European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will ask for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assistance to enforce sanctions on Russia when the two leaders meet this week in New Delhi.

The head of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, is in Delhi to strengthen trade and diplomatic ties with India amid looming tariff threats from the US. Von der Leyen is due to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday.

India and the European Union have agreed to finalize a long-pending free trade agreement this year and boost cooperation in trade, technology, connectivity and defense, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the European Commission chief said Friday.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during her visit to New Delhi, India, Feb. 28, 2025. Credit: Facebook/Narendra Modi India and the European Union last week announced a “new era” in ties,

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi applauds after the press statement by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, left, in New Delhi, India, Friday, Feb. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Delhi to discuss enhancing their strategic partnership. Von der

India and the EU announced strategic agreements covering trade, technology, security, and sustainability. The two sides also pledged to complete a Free Trade Agreement by year-end.

A large delegation of the European Commission on Friday held talks with Indian officials in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the President of the European Commission,Ursula von der Leyen in the national capital.