• Source:JND
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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has underlined India’s vital role in global diplomacy, stating that New Delhi is central to efforts aimed at ending Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. In a post shared on X, von der Leyen revealed that she had spoken with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that India’s engagement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remains significant.

“We had the pleasure of speaking with Prime Minister @narendramodi. We warmly welcome India’s continued engagement with President Zelenskyy. India has an important role to play in bringing Russia to an end its war of aggression and helping create a path towards peace,” von der Leyen wrote.

She emphasised that the war poses not only regional but global risks, carrying serious security implications and undermining economic stability worldwide.

Focus On Peace, Strategic Cooperation

The discussion between Modi and von der Leyen centred on the ongoing Ukraine conflict, with the Indian Prime Minister reiterating New Delhi’s consistent position: advocating dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and stability at the earliest. India has maintained that it seeks a peaceful resolution and has avoided taking sides, balancing its relations with both Moscow and Kyiv.

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Looking ahead, von der Leyen stressed the importance of finalising a joint strategic agenda at the next India-EU Summit, which both sides aim to hold as early as possible in 2026. Modi extended an invitation to EU leaders to visit India for the summit, underscoring the importance of further strengthening ties.

Trade And Technology Ties

Beyond geopolitics, the leaders reviewed progress in multiple areas of cooperation, including trade, technology, investment, innovation, defence, sustainability, and supply chain resilience. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to an early conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, which they aim to finalise by the end of this year.

Von der Leyen cautioned, however, that progress in negotiations is urgently needed to meet this timeline. The FTA, once concluded, is expected to deepen economic engagement and unlock new opportunities for both sides.

During the talks, Modi and von der Leyen highlighted the strength of the India-EU Strategic Partnership, describing it as one rooted in mutual trust, shared values, and a commitment to a rules-based international order. Both leaders agreed that their collaboration is critical in addressing global challenges, fostering stability, and promoting prosperity.

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On August 27, the Trump administration in Washington doubled tariffs on India to 50 per cent, partly in response to New Delhi’s continued imports of Russian oil, and partly as part of President Trump’s “America First” policy to reduce US trade deficits.