EU proposes new strategic agenda to raise bilateral relations with India

New Delhi: The European Union on Wednesday proposed a new strategic agenda to raise bilateral relations with India, including in the security sector, to a higher level and fast-track the free trade agreement.The European Commission and the High Representative adopted a Joint Communication outlining a 'New Strategic EU-India Agenda', marking a significant milestone in the India-EU relations, according to an official EU statement.The EU's new strategic agenda also encompasses the India-EU security and defence partnership, which is focused on enhancing strategic consultations and joint initiatives, including on crisis management, maritime security, cyber defence and counterterrorism, and fostering defence industrial cooperation. It also focuses on strengthening regional connectivity initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, facilitating labour mobility and a framework to reach out to the business community.