PM discusses early FTA, Ukraine conflict with top EU leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a joint telephone call with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, with the three leaders reaffirming commitment to fast-track the long-pending India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and deepen cooperation in strategic sectors.

Welcoming progress in areas, including trade, technology, investment, innovation, sustainability, defence, security and supply chain resilience, the leaders emphasised that an early conclusion of the FTA negotiations and the implementation of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) remain key priorities for both sides.

Notably, as the world’s largest democratic forces, India and the EU share a strong and close relationship built on trust, shared values and a common vision for the future. The leaders, during their conversation, underlined the role of the India-EU strategic partnership in jointly addressing global issues, fostering stability and promoting a rules-based order for mutual prosperity.

The conversation also touched on key geopolitical issues. Modi and EU leaders discussed ongoing efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine, with the Prime Minister reiterating India’s consistent stance in favour of dialogue and diplomacy, and calling for a peaceful resolution that ensures early restoration of stability.

Building on the visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India earlier this year, the three leaders agreed to convene the next India-EU summit at the earliest possible date. Modi also extended an invitation to Costa and von der Leyen to visit India for the summit.

Officials said the leaders agreed to remain in close touch to maintain the momentum in the partnership and steer it into “a new phase of ambition”.