India, EU seal framework on defence, security

Earlier in the afternoon, Kallas and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar inked the India-EU Security and Defence Partnership that paves the way for integrating supply chains for defence manufacturing. The two sides also announced the launch of negotiations on a security of information agreement that will facilitate the exchange of classified information. India and the US have such an agreement since 2019. It facilitates joint production, technology transfer and streamlines collaboration between private sectors.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri clarified India’s defence ties with Russia would not be impacted by the agreement with EU. "These two things (India-Russia and India-EU ties) stand on their own and go forward on their own,” said Misri answering questions at a press conference.

The India-EU defence partnership was signed after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the EU delegation comprising European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

A joint statement after the meeting also mentioned the changed geopolitical realities. It said, “geopolitical realities and growing cross regional security threats call for closer EU-India cooperation.”

The two sides look to strengthen security and defence capabilities, enhance preparedness across domains and engage on growing challenge of maritime pollution, safety and security of seafarers and vessels, which circumvent compliance to relevant and applicable international maritime regulations.

The Joint India-European Union Comprehensive Strategic Agenda for 2030 was also released. It mentioned defence industrial cooperation.

India and the EU will set up an India-EU defence industry forum to bring together businesses from both sides, with official participation as observers and associating EU member states.

Earlier this morning, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met Kallas. After the meeting, he posted on X, "Discussed a range of bilateral security and defence issues, including opportunities for integrating supply chains for building trusted defence ecosystems and future-ready capabilities. Looking forward to greater cooperation between India and the EU countries."