EU Announces New Strategy to Strengthen Prosperity and Security with India, Possibly Sidelining Trump's Influence
The European Commission and India have agreed upon a new strategic agenda that aims to deepen cooperation between the two regions, focusing on trade, investment, talent mobility, and defense cooperation. The joint initiative, announced on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, is expected to result in a historic free trade agreement to be signed before December 2025.
The new strategic EU-India agenda is built upon five areas of shared interest and complementary strengths. The European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, in her 2024-2029 Political Guidelines, expressed her commitment to advancing these relationships. High Representative for EU's Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, considers India as 'one of the most important players in the world today' and a 'natural partner for the European Union.'
The strategic vision encompasses several key aspects. The EU-India Security and Defence Partnership aims to enhance strategic consultations and joint initiatives, including on crisis management, maritime security, cyber defence, and counterterrorism. This partnership also aims to foster defence industrial cooperation, focusing on boosting production and technological capabilities, securing supply chains, and driving innovation.
In addition, the partnership proposes reinforcing supply chains while promoting critical emerging technologies and engagement on digital issues within the Trade and Technology Council (TTC). The Joint Communication calls for developing a comprehensive mobility cooperation framework covering study, work, and research, as well as increasing interaction and bolstering coordination between India and the EU at all levels, including skills mobility and labour mobility.
The Joint Communication also prioritizes increasing cooperation on renewables, developing green hydrogen capabilities, and expanding green finance as part of ambitious initiatives for decarbonisation and the clean transition. Opportunities to jointly strengthen food security, health, climate, and disaster resilience are also highlighted.
Moreover, the Joint Communication suggests deepening tech cooperation, including a potential EU-India Startup partnership. The EU is committed to finalising its Free Trade Agreement with India by the end of the year, and the Joint Communication invites India to associate with the Horizon Europe programme.
The new strategy also emphasises strengthening regional connectivity initiatives, such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). The European Commission and the High Representative have adopted a Joint Communication outlining this new strategic EU-India Agenda.
This ambitious agenda aims to enhance prosperity and security for both sides, as well as tackle major global challenges. The EU and India, working together, are poised to make significant strides in the coming years.
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