India seeks stronger ties with EU amid Indo-Pacific focus

India is actively seeking to strengthen its ties with the European Union, particularly as the EU enhances its presence in the Indo-Pacific region. The relationship was elevated to a strategic partnership during the fifth India-EU Summit in The Hague in 2004, and it now encompasses a wide range of areas including political, security, trade, economy, and technology. The Indian Ambassador to the EU emphasized the importance of resilient supply chains and highlighted India's potential role in this regard. Despite India's close relations with Russia, the Ambassador clarified that the partnership with the EU is not exclusionary. He stressed the need for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts, indicating that geopolitical interests influence India's engagement with Russia. The ongoing communication channels with China were also mentioned, with a focus on resolving border issues before normalizing relations. The recent elections in both India and Europe have created a transitional phase, but there is optimism for increased engagement once this period concludes. Preparations for the next Summit are already underway, indicating a commitment to further collaboration. The strategic and political dimensions of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) were highlighted, noting that the EU has similar partnerships only with the US and India. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding on Semiconductors was signed in November 2023, showcasing the ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation in critical technology sectors. The upcoming meetings of the Trade and Technology Council (TTC) and ongoing FTA negotiations reflect the dynamic nature of India-EU relations and the potential for future growth.