European Union plans to deepen strategic partnership with India

On Wednesday, the European Commission presented plans to deepen cooperation with India in the areas of defense, technology, and trade.

The European Union and India are in the final stages of negotiations on a free trade agreement, which is to be concluded by the end of the year. The aim is to build reliable alliances and stable trade relations.

According to the Commission, the EU considers India a strategic economic and diplomatic partner that is expected to become the world's third-largest economy by 2030.

The agreement could cover investment protection, the expansion of air transport, cooperation on securing supply chains, green hydrogen, the decarbonization of heavy industry, and research and innovation.

In addition, the EU is considering a defense and security agreement similar to those with Japan and South Korea, as well as cooperation on projects in Africa and South Asia.

The Union recognizes that there are differences with India, particularly regarding its relations with Russia, but is striving to maintain strategic autonomy.

(reuters, sie)