India-Europe Relations: A Diplomatic Renewal

The India-Europe relationship is evolving due to new global dynamics. Historically distant, both parties are now engaging more purposefully. 

Changing Global Alliances

• The transatlantic relationship, traditionally led by the U.S., is experiencing shifts due to policy changes by the USA.
• Europe is exploring "strategic autonomy" to become a self-reliant power.
• Countries like Canada, the U.K., and Germany are recalibrating their foreign policies, showing increased interest in Asia and India.

India and Europe's Convergence

India's shift from non-alignment to "multi-alignment" aligns with Europe's quest for a multipolar world order.

• The India-European Union (EU) partnership is strengthening through dialogues on trade, technology, security, and climate change.
• There has been a significant rise in bilateral trade and investment, with EU foreign direct investment in India increasing by 70% from 2015 to 2022.

Key Areas of Collaboration

• Trade and Economy: Fast-tracking the India-EU Trade and Investment Agreements is crucial. The IMEC could be a modern Silk Road for trade and innovation.
• Technology: Both regions aim to treat digital architecture as public infrastructure. Collaboration in deep tech, digital manufacturing, and biotechnology offers tremendous potential.
• Human Mobility: A mobility agreement for students and professionals can enhance talent exchange and innovation.
• Defence and Security: Cooperation in armaments, maritime security, and counter-terrorism is imperative.

Shared Global Responsibilities

India and Europe, as middle powers, advocate for a rules-based international order, focusing on multilateralism and supporting the Global South.

• They aim to lead in forums like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization.
• Both regions reject the binaries of global power politics, seeking stability through coalitions.

The Role of Perception

To strengthen ties, public perception and media narratives must align with strategic goals. Understanding each other's complexities is crucial for fostering this partnership.

• Upcoming events like the Raisina Dialogue in Marseille and diplomatic engagements in the Mediterranean are steps towards deeper collaboration.

Conclusion

India and Europe must build their partnership based on shared values and strategic needs, focusing not on convenience but on conviction for a more stable world.