On January 27, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the expanding partnership between India and the European Union, emphasizing that the cooperation serves the “global good.” Speaking alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa in New Delhi, PM Modi announced that both sides would extend trilateral projects spanning the Indo-Pacific to the Caribbean. The initiatives aim to promote sustainable agriculture, clean energy, and women’s empowerment, while positioning the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) as a critical link in global trade and connectivity.
The Prime Minister highlighted the remarkable progress in India-EU relations in recent years, citing shared democratic values, economic synergies, and robust people-to-people connections. He also acknowledged the contributions of over 800,000 Indians residing in various European nations, who are actively contributing to their host countries’ development. PM Modi underscored the historic significance of the preceding day, when EU leaders participated as chief guests in India’s Republic Day celebrations, calling it a milestone in bilateral diplomacy.
In a strategic move, India and the EU have established a comprehensive security and defence partnership, reinforcing cooperation in counter-terrorism, maritime security, and cybersecurity. PM Modi described the initiative as the foundation of any strategic alliance, noting that it will strengthen adherence to a rules-based international order and expand collaboration across the Indo-Pacific region.
In addition to strategic and defence collaboration, PM Modi announced a new framework for mobility, creating enhanced opportunities for Indian students, professionals, and workers in the European Union. He also emphasized the conclusion of India’s largest-ever Free Trade Agreement with the EU, covering 27 member nations. The pact is set to provide Indian farmers and small industries improved access to European markets, stimulate growth in manufacturing, and deepen collaboration in services sectors.
The Prime Minister described these developments as a “decisive chapter” in the India-EU relationship, reflecting mutual commitment to shared prosperity, global stability, and economic integration. The partnership combines India’s scale and workforce with European innovation and investment, promising long-term benefits for citizens across both continents.
