Did PM Modi and EU Leaders Reaffirm Commitment to Conclude FTA Negotiations?

New Delhi, Sep 4 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a telephonic dialogue with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday, reinforcing their mutual dedication to swiftly finalizing the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) discussions and advancing the India-Middle East-Europe Economic (IMEEC) Corridor.

The leaders acknowledged the advancements in bilateral relations across vital sectors including trade, technology, investment, innovation, sustainability, defense, security, and supply chain resilience. PM Modi extended an invitation to Costa and von der Leyen to visit India for the upcoming India-EU Summit. They also shared perspectives on regional and global matters of common concern, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) noted, "As the world’s largest democratic forces, India and the EU enjoy a robust relationship underpinned by trust, shared values, and a collective vision for the future. The leaders emphasized the significance of the India-EU Strategic Partnership in collaboratively tackling global challenges, ensuring stability, and fostering a rules-based order for shared prosperity."

During their conversation, PM Modi reiterated India’s unwavering support for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict and the urgent restoration of peace and stability in the area. The leaders committed to maintaining ongoing communication.

Building upon the landmark visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India in February, the leaders discussed organizing the next India-EU Summit in India at an early mutually convenient date, with PM Modi inviting both leaders to participate.

In June, PM Modi had conversed with Ursula von der Leyen at the G7 Summit in Canada’s Kananaskis. In a post on X, he remarked, "Productive discussion with President of the @EU_Commission, Ursula von der Leyen."

Additionally, during the G7 Summit, PM Modi had a "productive conversation" with Antonio Costa, as noted in his post on X: "Productive conversation with Mr. António Costa, President of the European Council."

In the same month, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar met with the European Commission President in Brussels, commending her strong condemnation of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and her solidarity with India in combating terrorism. Both parties recognized the advantages of enhancing collaboration in trade, technology, connectivity, and security to strengthen the India-European Union partnership.

"I was pleased to meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen this morning. I welcomed her firm condemnation of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and our shared commitment to fighting terrorism. We discussed ongoing efforts to deepen the India-EU partnership, agreeing on the benefits of stronger cooperation in trade, technology, connectivity, and security for both our regions," the EAM posted on X following the meeting.