New Delhi witnessed a landmark moment in global diplomacy as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, European Council President Antonio Costa, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen celebrated the successful conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. This breakthrough, announced following the 16th India-EU Summit, marks a pivotal achievement in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two economic powerhouses.
The joint statement emphasized that the historic pact will supercharge trade and investment flows, fostering shared prosperity and building resilient, diversified supply chains. In an era of global uncertainties, this agreement couldn’t be more timely, promising to drive sustainable and inclusive growth across borders.
Leaders underscored the critical role of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in reforming the global trading system. They called for comprehensive reforms to ensure the interests of all nations are safeguarded amid rising disruptions.
‘Robust economic ties between India and the EU are now more essential than ever for growth, jobs, green transitions, industrial advancement, and reliable supply chains,’ the statement noted. Both sides committed to swift implementation of the FTA, while pushing teams to finalize the Investment Protection Agreement (IPA) and Geographical Indications (GI) pact at the earliest.
A key focus was on amplifying bilateral investments and private sector involvement. The leaders highlighted complementary strengths in technology, pledging deeper collaboration across research, innovation, and business value chains through the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC).
Emerging domains like digital public infrastructure, cutting-edge technologies, and startups will see enhanced cooperation. Plans include launching an India-EU Innovation Hub and Startup Partnership. The extension of the India-EU Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement to 2030 was welcomed, alongside initiating talks to link India with Horizon Europe research programs.
Clean energy and climate action took center stage, with applause for the India-EU Green Hydrogen Task Force and the upcoming 2026 India-EU Wind Business Summit. Connectivity initiatives, such as the India-EU Connectivity Partnership, aviation dialogues, maritime cooperation, and progress on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), were spotlighted to unlock new business avenues.
EU leaders expressed enthusiasm for the AI Impact Summit scheduled for February 19-20 in New Delhi. Addressing the India-EU Business Forum, the trio urged industry leaders to ramp up private investments, launch fresh ventures, and fortify trade relations, setting the stage for a transformative era of partnership.