MEPs hail EU-India partnership on trade, security and the rules-based global order

The outcome of the summit sends a powerful message in favour of the rules-based international order and free trade principles, say MEPs.

Commenting on the outcome of the EU-India Summit and the conclusion of the free trade agreement between EU and India, plus the EU-India security and defence partnership and the EU-India joint comprehensive strategic agenda, leading MEPs issued following statements:

David McAllister (EPP, Germany) Chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs

"At a time of significant geopolitical change and global uncertainty, the outcome of the EU-India Summit sends a strong political signal. It demonstrates that the European Union is pursuing its trade and partnership agenda with determination. The summit reflects a shared commitment to the rules-based international order and free trade. This is reflected in the landmark free trade agreement and in stronger cooperation on security and defence. The agreement also reaffirms our support for multilateralism and international law.

The free trade agreement creates important new growth opportunities, particularly for key industries such as mechanical engineering, automotive, aerospace, and chemicals, through the reduction of tariffs and trade barriers. The summit has meanwhile strengthened cooperation on global challenges, including climate change, connectivity, peace, and stability. Together, these commitments advance the EU-India strategic agenda towards 2030 and will deliver concrete benefits for citizens in both the short and long term."

Bernd Lange (S&D, DE), chair of the International Trade Committee

"Trade relations between the EU and India offer great potential. The agreement concluded today can help to exploit this economic potential and strengthen relations and our common approach to sustainable development. This will bring economic, political, and social benefits for both sides. Furthermore, this commitment to rules-based global trade by two strong players such as the EU and India brings stability to the international system. The message is clear: on the basis of jointly agreed rules, we are working together for the benefit of all. Today's conclusion of negotiations marks the start of even closer cooperation between the EU and India."

Angelika Niebler, (EPP, Germany) Chair of the Delegation for Relations with India

The conclusion of the EU-India free trade agreement sends a powerful message in favour of open and rules-based trade. The outcomes of the 16th EU-India Summit, from the free trade agreement, to the security and defence partnership and the joint comprehensive strategic agenda, give us the instruments necessary to bring the EU-India strategic partnership to its full potential and build trust. In the coming months, the Delegation for Relations with India will contribute to this positive agenda through parliamentary diplomacy, by reaching out and engaging with our counterparts in the Indian Parliament. The EU-India strategic partnership needs to be about trade, economy, security and defence, but it also needs to be about building trust and ties between our societies, between our peoples."

Vladimir Prebilič (Greens/EFA, Slovenia), standing rapporteur for India in the Committee on Foreign Affairs

“The EU-India free trade agreement is a major step forward and sends a clear signal that Europe understands the geopolitical moment it is in. In 2026, when alliances matter more than slogans, this deal shows that Europe is serious about building new partnerships and shaping its own strategic future.”

Cristina Maestre (S&D, ES), standing rapporteur for India in the International Trade Committee

"As the EU’s largest trading partner with €124 billion in goods exchanged annually, we are creating a free-trade zone encompassing some 2 billion people, unlocking new opportunities for prosperity and cooperation. Achieving a balanced, ambitious, and mutually beneficial free trade agreement has not been easy, but the commitment demonstrated at the highest level by both sides has been extraordinary. We are pleased that differences have progressively been resolved and we welcome India’s commitments on our core priorities - sustainability and respect for human rights - while remaining vigilant to ensure genuine implementation. Without reading the fine print, what we know is very positive."

Background

The 16th EU–India Summit held on 27 January in New Delhi concluded negotiations on a free trade agreement (FTA), linking nearly two billion people and two of the world’s largest economies.

Leaders also signed an EU–India security and defence partnership and agreed on a memorandum of understanding establishing a comprehensive framework for cooperation on mobility. In addition, negotiations were launched on a security of information agreement, alongside the endorsement of several other key proposals.

The summit further reaffirmed the shared ambition of both partners through the adoption of a common agenda for their strategic partnership, “Towards 2030: A Joint Comprehensive Strategic Agenda.”