European Commission's Ursula von der Leyen arrives in New Delhi, says India a 'friend and strategic ally'

Ursula von der Leyen

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in New Delhi on February 27 for strategic discussions with Prime Minister Modi that will include greater access to Indian market, at a time when both EU as well as India are dealing with America’s tariffs as part of Trump’s America First agenda.

In a post on X, von der Leyen said, "Touchdown in Delhi with my team of Commissioners. In an era of conflicts and intense competition, you need trusted friends. For Europe, India is such a friend and a strategic ally. I’ll discuss with Narendra Modi how to take our strategic partnership to the next level."

Touchdown in Delhi with my team of Commissioners.In an era of conflicts and intense competition, you need trusted friends.For Europe, India is such a friend and a strategic ally.Ill discuss with @narendramodi how to take our strategic partnership to the next level. pic.twitter.com/I8ypHtwfy8Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 27, 2025

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India and the European Commission are currently negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and von der Leyen said she is confident about the talks, calling India 'a friend and a strategic ally.'

The strategic talks, which will take place during the two-day trip will also include detailed discussions on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

Ahead of the visit, reports said EU is seeking lower tariffs on wines, auto and whiskeys, as the two sides negotiate a free trade agreement.

India has pushed back on issues such as Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) are expected to hurt Indian industry, especially iron and steel.

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CBAM and EUDR are green regulations that impose higher charges on goods that do not comply with the 27-member bloc's emission norms.