India and the European Union: Perceptions and Misperceptions

Abstract

In this chapter, former Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal highlights how European thinking of India during the Cold War was dominated by India’s policy of non-alignment, its proximity to the Soviet Union and influenced by the unappealing/unattractiveness of the Indian economy. The author seeks to raise and answer a number of questions. What does the rhetoric behind the term ‘natural partners’ used to describe the India-EU relationship really mean? Can India and the EU strengthen a value-based counter-narrative to China? What role can Europe play in the Indian Ocean and the Indo-Pacific? Why do European and Indian views tend to converge on the Belt and Road Initiative? What are the prospects of the conclusion of the India-EU Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement. He examines the impact of the refugee crisis, the problem of terrorism on European societies and polities. In conclusion, he looks at the differences between Eastern and Western Europe, the tensions with Russia and the implications of its interventions in the Middle East. He discusses the image of India in Europe and the rationale behind New Delhi’s preference for bilateralism. He also looks at the concept of post-modern Europe and Indian perceptions of EU-China relations as well as the role of civil society. In conclusion, he argues that despite whatever doubts India may have about Europe, one must not forget that Europe played a major role in world history and that it continues to be a major player in any discussion on global affairs.