Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a pleasure to be here in India for this landmark occasion for the EU-India partnership. Returning here underscores our cultural and democratic bonds. Yesterday, I had the honor of laying a wreath for Mahatma Gandhi, whose words remind us that culture resides in peoples hearts and souls.
As we look forward, our partnership is poised to grow stronger. We share a love of art, sport, and literature, and our businesses and academics collaborate closely. This partnership is natural as we enter a new phase.
Facing todays geopolitical challenges, Europe and India must unite. We see nations using resources and technologies for coercion and influence, and we stand at a historical turning point. Both Europe and India, as major democracies and economies, must respond together.
The potential for a defining partnership is immense. Shared values and interests can guide us through hyper-competitive environments. We both seek cooperation over isolationism, offering each other unique alternatives to strengthen our economies and security.
Our cooperation over the past decades has only scratched the surface. Now is the time to be ambitious and realign priorities. Trade, technology, security, and connectivity are key areas for progress.
For trade and technology, our economies can thrive together. Indias Viksit Bharat 2047 and Europes economic transformation complement each other. We must enhance market access and reduce trade barriers, especially in critical sectors like semiconductors and clean tech.
In security, we face shared threats like cyber-attacks and maritime challenges. A Security and Defence Partnership with India can strengthen our responses. Collaborating on cyber security, space, and drones will enhance both regional stability and economic security.
Connectivity is another focus. The India-Middle East-Europe corridor exemplifies our potential to connect continents through infrastructure like railways and data cables, fostering faster trade and innovation.
In 2025, we have a unique chance to forge an indivisible partnership. Our aligned interests and commitments can make our shared dreams a reality. Thank you, and long live our friendship.