The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi on hosting the College of European Union (EU) Commissioners in the first-ever such visit, noting it was an historic occasion as it highlights how much the EU values its partnership with India as a strategic alliance.
"Thank you very much, dear Narendra Modi, for receiving us in New Delhi. The EU Commission's visit is a testament to how much we appreciate our cooperation with India. And how much I appreciate our personal friendship," Von der Leyen posted on X after her talks with PM Modi at Hyderabad House.
The summit saw intense deliberations on deepening the India-EU Strategic Partnership, with specific emphasis on landmark global connectivity projects such as the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor.
"As we enter the third decade of our strategic partnership, one thing is sure: the best is yet to come. Together, we can help shape the future and build one of the defining global partnerships of this century," the EU leader underscored.
Earlier during the day, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, and Railways, IT, and Electronics Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw attended the second India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting. The meeting discussed substantial developments in digital cooperation, clean energy projects, and enhancing trade, investments, and supply chains.
"Discussed new frontiers in semiconductors, AI, 6G, EVs, Green Hydrogen, and a trade regime that is mutually favorable. Convinced today's conversations will translate into new economic, trade, and tech connections," EAM Jaishankar stated.
The senior EU delegation, headed by von der Leyen, came to New Delhi on Thursday on a two-day visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi.
"Touchdown in Delhi with my team of Commissioners. Amidst conflicts and stiff competition, you require dependable friends. India is such a friend and a strategic partner for Europe. I'll talk with Narendra Modi how to upgrade our strategic partnership to the next level," the President of the European Commission said upon arrival.
This is Ursula von der Leyen's third trip to India after her bilateral visit in April 2022 and her attendance at the G20 Leaders' Summit in September 2023. The EU head and PM Modi have also met frequently at different international platforms.
Taking the India-EU relations to new levels, this is the first occasion when the EU College of Commissioners has visited India as a cohesive delegation. This is also one of the earliest high-level visits after the new European Commission came into power in December 2024, as a follow-up to the June 2024 EU parliamentary elections.
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