17 Sep 2025
EU sets out to adopt new strategic agenda to raise bilateral relations with India to a higher level
On 17 September 2025, the European Commission and the High Representative adopted a Joint Communication outlining a ‘New Strategic EU-India Agenda', marking a significant milestone in EU-India relations. This initiative, announced by President von der Leyen in her Political Guidelines for 2024-2029, aims to deepen, broaden, and better coordinate bilateral cooperation, enhance prosperity and security for both partners and help tackle major global challenges.
Following the College's visit to India in February, the Joint Communication outlines the EU's strategic vision for enhancing cooperation with New Delhi. It identifies five areas of shared interest and complementary strengths, building on existing ties while addressing areas that present potential for increased engagement.
Amongst other issues, the strategy proposes reinforcing supply chains while promoting critical emerging technologies and engagement on digital issues, with particular attention to strengthening economic security within the Trade and Technology Council (TTC). It also proposes deepening tech cooperation, including a potential EU-India Startup partnership, and invites India to associate with the Horizon Europe programme.
The Joint Communication prioritises maximising interaction and strengthening EU-India coordination at all levels. This includes skills mobility with the pilot European Legal Gateway Office to facilitate labour mobility. It proposes developing a comprehensive mobility cooperation framework covering study, work, and research.
Building on the proposals outlined in the Joint Communication, the EU stands ready to work with India to develop a joint comprehensive strategic agenda that is driven by shared priorities and delivers mutual benefits. It seeks to complement the engagement of EU Member States, with adoption of Council Conclusions foreseen at the Foreign Affairs Council in October.
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