Details emerging from the India-European Union Security and Defence Partnership indicate a shift in the ties with the two sides agreeing to hold an annual security and defence dialogue.In this defence dialogue, they will discuss strategic environment, thematic security and defence issues and will feed the ministerial-level meetings, according to a document put out by the European Union External Action, the diplomatic service of the EU.The document further states security and defence-related issues will be a key component of the agenda of the EU-India strategic dialogue at the level of the External Affairs Minister of India and his EU counterpart.The European Union and India aim to enhance global security and contribute to effective arms control mechanisms. The two sides will also deepen exchanges on space security and explore further opportunities for cooperation and synergies in support of capacity-building for partners in the field of security and defence, it reads further.The EU document notes that the defence industry of both sides will also explore mutual interest and alignment of security priorities, with possibilities for India’s participation in relevant EU defence initiatives.Analysts says this is vital as India needs the technology and partnership with EU countries to propel its ‘Make in India’ projects in the defence sector.The two-sides will also look to work together on maritime security, counter-terrorism, cyber security and non-proliferation and disarmament. Besides, they will look for cooperation on maritime capacity-building with other partners.They will also deepen the existing cyber dialogue, and coordinate diplomatic responses to malicious cyber activities, as well as coordination of cyber capacity-building efforts. The two sides also look to address issues related to the global governance and responsible use of AI in the context of relevant international initiatives and forums.Strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructure, in full respect of respective legal frameworks, both sides will strengthen the existing joint working group on counter-terrorism, allowing for a comprehensive exchange on domestic, regional, and global threat assessments, as well as for regular updates on the evolution of terrorist threat, including the link between organised crime, terrorism and financing of terrorism.
