She also reaffirmed the Global Gateway initiative of 300 billion euros from the EU, positioning Europe as a key investment partner for India. | Image: X / @ vonderleyen
New Delhi, India – In an important diplomatic push, the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, announced on Friday that the European Union explores a security and defense partnership with India – a decision that could reshape India -EU relations in the coming years. In addition to existing EU partnerships with Japan and South Korea, Von Der Leyen highlighted the need to counter common threats, cross -border terrorism and cyberattacks with maritime security threats and attacks against critical infrastructure.
During a leading reflection event in New Delhi, Von Der Leyen did not hold the advocacy for closer defense ties. She spoke of a world in the troubles – Wars, coup d’etat and conflicts in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia – and stressed that what is happening in a corner of the globe affects everyone.
It was frank on the challenges in Ukraine, declaring that the assault of Russia is not only a European problem.
“A failed Ukraine not only would weaken Europe, but would also intensify challenges in other parts of the world,” she said, stressing why the EU doubles its military commitments.
The growing defense ambitions of India align with the objectives of Europe
One of the main dishes to remember from his speech? Europe considers India as a serious actor in global defense, and the EU wants India to play a role in its industrial defense projects under permanent structured cooperation (PESCO).
“India is working hard to diversify its military supply and access new capacities. And I think we can help each other achieve our security objectives,” said Von Der Leyen.
India actively reducing its dependence on traditional military suppliers, Europe intervenes, ready to collaborate in defense technology, cybersecurity and military preparation.
Beyond security: India as a bridge between the world of world and the world
Von der Leyen was efficient in his praise for India leadership in the world of world, in particular to amplify the concerns of developing countries. In a world where the major powers shoot on the seams of the international system, it considers India as a key player to keep the global partnerships intact.
“India can play a unique role as a bridge between the world South and the rest of the world. Between Indo-Pacific and Europe,” she said, reporting that the EU wants India to help navigate the changing geopolitical landscape.
All eyes on the corridor India-Middle East-Europe (Imec)
Connectivity was another major theme, von der Leyen qualifying the East-Europe Economic corridor India (IMEC) a “game changer”. Launched during the G20 Indian presidency in 2023, this ambitious project aims to reduce commercial times by 40% while creating new energy and digital links.
“This corridor is much more than a simple railroad or a cable. It is a green and digital bridge through continents and civilizations,” she said, highlighting the potential of the project to stimulate trade in clean hydrogen, batteries and digital services.
Europe is ready to invest large in India
Von der Leyen clearly indicated that the EU puts his money where his mouth is. It has focused on the Global Gateway initiative of 300 billion euros in Europe, which aims to finance major major infrastructure projects in the world, including the main transport and energy links with India.
“Europe is open to business and we are ready to invest in our common future with India,” she said.
Overview: EU-India’s links by passing the upper level?
Von der Leyen’s visit does not only concern speeches – this is a sign that India and the EU are preparing for a new phase in their relationship. She arrived in New Delhi with a delegation of senior EU officials, was received by the Minister of State of the Union for Health and Family Well-Being Anupriya Patel, and should meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to go further.
Before her meetings, she posted on X: “At a time of conflicts and intense competition, you need friends of trust. For Europe, India is a friend and a strategic ally. I will discuss with @narendramodi how to get our strategic partnership at the higher level.”
From the collaboration of defense to economic connectivity, the EU and India seem to hit new equipment in their relationship. The message from Von der Leyen? Europe is ready, India just needs to say the word.
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