India and the European Union have taken a major step toward strengthening their strategic partnership by adopting a Joint Comprehensive Strategic Agenda focused on advancing technology cooperation, innovation ecosystems, and startup development. The agreement was approved at the 16th India–EU Summit in New Delhi and is expected to significantly enhance collaboration across high-impact sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, clean technology, and biotechnology.
The new India–EU framework aims to align policy, research, and investment efforts to deliver tangible and mutually beneficial outcomes. By deepening cooperation in emerging technologies, both partners seek to reinforce their global competitiveness while supporting sustainable and inclusive growth.
Focus on Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technologies
A key pillar of the strategic agenda is expanded collaboration in artificial intelligence, including large language models (LLMs), multilingual datasets, and AI applications for public good. India and the EU will work together on responsible and ethical AI development, with an emphasis on transparency, governance, and real-world impact across sectors such as healthcare, education, climate, and public services.
Beyond AI, the partnership also prioritises quantum computing, advanced semiconductor manufacturing, clean energy technologies, and biotechnology, reflecting shared interests in building resilient and future-ready digital and industrial ecosystems.
India–EU Innovation Hubs to Support Startups and Research
The agreement outlines plans to establish India–EU innovation hubs, designed to serve as collaborative platforms for startups, researchers, investors, policymakers, and industry leaders. These hubs will facilitate knowledge exchange, joint research projects, and cross-border innovation in critical technology domains.
By fostering closer engagement between Indian startups and European innovation networks, the initiative aims to unlock new funding opportunities, accelerate technology transfer, and support the scaling of breakthrough solutions from lab to market.
Strengthening Startup Ecosystems and Global Competitiveness
The India–EU trade and technology partnership is expected to create new opportunities for startup collaboration, co-development, and market access, particularly in deep tech and emerging technology sectors. For Indian startups, the initiative offers greater exposure to European markets, while EU innovators gain access to India’s fast-growing digital economy and talent base.
Officials noted that the agenda also reinforces broader geopolitical and economic goals, positioning India and the EU as trusted partners in shaping global technology standards and resilient supply chains.
A Long-Term Strategic Vision
With innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation at its core, the Joint Strategic Agenda marks a significant evolution in India–EU relations. As implementation begins, the partnership is expected to play a critical role in supporting next-generation technologies, startup growth, and cross-border innovation, with benefits extending well beyond both regions.
