India to Strengthen Defense Ties with EU

India's foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, announced intentions to significantly deepen the partnership with the European Union, especially by potentially striking defense deals, given the current geopolitical crises. This follow-up comes on the heels of a major trade agreement signed between India and the EU in January, described as the "mother of all" trade deals, which lays the groundwork for more robust collaboration in defense and technology.

The expected defense agreements include provisions for EU procurement of Indian armaments, such as ammunition, drones, and counter-drone technology. As both regions face instability, especially regarding their ties to Russia amidst the Iran war concerns, this strategic partnership is seen as a pivotal moment for enhancing mutual security and reducing dependency on non-European defense technologies. Jaishankar expressed optimism about overcoming any regulatory hurdles in future collaborations.