European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen starts her two-day visit to India on Thursday, accompanied by the entire college of commissioners — all of the top leaders of the European Union's executive branch.

India and the European Union already cooperate closely on issues like foreign policy, defense and technology development. Now Brussels is ramping up efforts to finalize a long-delayed free trade agreement with the world's most populous country.

The Indian Foreign Ministry says the trip will pave the way for "strengthening bilateral partnership based on growing convergences."

Both sides hope to boost cooperation in digital innovation and sustainable tech areas with the meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council, a bilateral body comprised of selected EU commissioners and Indian ministers.

Foreign policy experts and diplomats say the EU is currently keen on reducing dependence on traditional allies like the United States while still being wary of China.

"The visit comes at a critical moment as Europe navigates a rupturing trans-Atlantic alliance and a disruptive [Donald] Trump presidency. This also comes on top of continuing concerns about China's assertiveness and Russia's aggression," Ajay Bisaria, a former diplomat, told DW.

"This disruptive........

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