The Evolution of Indian Foreign Policy Towards Europe

This article traces the development of Europe–India ties through history, highlighting periods which laid down the fundamental structure of the partnership until the present day where the challenges presented by China’s rise and a search for the diversification of partnerships have driven Europe and India closer. The article looks at where Europe, particularly the EU, sits in India’s broader foreign policy and argues that while Europe and India are still not fully aligned on all issues—particularly the extent of threats posed by China—there is finally enough convergence for the actors to build a broad-based partnership beyond just trade and commerce.