Ministry of External Affairs Official Website:- Published on 27 January 2026
Why in the News?
The 16th India–EU Summit was held in New Delhi on 27 January 2026 during the State Visit of the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen. The EU leaders were invited as Chief Guests for India’s 77th Republic Day, marking the first time European Union leadership jointly received Athis honour.
The Summit resulted in major outcomes including the conclusion of the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signing of the India–EU Security and Defence Partnership, and adoption of the “Towards 2030: India–EU Joint Comprehensive Strategic Agenda.”
Context and Strategic Importance
India–EU relations have gained strong momentum over the past decade due to shifting global geopolitics, supply chain disruptions, and growing convergence on democratic values. The Summit took place against the backdrop of global uncertainty, conflicts in Europe and West Asia, climate challenges, and the need for resilient economic partnerships. The visit symbolised the growing depth and maturity of India–EU relations and reinforced their shared commitment to a multipolar, rules-based international order.
Political and Diplomatic Significance
The Summit reaffirmed shared values such as democracy, pluralism, rule of law, and respect for international law. The leaders emphasised the centrality of the United Nations and reiterated the need for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council to reflect contemporary geopolitical realities. The Summit also highlighted the importance of regular high-level dialogue and institutional mechanisms to guide long-term cooperation.
Economic and Trade Cooperation
A key achievement of the Summit was the successful conclusion of negotiations on the India–EU Free Trade Agreement. The FTA is expected to significantly boost bilateral trade, attract investment, create employment, and strengthen diversified and resilient supply chains. Both sides committed to ensuring full and effective implementation of the agreement and agreed to expedite negotiations on the Investment Protection Agreement and the Agreement on Geographical Indications.
Investment and Global Value Chains
The leaders recognised the importance of scaling up bilateral investments and enhancing private sector engagement. Discussions on “Blue Valleys” were initiated to strengthen select value chains. India and the EU also agreed to collaborate on investments in third countries through trilateral cooperation, drawing upon India’s development partnerships and the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy.
Security and Defence Partnership
The signing of the India–EU Security and Defence Partnership marked a historic milestone. It provides an overarching framework for cooperation in maritime security, defence industry and technology, cyber and hybrid threats, space security, and counter-terrorism. The launch of negotiations on a Security of Information Agreement is expected to facilitate the exchange of classified information and enable deeper strategic trust.
Counter-Terrorism and Security Cooperation
Both sides unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border terrorism. They committed to enhanced cooperation in countering radicalisation, terrorist financing, and misuse of emerging technologies. The leaders condemned the terrorist attacks in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir and near the Red Fort in New Delhi, underlining their shared resolve to combat terrorism globally.
Regional and Indo-Pacific Engagement
The Summit highlighted growing convergence on Indo-Pacific security. India and the EU reiterated their commitment to a free, open, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific based on international law and UNCLOS. They welcomed the launch of India–EU Indo-Pacific Consultations and expressed interest in joint activities under the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
Global and Regional Conflicts
The leaders expressed concern over the ongoing war in Ukraine and reaffirmed support for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace through dialogue and diplomacy. In West Asia, they welcomed UN Security Council Resolution 2803 aimed at ending the Gaza conflict and reiterated support for a two-State solution. Developments in Iran and regional stability were also discussed, with emphasis on peaceful resolution through dialogue.
Technology and Innovation Cooperation
India and the EU acknowledged their complementary strengths in technology and innovation. The Trade and Technology Council was reaffirmed as the cornerstone of cooperation in trade, economic security and emerging technologies. Both sides agreed to deepen collaboration in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, digital public infrastructure, 6G technologies, and clean technologies, while ensuring protection of sensitive technologies.
Research, Space and Start-up Ecosystems
The leaders welcomed the renewal of the India–EU Agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation until 2030. They agreed to launch EU–India Innovation Hubs and an EU–India Startup Partnership to link research with market deployment. Exploratory talks on India’s association with Horizon Europe were also announced. Cooperation in space was strengthened following the inaugural India–EU Space Dialogue.
Climate Action and Sustainable Development
Climate change emerged as a core pillar of cooperation. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the Paris Agreement and the goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C. They emphasised equity and common but differentiated responsibilities. India and the EU committed to accelerated cooperation under the Clean Energy and Climate Partnership, including renewable energy deployment and energy resilience.
Clean Energy and Disaster Resilience
The creation of the India–EU Task Force on Green Hydrogen and the announcement of an India–EU Wind Business Summit in 2026 reflect growing clean energy collaboration. The signing of the Administrative Arrangement on Disaster Risk Management will enhance coordination in disaster preparedness and response. Closer EU engagement with ISA and CDRI further strengthens resilience-building efforts.
Environmental and Biodiversity Cooperation
The Summit underscored the need for deeper cooperation on environmental sustainability. Both sides committed to advancing circular economy practices, biodiversity conservation, water security, and marine protection. The launch of an Ocean and Fisheries Dialogue and reaffirmation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework highlighted shared environmental priorities.
Connectivity and Infrastructure
India and the EU agreed to strengthen connectivity while upholding high standards. Joint projects under the India–EU Connectivity Partnership, supported by the EU’s Global Gateway and India’s MAHASAGAR initiative, were highlighted. Progress under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor was welcomed, and cooperation in aviation and maritime transport was reinforced.
Mobility, Education and People-to-People Ties
People-to-people ties were recognised as vital enablers of the strategic partnership. The conclusion of the India–EU Comprehensive Framework on Mobility aims to facilitate safe, regular and orderly migration. The launch of the European Legal Gateway Office will support worker mobility, starting with the ICT sector. Enhanced cooperation on education, skills development and recognition of qualifications was also agreed upon.
Way Forward
The adoption of the “India–EU Joint Comprehensive Strategic Agenda 2030” provides a long-term roadmap across five pillars: prosperity and sustainability, technology and innovation, security and defence, connectivity and global challenges, and people-centric enablers. Effective implementation of commitments, institutional coordination, and sustained political engagement will be crucial. The invitation for the 17th India–EU Summit in Brussels reflects continuity and confidence in the partnership.
