'From Nice To Necessary': Greek Defence Minister Dendias Says India Now Central To Europe’s Strategy

Europe’s perception of India has undergone a decisive change. At the India-EU Forum 2026, Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias said India has moved from being an optional partner to an indispensable one for Europe. His remarks underline how New Delhi’s economic scale, strategic autonomy and geopolitical relevance are reshaping European policy thinking. Dendias also threw his weight behind the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, calling it a major opportunity for both sides. The forum, attended by over 200 policymakers and strategic experts, focused on converting growing convergence into concrete outcomes. With global trade under stress and security dynamics evolving, Europe is looking for reliable, long-term partners. Greece’s message reflects a wider European shift. India is no longer viewed through a future lens. It is being treated as a present-day strategic necessity.