EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced the approval while addressing the European Parliament on Wednesday, confirming that the agreement has been finalised for signing during the summit. She said the pact reflects a shared strategic outlook amid growing global security challenges.
“This partnership will enhance cooperation in maritime security, counter-terrorism and cyber defence,” Kallas said, adding that the agreement would strengthen coordination in areas critical to regional and global stability.
The signing will take place during a high-profile visit by top EU leadership to India. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are scheduled to attend the summit and will also be chief guests at India’s Republic Day celebrations on January 26. The India-EU Summit is slated for January 27.
According to EU officials, the agreement is part of a broader strategic agenda that includes trade liberalisation, defence collaboration and technology partnerships. Alongside the defence pact, India and the EU are expected to unveil a Joint Strategic Plan for 2026–2030, outlining priorities across security, trade, climate action and innovation.
A large EU delegation of around 90 members will travel to India for the summit. It will include senior officials such as Trade Commissioner Maroš ŠefÄoviÄ, Kaja Kallas and several directors-general. Before the agreement is formally signed, it must clear procedural steps, including approval by the European Parliament and endorsement by the European Council.
Trade negotiations remain a central focus. Both sides are pushing to advance talks on an FTA aimed at reducing tariffs, easing market access and boosting bilateral trade. However, sensitive issues such as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) continue to be discussed. CBAM proposes carbon-linked tariffs on imports such as steel and cement produced using high-emission processes, a concern for Indian exporters.
Kallas said closer cooperation with India is essential in an increasingly volatile international environment. Beyond trade and security, the partnership will also focus on clean technology, pharmaceuticals and semiconductor supply chains.
Mobility of professionals is another key pillar. India and the EU plan to facilitate the movement of students, researchers, skilled professionals and seasonal workers to strengthen collaboration in research, innovation and advanced technologies.
With the defence agreement now approved, officials on both sides view the upcoming summit as a milestone in elevating India-EU relations to a deeper strategic partnership.
