In a significant development aimed at strengthening global trade relations, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Friday that the European Union and India are committed to finalizing their ambitious free trade agreement (FTA) by the end of this year. Speaking at a prominent think-tank in New Delhi, von der Leyen emphasized the potential of the EU-India FTA, stating it would become "the largest deal of its kind anywhere in the world."
Von der Leyen’s comments were delivered ahead of extensive talks scheduled with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflecting the increasing momentum behind a strategic partnership that goes beyond trade alone. She underscored that the European Union, comprising 27 member nations, is also considering a future security and defense pact with India, drawing parallels with similar agreements the bloc maintains with countries like Japan and South Korea.
"This world is fraught with danger," von der Leyen remarked, framing current geopolitical tensions as a catalyst rather than a barrier. "But I believe this modern version of great power competition is an opportunity for Europe and India to reimagine their partnership."
Highlighting shared goals and common interests, she further added, "In many ways, the EU and India are uniquely placed to respond to this challenge together."
EU-India Partnership: Pragmatism Meets Ambition
Emphasizing the importance of realistic and forward-looking cooperation, the European Commission President urged both sides to avoid getting entangled in seeking consensus on every global or regional issue. Instead, von der Leyen called for a more practical approach. "This is not a time to place limits on our cooperation or to get stuck looking for agreement on every issue," she stated. "It is time to be pragmatic and ambitious, and to realign our priorities for today's realities."She identified specific areas—trade and technology, security and defense, connectivity, and global partnership—as pivotal in driving the EU-India relationship to new heights.
Timing and Determination Critical for EU-India Free Trade Deal
Acknowledging the complexities involved, von der Leyen expressed confidence and dedication towards achieving the trade agreement, highlighting that timing and determination would play crucial roles."I am well aware it will not be easy," she admitted candidly. "But I also know that timing and determination count, and that this partnership comes at the right moment for both of us."
The European Commission President reiterated her personal commitment, affirming that Prime Minister Modi and she had agreed to prioritize finalizing the FTA within this year. "You can count on my full commitment to make sure we can deliver," she emphasized.
Connectivity: Building a Modern "Golden Road"
Addressing connectivity initiatives, von der Leyen spotlighted the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor, describing it as a potential "modern golden road" that would directly link India, the Arabian Gulf, and Europe. Such infrastructure developments, she suggested, would significantly boost trade and strategic connectivity among the regions involved.Von der Leyen concluded her address with optimism, defining 2025 as "a historic window of opportunity" to foster an indivisible and transformative partnership between Europe and India.
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