On January 27, 2026, Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh met with Kaja Kallas, Vice President of the European Union Commission, in New Delhi. They discussed ways to strengthen defense and security ties between India and the EU. Singh highlighted that both sides share core values like democracy and the rule of law, which form the basis for their growing partnership.
Singh pointed out that India’s defense industry can support the EU’s goals, especially in diversifying its defense suppliers and enhancing its strategic autonomy. This aligns with India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, or self-reliant India. By working together, the two regions can create robust supply chains and improve their defense capabilities.
Kallas, attending India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations, emphasized the importance of collaboration in the Indian Ocean Region. She suggested that joint exercises could facilitate knowledge sharing. The Defense Minister welcomed the idea of placing an EU Liaison Officer at India’s Information Fusion Centre in Gurugram, which would boost coordination with the Indian Navy on security matters.
Recent Trends and Insights
A recent survey shows that collaboration in defense is crucial for both India and the EU. According to the European Defence Agency, many EU nations aim to enhance their partnerships with non-EU countries like India. This interest is driven by the need to address global security challenges together.
Historically, the EU and India have faced political and economic shifts that have made partnerships essential for mutual growth. The arrival of new defense technologies and changing geopolitical dynamics illustrate the need for strong collaborations in 2023.
As these discussions unfold, both regions are finding ways to engage across different sectors, reinforcing their commitment to peace and security on a global scale.
For more insights into these developments, check the European Union’s official report.
