India’s defence industry has the potential to contribute to the European Union’s (EU) supply chains as Europe seeks to modernize its defence sector, according to European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius. Discussions between India and the EU on defence and security cooperation have focused on joint exercises, maritime security, cybersecurity, and industrial partnerships.
Kubilius stated that the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), once finalized, could strengthen the defence partnership between India and the EU. “The EU needs to modernize and strengthen its defence industry for preparedness. The Indian defence industry can play a key role in defence supply chains,” he said.
The EU is also exploring a potential defence and security pact with India, similar to agreements it has with Japan and South Korea. Kubilius’ visit to India was part of a high-level meeting of the EU’s College of Commissioners.
The proposed pact would cover areas such as joint military exercises, maritime security, and cybersecurity cooperation. In addition to defence, the EU is looking to enhance civilian space cooperation with India, particularly in data-sharing initiatives.
Ahead of the high-level discussions, Kubilius met with India’s Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth. Their meeting focused on strengthening bilateral defence ties, with particular emphasis on maritime security and intelligence-sharing in the Indo-Pacific region.
The discussions also included the potential participation of European defence firms in joint ventures and co-production initiatives in India, as well as the possibility of India’s involvement in the EU’s Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) framework.
The ongoing engagement between India and the EU reflects efforts to enhance collaboration in the defence sector, with an emphasis on industrial cooperation and security partnerships.
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