India, Spain explore ways to deepen business ties, fast-track EU FTA: Piyush Goyal
New Delhi, July 13
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday met Spanish Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo in Madrid and explored ways to deepen business ties between the two countries.
Kicking off official engagements in Spain during his three-nation visit, Goyal said: "We had productive discussions on strengthening the India-Spain economic partnership through greater trade, investment and technology collaboration, with a focus on renewable energy, green hydrogen, advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, infrastructure and innovation."
"We also exchanged views on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement and explored ways to deepen business ties and expand India's commercial engagement with Spain as a valued partner," he said in a post on X.
As India and the European Union work towards the early implementation of the India-EU FTA, Commerce Minister Goyal embarked on a three-nation visit on Monday with a high-level business delegation.
The visit to Spain, Belgium, and Finland from July 13-17 underscores India's commitment to strengthening economic partnerships across Europe, with a focus on trade, investment, technology, innovation and sustainability, according to an official statement.
In Spain, Goyal was set to hold bilateral meetings with Cuerpo, Industry and Tourism Minister Jordi Hereu Boher, and Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation Minister Jose Manuel Albares Bueno.
Goyal will also chair an India-Spain Business Roundtable with leading Spanish companies and industry associations to showcase India's investment opportunities and encourage greater business-to-business partnerships.
In February this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Spanish President Pedro Sanchez in New Delhi, and discussed ways to expand cooperation across trade, economy, health, digital technology, innovation and several other key sectors.
Key areas discussed include trade and economy, digital, innovation, health, climate action, and education, among others. PM Modi conveyed his appreciation for Spain's consistent support for strong India-EU relations.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally some concrete steps on the EU-India FTA! It's been dragging on for years. Piyush Goyal is doing good work but we need the EU to stop being protectionist on agriculture and data privacy. Otherwise it'll be another 10 years of talks 😕
Spain has been a reliable European partner for India. Our relationship with them is much better than with some other EU countries. The focus on green hydrogen and digital tech is perfect - these are areas where India can lead globally. Good move by the government!
As someone who works in renewable energy, this is exciting news! Spain has excellent expertise in solar and wind. Combine that with India's scale and manufacturing capability, and we could create something really special. Hope the business delegation brings back concrete MoUs!
I appreciate the effort but let's be honest - these summits and business roundtables happen all the time. The real test is when the FTA actually gets signed. Indian businesses need clear tariff reductions, easier visa rules for professionals, and recognition of our data security standards. Talk is cheap, show us results!
Spain is a perfect gateway for India into Latin America too! Their cultural and business ties with Spanish-speaking countries could help Indian companies expand there. The PM-Sanchez meeting earlier this year was a good foundation, now let's build on it properly. #IndiaEU #Trade
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