New Delhi marked a historic moment on Tuesday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union (EU). In a stirring address, PM Modi described the pact not merely as a trade deal, but as a ‘new blueprint for shared prosperity’ that will reshape economic ties between the two powers.
The agreement encompasses all 27 EU member states, positioning it as India’s largest FTA to date. This comprehensive deal is set to open European markets to Indian farmers and small industries, unlocking fresh opportunities in manufacturing and bolstering collaboration in the services sector.
Beyond trade barriers, the FTA promises to supercharge investments, foster innovative partnerships, and fortify global supply chains. PM Modi emphasized that this is more than commerce—it’s a framework for mutual growth that aligns with shared values of multilateralism and international standards.
Highlighting the strategic depth, the Prime Minister noted India’s commitment to reforming global institutions to tackle contemporary challenges. The partnership will extend to tri-lateral projects spanning the Indo-Pacific to the Caribbean, supporting sustainable agriculture, clean energy initiatives, and women’s empowerment.
Current bilateral trade stands at 80 billion euros, with nearly 800,000 Indians residing across Europe. After a decade of negotiations, this ‘mother of all deals’ is expected to benefit 2 billion people and influence 25% of the global economy, heralding a new era of collaborative success.