India and the European Union are expected to unveil a series of major initiatives at the India–EU Summit scheduled for January 27 in New Delhi, marking a potentially transformative phase in bilateral relations. According to diplomatic sources, the summit is likely to see the conclusion of long-pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, alongside announcements on strengthening defence cooperation and facilitating mobility for Indian professionals in Europe.
High-Level Participation and Strategic Significance
The summit will be co-chaired by India and the European Union’s top leadership, with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attending as chief guests at India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26. In a first-of-its-kind development, a European Union military contingent will participate in India’s Republic Day parade, underscoring the deepening strategic partnership between the two sides.
Following the summit, both parties are expected to adopt a formal document announcing the conclusion of FTA negotiations. The agreement will then undergo legal review and require ratification by the European Parliament and the European Council.
Trade and Economic Cooperation
The European Union is currently India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral goods trade reaching US$ 135 billion in FY24. The proposed FTA is expected to significantly enhance market access, unlock new opportunities, and strengthen economic complementarities between the two economies.
While negotiations have made substantial progress, discussions are still ongoing on certain sensitive issues, including the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
Broader Agenda Beyond Trade
In addition to economic ties, the summit will address defence collaboration, mobility arrangements for skilled Indian professionals, and key geopolitical developments. These initiatives are expected to reinforce cooperation across security, technology, and people-to-people exchanges.
Summary
The India–EU Summit in New Delhi is set to be a landmark event, with major announcements expected on a long-awaited Free Trade Agreement, enhanced defence cooperation, and mobility frameworks. With the EU already India’s largest trading partner, these agreements are poised to strengthen bilateral ties across trade, security, and global engagement, further elevating India’s role on the international stage.
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