New Delhi [India], September 25 (ANI): European Union Ambassador to India Jean-Eric Paquet offered his Letters of Credence to President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday, because the EU-India strategic partnership enters a key section marked by progress in commerce, defence and safety, analysis and innovation.
‘President Droupadi Murmu acquired credentials from Mr Jean-Eric Paquet, Ambassador of the European Union,’ Rashtrapati Bhavan mentioned in a submit on X.
Following the ceremony, the European Union mentioned Paquet described the EU-India Strategic Partnership as ‘some of the defining relationships of the twenty first century’, highlighting its rising significance amid altering international financial, technological and geopolitical dynamics.
‘With unprecedented momentum throughout commerce, defence and safety, analysis and innovation, it’s an honour to characterize the European Union in India at such a transformative juncture. Our shared agenda is just not merely aspirational; it’s a tangible dedication to future generations, one that may drive job creation, innovation, prosperity and resilience for residents on each side,’ Paquet mentioned, as per an EU assertion.
Trade is predicted to stay a significant pillar of the connection, with the EU-India Free Trade Agreement gaining momentum after the European Commission put ahead its proposal to the Council of the European Union on September 11, looking for authorisation for its signature and conclusion.
‘This landmark settlement, usually known as the ‘mom of all offers’ would be the largest commerce pact ever for each side, overlaying almost 2 billion folks and 1 / 4 of world GDP,’ Paquet mentioned.
‘Once finalised, it should unlock unprecedented alternatives for commerce, funding, and financial development,’ he added.
Parallel negotiations are additionally underway on the Investment Protection and Geographical Indication Agreements, the EU mentioned.
Defence and safety cooperation has additionally emerged as an essential element of the connection following the signing of the EU-India Security and Defence Partnership on the sixteenth EU-India Summit in January 2026.
The partnership covers areas together with maritime safety, area, cyber and hybrid threats, in addition to counterterrorism.
“Our cooperation extends past bilateral ties- it has international significance, significantly in guaranteeing stability throughout the broader Indo-Pacific area. The EU-India Security and Defence Partnership settlement will additional strengthen defence industrial cooperation and advance alignment on defence initiatives,’ Paquet mentioned.
The EU mentioned its cooperation with India can also be being superior via the EU-India Joint Comprehensive Strategic Agenda, the EU-India Trade and Technology Council, the EU-India Connectivity Partnership and the Global Gateway programme.
These initiatives are aimed toward supporting sustainable growth, diversifying provide chains and increasing entry to items, providers and funding.
Looking forward, Paquet mentioned the 2 sides might translate the rising momentum of their relationship into concrete outcomes.
‘The EU and India will not be simply companions; we’re architects of a shared future. Together, we are going to translate ambition into motion, delivering prosperity, safety, and sustainability for our folks and the world at massive,’ he mentioned.
Paquet started his tenure in New Delhi after greater than three a long time of public service inside EU establishments. Before taking over his present project, he served as EU Ambassador to Japan from 2022 to 2026.
He has additionally served in senior European Commission positions, together with as Director for the Western Balkans and as EU Ambassador to Mauritania.
The presentation of credentials comes as India and the EU search to broaden their engagement throughout commerce, know-how, funding and safety, with each side inserting better emphasis on the strategic significance of their partnership. (ANI)