India, Jan 27 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that the newly signed technology and defence partnership between India and the European Union marks a major milestone in bringing the two sides closer amid a complex global landscape.
Addressing the EU delegation led by High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas at South Block, Singh noted the visit’s special timing, coinciding with India’s 75th Republic Day. “Your visit is very special as it falls on the occasion of our 75th Republic Day, celebrating India’s constitutional journey and reaffirming our commitment to global peace and security,” he said.
Singh emphasised that shared values of democracy, pluralism, federalism, and the rule of law provide a strong foundation for India-EU cooperation. “Together, we aim to translate these values into practical collaboration for global security, sustainable growth, and inclusive prosperity,” he added.
Highlighting the significance of the new pact, Singh said, “The signing of the technology and defence partnership reflects the trust between India and the EU, and strengthens ties in economic, defence, and people to people cooperation, bringing our two ancient civilisations closer in a rapidly evolving global environment.”
The agreement was signed ahead of the 16th India-EU Summit, co-chaired by European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who are on a state visit to India. With this partnership, India joins Japan and South Korea as the only Asian nations to have a security and defence arrangement with the EU, expanding collaboration in maritime security, cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and other emerging defence areas.
Singh stressed that the partnership goes beyond procurement, positioning India as both a potential supplier and strategic partner for the EU. India-EU defence engagement has intensified since 2025, beginning with discussions during the February College of Commissioners’ visit to India and continuing with industrial cooperation talks between Indian defence manufacturers and EU officials.
Joint naval exercises have further strengthened maritime security ties, with operations conducted in the Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Guinea, and the Gulf of Aden, alongside collaborative humanitarian missions near Somalia. The Defence Minister said the pact would deepen strategic dialogue and ensure India and the EU are better aligned in addressing global security challenges.