What happened?
On 28 February 2025, India’s Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth met European Commission’s Defence & Space Commissioner Andrius Kubilius in New Delhi to discuss strengthening India-EU defence cooperation. Talks focused on maritime security, information sharing in the Indo-Pacific, and European defence firms’ participation in Indian joint production initiatives. They also explored India’s involvement in EU defence programs like Permanent Structured Cooperation.
Why it matters to India?
As India seeks to modernise its defence sector and reduce reliance on traditional suppliers, deeper engagement with the EU could provide access to advanced technologies and industrial collaborations. Strengthening maritime security ties with the EU aligns with India’s Indo-Pacific strategy, enhancing its presence in key trade routes. Increased cooperation in defence manufacturing could also support India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative by attracting European investments in joint production ventures.