Prime Minister Narendra Modi, European Council President Antonio Costa, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized their dedication to elevating the India-EU Strategic Partnership to a higher level. The leaders highlighted their shared values of democracy, human rights, pluralism, rule of law, and the rules-based international order with the UN at its core during the 16th India-EU Summit in New Delhi.
Costa and von der Leyen, invited by PM Modi as Chief Guests for India’s 77th Republic Day, are currently on a State Visit accompanied by a high-level delegation. The Joint Statement released after extensive discussions outlined commitments to address security threats, promote sustainable growth, enhance economic resilience and security, advance climate and biodiversity action, and accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals.
The leaders welcomed the signing of the India-EU Security and Defence Partnership, marking a significant milestone in defense and security cooperation. This partnership will deepen ties in areas such as maritime security, defense industry and technology, cyber and hybrid threats, space, and counter-terrorism. Additionally, negotiations have commenced on a Security of Information Agreement to facilitate classified information exchange and enhance cooperation in security and defense realms.
