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 22 November 2024, co-chaired by Tanmaya Lal, Secretary (West) at the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Simon Mordue, Deputy Secretary General for Economic and Global Affairs 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 Foreign Affairs (MEA), the ongoing negotiations on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the Investment Protection Agreement were at the heart of the discussions. Both parties expressed their strong determination to finalize these agreements, considered essential to boost trade, investment and economic collaboration. The FTA is expected to open up new opportunities in areas such as technology, manufacturing and services, while the investment protection agreement aims to protect investments and create a more stable business environment for European companies operating in India and vice versa.
Innovation, Technology and India-EU Trade and Technology Council
Besides trade and investment, the meeting highlighted the importance of deepening cooperation in the fields of innovation, science and technology. Both sides noted positive developments in 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 India and the EU to collaborate on issues such as supply chain resilience, cybersecurity and emerging technologies such as AI and clean energy .
Strategic cooperation in defense, security and the Indo-Pacific region
The meeting also highlighted the growing importance of defense and security cooperation between India and the EU. As both sides face growing geopolitical challenges, there has been a strong emphasis on increased collaboration on counterterrorism, military partnerships and regional security frameworks.
A key focus of the discussions was the shared commitment to a free, open and peaceful Indo-Pacific, the MEA said in an official statement. India and the EU reiterated their determination to maintain a rules-based international order in the region, with emphasis on respect for sovereignty and peaceful resolution of disputes. The EU’s growing engagement in the Indo-Pacific region, notably through Global Gateway And India-EU Connectivity Partnershipwas hailed by India as a vital step towards maintaining stability and promoting sustainable development.
Multilateral cooperation and global challenges
Discussions went beyond bilateral issues, 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 collaboration between India and the EU on disaster risk management and humanitarian assistance, particularly in third countries, was also highlighted as a key area of cooperation.
Looking ahead: key milestones in India-EU relations
Looking ahead, both sides expressed optimism about the next India-EU summit in 2025, which is expected to provide an important opportunity to further advance their strategic partnership. As India and the EU face complex global challenges, ranging from climate change to security threats, strengthening their partnership is seen as a key factor in shaping a stable, inclusive and prosperous world order.
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