In a significant diplomatic engagement, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will visit India on February 27-28, 2025, marking a new chapter in the deepening relations between India and the European Union (EU). Accompanied by the EU College of Commissioners, this historic visit will focus on advancing trade, technology, and strategic cooperation. The high-profile delegation is set to hold bilateral discussions, ministerial meetings, and the second India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) session, underscoring the growing alignment between the two global economic powerhouses.

Unprecedented Visit of the EU College of Commissioners

This visit holds special significance as it will be the first time the entire EU College of Commissioners visits India together. The delegation arrives at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflecting the strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the two regions.

The visit follows the European Parliamentary elections of June 2024 and the subsequent formation of the new European Commission in December 2024. As one of the first major diplomatic missions under this new leadership, it highlights the EU’s commitment to fostering deeper cooperation with India, a key partner in the global economy.

High-Level Bilateral Engagements

During the visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will engage in delegation-level talks with President von der Leyen, focusing on critical areas such as trade, investment, climate action, digital transformation, and security cooperation. These discussions will set the stage for a stronger India-EU strategic alliance, reinforcing their shared commitment to a rules-based international order.

Additionally, a series of bilateral ministerial meetings between European Commissioners and their Indian counterparts will address sector-specific collaborations, ensuring that both sides continue to benefit from their growing economic and technological synergy.

Second Ministerial Meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC)

A key highlight of the visit will be the second ministerial meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC). The TTC, launched in 2022, serves as a crucial platform for dialogue on trade policies, digital governance, and emerging technologies.

This year’s discussions are expected to focus on:

Trade Expansion: Strengthening trade agreements and addressing regulatory challenges.
Technology Collaboration: Advancing AI, digital infrastructure, and semiconductor manufacturing partnerships.
Supply Chain Resilience: Enhancing cooperation in critical raw materials and industrial supply chains.
Given the global geopolitical landscape, the India-EU TTC holds immense significance in promoting economic security, technological leadership, and strategic autonomy for both regions.

Strengthening a Two-Decade-Long Strategic Partnership

India and the European Union have been strategic partners since 2004, with their relationship growing stronger over the years. The EU is India’s second-largest trading partner, accounting for a significant share of India’s exports and imports.

Bilateral trade between the two regions has witnessed steady growth, fueled by collaborations in renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, defense, and digital technologies. With both economies poised for further expansion, the visit of President von der Leyen and the EU College of Commissioners will pave the way for more robust economic engagements.

Better Coordination between India and EU

As India and the European Union enter the third decade of their strategic partnership, President von der Leyen’s visit represents a significant milestone in fostering stronger diplomatic, economic, and technological ties. The discussions and agreements forged during this visit will lay the foundation for greater trade opportunities, enhanced technological collaboration, and reinforced geopolitical cooperation.

With shared global priorities, India and the EU are well-positioned to drive forward a partnership that not only benefits both regions but also contributes to a more resilient and interconnected global economy.