Strategic connectivity, ongoing conflicts and a long-pending trade deal dominated talks during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Brussels, as India and the European Union looked to align positions in an increasingly volatile global environment.
During the March 15–16 visit, held at the invitation of EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, Jaishankar met top EU leaders including Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the discussions reflected a push to sustain momentum after the recent India–EU summit, particularly on issues where both sides see long-term strategic convergence.
One of the key strands of the visit was connectivity, with both sides discussing ways to move forward on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. The corridor, which links India to Europe via West Asia, has acquired added relevance amid disruptions in traditional trade routes and concerns over supply chain resilience. Jaishankar indicated that giving “practical shape” to such initiatives would be a priority going forward.
Developments in West Asia formed a major part of the geopolitical discussions. Ministers noted the continuing instability in the region and its direct implications for energy supplies and prices. There was broad agreement on the need to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy to prevent further escalation, especially given the global economic knock-on effects.
The war in Ukraine was also discussed at length, with both sides reviewing its wider strategic and economic impact. While their approaches differ in some respects, the conversations pointed to a shared concern over prolonged instability and its consequences for global order.
The two sides also discussed the Indo-Pacific, where both India and the EU realize their interests overlap.
During his discussions, Jaishankar stressed on the importance of secure sea lanes, adherence to international rules in the region and stability.
The proposed India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) remained the main topic on the agenda of talks. And they all realized that an early conclusion of the deal would help to expand economic engagement.
In his interaction with the EU Foreign Affairs Council, the minister also pushed for deeper cooperation in areas such as critical technologies, resilient supply chains and mobility of skilled professionals. He called for making the Trade and Technology Council more results-oriented, with stronger industry involvement.
Security and defence cooperation, including maritime engagement, figured in the discussions as well. Both sides signalled intent to carry forward existing initiatives, including efforts to conclude a security of information agreement.
The visit highlighted how India–EU ties are increasingly being shaped by shared concerns extending beyond bilateral issues, from connectivity projects like IMEC to conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine, and the evolving dynamics of the Indo-Pacific. Officials on both sides suggested that this broader alignment could define the next phase of the partnership.
