During a series of high-level meetings with European Union leaders in Brussels on June 11, 2025, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar discussed clean energy and connectivity while concentrating on strengthening the India-EU strategic partnership, advancing the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and promoting the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
Jaishankar’s meetings included meetings with European Commissioners Jozef Sikela for International Partnerships and Maros Sefcovic for Trade and Economic Security. Considered a possible game-changer for bilateral trade and strategic cooperation, both parties acknowledged the substantial progress made in discussions for an all-encompassing, fair, and significant free trade agreement. Jaishankar highlighted the FTA’s importance to India-EU relations and the larger multipolar world order while expressing optimism that it might be finalized by the end of the year.
With an emphasis on renewable energy, sustainable urbanization, and green shipping, the IMEC—a major connectivity plan connecting India, the Middle East, and Europe—was also discussed at the sessions. One significant result was the trilateral Cooperation Agreement on Trilateral Cooperation, which was signed with the intention of assisting third-country experimental initiatives. The Global South is anticipated to gain from this program, which aims to promote sustainable development with a focus on digital inclusion and climate action.
The development of legislative ties and collaboration in commerce, technology, and security were also topics of Jaishankar’s meeting with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola. Metsola reaffirmed the EU’s resolve to fortify the strategic alliance with India and turn FTA talks into tangible measures.
Jaishankar emphasized India’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism throughout his visit, citing current security issues in the region and recognizing the EU’s support for India in the fight against terrorism. He also emphasized the significance of respecting each other’s differing stances on international matters, such as the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, in which India is still a champion of conflict resolution through discussion.
With measurable progress on the FTA, improved collaboration on connectivity and clean energy, and a renewed dedication to global development goals, Jaishankar’s visit to Brussels represented a major advancement in India-EU ties.
