PM Modi held a phone conversation with EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa. Discussions covered the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, and a ceasefire. A significant message for Trump.
India-EU Discuss: Discussions regarding a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union (EU) have been ongoing for a considerable time. Taking a significant step in this direction on Thursday, EU President Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council Antonio Costa held an extensive phone conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A photograph shared regarding this call has stirred discussions in World Politics. This was not merely a formal dialogue; rather, India and Europe conveyed a clear message that they desire a world governed by rules and laws, not by disruptive trade practices.
India-Europe Unity Amidst Trump's Trade Policy
The timing of this conversation is also crucial. The aggressive tariff policy and disruptive trade policies of former US President Donald Trump have destabilized the global trade environment. In this context, leaders of India and the European Union collectively demonstrated their preference for a world that respects sovereignty and where all countries adhere to uniform regulations. Analysts are interpreting the photograph shared from this call as a "significant message" to the United States.
Issues Discussed During the Conversation
Several important issues were discussed during this phone conversation. The most significant was the matter of expediting the finalization of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement. Both sides emphasized advancing this agreement to strengthen trade relations and bring stability to the global economy. Furthermore, discussions also took place regarding the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which will enhance connectivity between India and Europe and simplify trade routes from Asia to Europe.
Moreover, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine was also a topic of discussion. Both India and Europe believe that a ceasefire and diplomatic efforts are necessary to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar also recently spoke with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Yermak, underscoring India's role in this regard.
Why America is Concerned
The photograph of the phone call between the leaders of India, the European Union, and the European Council is no less than a jolt to America. In fact, the Trump administration had imposed tariffs of up to 50% on many Indian products. This decision is considered challenging for US-India trade relations. In such a scenario, the growing closeness between Europe and India indicates that India is no longer solely dependent on America to balance its relationships with Western countries. This shift in world politics is increasing America's concerns.
Growing Importance of India-EU Relations
The relationship between India and Europe is not limited to trade. Both sides share a common perspective on global peace, security, and stability. Whether it concerns Climate Change, the Digital Economy, or defense and security, the partnership between India and Europe is continuously strengthening. This is precisely why both sides wish to finalize the FTA as soon as possible to usher in new dimensions to their trade cooperation.
Next Summit to be Held in India
During the phone conversation, India and the European Union leaders also agreed that the next India-EU Summit will be held in India soon. PM Modi also extended an invitation to EU President Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa for this summit. This summit is being considered historic for India-Europe relations.
PM Modi's Message on Social Media
Following the conversation, PM Modi posted on social media, describing the dialogue as highly positive. He wrote that this conversation will give new direction to India-Europe relations and will play a collaborative role in tackling global challenges.
