Team Blitz India
Aprominent member of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, has emphasised the importance of a unified response between Europe and India against Russian attempts to sow discord. “Europe and India should invest in strengthening our bonds and not allow Russia to play us against each other,” said Reinhard Butikofer, in an interview.
Butikofer, who also chairs the delegation to China, acknowledged India’s independent stance on Russia but urged that it shouldn’t affect New Delhi’s relationship with the EU. He remarked, “Many of us see India as a major country that insists on developing its own perspectives, and will not want to be subsumed into somebody else’s camp.”
Acknowledging diverse views among European nations regarding China, Butikofer advocated for a more united approach. He outlined three necessary changes, “First, Europe must act in a more united way. Second, Europe must invest more into building strong partnerships with other countries that are also impacted by China’s revisionist and hegemonic ambitions. Third, Europe must reduce the risk of economic dependency on China.”
Regarding Europe’s evolving perspective on China, Butikofer highlighted Europe’s shifting stance towards China – Europe now sees Beijing as a “systemic rival.” However, he admitted concerns about Europe’s strategic capabilities, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Regarding EU’s role in Indo-Pacific, Butikofer emphasised collaboration with like-minded partners.
