The Council of the European Union has formally approved a new strategic agenda for relations with India, paving the way for a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) expected to be concluded by the end of 2025, according to a statement published on the Council’s website. The Council said the proposed pact aims to create a balanced, ambitious and mutually beneficial framework that boosts economic cooperation and promotes sustainable growth. The move signals renewed momentum in India-EU relations, which have accelerated in recent years as both sides seek closer economic and strategic alignment.
Trade deal will focus on market access and sustainability
The Council stressed that the free trade agreement must provide better market access, the removal of trade barriers and provisions on sustainable development. The European Commission and the Indian government are working to conclude negotiations by the end of this year. The declaration underlines that India and the EU share a common responsibility in safeguarding multilateralism and a rules-based international order anchored in the United Nations Charter. They reaffirmed their commitment to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the strengthening of the multilateral trading system amid growing global economic uncertainty.
Broader cooperation under the new India-EU agenda
The Council approved the Joint Communication on a “New India-EU Strategic Agenda”, prepared by the European Commission and the High Representative, outlining key areas for deeper collaboration. These include prosperity and sustainability, innovation and technology, connectivity, security and defence, and engagement on global issues. He invited the High Representative and the Commission to advance the implementation of this program, recognizing the strong dynamic of relations between the two partners. The Council also underlined the importance of democratic values, international law and human rights – including the rights of women and children – as essential elements of India-EU relations.
Defense and security cooperation to be deepened
In light of an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, the Council welcomed closer coordination between India and the EU on defense and security issues. It took note of plans to establish a security and defense partnership that could support, where appropriate, defense industrial cooperation, based on mutual trust and respect. The EU said such cooperation could strengthen strategic resilience and contribute to a more stable Indo-Pacific region, where both partners share an interest in maintaining open and secure sea lanes and respecting international law.
The Council reaffirmed that it would continue to engage with India on major global challenges, including Russia’s war in Ukraine. He stressed that dialogue and cooperation remain essential to address global instability, climate change and supply chain disruptions.
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