External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the growing partnership between India and the European Union (EU) as he addressed the inaugural India-EU Forum on Friday. Speaking on the historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA), he described it as a transformative milestone for bilateral relations, emphasizing the potential for expanded cooperation in security, defence, climate, technology, and talent flows. Jaishankar expressed hope that the forum would facilitate deeper discussions and foster greater convergence between India and EU nations.
The FTA negotiations were successfully concluded on January 27, 2026, during the 16th India-EU Summit co-chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, European Council President Antonio Costa, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Leaders celebrated the deal as a landmark achievement in the India-EU Strategic Partnership, expected to significantly boost trade, investment, and shared economic prosperity. The agreement also aims to strengthen resilient, diversified supply chains and support sustainable, inclusive growth for both parties.
The joint statement issued after the summit reaffirmed the importance of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in maintaining a multilateral trading system. Leaders emphasized the need for meaningful and comprehensive reforms to enhance the WTO’s effectiveness in promoting the objectives of all member countries. Against the backdrop of global uncertainties and economic disruptions, closer India-EU economic ties are seen as vital for fostering growth, job creation, industrial development, and the green transition.
Both India and the EU committed to fully implementing the FTA and advancing related negotiations. Priority areas include an Investment Protection Agreement (IPA) and an Agreement on Geographical Indications (GIs). The leaders also encouraged scaling up bilateral investments and promoting private sector engagement through initiatives like Blue Valleys, which aim to strengthen select value chains and drive long-term collaboration.
The India-EU FTA represents a significant step toward a strategic and comprehensive partnership, combining trade liberalization with sustainable development goals, industrial growth, and technological collaboration. It positions both India and the EU to tackle emerging global challenges together while deepening economic integration and reinforcing strategic ties across multiple sectors.
