Trade – India and European Union Strengthen Economic Partnership Through Technology Council Talks
Trade – India and the European Union have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding economic cooperation, with both sides using the Trade and Technology Council (TTC) platform to support progress toward a balanced and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The discussions highlighted shared priorities across trade, technology, innovation and sustainable development while reinforcing efforts to create stronger opportunities for businesses and citizens on both sides.
Ministers Review Progress Across Strategic Sectors
During the ministerial meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council in Brussels, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the discussions covered several priority areas, including resilient supply chains, critical and emerging technologies, clean energy, innovation, deep-tech startups, green hydrogen, electric vehicles and battery technologies. He noted that the council continues to play an important role in transforming common objectives into practical cooperation, helping strengthen the long-term strategic partnership between India and the European Union.
Business Leaders Discuss Investment and Digital Innovation
Earlier in the day, Goyal joined External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Jitin Prasada at a business roundtable organised by the Federation of Enterprises in Belgium (FEB). The meeting brought together senior representatives from Indian and European industries to exchange views on improving trade facilitation, encouraging investment, strengthening supply chain resilience and accelerating digital innovation.
According to an official statement, the discussions focused on identifying ways to improve commercial cooperation while supporting sustainable economic growth through closer engagement between businesses from both regions.
Industry Representatives Share Their Priorities
Goyal also met members of a Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) delegation during his visit to Brussels. Business representatives outlined their views on enhancing the global competitiveness of Indian companies, addressing regulatory concerns and making greater use of opportunities available under the Trade and Technology Council framework.
The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting Indian businesses by expanding market access, encouraging innovation and creating stronger international partnerships that can help Indian enterprises grow in European markets.
Focus on Long-Term Economic Cooperation
The official statement said the Brussels engagements reflected India’s continued emphasis on industry-led economic development. It also highlighted the importance of close collaboration between governments and the private sector in strengthening commercial ties between India and the European Union.
Officials said these meetings demonstrated the government’s determination to deepen industrial partnerships, encourage technological innovation and improve access to overseas markets. The broader objective is to create new business opportunities while strengthening long-term economic cooperation between India and Europe.
Free Trade Agreement Discussions Continue
Separately, Goyal met Maros Sefcovic, the European Union’s Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, to review the latest progress on the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement. Their discussions also explored additional areas for cooperation in trade, investment, critical technologies and resilient supply chains.
The ongoing negotiations for the FTA remain an important part of the broader India-EU relationship, with both sides seeking an agreement that supports economic growth while addressing the interests of businesses and consumers. The Trade and Technology Council continues to complement these negotiations by encouraging collaboration in areas expected to shape future economic and technological development.