European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday in an attempt to revive and expand economic ties. The return of Donald Trump to the White House, tensions with China and economic sanctions on Russia have prompted Brussels to push for deeper trading ties with other economies.

India and the European Union will try to seal a trade deal during this year, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Friday.

Von der Leyen said during a New Delhi visit that the bloc was considering a defense and security partnership with India. The EU is aiming to achieve a free trade agreement with New Delhi ahead of possible US tariffs.

Highlighting the need to bolster cooperation between new Delhi and Brussels in the areas of digital technology, Artificial Intelligence and defence, EU President Ursula von der Leyen termed India as a "pillar of certainty" for Europe in an "increasingly uncertain world".

It is too early to discuss the potential lifting of European sanctions on Russia. First, Russia must demonstrate with concrete actions that it really seeks peace, stated European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during a meeting with the media following the Support Ukraine plenary session.

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.

India and the EU must take their strategic ties to the "next level" in an era of great power competition and geopolitical turmoils and the relationship has the potential to be one of the defining partnerships of this century,

Von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s commitment to making the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) a reality. The corridor, launched in 2023 during India’s G20 Presidency, is designed to enhance trade efficiency and connectivity between India,

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen experienced India's advanced UPI digital payments system during her visit. She was impressed by its efficiency. PM Modi had earlier highlighted UPI's significance by comparing daily transactions in India to the EU's population.