India-EU Nuclear Energy Cooperation

India and the European Union have agreed to deepen cooperation in peaceful nuclear energy, research, and clean technology under the India-Euratom framework. The understanding also covers wider scientific collaboration through Horizon Europe and addresses trade-related concerns linked to the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). The agenda reflects growing India-EU engagement in strategic sectors such as energy, health, semiconductors, biotech, and advanced materials.

India-Euratom Cooperation

India and the EU will expand collaboration on the peaceful uses of nuclear energy under the India-Euratom agreement. Key areas include:

• Nuclear science and technology research.
• Advanced materials for detectors.
• Radiation safety and nuclear security.
• Non-power applications of atomic energy.
• Cooperation on radio-pharmaceuticals.
• Support for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER).

Horizon Europe Partnership

The two sides also plan to deepen cooperation under Horizon Europe, the EU’s main research and innovation programme. The focus areas include energy, water, agri-food, health, semiconductors, biotechnology, and advanced materials. The cooperation is expected to use mechanisms such as co-funding and coordinated calls to support joint research and innovation projects.

CBAM and Trade Concerns

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism remains a key issue in India-EU discussions. CBAM places additional costs on imports of carbon-intensive goods such as iron and steel. The understanding includes:

• Forward-looking most-favoured nation assurance.
• Flexibility for any concessions granted to third countries.
• Technical cooperation on carbon price recognition.
• Recognition of verifiers.
• Financial assistance and targeted support for emissions reduction.

Strategic Significance

The agreement strengthens India-EU ties in climate action, advanced research, and industrial transition. It also signals a broader effort to align scientific cooperation with trade, decarbonisation, and emerging technology priorities.