On the occasion of Europe Day, observed annually on May 9 to mark peace and unity in Europe, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar participated in a high-level event held in New Delhi. The event was hosted by the Delegation of the European Union to India and attended by key diplomats, government officials, industry leaders, and policy experts. European Union Ambassador to India, Hervé Delphin, welcomed the minister and addressed the gathering.
Europe Day commemorates the Schuman Declaration of 1950, which laid the foundation for the creation of the European Union. The event in New Delhi celebrated the historic significance of the day while also focusing on the strengthening of ties between India and the EU.
In his address, Dr. Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to deepening its multifaceted partnership with the European Union. He highlighted areas of strong cooperation, including trade and investment, sustainable development, digital transformation, and connectivity initiatives. He also spoke about the growing collaboration on global challenges such as climate change, energy security, and geopolitical stability.
The Minister noted that India and the EU share democratic values, rule of law, and a commitment to a rules-based international order. He further underlined the importance of the India-EU Strategic Partnership, especially in the wake of shifting global dynamics and the need for trusted and resilient supply chains.
Ambassador Hervé Delphin, in his remarks, lauded the progress made in EU-India relations over the past few years and expressed hope for a comprehensive free trade agreement between the two partners. He acknowledged India’s increasing global influence and the relevance of closer cooperation in areas such as defense, clean energy, and emerging technologies.
The event also featured cultural performances and a showcase of European culinary traditions, reflecting the diversity and shared cultural appreciation between the regions. Attendees included ambassadors of EU member states, senior Indian government officials, business leaders, and representatives from academia and civil society.
Analysts view the participation of the External Affairs Minister in this year’s celebration as a significant gesture, reflecting India’s foreign policy approach toward greater engagement with Europe. With ongoing negotiations around trade and investment agreements and collaboration in critical technologies, both sides are working toward a more robust and forward-looking partnership.
The Europe Day celebration in New Delhi not only marked the shared history and values between India and Europe but also reinforced the potential for expanded cooperation. As global challenges become increasingly complex, events like these serve as platforms to reaffirm commitments and foster mutual understanding between regions with shared strategic interests.
