The study examines the potential of the European Union (EU)–India cooperation in health diplomacy and the exchange of lessons learned by both actors. Particularly, the growing discourse on achieving strategic autonomy in health has not been adequately analysed in the existing literature, which is surprising given that both actors share this interest. This paper begins by contextualising the discourse of strategic autonomy in the European and Indian political discourse with a specific focus on achieving autonomy in health and subsequently argues for a transition from strategic autonomy to a strategic partnership by recognising the strategic interdependencies. A qualitative content analysis was used to analyse all 16 EU–India summits to locate health diplomacy in their relations and present recommendations for future cooperation. The shift from strategic autonomy to strategic partnership also necessitates a strategic vision towards shaping the EU–India cooperation. With the upcoming EU–India Summit in 2025, research and development, strengthening supply chains, harmonisation of regulations, and financing of healthcare are key areas that can be deliberated on to enhance the cooperation between the two global actors in healthcare.
Policy Implications
- Recognising the interdependencies can catalyse the transition from strategic autonomy to a strategic partnership in health between the EU and India and foster deeper diplomatic ties.
- The specific health-related challenges that need to be addressed for the EU–India cooperation are preparedness for future pandemics, harmonisation of regulations, bolstering synergies through global supply chains, technology transfer, and research and development in diagnostics, pharmaceuticals and vaccines.
- The upcoming EU–India Summit in 2025 needs to deliberate on the critical areas of health such as research and development, supply and distribution, harmonisation of regulations, and financing of public health emergencies to strengthen the relationship.
- There is a need for congruence in the idea of competencies in health policy between the EU and its member states.
- Recognising India as an equal partner during the negotiations is essential to building an effective dialogue and strategic partnership for the EU.
- Increased research funds and grants, regulatory frameworks for the exchange of health data and technology, and the involvement of non-state actors in developing research projects and facilities in health.
- The inclusion of Health in All Policies (HiAP) discussions in the ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) dialogues between them is essential to deepen the partnership.
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