Wed Mar 05 17:39:54 UTC 2025: ## EU Eyes “Limitless” Partnership with India, Highlighting Defence and Economic Cooperation

**New Delhi, March 5, 2025** – The European Union (EU) envisions a “limitless” partnership with India, focusing on bolstering defence cooperation and leveraging India’s economic potential, according to European Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius. In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Kubilius emphasized the strategic importance of the EU-India relationship, highlighting several key areas for collaboration.

Following an unprecedented visit by EU President Ursula von der Leyen and 22 Commissioners to India last week, defence emerged as a primary focus. Kubilius cited the proposed strategic pact on security and defence, mirroring similar agreements with Japan and South Korea, as a significant opportunity. This, along with a new strategic space dialogue and the impending finalization of a Free Trade Agreement by year-end, underscores the EU’s commitment to strengthening ties.

Kubilius praised India’s rapid factory construction capabilities, contrasting it with Europe’s significantly longer timelines. He suggested India could serve as a model for streamlining regulations and boosting competitiveness, acknowledging Europe’s past struggles with over-regulation. The Commissioner also highlighted India’s potential as a key production and capacity expansion partner for the EU’s defense industry, which is striving to enhance its capabilities amid geopolitical uncertainty spurred by the war in Ukraine and the rise of what he termed an “axis of aggressive authoritarians.”

The EU sees India as vital for regional stability in the Indo-Pacific, a region crucial for EU economic interests. While acknowledging potential regulatory challenges, Kubilius expressed confidence in finding solutions, emphasizing the need for “smart” regulation that avoids stifling innovation and economic growth. The upcoming India-EU summit, expected to renew the current Strategic Roadmap, will further solidify the burgeoning partnership.

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