India and Europe can bring stability into the global economy and global politics, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said during his official visit to Paris, where he held talks with French Foreign Minister Jean‑Noël Barrot. Jaishankar emphasised Europe’s central role in the international order and the need for India to strengthen its relationship with European nations amidst a shifting geopolitical environment. www.ndtv.com+1

Key points from Jaishankar’s comments

🔹 Strategic importance of Europe
Jaishankar said Europe remains an important player in global politics, and that deeper India–Europe engagement can contribute to stability in both the international economy and geopolitical affairs. He described India’s outreach as a “conscious choice” reflecting belief in the relationship’s potential to grow at a strategic level. www.ndtv.com

🔹 Global order and cooperation
Asked why he was in Europe, Jaishankar said the world is experiencing considerable global uncertainty, and that India and Europe can work together to shape the norms and institutions of the global order. He noted active discussions on issues such as the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), technology, semiconductors, railways, defence, and aviation during recent engagements. mint

🔹 Geopolitical context
His remarks come against a backdrop of frosty ties between India and the United States, following high U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, underscoring New Delhi’s interest in cultivating diverse partnerships. mint

🔹 Upcoming engagements with European leaders
Jaishankar highlighted that in the coming weeks, India will host several European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and senior EU officials — steps seen as further deepening strategic ties. www.ndtv.com

🔹 India–France cooperation
He also stressed that cooperation with France, one of India’s oldest European strategic partners, is important for stabilising global politics, and that their talks focused on setting the stage for Macron’s upcoming visit to India for the AI Summit. www.ndtv.com

Why this matters

Jaishankar’s comments underline India’s multi‑polar foreign policy approach, seeking stronger ties with Europe as part of broader efforts to balance global influences, promote shared economic interests, and contribute to a more stable international order amid geopolitical tensions. mint