The European Union is considering a security and defence partnership with India, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen announced on Friday ahead of her meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.
Arriving in India on Thursday for a two-day visit with her team of commissioners, von der Leyen seeks to strengthen ties with the world’s fifth-largest economy amid growing tensions with the EU’s traditional ally, the United States.
The delegation aims to expand diplomatic and trade relations following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent imposition of tariffs on both allies and adversaries. Additionally, the EU is looking to align with India on shared concerns such as China’s increasing influence in the Asia-Pacific, strengthening supply chain resilience, and regulating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
“I can confirm that we are exploring a future Security and Defence Partnership with India, modeled after our agreements with Japan and South Korea,” von der Leyen stated in a public address in New Delhi.
“This partnership will enhance our ability to tackle shared threats, including cross-border terrorism, maritime security challenges, cyberattacks, and the emerging threat to critical infrastructure,” she added.
Strengthening Trade and Economic Ties
The EU remains India’s largest trading partner, accounting for 124 billion euros ($130 billion) in goods trade in 2023—more than 12% of India’s total trade, according to Brussels.
India presents lucrative opportunities across sectors such as defence, agriculture, automotive, and clean energy. However, with high tariffs protecting its domestic market, India currently makes up only 2.2% of the EU’s total trade in goods.
To address this imbalance, the EU is pushing for a trade deal that would lower barriers for its exports, including automobiles, spirits, wines, and other products.
Meanwhile, India is seeking greater EU investments in key areas such as clean energy, urban infrastructure, and water management. Prime Minister Modi has also advocated for joint local ventures and a more streamlined migration policy for skilled Indian professionals.
Free Trade Agreement on the Horizon
“A free trade agreement between the EU and India would be the largest of its kind anywhere in the world,” von der Leyen stated.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, she added, “It won’t be easy, but timing and determination matter. This is why Prime Minister Modi and I have agreed to push for its completion within this year.”
Discussions are also expected to touch on Russia’s war in Ukraine. While historically close to Moscow—India’s key military supplier—New Delhi has resisted Western pressure to distance itself from Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.
