Agency
new delhi, Nov 27
India and the European Union (EU) held their 5th Strategic Partnership Review Meeting in Brussels, with a focus on advancing key initiatives such as the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), investment protection, and cooperation on global issues. The meeting on November 22, 2024, co-chaired by Tanmaya Lal, Secretary (West) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and Simon Mordue, Deputy Secretary-General for Economic and Global Issues at the European External Action Service (EEAS), highlighted significant progress in strengthening the India-EU partnership.
Progress on Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and Investment Protection
According to the Ministry of external Affairs (MEA) at the heart of the discussions were the ongoing negotiations for the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the Investment Protection Agreement. Both sides expressed a strong commitment to finalizing these agreements, which are seen as crucial to boosting trade, investment, and economic collaboration. The FTA is expected to open new opportunities in areas such as technology, manufacturing, and services, while the Investment Protection Agreement aims to safeguard investments and create a more stable business environment for EU companies operating in India and vice versa. Innovation, Technology, and the India-EU Trade and Technology Council
In addition to trade and investment, the meeting underscored the importance of deepening cooperation in innovation, science, and technology. Both parties noted positive developments within the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC), a key forum aimed at addressing technological challenges and promoting digital innovation. The TTC has become a critical platform for both India and the EU to collaborate on issues like resilient supply chains, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, such as AI and clean energy.
Strategic Cooperation in Defence, Security, and the Indo-Pacific
The meeting also highlighted the growing importance of defence and security cooperation between India and the EU. As both sides face increasing geopolitical challenges, there was a strong emphasis on further collaboration in counterterrorism, military partnerships, and regional security frameworks.
A major focus of the discussions was the shared commitment to a free, open, and peaceful Indo-Pacific, said MEA in an official statement.
Both India and the EU reiterated their determination to uphold a rules-based international order in the region, emphasizing respect for sovereignty and the peaceful resolution of disputes. The EU’s growing engagement in the Indo-Pacific, including through its Global Gateway and India-EU Connectivity Partnership, was welcomed by India as a vital step toward maintaining stability and promoting sustainable development.
Multilateral Cooperation and Global Challenges
The discussions extended beyond bilateral matters, with India and the EU reaffirming their commitment to multilateralism and collaboration in global forums like the G20. Both sides expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East and reiterated their support for a comprehensive, rules-based resolution to the Ukraine conflict. The ongoing India-EU collaboration in disaster risk management and humanitarian aid, particularly in third countries, was also highlighted as a key area of cooperation.
Looking Ahead: Key Milestones in India-EU Relations
Looking forward, the two sides expressed optimism about the next India-EU Summit in 2025, which is expected to provide a significant opportunity to advance their strategic partnership further. As both India and the EU face complex global challenges—ranging from climate change to security threats—the strengthening of their partnership is seen as a key factor in shaping a stable, inclusive, and prosperous global order.
