Brussels, 09/10/2006 (Agence Europe) - “The future of mankind largely depends on the future of India,” Said Josep Borrell on 6 October at the end of his seven-day visit to India. “India is emerging as a major player on the world stage,” he added in a press release, saying that he was very impressed by India's economic achievements. His discussions with government representatives focused on the strategic partnership between New Dehli and the EU, which the 13 October Summit will help strengthen. “The European Union and India can help each other to deal with the challenges of globalisation,” challenges such as social cohesion, immigration, energy and terrorism, said Mr Borrell, arguing, just like the EP resolution (see EUROPE 9267), for bilateral trade talks to be opened. Beyond trade, he recalled the EP's proposal for a joint parliamentary meeting to be held each year just before the EU-India. He invited Indian President Dr Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam to come and address the European parliament “to enhance our understanding of the role you are now playing”. (ab)