A Stabilising Force
(Source: The Indian Express, Editorial Page)
Also Read: The Indian Express Editorial Analysis: 16 June 2025
Also Read: The Hindu Editorial Analysis: 16 June 2025
| Topic: GS Paper 2: International Relations; GS Paper 3: Economy (Global Trade) |
| Context |
| Amid growing global polarization and uncertainty, India’s engagement with European nations has been highlighted as a stabilizing force. The editorial evaluates the strategic depth of India-Europe relations, their mutual interests in economic growth, democratic values, and a rules-based global order. |
Strengthening India–Europe Ties
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India is expanding its strategic and diplomatic presence beyond traditional partners like the US and Russia by deepening ties with European countries (e.g., France, Germany, EU institutions).
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Shared values: Democracy, multilateralism, rule of law, and sustainable development.
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Economic interest: Bilateral trade between India and the EU crossed €120 billion in 2023–24, with efforts underway for an India–EU Free Trade Agreement.
Global Stability and Multipolarity
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Europe’s strategic need to diversify partnerships beyond the US and reduce dependence on China aligns with India’s aspirations to be a pole in a multipolar world.
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India’s stance on Ukraine, while nuanced, has helped it position itself as an independent voice in global affairs.
Strategic Autonomy and Economic Diplomacy
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India is courting investments from Europe in sectors like green energy, defense, and semiconductors, aligned with Make in India and strategic autonomy.
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Collaborative focus areas include digital governance, cyber security, and AI.
Conclusion / Way Forward:
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India’s engagement with Europe is emerging as a balanced pillar of foreign policy amid China–US rivalry.
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India must maintain its strategic autonomy while leveraging economic diplomacy to enhance its global stature.
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Deeper people-to-people ties, skill partnerships, and academic exchanges can further fortify this relationship.
Key Areas of India-Europe Cooperation
| Area of Cooperation | India’s Priority | Europe’s Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Trade & FTA | Export growth, FDI, market access | Access to India’s growing economy |
| Green Energy | Climate goals, energy security | Tech collaboration, carbon-neutral goals |
| Defense & Security | Indigenization, capacity-building | Strategic counterbalance to China |
| Technology & Innovation | Digital sovereignty, AI, cyber security | Regulatory cooperation, trusted supply chains |
| Global Governance | UN reform, Global South leadership | Multilateralism, rule-based order |
| Practice Question: Discuss how India’s deepening relations with European nations can act as a stabilising force in a rapidly shifting global order.
(250 words) |
