Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s top foreign policy official, is shifting the EU’s approach to international relations. She emphasized a new focus on pragmatism and mutual benefits, especially as EU leaders prepare to visit India later this month.
During a conference in Brussels, Kallas noted that many countries are hesitant to choose sides between Western nations and authoritarian regimes. She drew parallels to the Cold War, highlighting that nations often act in their own self-interest rather than aligning ideologically with the EU, the US, China, or Russia. Her comments reflect a broader trend seen in countries like Türkiye and several Gulf States, which pursue peace mediation based on their strategic interests.
She suggested that the EU should also adopt a more transactional stance. Citing recent trade agreements with Mexico and the Mercosur trading bloc, she stressed the importance of creating mutually beneficial projects. “This is the kind of spirit we will bring to India,” Kallas said.
The upcoming visit is a significant opportunity for the EU to strengthen ties with a country that represents a quarter of the world’s population and GDP. Each nation has its own unique cultural and historical context, and Kallas emphasized that the EU would tailor its approach to each partner.
In the past, tensions arose between India and the EU due to criticisms over India’s purchase of Russian oil amid the Ukraine conflict. Indian officials have pointed out the EU’s own import policies as a double standard. Recently, the EU’s trade chief hinted that the upcoming visit could lead to new areas of cooperation between India and the EU.
The relationship between India and the EU is evolving, with discussions on a free trade agreement having been ongoing since 2021. The establishment of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council in 2022 aims to deepen collaboration in trade and technology.
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