European Union-India Relations under pressure from Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Abstract

In 2022, India celebrates the 75th Anniversary of its Independence and 60 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and the then European Economic Community (EEC), now the European Union (EU). These celebrations take place in a context of significant strengthening of the bilateral relationship, since over the last few years both parties have affirmed their commitment to give their relationship a more strategic focus. This new impetus largely reflects a transformed geopolitical landscape, including the growing importance of the Asia/Indo-Pacific region for the EU and, in particular, the “China factor” that poses a systemic challenge to both the EU and India. Even so, the economic dimension remains below its potential and the “like mindedness” proclaimed by both parties is more fragile than officially recognized. On the other hand, the invasion of Ukraine by Russia constitutes an important test for the new strategic relationship between Brussels and New Delhi, but it could also be an opportunity for the EU to be seen as a relevant geopolitical actor by India.