EAM Jaishankar in Brussels: India-EU Strategic Partnership Deepens on Maritime Security

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has begun an important visit to Brussels, where he is engaging with senior European Union leadership to further strengthen the India-EU Strategic Partnership. According to official statements, the discussions are focused on expanding cooperation across key sectors, with maritime security emerging as one of the central priorities.

The visit reflects the growing momentum in India-EU relations as both sides seek closer collaboration on regional security, economic resilience, and global governance. With the Indo-Pacific becoming increasingly significant in international geopolitics, New Delhi and Brussels are working to enhance coordination on issues affecting maritime stability and secure global trade routes.

Maritime security has become a major area of convergence between India and the European Union. Both partners support a rules-based maritime order, freedom of navigation, and uninterrupted commercial shipping through strategically important sea lanes. As global maritime challenges continue to evolve, cooperation in areas such as maritime domain awareness, intelligence sharing, counter-piracy efforts, and naval coordination is expected to gain greater importance.

India’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean Region places it at the centre of major international shipping corridors, with a significant share of global maritime trade passing through nearby waters. This makes maritime security not only a national priority but also an essential element of regional and international stability. India’s maritime strategy continues to emphasise its role in promoting security, stability, and cooperation across the Indian Ocean.

Over the years, the India-EU partnership has expanded beyond trade and investment to include technology, climate action, connectivity, and security cooperation. The European Union remains one of India’s key economic partners, while both sides continue exploring opportunities for deeper collaboration in defence, innovation, and resilient supply chains.

In recent years, the European Union has also increased its engagement in the Indo-Pacific, with several member states strengthening their naval presence and participating in multinational maritime initiatives. This growing regional involvement complements India’s own vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, creating new opportunities for long-term strategic cooperation.

The discussions in Brussels underline the shared commitment of India and the European Union to addressing maritime challenges, supporting regional stability, and strengthening a strategic partnership that continues to evolve in response to changing global security dynamics.