While addressing the 15th India-EUSummit via video conferencing on Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi said that India and EU are natural partners, and this partnership is useful for maintaining peace in the world.
"India-EU partnership is useful for peace and stability in the world. This reality has become even more clear in today’s global situation," PM said.
He went on to say that, "We both share universal values like democracy, pluralism, inclusivity, respect for international institutions, freedom and transparency. India-EU partnership can play an important role in economic revival and in developing a human-centred and humanity-centred globalization.'
The EU and India have a long-standing partnership of over 55 years, where much has been achieved since the establishment of the diplomatic relations between the two.
European Union in India ahead of the India-EU summit had stated that the EU and India have converging interests and a robust cooperation, underpinned by the Strategic Partnership adopted in 2004. And through this summit, both Indian and the EU wish to amplify this cooperation.
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Noting down the need of broadening the ties specially at this time when the world is battling Coronavirus, PM Modi raised concerns over the pandemic and marked the priorities of India and EU.
"New economic problems have surfaced in the world because of COVID-19 pandemic. For this, we realize the need for increased cooperation between democratic nations. Health and prosperity of our citizens are facing challenges today. We have sent medicines to 150 countries and have taken initiative to create shared resources. We welcome 'Accelerating the access to COVID tools' initiative by EU and member countries. Indian researchers, pharmaceutical firms are ready to contribute," PM said.
Moving further, Modi invited investment and technology in India in order to speed-up the use of Renewable Energy.
"Apart from present challenges, long-term challenges like Climate Change too are a priority for both India and EU. In India's efforts to increase the use of Renewable Energy, we invite Europe's investment and technology," said Modi.
WATCH | PM Modi Addresses India-EUcSummit 2020 Via Video Conferencing