Jaishankar Emphasizes Strengthening India-EU Ties Through Free Trade Agreement

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is in Belgium and France discussing the India-EU free trade agreement (FTA) with European officials. The goal is to conclude the FTA by the end of the year, driven by the need for stronger strategic ties amid global economic changes. Jaishankar also addressed terrorism issues relating to India-Pakistan relations during his visit, stressing the broader implications for Europe.

During his ongoing week-long visit to Belgium and France, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in discussions about strengthening ties between India and the European Union (EU), particularly focusing on their much-anticipated free trade agreement (FTA). Meeting with EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič in Brussels, Jaishankar noted that both sides highlighted how an FTA would elevate their bilateral relationship. According to Jaishankar, the talks are progressing toward achieving a comprehensive deal that is balanced and mutually beneficial for both parties.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen set the ambitious goal of finalizing the FTA by the end of the year. The urgency for these negotiations has grown amid global economic shifts, influenced by changing U.S. tariff policies under the previous administration. In a post on social media, Jaishankar remarked on the notable progress made in discussions, emphasizing the FTA’s potential to enhance the strategic partnership that is evolving between India and the EU.

Šefčovič echoed Jaishankar’s sentiments, stating in a separate social media update that their dialogue was aimed at taking the EU-India partnership to new heights through a significant trade agreement. He conveyed his anticipation of working closely with India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, who has made several trips to Brussels this year, pushing for swift advancements in these critical negotiations.

In Brussels, Jaishankar also met with Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, where the two discussed enhancing India-EU parliamentary ties founded on shared democratic values. Jaishankar mentioned valuing Metsola’s enthusiasm for strengthening the partnership in sectors such as trade, technology, and security.

Further discussions took place between Jaishankar and Jozef Sikela, the European Commissioner for International Partnerships, encompassing topics like connectivity, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), green shipping, and clean energy initiatives. A trilateral cooperation agreement was also signed, aimed at benefiting the Global South.

In a thought-provoking interview with Euractiv, Jaishankar addressed the recent escalations between India and Pakistan, framing the issue through a lens of terrorism and its wider implications for Europe. He pointedly referenced the notorious Osama bin Laden, questioning the longstanding support of Western nations towards Pakistan in the face of its aggression towards India, particularly following India’s independence in 1947. Jaishankar conveyed a heavy message, noting, “this isn’t merely an India-Pakistan issue. It’s about terrorism. And that very same terrorism will eventually come back to haunt you.

As these discussions unfold, Jaishankar’s visit reinforces the importance both nations place on deepening trade ties while also highlighting the need to address issues of terrorism—showing that the India-EU relationship stands to grow in multiple dimensions; economically, politically, and strategically.

In summary, S. Jaishankar’s visit has underscored the momentum behind the India-EU free trade agreement, reinforcing the strategic ties between the two sides. With both parties aiming to conclude the FTA by year-end, discussions have focused on mutual benefits in trade, technology, and addressing broader issues such as terrorism. The dialogues indicate a willingness to elevate the bilateral relationship significantly, paving the way for enhanced cooperation that could resonate globally.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com