New Delhi, Feb 28: India and the European Union (EU) have taken a significant step towards strengthening their security and defence ties, as both sides explore a comprehensive partnership to address emerging global threats. The discussions, held on Friday between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, focused on bolstering strategic cooperation, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, where tensions have been rising due to China's growing military assertiveness.
India-EU Security Partnership in the Making
In a key address at a think-tank ahead of her meeting with Modi, von der Leyen underscored the need for a deeper India-EU security and defence partnership. She stated that the proposed collaboration would help tackle common threats such as cross-border terrorism, maritime security threats, cyber-attacks, and assaults on critical infrastructure."Security should be a core part of our new strategic partnership with India," she emphasized.
Von der Leyen also announced that the EU is exploring a Security and Defence Partnership with India, similar to the ones it has with Japan and South Korea. This initiative, she said, would not only enhance stability in the respective regions but also strengthen economic security and prosperity.
Growing India-EU Defence Cooperation
Following their talks, Prime Minister Modi described the growing India-EU defence and security collaboration as a symbol of mutual trust, with both sides agreeing to strengthen engagements in cyber security, maritime security, and counter-terrorism."Both sides agree on the importance of peace, security, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region," Modi stated, welcoming the EU’s decision to join the India-backed Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.
Further, India and the EU will work on triangular development projects aimed at sustainable and inclusive growth in the Indo-Pacific and Africa.
Commitment to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific
A joint statement issued after the high-level talks reaffirmed the India-EU commitment to a free, open, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, based on international law, sovereignty, and peaceful dispute resolution. The two sides also agreed to explore trilateral cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and Africa.The discussions highlighted India's growing engagement with EU-led defence initiatives, including its interest in joining projects under the EU's Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO). Additionally, both parties committed to engaging in negotiations for a Security of Information Agreement.
The EU also welcomed India's interest in deeper participation in defence industrial projects, with von der Leyen stating that India’s efforts to diversify its military supply and access new defence capabilities align well with EU expertise in cybersecurity, space, and drones.
Strengthening Counter-Terrorism and Maritime Security
The leaders emphasized counter-terrorism cooperation, particularly in tackling cross-border terrorism and terrorism financing in a sustained and comprehensive manner. Joint naval exercises and closer cooperation between the Indian Navy and EU maritime security entities were also key highlights of the defence discussions.The EU’s Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO), which fosters military collaboration among member states, is another area where India is looking to expand its footprint. The two sides also stressed the need to enhance defence industrial collaboration, including joint projects and co-production opportunities in India.
Global Security Challenges: Ukraine and Middle-East Crisis
Apart from regional security, the talks also touched upon global conflicts, particularly the Russia-Ukraine war and the Middle-East situation. Modi and von der Leyen reiterated their support for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for adherence to international law and respect for territorial integrity.On the Israel-Palestine conflict, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to a two-state solution, envisioning Israel and Palestine coexisting in peace and security within recognized borders.
Defence Industrial Collaboration and Maritime Security Talks
In a parallel development, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth held talks with EU Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius. Their discussions focused on India-EU bilateral defence cooperation, particularly in maritime engagement and information sharing in the Indo-Pacific.The defence ministry stated that both sides explored ways to boost defence industrial collaboration, including European defence companies' participation in joint projects and co-production ventures in India.
Kubilius, who accompanied von der Leyen’s delegation to India, also discussed India’s potential participation in EU’s defence initiatives, reflecting growing European interest in deeper strategic cooperation with India.
