India put on table by EU as 'backup plan' for trade; sidelining China only 'wishful thinking' Chen Qingqing Published: May 09, 2021 08:28 PM Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the heads of state or government of member states of the EU meet on a virtual summit on Saturday. Photo: @MEAIndia When some Indian and European officials hailed the resumption of trade talks and agreement on enhanced partnership to seek replacement of China amid growing opposition toward the China-Europe investment deal, some Chinese observers consider that sidelining China through an EU-India tie-up is wishful thinking that has only a symbolic meaning, as disputes between India and Europe such as prevailing protectionism in India and different attitudes on a US-proposed vaccine waiver plan will hinder talks.