India and EU Make Strides Towards a Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement
On June 11, 2025, significant progress was reported in the ongoing talks between India and the European Union over a free trade agreement (FTA) that promises to be comprehensive, balanced, and meaningful. This announcement came from External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar following his meeting with Maros Sefcovic, the European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, held in Brussels.
Elevating a Strategic Partnership
Highlighting the strategic dimension, Mr. Jaishankar emphasized that the pact will elevate the bilateral relationship, which is already rapidly expanding in scope. “We have recognized notable progress in discussions aimed at this agreement,” he stated, underscoring the growing partnership between India and the EU.
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Sefcovic described the dialogue as valuable and expressed enthusiasm for continuing engagements, particularly looking forward to the upcoming meeting with India’s Commerce Minister, Piyush Goyal.
Wider Engagement Beyond Trade
The visit also included discussions with Jozef Sikela, the EU's Commissioner for International Partnerships. Mr. Sikela highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen EU-India collaboration, referencing recent missions and shared interests.
“Our talks touched upon the new EU-India Strategic Agenda, the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor Project, and joint priorities under the Global Gateway plan,” Sikela noted. These priorities span clean energy, sustainable urbanization, and enhanced connectivity.
After meeting Sikela, Minister Jaishankar pointed out that their conversation was focused on advancing connectivity projects, the IMEC initiative, green shipping, and clean energy collaborations. The day also saw the signing of a trilateral cooperation agreement aimed at benefiting the Global South, showcasing a broader commitment beyond trade.
Context of the Visit
Mr. Jaishankar is currently on a weeklong European tour covering France, Belgium, and the EU headquarters in Brussels, where these critical talks are unfolding amid growing global economic shifts.
Key Takeaways:
- India-EU FTA talks are progressing, aiming for a balanced and meaningful agreement.
- The agreement is expected to strengthen strategic ties and open new dimensions in bilateral relations.
- Discussions include broader cooperation areas such as clean energy, connectivity, and sustainable urbanization.
- A trilateral cooperation agreement was signed to support development goals in the Global South.
The evolving India-EU partnership signals a strategic alignment that goes well beyond trade—inclusive of economic security, sustainability, and regional connectivity, marking a new chapter in their diplomatic and economic engagement.
