External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar concluded a highly productive visit to Brussels, engaging with European Union leaders and foreign ministers to discuss the immense economic opportunities under the recently signed India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The talks focused on strengthening collaboration across trade, technology, security, and connectivity.
During his visit, Jaishankar met with members of the EU Foreign Affairs Council and held discussions with senior European officials, including EU Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas. He also conducted bilateral discussions with multiple EU counterparts to further bilateral cooperation.
Jaishankar emphasized that finalizing the FTA would mark a pivotal moment in India-EU relations, highlighting its strategic significance while unlocking substantial economic potential. He called for proactive measures to translate the agreement into practical gains, particularly in promoting trade and investment initiatives.
The External Affairs Minister underlined the role of the Trade and Technology Council (TTC), suggesting it could be enhanced to foster collaboration in advanced and critical technologies. He also stressed the importance of de-risking supply chains and building resilience, noting that the FTA would encourage deeper business connections to support these goals.
Talent mobility emerged as another priority, with Jaishankar highlighting the significance of skill flows and the establishment of the Legal Gateway Office in India. He further emphasized the mutual interest in promoting Global Capability Centres (GCCs) across the country.
Security cooperation was another key focus, with plans to advance the Security and Defence Partnership and work toward the early conclusion of the Security of Information Agreement. Additionally, connectivity initiatives such as IMEC are set to receive practical support from both sides.
Jaishankar concluded that India and the EU would work to strengthen multilateral institutions amid global uncertainties, ensuring their strategic partnership operates through regular leadership-level consultations, supported by domain-specific mechanisms. He emphasized that in a multipolar world, the India-EU partnership would act as a stabilizing factor, enhancing resilience and strategic collaboration across sectors.
