Key Takeaways
- Senior EU negotiators arrive in Delhi for 5-day FTA talks
- Talks focus on bridging gaps in goods, services, and rules of origin
- High-level consultations scheduled for November 5-6
- Parallel FTA negotiations launched with New Zealand
India and the European Union have intensified negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a key EU delegation reached New Delhi for crucial five-day talks. The discussions aim to bridge remaining differences and advance the long-pending trade pact toward a balanced conclusion.
Focus Areas and Key Meetings
According to the Commerce Ministry, the current round will address critical issues including trade in goods and services, rules of origin, and various technical matters. “Both sides are working toward a ‘modern and equitable’ framework that supports mutual growth and economic cooperation,” a senior ministry official stated.
The latest negotiations follow Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s visit to Brussels in late October, where he met European Commissioner Maros Sefcovic. Momentum further increased with a virtual meeting on Monday between Goyal and EU commissioners Sefcovic and Christophe Hansen.
Upcoming High-Level Consultations
Director-General for Trade at the European Commission Sabine Weyand will conduct high-level policy reviews with India’s Commerce Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal on November 5-6. The EU delegation’s presence demonstrates the shared commitment to finalize a fair and forward-looking FTA.
Parallel Talks with New Zealand
In a simultaneous development, India and New Zealand launched their fourth round of FTA negotiations in Auckland. Scheduled from November 3-7, these talks will concentrate on trade in goods and services and rules of origin, aiming for an early and equitable agreement.
