External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar has identified Europe as the partner with the most unrealised potential and room for growth among India's major global relationships. He made this significant statement while attending the inaugural India-Weimar format meeting in Paris on Wednesday, January 9, 2026.
A Historic First Meeting in a New Format
This marked the first time India engaged in this specific diplomatic format, sitting down with key European counterparts: French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, and Polish Deputy Prime Minister Radoslaw Sikorski. Jaishankar noted that the discussions were primarily focused on three critical areas: India-European Union relations, the strategic dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Setting the context for the high-level dialogue, Jaishankar pointed to the geopolitical churn in the Indo-Pacific and Europe's own challenging circumstances. "We may be located in different parts of the world, but despite that, perhaps even because of that, it is extremely useful for us to exchange views regularly and to share assessments," he stated, referring to overarching developments that could redefine the global order.
Unlocking the Untapped Potential of India-Europe Ties
Elaborating on the future trajectory, Jaishankar emphasized that the relationship with the European Union and its member states is poised for significant expansion. "Among India’s major relationships, I believe that the one with the European Union and Europe — and obviously with its member states — has the most room to grow today," he asserted.
He explained that this collective endeavour is supported by both Brussels and individual EU nations. As cooperation deepens, smaller group interactions like the Weimar format help steer the larger partnership forward. "My discussions today leave me confident that they will support that effort to take India-Europe ties to the next level," Jaishankar added, highlighting the tremendous unrealised potential and new areas awaiting exploration.
Strengthening Bilateral Bonds with France and Beyond
On the sidelines, Jaishankar's meeting with French Foreign Minister Barrot underscored the deep bilateral connection. He described France as among India's oldest strategic partners and the first in Europe, stressing that continuous conversation is vital for nurturing this special relationship. The talks also laid the groundwork for French President Emmanuel Macron's upcoming visit to India next month to participate in an AI Summit.
Looking ahead, Jaishankar revealed a busy diplomatic calendar, announcing that Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz is expected to visit India soon, following President Macron's trip. He also noted the symbolic convergence of India chairing the BRICS grouping and France leading the G7 this year, with both being integral members of the G20.
Concluding his remarks, the External Affairs Minister framed the partnership in terms of global stability. By asking "What kind of world do we want to live in?", he positioned the strengthened India-Europe bond as a force that can bring more stability to both the international economy and global politics, which was the core purpose of his diplomatic mission to Paris.
