Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal successfully concluded his visit to Brussels on Tuesday (local time). During this visit, he held detailed and constructive discussions with Maroš Šefčovič, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, on the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
India-EU FTA Talks: The long-standing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks between India and the European Union (EU) now appear to be reaching a decisive stage. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal stated that his recent meetings in Brussels were “intensive and highly productive,” leading to significant progress on most outstanding issues between both sides.
Piyush Goyal concluded his two-day visit to Brussels (October 27–28) on Tuesday. He held detailed discussions with Maroš Šefčovič, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security. These discussions have resulted in the creation of a framework that will prove beneficial for the economies of both India and the EU, elevating their trade partnership to new heights.
Intensive Discussions and Solid Progress
Minister Goyal posted on social media platform X, stating,
'Concluded my visit to Brussels. Held intensive and highly productive discussions with EU Commissioner for Trade & Economic Security Šefčovič on advancing the comprehensive India-EU Free Trade Agreement. These talks have resolved most outstanding issues and we have created a framework that will prove beneficial for both economies.'
He stated that these discussions have laid the foundation for a robust, balanced, and mutually beneficial agreement. This framework will not only offer new opportunities for businesses on both sides but also encourage innovation, investment, and job creation.
New Direction for India-EU Partnership
Piyush Goyal stated that these discussions between India and the European Union are not limited to a trade agreement but also serve as a means to deepen their strategic partnership. He added that India is committed to realizing the shared vision of “shared prosperity” held by its leaders — Prime Minister Narendra Modi and EU President Ursula von der Leyen.
According to Goyal, this prosperity will be achieved through innovation, trade, investment, and job creation. This agreement will form a modern and equitable framework connecting both economies.
Emphasis on Cooperation with Germany
Minister Goyal commenced his Brussels visit with a meeting with Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. The primary objective of the discussions between the two leaders was to further accelerate the India-EU free trade talks. Goyal wrote on X, "I began my visit with a meeting with Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. Our discussions focused on key areas of mutual interest and development, further strengthening the India-Germany strategic partnership and reaffirming our shared commitment towards an early conclusion of the India-EU FTA."
