EU Seeks Stronger Partnership with India Amid Modi’s Russia Ties

The European Union is pushing to deepen its relationship with India, despite concerns over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing ties with Russia, according to EU officials cited by The Guardian. During a recent summit in Brussels, EU leaders emphasized the strategic importance of India as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region, aiming to counterbalance China’s growing influence. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, technology, and climate initiatives, while navigating geopolitical tensions.
The EU’s renewed interest in India stems from its need for reliable allies in a shifting global landscape.

India’s economic growth and strategic position make it an attractive partner, but Modi’s diplomatic engagements with Moscow have raised eyebrows. The Indian leader’s recent visits to Russia, including a meeting with President Vladimir Putin, have sparked concerns among some EU member states, particularly given Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Despite these reservations, EU officials stressed the importance of maintaining open dialogue with New Delhi to align on shared interests.

Trade remains a cornerstone of the EU-India relationship, with both sides working toward a comprehensive free trade agreement. Negotiations, ongoing for years, aim to boost economic ties, but challenges such as market access and regulatory differences persist. The Guardian reported that EU leaders are optimistic about progress, citing India’s potential as a hub for renewable energy and digital innovation. Climate cooperation was also a key focus, with both parties exploring joint projects to address global warming.

The EU’s outreach reflects a pragmatic approach, acknowledging India’s non-aligned foreign policy while seeking to strengthen bilateral ties. Modi’s government has maintained a delicate balance, engaging with both Western and Russian leaders. EU diplomats, as noted by The Guardian, expressed confidence that closer collaboration could encourage India to align more closely with Western priorities without isolating it over its Russia ties. The summit underscored a mutual desire to build a partnership rooted in shared economic and environmental goals, even as geopolitical complexities loom large.