India-EU Global Gateway Conference

June 1, 2023

The Ministry of External Affairs, the EU Delegation to India, and the Asian Confluence have come together to organize the India-EU Connectivity Conference. This conference aims to explore opportunities for boosting connectivity investments in India’s North Eastern States and its neighboring countries.

Exploring Connectivity and Investment Potential

The India-EU Connectivity Conference, scheduled to take place in Meghalaya, marks an important milestone in enhancing connectivity and building infrastructure. It is the outcome of the India – EU Connectivity partnership that was launched in May 2021 during the India – EU Leaders’ Meeting.

Focus on Digital, Energy, and Transport

The conference will revolve around three pillars: digital, energy, and transport. By exploring opportunities in these areas, the conference aims to identify concrete projects for joint implementation. This aligns with the priorities outlined in the EU Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, which emphasizes sustainable and inclusive prosperity, green transition, ocean governance, digital governance and partnerships, connectivity, security and defense, and human security.

Leadership and Collaboration

Conrad Kongkal Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, and Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, will lead the India-EU Connectivity Conference. The involvement of senior officials from the Indian government, EU Commission, and governments of Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh reflects the commitment to fostering regional collaboration and connectivity.

The Significance of the Global Gateway

The Global Gateway, an international investment project worth €300 billion, plays a central role in the conference. The EU’s substantial financial commitment through various instruments, such as the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI)-Global Europe, InvestEU, and the European Fund for Sustainable Development, demonstrates their determination to reshape global infrastructure projects.

Countering Challenges and Building Partnerships

One of the key challenges India faces in the Global Gateway initiative is the scale and limitation of funding. However, the initiative presents an opportunity to align mutual development goals, enhance transparency, and counter the problematic aspects of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) implemented by China. India’s participation in the Global Gateway would allow for planning and implementing large-scale projects in collaboration with the consortium of EU countries.

The Road Ahead

While the Global Gateway initiative is still a work in progress, discussions during the India-EU Connectivity Conference will help address key issues such as the financing mechanism. The emphasis on connectivity, infrastructure building, and regional partnerships underscores India’s commitment to economic diplomacy and

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