European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday stated that the European Union (EU) is considering a Security and Defence Partnership with India, as it currently has with Japan and South Korea.
Addressing a prominent think tank in Delhi, von der Leyen underlined that the partnership would allow the EU and India to join forces to address shared security threats such as cross-border terrorism, cyberattacks, maritime security threats, and attacks on critical infrastructure.
She also underscored Europe's readiness to invest in concrete projects that can enhance relations with India, saying,
"Europe is open for business, and we are ready to invest in our common future with India."
Security and Global Stability
Tackling more general global issues, von der Leyen emphasized the necessity of greater cooperation in security and stability in light of growing conflicts around the world. She pointed out that European wars and coups in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa have global implications, so international alliances are a must.
Referring to the war between Russia and Ukraine, she cautioned that a collapsed Ukraine would not just undermine Europe, but also worsen international security issues. She reiterated the EU's determination to assisting Ukraine and stressed the need for security partnerships with major partners such as India.
India's Role in Defence Cooperation
Von der Leyen showcased her happiness regarding India's enthusiasm to participate in defence industry initiatives within the EU's Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO). She recognized India's attempts to diversify its defence supply chains and declared that both the EU and India can assist one another to realize their security ambitions.
"We would like to increase our defence expenditure to make sure that EU member states have access to the entire range of capabilities that this new reality requires. We also wish to enhance cooperation with key partners such as India," she said.
India as a Bridge for the Global South
She further praised India for its leadership in expressing interests of the Global South, even citing its ability to act as a bridge between emerging and developed nations.
"With great power comes great responsibility, and it's our hope that India and Europe will seize this moment and invest in one another and our global relations," she stated.
Enhancing Connectivity: India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC)
Von der Leyen spoke about the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which was initiated in 2023 during India's G20 Presidency. She referred to it as a transformational initiative that would be a "green and digital bridge across continents and civilizations."
She highlighted that IMEC would:
- Cut trade time between India and Europe by 40%
- Have a rail connection, electricity cable, and a clean hydrogen pipeline
- Have a high-speed data cable to link digital ecosystems
EU's Focus on India Relationship Strengthening
In her two-day bilateral trip to India, von der Leyen and her group of European Commissioners will likely engage in talks to deepen EU-India cooperation in several sectors.
After landing in Delhi, she tweeted on X (formerly Twitter):
"Amidst conflicts and hard competition, you require true friends. India is a true friend and strategic partner for Europe. I will sit down with @narendramodi and find out how we can push our strategic partnership forward."
Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel welcomed von der Leyen at the Delhi airport.
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