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An alliance of democracies with India at its core

(Source – The Hindu, Editorial – Page No. – 8)

Topic : GS2 – International Relations

Context:

  • The article highlights the urgency for Europe and India to collaborate more effectively in addressing global challenges.
  • Key focus areas include trade, defense, technology, and geopolitical dynamics.
  • Advocates for a democratic alliance to counter the influence of autocratic powers like Russia and China.

 


Strengthening EU-India Relations for a Democratic Alliance

2024: A Pivotal Year

  • Marked by significant elections globally, 2024 set the stage for democracies to regroup.
  • 2025 presents an opportunity for Europe and India to enhance their partnership.

Challenges in EU-India Relations

  • Prolonged Negotiations:
  • The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) discussions have dominated EU-India relations for over 17 years.
  • Complexity in negotiations has delayed progress, overshadowing other collaboration areas.
  • Importance of FTA:
  • A successful FTA could counter protectionist trends and strengthen economic and geopolitical ties.

Moving Beyond Trade

  • Focus Areas:
  • Economic Security: Prioritize resilient supply chains.
  • Defense Cooperation: Address shared security challenges.
  • Joint Innovation: Collaborate in space exploration, emerging technologies, and critical industries like pharmaceuticals.

Geopolitical Dynamics and Shared Challenges

  • India’s Position:
  • Navigates complex relationships with Russia and China, balancing historical ties and current geopolitical realities.
  • Engages cautiously with China while maintaining democratic values.
  • Shared Threats:
  • Recognizes the “No Limits” partnership between Russia and China as a common threat to democracies.

Building a Practical Framework

  • Key Steps for Strengthening Partnership:
  • Trade and Investment: Gradually reduce barriers and encourage investment in critical sectors.
  • Supply Chain Resilience: Position India as a “Trusted Partner” to decrease reliance on China.
  • Defense Collaboration: Enhance discussions to complement India’s ties with the U.S.
  • Technology Leadership: Expand cooperation in emerging technologies to counter China’s dominance.

Strengthening Defense and Technology Collaboration

  • Defense Cooperation:
  • Model EU-India defense ties after India’s partnership with the U.S. as a “Major Defense Partner.”
  • Encourage European investments and advanced weapons to reduce reliance on Russian arms.
  • Space Exploration:
  • Pool resources and expertise for mutual benefit.
  • Technology Collaboration:
  • Utilize the EU-India Trade and Technology Council (TTC) more effectively.
  • Draw inspiration from U.S.-India initiatives to prioritize critical technologies.

A Broader Vision for EU-India Ties

  • People-to-People Connections:
  • Foster educational and cultural exchanges to build trust and shared democratic values.

Conclusion

  • Strategic Goals:
  • As India approaches becoming the world’s third-largest economy, opportunities for Europe grow.
  • Aim to form a robust alliance of democracies with India at its core.
  • By addressing shared challenges and promoting collaboration, Europe, India, and the U.S. can create a powerful coalition against autocratic powers, ensuring a secure and prosperous future.