Context and Significance
- EAM S. Jaishankar began his 2026 official visit in Europe, visiting Paris and Luxembourg.
- India participated in the India–Weimar Triangle meeting with France, Germany, and Poland.
- It was the first invitation to a non-European country at the Foreign Minister level.
- India’s inclusion reflects its rising geopolitical importance in European strategic thinking.
- India will host German Chancellor, French President, and EU leaders in coming weeks.
Evolution of India–EU Relations
- India–EU ties date to the 1960s, with a 1994 cooperation agreement expanding engagement.
- The first India–EU Summit in 2000 institutionalised political dialogue.
- The partnership was upgraded to a Strategic Partnership in 2004.
Economic and Trade Relations
- India–EU goods trade reached USD 137.41 billion in 2023–24.
- The EU is India’s largest trading partner, absorbing 17% of Indian exports.
- India–EU FTA negotiations aim to cover goods, services, investments, and GIs.
- Both sides plan to announce the FTA during the EU leaders’ visit.
Key Areas of Cooperation
- India–EU Water Partnership (2016) strengthens technological and policy collaboration.
- A 2020 agreement enables R&D in peaceful nuclear energy.
- The Trade and Technology Council (2023) coordinates on trade, technology, and security.
India’s Dual Engagement Strategy
- EU as a bloc through summits and strategic dialogues.
- Bilateral ties with France, Germany, Nordics, and Eastern Europe for focused cooperation.
Drivers of Closer Engagement
- Russia–Ukraine war and weakening multilateralism drive Europe’s strategic autonomy.
- US uncertainty has increased Europe’s need for reliable partners like India.
- The IMEC corridor enhances connectivity, trade, and energy cooperation.
- Shared interest in digital sovereignty, deep tech, and Indo-Pacific stability.
Challenges
- Differences over Ukraine, Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, and human rights narratives.
- Slow FTA progress and EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism restrict trade.
- Regulatory standards and data protection rules limit Indian market access.
Way Forward
- Fast-track FTA and investment agreements for predictable trade growth.
- Expand defence co-production and technology transfer.
- Enhance mobility, supply chains, and people-to-people exchanges.
Conclusion
- India’s European outreach marks a shift toward a multipolar, autonomous foreign policy.
- Deeper trade, defence, and technology ties will anchor India–EU strategic partnership.