"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. We warmly welcome the development," Singh told reporters.

Counter-terrorism efforts and trade would also be in focus at the fifth India-EU summit on Monday, he said.

"My discussions with the EU leadership will be reflected in a comprehensive joint statement that will be issued at the conclusion of the summit," Singh said.

The EU wants to bring its relationship with India to "the same parity, density and quality" as it has with the US, Canada, China, Russia and Japan, a EU official said last week.

"Our relations are based on shared values -- democracy, pluralism, rule of law and free press," Singh said Sunday.

"Our partnership has evolved over the years from economic and development cooperation to a broad-based engagement on a wide range of issues -- globalisation, terrorism, proliferation, energy and environment."

Singh will hold talks separately with his Netherlands counterpart Jan Peter Balkenende and call on Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands.

The Netherlands holds the six-month rotating presidency of the 25-nation EU until December 31.