EU-India Relations: von der Leyen’s Visit with 21 Commissioners
Why in the news
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made a two-day trip to India, showing the EU’s wish to deepen ties beyond the US orbit as American policy on the Ukraine war shifts.
Key facts
- The visit was announced at Davos to give fresh momentum to relations.
- It coincided with the EU’s 16th sanctions round on Moscow; the EU backs Ukraine despite Washington’s changed stance.
- Meetings were planned with PM Modi, Indian ministers and industry.
Agenda
| Item | Position |
|---|---|
| Russia sanctions | EU wants strict enforcement; India keeps buying Russian oil and rejects Western sanctions |
| BTIA (trade and investment pact) | Talks from 2022 stuck on car, wine and spirits tariffs |
| Technology (TTC) | AI regulation, semiconductors, quantum computing, green tech |
| Strategic roadmap 2020-2025 | Update cooperation, including Indo-Pacific |
Geopolitical context
- Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy was heading to Washington on military aid, frozen Russian assets and a ceasefire plan.
- India follows strategic autonomy and gains from discounted Russian oil.
Exam angle
- Delegation leader: Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President.
- Pact under negotiation: BTIA.