EU committed to stronger cooperation with India in Indo-Pacific, says envoy

The European Union is committed to forge a stronger cooperation with India to ensure a free, open, inclusive and rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific, EU envoy Herve Delphin said on Thursday.

The EU envoy to New Delhi described the Indo-Pacific as a "vital hub" of strategic importance to both India and the EU in view of the region's role in the maritime supply chains.

"We're committed to forge a stronger cooperation with India to ensure free, open, inclusive and rules-based maritime order, address common security challenges and promote peace and stability in the region," he said.

Delphin's comments came following a visit of senior Indian officials to EU institutions in Brussels to strengthen two-way security and defence ties.

"The Indo-Pacific region is a vital hub of strategic importance to both India and the EU due to the growing interdependence of global economies and the importance of maritime supply chains," he said.

The Indian delegation was led by Muanpuii Saiawi,