New Delhi, India – External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening ties with the European Union (EU) during his address at the Europe Day celebration in New Delhi, marking 75 years of the Schuman Declaration.

Expanding India-EU Cooperation

Jaishankar emphasized that India’s partnership with European nations is reaching new levels, citing the landmark visit of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the EU College of Commissioners in February 2025 as a pivotal moment.

“The visit of the EU College of Commissioners led by President Ursula von der Leyen herself in February 2025 was truly a milestone in our ties,” Jaishankar remarked.

Trade Negotiations and Sectoral Collaboration

India and the EU are engaged in complex trade negotiations, with expectations of a successful agreement this year. Cooperation is expanding across sectors, including:

Technology
Energy
Space
Defense

Shared Democratic Values and Global Interests

Highlighting the strong commonalities between India and the EU, Jaishankar pointed to their pluralistic societies, democratic political systems, and market economies as binding forces.

“From AI to IMEC, the uptick is clearly visible. This is now a multipolar world, and both of us have an interest in expanding and developing our convergence.”

Firm Stance on Counterterrorism

Jaishankar stressed the importance of zero tolerance for terrorism, calling it a shared global threat.

“India is firmly confronting the challenge of terrorism. We believe that this is a shared threat for which there must be zero tolerance. I thank all those who have expressed solidarity with us.”

Strengthening Diplomatic Engagement

Looking ahead, Jaishankar expressed his intention to visit EU counterparts and deepen diplomatic engagements with member states.

“I am looking forward to visiting my EU counterparts and engaging member states in the coming days.”

India-EU: A Partnership for the Future

With growing collaboration in trade, security, and innovation, India-EU ties are set for a new phase of strategic cooperation, reinforcing their global influence and economic integration.