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India-EU Seal Historic Trade Deal, Vow to Deepen Economic Ties

Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan met with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in New Delhi. The leaders celebrated the conclusion of the landmark India-EU Free Trade Agreement, viewing it as a significant milestone for the partnership. They also discussed regional security, strongly condemning terrorism and violent extremism in all forms. The visit, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aimed to add renewed momentum to the India-Europe relationship.

Key Points: India-EU Free Trade Agreement Concluded, Leaders Meet in Delhi

  • India-EU Free Trade Agreement concluded
  • Milestone in bilateral relations
  • Condemnation of cross-border terrorism
  • Enhanced cooperation against extremism
2 min read

VP Radhakrishnan meets EU delegation, expresses hope that "agreement will deepen economic ties"

VP Radhakrishnan meets EU leaders Costa & von der Leyen. New trade pact to boost economic ties and partnership, with talks on terrorism.

"hope that the agreement will deepen economic ties - Vice President's Office"

New Delhi, January 27

Vice President CP Radhakrishnan met with the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, in Delhi on Tuesday.

The VP's Office said that leaders expressed happiness over the conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement.

In a post on X, the Vice President's Office said, "Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan met with the President of the European Council, H.E. Mr Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, H.E. Ms Ursula von der Leyen, in New Delhi today. The leaders expressed happiness over the conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, which marks a significant milestone in India-EU relations. They expressed hope that the agreement will deepen economic ties and add renewed momentum to the India-Europe partnership, benefitting people and businesses on both sides."

At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President of the European Council, Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, paid a State Visit to India on 25-27 January as the Chief Guests for the 77th Republic Day of India. President Costa and President von der Leyen were accompanied by a high-level delegation, including the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, and the Trade Commissioner, Maros Sefcovic.

As per the India-EU Joint Statement on the State Visit of the EU delegation, the two sides discussed the recent developments of concern in Iran and the region. They underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving issues peacefully.

The leaders unequivocally and strongly condemned terrorism and violent extremism, in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism. They called for decisive, concerted international efforts to combat terrorism in a comprehensive and sustained manner, in accordance with international law.

They agreed to enhance cooperation to counter radicalisation and violent extremism, combat financing of terrorism, promote internationally agreed anti-money laundering standards, prevent exploitation of new and emerging technologies for terrorist purposes, and tackle terrorist recruitment. They condemned in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025 and the terror incident near Red Fort, New Delhi, on 10 November 2025.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While the economic partnership is welcome, I hope the agreement has strong provisions for environmental standards and labor rights. India's growth should be sustainable and inclusive. The joint condemnation of terrorism is a necessary and strong message.
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Rohit P
Finally! We've been talking about this FTA for over a decade. Better late than never. Our farmers and small businesses need to be protected though. Hope the government ensures a level playing field and doesn't let European giants swamp our markets.
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Priya S
Good to see India's diplomatic clout growing. Having EU leaders as Republic Day chief guests sends a powerful signal. The partnership is about more than trade—it's about shared democratic values and security concerns, especially the clear stand on cross-border terrorism.
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Karthik V
I appreciate the economic focus, but respectfully, I hope the "deepened ties" also mean more pressure on the EU to support India's permanent seat at the UN Security Council. Trade is one pillar; geopolitical partnership is another. The statement seems a bit heavy on trade and light on that bigger strategic vision.
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Meera T
As a small business owner exporting handicrafts, I'm very hopeful. Easier access to the European market could be a game-changer for artisans across the country. Let's see if the agreement actually simplifies customs and reduces tariffs for us on the ground.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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