The 16th India–EU Summit was held on January 27, 2026, in New Delhi, co-chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, European Council President António Costa, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The summit centered on a new joint agenda, “Towards 2030: India–EU Joint Comprehensive Strategic Agenda,” which focuses heavily on next-generation digital cooperation, supply chain resilience, and strategic autonomy.
Key highlights from the summit regarding the requested focus areas include:
1. Digital Cooperation & Technology
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- 6G & Technology Alliances: The Bharat 6G Alliance and the EU’s 6G-IA signed an MoU to align on research, testing, and standardization. Furthermore, the Trade and Technology Council (TTC) was reaffirmed to advance collaboration in AI, semiconductors, and quantum computing.
- DPI & Mobility: The EU showed keen interest in adopting aspects of India’s “India Stack” (UPI, Aadhaar). To boost the digital workforce, a European Legal Gateway Office will be established in India to facilitate the movement of ICT professionals.
2. Strategic Autonomy & Security
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- Defense & Supply Chains: A partnership was launched to enhance cooperation on cyber threats, maritime security, and defense technology to reduce external reliance.
- Trade & Economic Independence: The finalized India-EU Free Trade Agreement aims to strengthen supply chain resilience and increase economic autonomy.
- Multipolar Focus: Both partners agreed to secure critical supply chains, with a focus on telecommunications and strategic alignment in the Indo-Pacific region.
