By Admin 
EU-India Relations: India currently seems to be in a strong and decisive position in world politics. On one hand, America seems to be active in making a deal with India, while Europe is openly admitting that its strategy is incomplete without India. This is the reason why the top leaders of the European Union are coming to India as chief guests in the Republic Day celebrations on 26 January this year.
European guests are not just coming to India on a formal visit, but are also bringing with them important strategic and economic proposals. Even before coming to India, the leaders of the European Union have accepted that India is no longer just an emerging power but has become their strategic compulsion. Words like ‘Without India we are incomplete’ give a clear glimpse of the changing global equations.
India is seen as a reliable partner
When the world is going through war, political instability and economic pressures, the European Union sees India as a reliable and stable partner. The proposed European Union-India summit in the country’s capital Delhi is being considered a big sign of this changed global balance. This development taking place around Republic Day is not just a diplomatic meeting but is being considered as an announcement of change in the global balance of power.
The effects of this possible deal will be felt from Delhi to Beijing and Islamabad. On one hand, India is being considered an important pillar of the global security structure, while on the other hand, it is a clear message for Pakistan and China that the West no longer just makes statements, but also stands with India. The coming together of the European Union with India on sensitive issues like defence, anti-terrorism strategy and cyber security is being considered as a step to change the balance of the entire Indo-Pacific region.
Why is EU-India Summit special?
The EU-India summit to be held in Delhi is not limited to just formal meetings. During this period, important agreements related to security, defense and anti-terrorism cooperation are likely to be signed, which will take India-Europe relations to new heights. European Union’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has already made it clear that India has become essential for Europe’s economic strength and strategic stability.
Under the new security and defense partnership, cooperation in maritime security, counter-terrorism and cyber defense will be strengthened. A common strategy will be prepared for the security of open sea routes in the Indian Ocean, maritime domain awareness and against the politics of coercion. This is being considered an important step towards curbing China’s aggressive maritime policy.
Why will uneasiness increase for Pakistan?
The coming together of India and the European Union on the issue of terrorism can prove to be a big blow for Pakistan. Strengthening counter terrorism cooperation will increase global pressure on terrorist networks. Europe’s acceptance of India’s stand is being considered a step to weaken Pakistan’s international lobbying.
Why is China worried?
The talk of stability, open sea lanes and rule-based system in the Indo-Pacific region directly challenges China’s expansionist policy. Through EU-India partnership, reliable standards will be developed in technology, semiconductor and cyber security, which can play an important role in balancing the growing influence of China.
Not just security, economic game is also big
There are now signs of progress on the long pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union. India is expected to get huge economic benefits from cooperation in clean technology, pharma and semiconductor supply chain. Also, there is a possibility of opening up new opportunities for students, skilled professionals and researchers through mobility framework.