks was the commitment to conclude a mutually beneficial Bilateral Free Trade Agreement by the end of this year. Modi also noted that discussions have progressed on an investment protection agreement and a Geographical Indications (GI) agreement to further strengthen the investment framework.
In the realm of technology and innovation, both sides agreed to bolster cooperation in critical areas such as semiconductors, Artificial Intelligence, high-performance computing, and 6G.
“A trusted and secure value chain is our common priority. We have also decided to initiate a space dialogue,” Modi announced.
Sustainability remained a key focus of the talks, with the two sides agreeing to launch a green hydrogen forum and an offshore wind energy business summit.
“Joint research will be undertaken on EV (electric vehicle) batteries, marine plastics, and green hydrogen,” the Prime Minister said, underlining the shared commitment to balancing ecology and economy.
Modi also reiterated India’s commitment to connectivity and sustainable growth through the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
“IMEEC shall serve as an engine that drives global commerce, sustainable growth, and prosperity in the days to come,” he asserted.
On security and defence, Modi stressed the growing cooperation between India and the EU in cyber security, maritime security, and counter-terrorism. Both sides acknowledged the importance of ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
“We welcome the EU’s decision to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. Together, we will work on triangular development projects for sustainable and inclusive growth in the Indo-Pacific and Africa,” he stated.
Recognising the strength of people-to-people ties in the India-EU relationship, Modi announced a new agreement to enhance collaboration in academia, research, and industry.
“India’s young talent and Europe’s innovation can together create limitless possibilities,” he said.
The Prime Minister also welcomed the EU’s new visa cascade regime, which he noted would facilitate better mobility for India’s skilled workforce.
Looking ahead, Modi revealed that India and the EU have decided to create a “bold and ambitious roadmap” for their partnership beyond 2025, which will be officially launched at the next India-EU Summit.
“Your visit has given new momentum, energy, and enthusiasm to our partnership,” Modi told the European Commission President, adding that he eagerly looks forward to welcoming her again for the upcoming summit.
The visit marks a significant step in strengthening the India-EU relationship, with both sides committed to translating their shared ambitions into concrete actions for mutual growth and global stability.
