External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in New Delhi on Thursday. He praised her perspective on revitalising India’s engagement with Europe, emphasising the significance of their partnership.

Von der Leyen is on a two-day bilateral visit to India, accompanied by members of the European College of Commissioners. The visit aims to enhance cooperation between India and the European Union across various sectors, reinforcing diplomatic and economic ties.

Strengthening Strategic Collaboration

Jaishankar expressed appreciation for von der Leyen’s insights, stating, "Pleased to call on @EU_Commission President @vonderleyen today in Delhi. Appreciate her thoughts on reenergising India's engagement with Europe. The wide-ranging participation of Indian Ministers and EU College of Commissioners during this visit stands testimony to the importance we place on deeper India-EU ties," in a post on X.

High-Level Meetings and Key Discussions

Von der Leyen arrived in New Delhi earlier in the day and is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. Their discussions will focus on advancing the strategic partnership between India and the EU.

Sharing her enthusiasm, von der Leyen posted on X, "Touchdown in Delhi with my team of Commissioners. In an era of conflicts and intense competition, you need trusted friends. For Europe, India is such a friend and a strategic ally. I'll discuss with @narendramodi how to take our strategic partnership to the next level."

She received a warm welcome and was greeted by Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, reflecting the high importance India places on its relations with the EU.

A Continued Commitment to India-EU Relations

This visit marks von der Leyen’s third trip to India. She previously visited in April 2022 for a bilateral meeting and again in September 2023 to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit. She and Prime Minister Modi have also held regular discussions during multilateral events, strengthening diplomatic ties over time.

The European Union has recently emphasised its Indo-Pacific strategy, signaling a growing interest in fostering deeper collaborations with India. Talks during this visit may include formalising agreements to improve coordination between naval forces operating in the region.

Expanding Cooperation Across Multiple Sectors

India and the EU are looking to expand and diversify their engagement across key industries. The discussions will cover trade, investments, resilient supply chains, digital technology, semiconductors, green hydrogen, clean energy, sustainable urbanisation, water management, defence and space cooperation.

With von der Leyen’s visit, India and the EU aim to further solidify their partnership, reinforcing their commitment to mutual growth and strategic collaboration.