EU Ambassador to India, Hervé Delphin, has expressed concerns regarding the slow progress in the ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between India and the European Union (EU), stating that the 13th round of negotiations in September was a "missed opportunity to make some breakthrough". He urged India to engage in earnest negotiations to ensure a mutually beneficial trade deal, emphasizing the importance of concluding the FTA by the end of the year to deepen the strategic partnership between the two entities.
Delphin highlighted that the EU remains committed to concluding a meaningful package and is ready to move forward. He implied that India needs to actively participate and demonstrate similar readiness to achieve a mutually beneficial agreement. The next round of talks is scheduled to take place in Brussels on October 6, raising hopes for progress on several chapters that remained unresolved in the previous round.
The EU envoy emphasized the increasing convergence of geopolitical, economic, and security interests between India and the EU. He pointed out that both sides represent a significant portion of the world's GDP and population and share common values such as commitment to a rules-based order and addressing global challenges. Delphin also noted converging interests in the Indo-Pacific region.
However, some sticking points remain. India seeks duty-free access for its exports and easier movement for skilled professionals, while also addressing concerns about stringent standards, protectionist regulatory measures, recognition of Indian professional qualifications, and non-tariff barriers. The EU, on the other hand, is pushing for strong environmental commitments, which has been a hurdle in the negotiations.
Furthermore, the EU has expressed concerns regarding India's relationship with Russia, particularly its energy ties and participation in military exercises. Delphin acknowledged that India's strategic partnership with Russia and its desire to deepen ties with the EU require careful consideration.
Despite these challenges, both sides recognize the strategic importance of the FTA. The EU views India as a valuable partner in light of India's challenges posed by the US, China, and Russia. Deepening strategic ties can help de-risk economic turmoil and security uncertainties, tap into complementarities, and combine strengths to serve mutual interests. To further strengthen the partnership, the two sides are also working on a new India-EU strategic roadmap, which is expected to be endorsed at the next India-EU Summit in early 2026. This roadmap will focus on boosting trade and investment, deepening cooperation on critical and emerging technologies, bolstering security and defense cooperation, enhancing connectivity, and addressing global issues.
