Negotiations for the commercial pact were relaunched in June 2022 after an interruption of eight years. Indian reading noted the solid foundations of the partnership: “as the greater democratic forces in the world, India and the EU share a strong and close relationship based on trust, shared values and a common vision for the future.”
Modi has extended an invitation to Costa and Von Der Leyen to attend the next India-UE summit, which should be planned at a timely time. The discussions also mentioned the broader India-EU agenda, including areas such as technology, sustainability, defense, innovation, investment, security and resilience of the supply chain.
The three leaders jointly welcomed the developments in bilateral relations and expressed hope for an early conclusion of the ALE, as well as progress on the Eastern East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), which was introduced at the G20 summit in Delhi in 2023.
“For the future, we are planning to agree on a joint strategic program at the next EU-Indre summit, as soon as possible in 2026. We are also fully committed to concluding the negotiations of the free trade agreements by the end of the year. To achieve this, progress is necessary now,” said Von der Leyen.
India’s commitment with the EU has taken additional meaning in the context of global commercial dynamics, including previous disturbances such as the steep prices imposed by the former American administration. The leaders agreed to stay in touch while negotiations continue to finalize the FTA and respond to wider strategic concerns.
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