Ursula von der Leyen, EU Commission President, visits India to strengthen strategic ties, marking a historic joint visit by the EU College of Commissioners. She aims to discuss partnership advancements with Prime Minister Modi, with key meetings planned, including discussions on trade and technology. This marks a milestone in the 20-year India-EU strategic partnership.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, visited New Delhi for two days to enhance India-EU strategic relations, following an invitation from Prime Minister Modi. This landmark visit marks the first time the College of Commissioners has traveled to India together. Von der Leyen highlighted India as a crucial ally for Europe amid ongoing global conflicts and competition.
Upon arrival, she expressed through social media, “In an era of conflicts and intense competition, you need trusted friends. For Europe, India is such a friend and a strategic ally.” She emphasized her commitment to advancing the partnership with Modi, having previously visited India in April 2022 and attended the G20 Leaders’ Summit in September 2023.
During the visit, bilateral talks between Prime Minister Modi and President von der Leyen will focus on enhancing the multifaceted partnership between India and the EU, which has been in place since 2004. The delegation will also include a meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council, indicating the significant ongoing collaboration across various sectors.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the visit aims to deepen the bilateral ties as both sides celebrate two decades of strategic partnership. Von der Leyen will meet with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to discuss further cooperation. The visit may also lead to new agreements that reinforce economic and political collaborations between India and the EU.
Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to India represents a pivotal step in strengthening India-EU ties, emphasizing strategic partnerships amid global challenges. The engagement includes high-level discussions aimed at enhancing collaboration across various sectors, celebrating two decades of bilateral relations, and potentially laying the foundation for new cooperative agreements.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
