zi2525...here you go man..just because it's you I looked up some facts for thee..
India and the European Union have launched a 'strategic partnership' deal which officials say will significantly boost their relationship.
This will culminate in India having the same relations with the EU as the US, Canada, China and Russia.
Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, says he warmly welcomes the move. It will come into full effect next year.
The EU is a leading foreign investor in India, although it ploughs far more investment into China.
'Natural partners'
"In recognition of India's growing stature and influence, the EU has proposed a strategic partnership with India. This will be formalised during the
summit," Mr Singh said, referring to the talks he is attending in Holland.
The prime minister described the EU and India and "natural partners".
The partnership is due to be introduced in stages and is due to be fully in effect by January, 2005.
The agenda for Mr Singh's talks in Holland includes globalisation, terrorism, nuclear proliferation, energy and trade issues.
He is expected to hold talks with his Dutch counterpart, Jan Peter Balkenende, and meet separately with European Commission President Romano Prodi
during his visit.
"The relationship between the European Union and India should be of the same parity, density and quality as we have with the US, Canada, China and
Russia," said Francisco da Camera Gomes, head of the EU's India delegation.
EU officials say that developing closer relationships will be a key part of the strategic relationship which is in effect an action plan to be
approved when EU and Indian leaders stage their next annual meeting in 2005.
