NEW DELHI (AP) — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday said the EU and India have agreed to push to get a long-pending free trade agreement done this year and that the two sides will strengthen their partnership in the areas of trade, technology, connectivity and defense.

There was a faint air of desperation when Brussels’ technocrats came to New Delhi. Yet closer ties could benefit everyone.

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen and her college of commissioners arrived in New Delhi, India, to hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu nationalist government during a two-day trip.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Lodhi Garden in Delhi on Friday. Surrounded by ancient monuments, lush greenery, and vibrant birdlife, she immersed herself in the essence of India’s incredible heritage.

Von der Leyen highlighted India’s growing defence ambitions, stressing Europe’s role in helping India diversify its military supply chains through PESCO (Permanent Structured Cooperation). The proposal aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Led by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the delegation's visit marks a new phase in the bilateral relationship between India and Europe.

This is the first visit of a high-level EU College of Commissioners, comprising 22 of the 27 EU Commissioners, to India as well as their first team visit outside India since they assumed office in December 2024.

India and Belgium on Monday explored potential defence engagements in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in the maritime domain, and discussed ways to strengthen defence industrial cooperation.

The top leadership of India and the European Union (EU) is expected to infuse on Friday a fresh momentum in sealing an ambitious trade deal at the ea