India-EU Relations: European Commission Delegation’s Visit to India

Context

• The EU is India’s largest trading partner and a key ally in technology, defence, and climate action.
• Diplomatic ties date back to 1962, evolving into a comprehensive strategic partnership.
• The European Commission (EC) College of Commissioners, led by EC President Ursula von der Leyen, visited New Delhi to strengthen trade, technology, and defence cooperation.

Key Areas of Cooperation

1. Trade and Investment

• India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations resumed in 2021.
• Bilateral trade (FY 2023-24): $135 billion
• EU’s FDI in India (2000-2024): $117.4 billion (16.6% of total FDI equity inflows)
• Indian FDI in the EU: $40.04 billion
• Impact: Strengthens trade, boosts exports, and reduces dependence on China.

2. Technology and Digital Cooperation

• India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) launched in 2022.
• Key Areas:
  • Semiconductor R&D MoU (2023)
  • Supercomputing & AI collaboration
• Impact: Enhances digital sovereignty and promotes tech innovation.

3. Green Energy & Climate Cooperation

• India-EU Green Hydrogen Initiative: €1 billion EIB investment.
• Goal: Establish a Green Hydrogen Ecosystem by 2030.
• Impact: Supports India’s Net-Zero by 2070 and the EU’s carbon neutrality goals.

4. Defence & Space Collaboration

• First India-EU Joint Naval Exercise (2023) in Gulf of Guinea.
• ISRO-EU Collaboration:
  • PROBA-3 mission (2024)
  • Support for Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1, Gaganyaan
• Impact: Strengthens Indo-Pacific security and space research.

5. People-to-People Ties

• Erasmus Scholarships: 6,000+ Indian students in 20 years.
• Indian Researchers in EU: 2,700+ funded under Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions.
• 20% of EU Blue Cards (2023-24) issued to Indian professionals.

Conclusion

This visit reinforces India-EU strategic ties in trade, technology, defence, and green energy. Advancements in FTA, semiconductor R&D, and hydrogen projects will boost economic growth and global leadership. As geopolitical shifts unfold, India and the EU remain committed to a resilient, sustainable, and secure future.