New Delhi, March 30 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar held discussions with a delegation from the European Parliament, led by Angelika Niebler, on Monday, focusing on the emerging dynamics in India-EU relations and the increasing alignment between both entities.

EAM Jaishankar conveyed optimism that the European Parliament would serve as a strong foundation of support in this transformative phase.

"It was a pleasure to engage with Members of the European Parliament, led by Angelika Niebler, here in Delhi. We explored the new chapter in 🇮🇳🇪🇺 relations and the strengthening of our partnership. As our collaborative agenda broadens, so will our comfort levels. I am confident that the European Parliament will be a critical ally in this new era," Jaishankar shared on X.

Earlier, the India-European Parliament Parliamentary Friendship Group convened its inaugural meeting at the Sansad Bhavan. BJP MP Anurag Thakur expressed his eagerness for more such engagements as the President of the group to enhance parliamentary diplomacy and strengthen India-EU relations.

Thakur remarked on X, "The India-European Parliament Parliamentary Friendship Group met for the first time today at Sansad Bhavan in collaboration with the Delegation for relations with India (D-IN) of the European Parliament, chaired by MEP Angelika Niebler."

"I appreciate the visionary leadership of Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi ji and Hon’ble Speaker Om Birla. I look forward to guiding more meetings as President of the group to bolster parliamentary diplomacy and India-EU ties. Together for a robust partnership," he added.

Earlier this month, Jaishankar completed a fruitful trip to Brussels, where he engaged with EU leaders and foreign ministers, discussing the immense economic opportunities presented by the newly signed India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aimed at enhancing cooperation in trade, technology, security, and connectivity.

He detailed on X that he met with members of the EU Foreign Affairs Council and engaged in discussions with prominent European leaders, including Antonio Costa, Ursula von der Leyen, and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas.

The External Affairs Minister stressed that finalizing the FTA would signify a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, marking a turning point in India-EU cooperation.

He also underscored that ensuring resilient supply chains and reducing risks are mutual goals, asserting that the FTA will foster deeper business connections towards that objective.