India is actively forging stronger bonds with Europe, a move that External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar believes will inject much-needed stability into the turbulent realms of international economy and global politics. Jaishankar made these significant remarks on Wednesday during his official visit to Paris, where he held crucial talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.
Strategic Talks Amid Global Uncertainty
The high-level discussions between the Indian and French diplomats took place against a backdrop of considerable global volatility. This includes widespread international concern following a recent US military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of that country's President, Nicolas Maduro, and his wife, Cilia Flores. Jaishankar emphasized that in such times of uncertainty, it is natural for strategic partners like India and France to consult very closely.
He underscored that Europe remains a crucial player in international politics, making it imperative for New Delhi to deepen its engagement with the continent. This push for stronger European ties also unfolds alongside India's currently strained relations with the United States. The friction stems from former US President Donald Trump's decision in August last year to impose a hefty 50% tariff on Indian imports.
Why Europe is a Priority for Indian Diplomacy
When questioned by the media about the purpose of his European tour, Jaishankar provided a detailed rationale. He stated that his visit was a very conscious choice, reflecting India's firm belief that its relationship with Europe is poised to grow to the next level. He pointed to substantive ongoing discussions within India on a range of bilateral issues with Europe, including the long-pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA), technology collaborations, semiconductors, railways, defence, and aviation.
"I think there is a larger discussion today that the world needs about the global order," Jaishankar was quoted as saying by PTI. "What kind of world do we want to live in? What would be the norms and the other related issues? And because I think Europe is such an important player in global politics, it is also necessary that India strengthens its relationship with it."
He concluded by asserting the mutual benefit: "I think we can bring more stability both into the international economy and global politics. And that really is why I am here."
Preparing for a Diplomatic Surge: EU Leaders to Visit India
The groundwork laid in Paris is part of a larger diplomatic offensive. In the coming weeks, India is set to host a series of top leaders from Europe, underscoring New Delhi's intensified engagement with the region. The guest list includes German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and other high-ranking officials from the European Union.
The meeting with French Foreign Minister Barrot primarily focused on preparing for President Macron's upcoming visit to India next month, where he is scheduled to participate in a global AI Summit. Jaishankar highlighted the unique strategic partnership, noting, "France is amongst our oldest strategic partners, the first in Europe, and I believe that our continuous conversation is an important part of nurturing that relationship."
He also pointed to the complementary roles both nations play on the world stage, with India currently chairing the BRICS grouping and France set to helm the G7 in 2026, while both are key members of the G20. Jaishankar reiterated that cooperation between India and France has become increasingly vital for stabilizing the current global political landscape.
