India–EU Ties Gain Momentum as Jaishankar Meets Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held talks with Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, during his visit to Belgium, describing her recent visit to India as a “turning point” in India–European Union relations. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Jaishankar appreciated von der Leyen’s engagement with India and said New Delhi is actively following up on the outcomes of her visit to strengthen cooperation between India and the European Union. The External Affairs Minister also acknowledged the European Commission president’s insights on contemporary global developments, underlining the importance of closer coordination between India and the EU amid evolving geopolitical challenges. Von der Leyen’s India visit earlier this year was seen as a significant step toward deepening strategic partnership, expanding trade negotiations, and enhancing cooperation in technology, climate action, and global security. The meeting in Brussels is part of India’s broader diplomatic engagement with the EU aimed at advancing negotiations on the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and reinforcing the growing partnership between the two sides.

A pleasure to call on President @EU_Commission Ursula von der Leyen this afternoon. @vonderleyen

Her highly successful State visit to India this January marks a turning point in our ties. We are following up vigorously on it.

Appreciate her insights on contemporary global… pic.twitter.com/J3epIatLeu

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) March 16, 2026