EU and India Poised to Seal Landmark Trade Deal at New Delhi Summit
The European Union and India are preparing to finalise a major free trade agreement at their upcoming summit in New Delhi. Negotiations have made progress, with key issues like agricultural market access and alcoholic beverages already resolved. The deal will serve as a 'living document', allowing further adjustments in the future.
The two sides will meet on January 27, following the EU leadership’s attendance at India’s Republic Day parade as chief guests. Bilateral trade between the EU and India reached USD 135 billion in the last financial year, making the bloc India’s largest trading partner.
Talks on the trade pact have advanced, though sticking points remain. Steel, cars, and the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism are still under discussion. Despite these hurdles, both sides aim to conclude the agreement alongside a defence framework and a new strategic agenda.
The strategic agenda will focus on five key areas: security and defence, connectivity and global issues, prosperity, sustainability, and technology. The EU views India as a dependable ally in shaping global policies, particularly as US leadership wavers. Cooperation with France is also expected to play a role in addressing challenges in 2027, when China will lead BRICS and the UK will head the G20.
The summit follows the EU delegation’s participation in India’s Republic Day celebrations on January 26. This visit underscores the strengthening ties between the two partners, who are looking to deepen economic and political collaboration in the coming years.
The EU-India summit on January 27 will mark a significant step in formalising trade and strategic partnerships. A finalised free trade agreement, defence pact, and joint agenda are set to be announced. These deals will build on existing trade worth USD 135 billion and expand cooperation across multiple sectors.
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