Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President, has arrived in New Delhi on Saturday, her presence fueling expectations of a landmark EU-India Free Trade Agreement. A succinct 34-second X video from her immediately set the tone, buzzing with confidence about the deal’s imminent close.
‘ Mother of all trade deals. EU-India FTA within reach. Delhi awaits,’ proclaimed the caption. In the video, she delved deeper: ‘En route to India – lots left, but closing in on the ultimate trade pact, the mother of all: two billion consumers, quarter of global GDP. Europe targets century’s power players, Indo-Pacific included. Mutual choice: Europe for the world, world for Europe.’
Indian Minister Jitin Prasada extended a warm reception, following her Davos vision of the FTA as Europe’s frontrunner perk in a vibrant continent.
Sources close to the matter reveal January 27’s India-EU Summit will mark the end of FTA talks. A formal adoption of documents will announce success, leading to EU Parliament and Council ratifications. Spanning goods and services with 27 EU nations – a top Indian export avenue – it’s poised to be India’s grandest trade accord.
Complementary deals on defense-security ties and professional mobility for Indians in Europe round out the package. This convergence arrives at a critical juncture, promising to unlock vast markets, fortify supply chains, and elevate collaborative innovation. As von der Leyen engages counterparts, the world watches a potential game-changer unfold, cementing India-EU relations as a pillar of future global stability and growth.