European ministers call for a rapid EU-India free trade agreement, seen as a key strategic move to diversify trade and enhance security ties.
PARIS: France, Germany and Poland have jointly called for the rapid signing of a free trade agreement between the European Union and India.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot described the anticipated deal as a “decisive step” in strategic relations between the two regions.
“A major agreement between the EU and India is expected to be finalised in the coming weeks, with a summit dedicated to it at the end of January,” Barrot said at a briefing with his German, Polish and Indian counterparts.
Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski emphasised the urgency, stating it is “very important that we quickly sign” the pact.
German Minister of State Johann Wadephul said the agreement represents “an important step towards greater diversification” of trade partnerships.
He stressed the need to “reduce dependencies so as not to make ourselves vulnerable to blackmail”.
A dedicated summit for the deal is scheduled for January 27.
The EU is already India’s largest trading partner, with goods trade valued at 124 billion euros in 2023.
Negotiations have been lengthy, with both sides previously aiming to conclude the deal by the end of 2025.
The proposed agreement seeks to lower EU barriers for cars, spirits and wines entering India.
In return, New Delhi wants easier access for its textiles and pharmaceuticals into the European market.
The pact is also expected to cover security and defence cooperation.
Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said the deal could bring “greater stability to both the international economy and global politics”.
He added it was “necessary that India strengthen its relationship” with Europe.
