Von der Leyen: For Europe India is a pillar of security in an increasingly uncertain world.
New Delhi, February 28, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held high-level discussions on Friday, emphasizing the need to inject fresh momentum into the India-European Union (EU) strategic partnership. Their talks covered a range of crucial issues, including finalizing the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), expanding investment opportunities, and reinforcing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
Modi, speaking alongside von der Leyen, reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening ties with the EU, calling it a “natural and indispensable partner” in an evolving global order. He highlighted the importance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a transformative initiative. “IMEC is a game-changer for connectivity and trade,” he said. “It will not only deepen economic engagement between India and Europe but also create a stable, resilient supply chain that benefits the entire region.”
Von der Leyen, who arrived in New Delhi on Thursday with a delegation of senior EU leaders, echoed Modi’s sentiments and reaffirmed the EU’s support for the project. “IMEC is a historic initiative that will redefine trade routes between India, the Middle East, and Europe,” she said. “The EU is fully committed to making this corridor a success. It will strengthen supply chains, reduce transit times, and create new economic opportunities for businesses on both sides.”
The EU Commission President also underscored the urgency of concluding the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, which has been under negotiation for years. “Our economies complement each other, and we must seize this moment to finalize an ambitious trade deal,” she stated. “An EU-India FTA will unlock immense potential, boosting investments, job creation, and innovation. We are closer than ever to making it a reality.”
The discussions also touched upon geopolitical developments, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and growing tensions in West Asia. However, a significant part of the conversation revolved around the Indo-Pacific, where both India and the EU share strategic interests. Modi emphasized the importance of regional stability, stating, “For a free and open Indo-Pacific, India and the EU must work together to ensure peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. Our cooperation in maritime security, connectivity, and supply chains will shape the future of the global economy.”
Trade remained a crucial focus of the meeting, with both sides reviewing progress on economic ties. In the financial year 2023-24, bilateral trade in goods stood at $135 billion, with Indian exports to the EU reaching $76 billion and imports from the EU totaling $59 billion. Trade in services also hit a record $53 billion, comprising $30 billion in Indian exports and $23 billion in imports. The EU remains one of India’s largest economic partners, with over $117 billion in European investments and around 6,000 European companies operating in the country. Meanwhile, India’s investments in the EU have surged to approximately $40 billion.
Following their meeting, Modi and von der Leyen are expected to release a joint statement outlining key areas of collaboration, further reinforcing the strategic importance of the India-EU relationship in an increasingly complex global landscape.
Vas is an Italian-Indian entrepreneur, advisor and analyst who founded the Indo-Mediterranean Initiative (cnky.in) in 2024. It was launched at the alter of Augustan peace, the Ara Pacis in Rome which eventually symbolised Pax Romana. He is the Chief Representative, Italy for the Indian Chamber of Commerce, India's oldest Chamber.
