Modi discusses early conclusion of FTA talks with EU leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a joint telephone call with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, during which he discussed, among other issues, the early conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the situation in Ukraine.The leaders underlined the importance of the India-EU Strategic Partnership in jointly addressing global challenges, fostering stability, and promoting a rules-based international order for mutual prosperity.
They also welcomed progress in bilateral ties across critical sectors such as trade, technology, investment, innovation, sustainability, defence, security, and supply chain resilience. The leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment towards an early conclusion of the India-EU FTA negotiations and the effective implementation of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
Building on the historic visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India in February, the leaders discussed holding the next India-EU Summit in India at an early mutually convenient date. PM Modi extended an invitation to the two leaders to visit India for the summit.

They also exchanged views on regional and global matters of mutual interest, including efforts to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine.