The European Union has adopted a New Strategic EU-India Agenda aimed at strengthening prosperity, security, and global cooperation with India. The initiative, announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, outlines a comprehensive framework to advance bilateral ties across trade, defence, technology, and mobility.

Von der Leyen, presenting the agenda as part of the EU’s 2024–2029 Political Guidelines, said Europe is taking its partnership with India “to the next level” by boosting investment, advancing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and enhancing talent mobility. She emphasized the EU’s readiness to invest in India’s clean transition, innovation, and defence-industrial cooperation.

The Joint Communication identifies five key areas of cooperation, including economic growth, security, connectivity, climate action, and people-to-people mobility. It stresses finalizing the long-pending India-EU FTA, reinforcing supply chains, and expanding cooperation in critical technologies through the Trade and Technology Council (TTC).

Security and defence form another pillar of the agenda. The EU proposed negotiations on a Security of Information Agreement to facilitate intelligence sharing and deeper collaboration on maritime security, cyber defence, counterterrorism, and Indo-Pacific stability. The strategy also highlights joint efforts on space security, crisis management, and addressing hybrid threats.

Connectivity and sustainability are equally prioritized. The EU plans to strengthen regional projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) while advancing clean energy cooperation, green hydrogen development, and green finance. It also invites India to join the Horizon Europe research program and explore a potential EU-India Startup Partnership.

EU High Representative Kaja Kallas described India as a “natural partner,” noting that closer collaboration will enhance prosperity and defend a rules-based global order despite occasional differences.