Shantipath Debates Launched as Poland Closes EU Presidency Chapter
30.06.2025
As Poland concluded its successful Presidency in the Council of the European Union, a new chapter of engagement and dialogue was opened in New Delhi with the launch of the Shantipath Debates – a format designed to foster open, informed conversations at the crossroads of diplomacy, policy, and academia.
The inaugural edition of the Shantipath Debates brought together voices from India's think tank ecosystem, top academic institutions, and the diplomatic corps. It served as a fitting intellectual finale to the Polish Presidency, while also laying the foundation for ongoing strategic dialogues between India and Europe.
Shairee Malhotra, Deputy Director at the Observer Research Foundation, offered a compelling overview of Poland’s Presidency in the EU, highlighting its strong focus on security, resilience, and partnership – priorities that found particular resonance in the current global context.
The discussion was steered by Dr. Swasti Rao, a leading scholar and analyst of European affairs, who moderated a wide-ranging debate with representatives of major think tanks, prominent universities, and European missions in Delhi. The conversation touched on EU strategic autonomy, transatlantic dynamics, India-EU cooperation, and Poland’s distinct contribution to shaping the agenda during its Presidency.
With the Shantipath Debates, we aim to continue building bridges between Europe and India – through open dialogue, intellectual exchange, and mutual understanding. We thank all participants and look forward to future editions.