At EICBI’s 6th EU Parliament Session: MEP Prebilic’s Vision for Deeper EU-India Relations

Member of European Parliament Vladimir Prebilic from Slovenia spoke at the EU-India Leaders Conference held on November 5, 2025, in EU Parliament, Brussels, organised by the Europe India Centre for Business and Industry (EICBI). As Standing Rapporteur on India for the European Parliament, Prebilic shared his views on how Europe and India can work together for mutual benefit and global progress.

Prebilic began by emphasizing that the EU-India partnership is more than just business connections, it is important for building the kind of world both regions want to see in the twenty-first century. He noted that we are living in uncertain times, with democracies facing challenges, global supply chains changing, and technology reshaping power dynamics. In this scenario, Europe and India stand out as natural partners because both value democracy, diversity, respect for human rights, and following international rules and agreements.

Prebilic highlighted that the EU and India share core values like freedom, pluralism, and human dignity. These shared values form the foundation of their relationship, but real partnership requires concrete action, not just words.

The MEP outlined three main areas where EU and India should focus their efforts:

Trade Agreement: Prebilic emphasized the need to complete the long-pending Free Trade Agreement between EU and India. He explained that such an agreement is not just about business transactions but about creating jobs, boosting economic growth, and making both regions stronger and less dependent on others. He believes both sides have the will and reasons to finish these negotiations soon.

Open Dialogue: Prebilic acknowledged that Europe and India may see world events differently. However, he argued that honest and respectful conversations about governance, human rights, security, and technology can strengthen their partnership rather than weaken it. When both sides speak frankly and listen to each other, they build real trust.

Emerging Opportunities: The MEP identified four key areas for cooperation: digital technology advancement, clean energy projects, maritime security, and scientific research. He emphasized that when Europe and India work together in these fields, the benefits will extend beyond just the two regions, they can help other developing nations and bring positive change to the Indo-Pacific region and the entire world.

Prebilic concluded by saying that Europe and India believe in democracy's power to improve people's lives and in cooperation's ability to create a more stable world. He envisioned the EU-India partnership as a bridge connecting different regions, cultures, and ways of thinking with fresh ideas and practical solutions that can be implemented on the ground.

The conference is the 6^th European Parliament session organised by EICBI, which brought together business leaders, policymakers, and trade professionals to discuss how this partnership can grow and benefit both societies in the coming years.