European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the European Union’s urgent need to diversify its trade partnerships to reduce economic dependencies, particularly in light of rising U.S. import tariffs. Speaking at a conference with German business leaders on September 18, 2025, von der Leyen highlighted India as a key partner, expressing optimism about finalizing a trade deal with the country by the end of the year. She revealed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had reaffirmed his commitment to this objective during a recent phone conversation. Beyond India, the EU is also engaging in negotiations with South Africa, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, and other nations to broaden its trade network. This strategic shift aims to bolster the bloc’s economic resilience and mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on specific markets. Von der Leyen’s remarks underscore the EU’s proactive approach to navigating global trade challenges and fostering stronger international ties.