EU finds diplomatic relief in India after Greenland dispute

The EU signed a large trade agreement with India in New Delhi, where EU leaders were given a red-carpet welcome; the visit followed recent tensions involving the Greenland dispute.

The European Union and India completed a major trade agreement in New Delhi during a visit by EU leaders. Ursula von der Leyen and European Council president Antonio Costa co-led the EU delegation and were hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They were feted at India's Republic Day events and received public welcomes across the city. The visit came after a period of tension tied to US threats over Greenland and internal EU disagreements on other trade pacts. Key points: - EU and India signed a trade pact that cuts or eliminates tariffs on nearly 97 percent of European exports, easing access to India’s market for goods such as cars, wine and pasta. - Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa received a red-carpet welcome in New Delhi and were guests of honour at India’s Republic Day parade. - The visit followed recent transatlantic tensions tied to the United States and a separate setback for a Mercosur trade deal in the European Parliament. - The leaders announced a security partnership alongside the trade agreement, and Indian officials expressed interest in joint production of European military equipment. - European officials said the agreement fits broader efforts to diversify relationships beyond the United States and China. Summary: The deal provides an economic and diplomatic boost for Brussels after recent tensions, including the Greenland dispute. Undetermined at this time.