Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the 16th EU-India Summit in New Delhi on January 27, hosting European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The event spotlights an evolving alliance crucial for addressing contemporary global challenges.
India stands as a cornerstone partner for the EU, Costa noted, united in their duty to protect international order based on rules. The summit propels the strategic partnership forward, targeting advancements in trade, defense, clean transitions, and grassroots collaborations.
On January 26, the leaders join Republic Day revelries as special invitees, underscoring mutual respect. Central to proceedings is a potential EU-India Comprehensive Strategic Agenda, built on four pillars: fostering prosperity and stability, igniting tech and innovation, bolstering defense and security, and advancing connectivity with global focus.
Progress on the FTA—initiated in 2007 and rebooted in 2022—could materialize, invigorating economic exchanges. Emphasis on security cooperation extends to regional multilateralism, a thriving Indo-Pacific, the Ukraine crisis, and Middle East developments, forging a blueprint for sustained partnership.