India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar concluded a productive visit to Brussels, where he met the leadership of the European Union, including the EU Foreign Affairs Council and senior officials, and held multiple bilateral discussions.
During the visit, Jaishankar met António Costa, Ursula von der Leyen, and Kaja Kallas. He also participated in discussions with the EU Foreign Affairs Council and held separate bilateral meetings with several European counterparts.
In his post on X, Jaishankar outlined ten key messages from the meetings, placing strong emphasis on the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). He described its finalisation as a turning point that would unlock economic potential while reflecting the strategic depth of the partnership. He added that both sides should proactively assist each other in practical areas, such as trade and investment promotion, to ensure the benefits of the agreement are realised on the ground.
He further indicated that the Trade and Technology Council could be upgraded and repurposed to strengthen collaboration in critical and cutting-edge technologies. The required to de-risk supply chains and enhance resilience was identified as a shared priority, with the FTA expected to encourage deeper business linkages.
Jaishankar also stressed the importance of facilitating mobility of skills and talent flows, noting developments such as the establishment of a Legal Gateway Office in India and a shared interest in promoting Global Capability Centres. On security, he stated both sides would take forward their Security and Defence Partnership and work towards an early conclusion of a Security of Information Agreement.
Connectivity initiatives, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, were also discussed as part of a broader agfinisha. He added that India and the EU would continue to support multilateralism and maintain regular high-level consultations.
He stated the India-EU partnership would act as a factor of stability and resilience in a multipolar and uncertain world.
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