India-EU Pact to Aid Global South Through Trilateral Projects
India and the European Union have signed a landmark Trilateral Cooperation Agreement, aiming to implement joint projects in third countries with a focus on development, clean energy, and digital inclusion. The pact was formalized in Brussels during the official visit of India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
The agreement, signed alongside European Commissioner for International Partnership Jozef Sikela, is set to advance India-EU engagement across several areas, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), green shipping, and climate-focused development. It is expected to particularly benefit countries in the Global South.
“This new initiative will support pilot projects in third countries, focused on driving sustainable development with a strong emphasis on climate action and digital inclusion,” Commissioner Sikela stated.
In addition to this major announcement, EAM Jaishankar met with Maros Sefcovic, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, to review progress on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Both leaders affirmed that the evolving FTA discussions are key to deepening their strategic partnership.
Jaishankar also met Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, where the two discussed reinforcing parliamentary relations and shared democratic values. The Minister appreciated her positive outlook on advancing ties in trade, technology, and security.
Further meetings with Members of the European Parliament — including Angelika Niebler, Urmas Paet, Winkler Gyula, Vladimir Prebilic, and Pilar del Castillo — highlighted mutual support for stronger India-EU relations and India’s right to defend itself from terrorism.
On Tuesday, Jaishankar met Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, delivering greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They discussed collaboration in sectors such as defense, semiconductors, clean energy, and investment.
The External Affairs Minister’s visit to France, the EU, and Belgium from June 8 to 14 is aimed at boosting India’s engagement with Europe through strategic, economic, and technological cooperation.
