India and EU Strengthen Digital Ties for a Global Order
New Delhi: India and the European Union (EU) are poised to enhance their collaboration in creating a global digital framework that emphasizes rules and standards. This partnership will focus on various sectors, including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technology, cybersecurity, and digital public infrastructure, particularly the well-regarded India stack. The aim is to develop a “Eurostack” that can provide efficient services to citizens across the 27-nation bloc, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
On January 27, both parties are expected to finalize negotiations for a significant free trade agreement that will further strengthen their strategic partnership, especially in establishing a fair digital order. Both India and the EU are regarded as stable and dependable entities on the world stage, committed to fostering a just global environment. They are already cooperating under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC), with potential collaboration expanding to include like-minded nations such as Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Canada.
During its G20 presidency in 2023, India proposed sharing its acknowledged digital public infrastructure model with the global community, particularly benefiting developing nations. This offering aims to ensure that welfare schemes are delivered seamlessly to millions at the touch of a button.
The India-EU Leaders’ Summit scheduled for January 27 is expected to address these topics. In July of last year, the European Commission introduced an International Digital Strategy aimed at cultivating a “safe, fair, inclusive and equal digital space” accessible to all.
While the broader vision focuses on global digital cooperation, the upcoming free trade agreement (FTA) may include specific regulations on digital trade to preserve an open and secure online environment. It will likely address personal data protection, privacy, national security, law enforcement, and consumer rights.
A report by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) published in November 2025 noted that India has positioned itself as a leader in building a robust digital ecosystem. It highlighted that India has created the third-largest tech startup landscape worldwide, with over 31,000 startups established in the last decade. Notably, 18% of these startups are led by women. As of January 2024, India had 111 unicorns valued at more than $350 billion.
The report also mentioned that Europe could benefit from adopting India’s large-scale digital strategies, such as the India stack, by implementing principles like interoperability, scalability, and inclusivity. These adaptations could enhance Europe’s financial inclusion and public service delivery.
A significant milestone was achieved when India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) was used at the Eiffel Tower in France in February 2024, paving the way for its adoption across Europe.
India and the EU’s technical cooperation, rooted in the TTC, encompasses trade, technology, and research. Both sides are eager to deepen their ties in trade and beyond, focusing on securing supply chains, ensuring economic stability, and preparing for health challenges. Plans are also underway to create EU-India Innovation Hubs and establish a startup partnership.
Additionally, both partners aim to address emerging global challenges, such as territorial disputes, terrorism, hybrid threats, and the implications of climate change on security.
European Council President António Costa, in a statement on January 15, remarked on the importance of the January 27 summit, calling India a vital partner for the EU. He expressed optimism that the meeting will be a significant opportunity to strengthen their relationship and progress in collaborative efforts.
