India and European Union Push Trade, Technology and Investment Cooperation Ahead of Landmark FTA
NEW DELHI: India and the European Union have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade, investment and strategic cooperation during the seventh India-EU Strategic Partnership Review Meeting held in New Delhi on Monday.
The meeting was co-chaired by Sibi George, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, and Matti Maasikas, Deputy Secretary-General for Geoeconomics and Interinstitutional Issues of the European External Action Service.
Both sides reviewed the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Strategic Agenda adopted during the 16th India-EU Summit in January 2026.
Trade and investment cooperation, including the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement, remained central to the discussions. The two sides also reviewed work towards the conclusion of an investment protection agreement and an agreement on geographical indications.
The discussions covered a broad range of strategic areas, including supply chains, economic security, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, semiconductors, biotechnology and digital public infrastructure.
India and the EU also expressed interest in expanding research cooperation and strengthening collaboration in clean energy, climate resilience, green mobility and digitalisation.
Connectivity initiatives, including the Global Gateway and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, were also discussed. Both sides highlighted the importance of strengthening transport, energy and digital links to support economic cooperation.
The meeting further examined opportunities to improve people-to-people relations through talent mobility, education and skills development. Discussions also included the European Legal Gateway Office and preparations for the next India-EU Human Rights Dialogue.
India and the EU welcomed the positive momentum in their relationship and reaffirmed their commitment to delivering mutually beneficial outcomes.
The review meeting comes as both sides prepare to advance the proposed free trade agreement, which is expected to expand market access and strengthen economic engagement between India and the 27-member European bloc.
The discussions reflect the growing importance of India-EU relations across trade, technology, research and international cooperation.
