European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday to revive and expand economic ties.

The return of Donald Trump to the White House, tensions with China, and economic sanctions on Russia have prompted Brussels to push for deeper trading ties with other economies.

“The European Commission’s visit symbolises how much we value our partnership with India. And how much I value our personal friendship,” Ms Von der Leyen wrote on X about her meeting with Mr Modi.

Ms Von der Leyen travelled with several of her EU commissioners, who met members of the Indian government.

The talks were expected to focus on trade and economic policy issues, technology cooperation, international security, and action on climate change.

“This world is fraught with danger. But I believe this modern version of great power competition is an opportunity for Europe and India to reimagine their partnership,” Ms Von der Leyen said ahead of her meeting with Mr Modi. “We both stand to lose from a world of spheres of influence and isolationism. And we both stand to gain from a world of cooperation and working together.”

She added, “This is why the EU and India have the potential to be one of the defining partnerships of this century.”

However, deepening trade relations between the EU and India has proved difficult in the past.

After a long break, negotiations between the two sides on a free trade agreement resumed three years ago. The next round is planned for March in Brussels. 

(dpa/NAN)