PM Modi And UK PM Burnham Vow To Harness Trade Opportunities Under Landmark Pact

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with the newly elected Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Andy Burnham, and emphasised that both countries would work closely to fully harness the trade and investment opportunities presented by the recently operationalised India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement.

He expressed delight at the conversation and once again congratulated Burnham on assuming office, extending his best wishes for a successful tenure.

The two leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including technology, innovation, defence, security, clean energy, education and people-to-people ties.

They underlined their commitment to taking the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to new heights. Modi stressed that collaboration under the trade agreement would contribute to shared prosperity and well-being for both nations.

According to the UK Government’s statement, Burnham reflected on the strength of the UK-India partnership and its impact on local communities across Britain. He outlined his ambitions to enhance bilateral ties through the UK-India Vision 2035 framework and stronger people-to-people connections. 

He praised the contribution of Indian communities in the UK, while Modi highlighted the connection between Manchester and Ahmedabad, referring to Ahmedabad as the “Manchester of India.”

Burnham also underlined the potential of the trade agreement, noting that it would create opportunities for people in both countries. He reaffirmed his commitment to the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, and both leaders acknowledged the scope for collaboration in advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence. They agreed that cutting-edge cooperation in these areas would be vital for the future.

The leaders exchanged views on the situation in West Asia and agreed to continue working closely towards de-escalation and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Both expressed their desire to meet in person at the earliest opportunity to continue discussions.

The landmark trade agreement, which came into effect this month, has been described as a historic moment that will unlock new opportunities for businesses, workers and consumers in both countries. It is expected to significantly deepen the bilateral economic partnership.

PM Modi had earlier congratulated Burnham upon his assumption of office, stressing the strong foundation of India-UK relations, which are bound by shared democratic values and extensive cooperation across trade, investment, technology, defence and people-to-people exchanges.

He underscored the significance of the agreement, saying it would provide fresh momentum to bilateral ties and further strengthen cooperation between the two nations. Burnham, who became the 59th Prime Minister of Britain after Keir Starmer’s resignation, arrived at 10 Downing Street accompanied by his wife Marie-France van Heel.

In his first remarks, he stressed the need for Britain to regain stability, noting that he was the seventh Prime Minister in a decade, and promised to act as a circuit breaker to bring forward the biggest changes in forty years.

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India-EU Free Trade Agreement Hailed As Game Changer By German Envoy

German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann has described the forthcoming India-European Union Free Trade Agreement as a major milestone in bilateral relations. He said the pact would transform economic ties and significantly boost commercial activities between the two regions.

Speaking after a press conference at the German Embassy in New Delhi, Ackermann emphasised that the agreement would act as a catalyst for cross-border commerce. He called it a “game changer in many ways,” stressing that it would encourage more German investment in India and potentially more Indian investment in Germany.

The Ambassador underlined that the reduction of tariffs and removal of trade barriers between Europe and India would directly stimulate economic engagement. He expressed strong optimism about the timeline, noting that the implementation of the free trade agreement in the first half of next year would generate progressive transformation over the coming years.

Ackermann reiterated that the deal would lead to greater investment flows both ways, which he said Germany highly welcomed. He added that the lowering of tariff barriers would activate trade and investment activities between both markets, and he was very optimistic about the early implementation.

He also pointed out that the deepening of economic synergy would naturally translate into greater people-to-people movement. He remarked that the agreement would increase the number of visitors travelling between India and Germany, strengthening cultural and social exchanges alongside economic ties.

Last week, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal concluded a five-day visit to Spain, Belgium, Finland and Estonia. During this tour, India and the European Union reaffirmed their commitment to the early signing and implementation of the proposed Free Trade Agreement.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry confirmed that both sides had reiterated their determination to move swiftly towards the conclusion of the deal. Goyal’s meetings in Brussels included discussions with European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commissioner for Trade Maros Sefcovic and other senior EU leaders.

The proposed agreement is expected to help India redirect exports worth an estimated $10–11 billion from the United States to the European Union. This would reduce India’s dependence on a single export market while expanding its presence in Europe.

According to a report by Rubix Data Science, such diversification would strengthen India’s trade resilience and open new opportunities for exporters.

The India-EU Free Trade Agreement is therefore being seen not only as a commercial arrangement but also as a strategic program to reshape global trade patterns. It promises to enhance investment flows, stimulate industrial cooperation, and broaden the scope of bilateral engagement across multiple sectors.

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India And Israel Advance Free Trade Agreement Talks

India and Israel have successfully concluded the second round of negotiations for their proposed free trade agreement. The discussions took place in New Delhi between 20 and 23 July 2026, with both sides engaging in detailed technical deliberations across a wide spectrum of trade-related issues.

The proposed agreement covers trade in goods and services, rules of origin, technical barriers to trade, intellectual property rights, customs procedures, and trade facilitation. It also extends to sanitary and phytosanitary measures, economic cooperation, and other chapters that are integral to a comprehensive pact.

According to the Commerce Ministry, the talks were constructive and forward-looking. Experts from both countries worked to narrow gaps and identify areas of convergence, reflecting the complementarities that India and Israel share across several sectors. The ministry emphasised that the FTA represents a significant opportunity to deepen economic integration and expand bilateral trade.

Both delegations held dedicated technical sessions to address specific aspects of the agreement. These sessions focused on harmonising standards, improving customs cooperation, and ensuring smoother trade facilitation mechanisms. Intellectual property rights and technical barriers to trade were also key areas of discussion, highlighting the importance of creating a balanced framework that supports innovation and fair competition.

The statement underlined the commitment of both sides to conclude the negotiations at the earliest possible date. The goal is to achieve a balanced, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial agreement that will strengthen trade and economic ties.

India and Israel already enjoy a strong economic relationship, with total merchandise trade between the two countries reaching $3.93 billion in 2025–26. The proposed FTA is expected to build on this foundation, opening new avenues for cooperation in sectors such as technology, pharmaceuticals, defence, and agriculture.

The negotiations also carry strategic significance, as both nations seek to diversify their trade partnerships and reduce dependence on single markets. The FTA is viewed as a step towards building resilient supply chains and enhancing collaboration in emerging sectors.

The conclusion of the second round marks steady progress in the negotiation process. Both sides remain optimistic that the agreement will be finalised soon, paving the way for a stronger and more dynamic economic partnership.

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Game Changer For Trade As India And Romania Strengthen EU Partnership During President Murmu’s Visit

President Droupadi Murmu’s official visit to Romania from 23 to 25 July has given a major boost to bilateral commercial relations. Both countries identified priority sectors for expansion and emphasised the transformative potential of the recently concluded India-EU Free Trade Agreement.

At a special media briefing, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Sibi George, outlined the high-level engagements undertaken during the visit. These included a bilateral meeting with Romanian Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan and a joint address with Romanian President Nicusor Dan at the India-Romania Business Forum.

The Business Forum gathered around 200 business representatives, including a significant Indian delegation led by FICCI, CII, and ASSOCHAM. The delegation represented critical growth sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, defence, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing.

George explained that the deliberations at the Forum centred on enhancing collaborations in the “3 Ts”: Trade, Technology, Tourism, and Talent. He stressed that Romania’s strategic position within the European Union provides considerable advantages for Indian enterprises seeking to access both domestic and wider European markets.

He noted that Romania already hosts approximately 1,000 Indian companies, creating long-term opportunities for deeper collaboration. This presence is expected to expand further with the new frameworks in place.

President Murmu’s discussions with Prime Minister Bolojan focused heavily on bilateral engagement and the broader India-EU relationship in light of the landmark FTA agreed earlier this year.

George highlighted that the conclusion of the India-EU FTA and adoption of the “India-EU Towards 2030” joint comprehensive strategic agenda will be a game changer.

The agenda identifies important areas of cooperation including sustainability, technology and innovation, security and defence, and connectivity. These will significantly expand and enhance trade and investment ties with the EU, including Romania.

Responding to questions about the roadmap for doubling bilateral trade over the next three years, the MEA confirmed that the necessary policy frameworks are firmly established. With the FTA in place, there is every possibility of more opportunities for businesses to engage.

Achieving this ambitious growth will depend largely on sustained private-sector engagement, expanded trade missions, and stronger ties between Romanian businesses and industrial hubs across Indian states.

George emphasised that businesses in both countries must engage more closely. He called for increased business delegations travelling from Romania to India and from India to Romania, with greater interaction between the two sides.

This visit has therefore reinforced Romania’s role as a key partner for India within the European Union, while also laying the groundwork for a stronger India-EU economic partnership.

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PM Modi Congratulates Andy Burnham On Becoming UK Prime Minister, Vows To Deepen Strategic Partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has warmly congratulated Andy Burnham on becoming the United Kingdom’s 59th Prime Minister, emphasising India’s readiness to deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and advance Vision 2035.

Burnham, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester, has taken office amid political and economic instability, pledging to act as a “circuit breaker” for Britain.

Prime Minister Modi extended his greetings through a post on X, highlighting the strong democratic values shared by India and the UK. He noted that the two nations already enjoy extensive cooperation in trade, investment, technology, defence and people-to-people exchanges.

PM Modi stressed that the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which entered into force this month, would provide fresh momentum to bilateral ties and strengthen cooperation across multiple sectors.

Modi expressed confidence in working closely with Burnham to further deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and advance the shared Vision 2035. This framework aims to expand collaboration in areas such as clean energy, advanced technology, defence industrial cooperation, and critical minerals, while also enhancing cultural and educational exchanges.

Andy Burnham formally assumed office on Monday after Keir Starmer tendered his resignation to King Charles III at Buckingham Palace. Burnham was invited by the monarch to form a government and accepted the appointment as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury. His rise marks him as the seventh British Prime Minister in a decade, reflecting the turbulence in UK politics since Brexit.

Burnham, aged 56, arrived at 10 Downing Street accompanied by his wife Marie-France van Heel. In his first address to the nation, he acknowledged the public’s frustration with political instability, stating that Britain must show the world it can regain stability. He promised to act as a “circuit breaker for Britain” and pledged to bring forward the biggest changes in the last 40 years.

He underscored the extraordinary turnover of leadership, noting that he is the sixth person in the last ten years to walk up Downing Street, making him the seventh Prime Minister since 2016. Burnham emphasised the need for reflection and new resolution, promising to chart out immediate measures to ease the cost-of-living crisis and later unveil a 10-year plan to reshape Britain’s governance and economy.

Burnham’s appointment is historic in another respect: he is the UK’s first Catholic Prime Minister, a milestone in British political history. His background as Mayor of Greater Manchester earned him the nickname “King of the North,” reflecting his strong regional leadership. His governing philosophy, shaped by his tenure in Manchester, is expected to influence his national approach, prioritising decentralisation, public service reform, and tackling inequality.

The new Prime Minister has pledged to end rough sleeping, cap bus fares, and explore measures to reduce energy costs.

He has appointed John Healey, former Defence Secretary, as Finance Minister, signalling a break from previous Treasury orthodoxy. Burnham’s government is expected to focus on cost-of-living relief, re-industrialisation, and restoring public trust in politics.

For India, Burnham’s leadership presents an opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties further, especially as CETA begins to reshape trade flows. Modi’s outreach underscores India’s intent to work closely with the UK in building resilient supply chains, advancing defence cooperation, and promoting innovation-led growth.

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India-EU Free Trade Agreement Marks Historic Year of Balanced Partnership Says 'Fair, Equitable, Balanced; Truly A Win-Win Deal'

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal has described 2026 as a historical year in India-European Union relations, hailing the Free Trade Agreement as balanced and beneficial to both sides.

Speaking in Brussels after the conclusion of the third India-EU Trade and Technology Council Ministerial Meeting, he emphasised that the FTA was “fair, equitable, and balanced,” and a true win-win for businesses and citizens across both regions.

He noted that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had referred to the deal as “the mother of all trade deals,” while Prime Minister Narendra Modi had characterised it as “a partnership for global good.”

Goyal underlined that the discussions in Brussels reaffirmed the shared vision of India and the EU for an innovation-driven, trusted and future-ready growth partnership. He said the TTC had become a vital pillar of engagement between the two sides. He highlighted that a work program on foreign direct investment screening had been concluded, with both sides exchanging best practices to expedite investment flows.

He also drew attention to global economic instability, stressing that the multilateral trading system was undergoing turbulence. He said India and the EU’s shared commitment to a rules-based, open, inclusive and non-discriminatory World Trade Organisation would help steer progress in the future.

He emphasised that both sides were committed to de-risking dependencies on critical areas, building reliable and diversified supply chains, and ensuring outcome-oriented work in market access, harmonisation of standards, and operationalising supply chain imperatives. He pointed to collaboration in deep tech start-ups, innovation ecosystems, industrial partnerships, advanced manufacturing, and connectivity, particularly in the context of global turbulence.

Goyal said that through the FTA, India and the EU were creating a framework for greater trade and business, and looked forward to witnessing the signing of the agreement later in 2026. He also cited Prime Minister Modi’s description of India’s economic position, noting that India was not only a rising power but also a reliable power, a fast-growing and credible economy.

Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada added that cooperation between India and the EU was increasingly action-oriented and outcome-driven. He said governments, industry, research institutions and innovation ecosystems from both sides had agreed on a forward-looking action plan for 2026-27.

This plan would guide cooperation across strategic and emerging technologies, reflecting a shared commitment to deepen collaboration in research and innovation, strengthen trusted and resilient technology value chains, and promote greater industry engagement. He stressed that the plan would deliver tangible benefits to citizens and businesses.

Prasad highlighted progress in cutting-edge sectors such as semiconductor cooperation, artificial intelligence, high-performance computing and digital public infrastructure.

He said these achievements demonstrated the immense potential of the alliance. He emphasised that technology cooperation must ultimately benefit people, by delivering digital skills, connecting talent and innovation ecosystems, and facilitating greater mobility of skilled professionals.

He framed the India-EU alliance as a standard-setter for the international community, suggesting that both sides were uniquely positioned to advocate for technology partnerships that were sustainable and inclusive.

He said India and the EU could contribute to building global technology frameworks and standards that were open, trusted, interoperable and responsive to societal needs. He concluded that the India-EU technology partnership was entering a new phase, with a focus on implementation and measurable outcomes.

India, he said, remained committed to working closely with the EU to build a trusted, ambitious and future-oriented technology partnership that would contribute to innovation, economic growth and an inclusive, sustainable digital future.

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India And Belgium Launch Strategic Dialogue To Strengthen Defence, Trade And Technology Cooperation

India and Belgium convened the inaugural Strategic Dialogue in Brussels on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in their bilateral relations. The meeting reviewed cooperation across defence, semiconductors, supply chains, trade, investment, clean energy and mobility, reflecting the growing breadth of their partnership.

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that this first Strategic Dialogue represents a structured and comprehensive framework for political engagement. Anchored in the wider India-European Union Strategic Partnership, it is designed to be regular, results-oriented and future-focused.

The session was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs and Development Cooperation, Maxime Prevot. Both leaders emphasised the importance of building on complementarities to deliver tangible outcomes for their countries and for Europe.

Prevot highlighted that the Belgian Economic Mission of March 2025 demonstrated the dynamism of bilateral economic ties. He noted that trade, investment and innovation continue to strengthen relations and provide a solid foundation for future cooperation.

Jaishankar underlined Belgium’s special place in India’s engagement with Europe. He stressed that as the India-EU relationship acquires greater strategic importance, this dialogue will help deepen bilateral ties and expand cooperation across multiple domains.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said the discussions reflected the ambition of India’s partnership with Belgium and the European Union. He noted that the partnership has witnessed significant deepening in recent years and that the dialogue will further consolidate this momentum.

According to the MEA, both sides agreed to intensify collaboration in trade and investment, green energy transition, innovation and technology, connectivity, defence, security, regional and global issues, and people-to-people exchanges. The dialogue will be supported by regular high-level engagements to ensure sustained political momentum.

The two sides also noted that upcoming high-level visits later this year would provide opportunities to advance key initiatives and translate shared ambitions into concrete outcomes for the benefit of both nations.

Complementing the launch of the Strategic Dialogue, the India-EU Business Forum was held at the Federation of Belgian Enterprises. The forum brought together Indian, Belgian and other European businesses to discuss ways of converting political momentum into economic and trade opportunities.

The forum was attended by Jaishankar, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry and Electronics and Information Technology Jitin Prasada, Belgian Minister-President of Flanders Matthias Diependaele, and Minister-President of Wallonia Adrien Dolimont. Discussions focused on the ongoing negotiations for the India-EU Free Trade Agreement and the potential to unlock new opportunities for businesses.

The MEA emphasised that India and Belgium reaffirmed their shared commitment to a stronger, more ambitious and future-oriented partnership.

This reflects the growing importance of bilateral relations and the evolving international environment, with both sides determined to translate political goodwill into practical cooperation.

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India-EU Trade And Technology Council Strengthens Cooperation In Strategic Tech, Clean Energy And Trade

The third meeting of the India-European Union Trade and Technology Council in Brussels marked a significant advancement in cooperation across three major working groups.

These covered strategic technologies and digital connectivity, clean and green technologies, and trade, investment and resilient value chains. Both sides announced new initiatives in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, green technologies, start-ups and supply chain resilience.

The meeting was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, and Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Jitin Prasada from India.

The European Union was represented by Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, Maros Sefcovic, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, and Ekaterina Zaharieva, Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation.

The TTC, established in April 2022 by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has become a central platform to address challenges related to trade, trusted technology and security while strengthening bilateral cooperation.

EAM Jaishankar emphasised that the meeting reviewed ongoing cooperation in strategic technologies, digital connectivity, clean energy, trade, investments and resilient supply chains. He noted that trusted partnerships like India and the EU are vital in overcoming supply chain chokepoints, market access issues and technology gaps.

Under the first working group, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, high-performance computing, quantum technologies, digital governance and next-generation telecommunications.

They agreed to improve interoperability of digital trust services, including e-signatures, and explore cooperation on digital wallet interoperability, with a possible pilot linking the EU Digital Identity Wallet and India’s DigiLocker. A Joint Artificial Intelligence Roadmap is being considered, alongside sharing best practices on responsible AI adoption and governance approaches for emerging applications.

India and the EU also agreed to deepen cooperation in high-performance computing and quantum technologies, including joint research in natural hazards, climate change and bioinformatics. On semiconductors, both sides committed to building secure and trusted supply chains.

A joint India-EU roundtable will be held during Semicon India 2026, with collaboration in research, capacity building, advanced manufacturing and critical minerals supply chains. Cooperation between India Semiconductor Mission design facilities and EU pilot lines under the EU Chips Act will also be explored.

The second working group focused on clean and green technologies. India and the EU welcomed progress in research and innovation cooperation and announced plans to begin formal negotiations on India’s association with Horizon Europe, the EU’s EUR 93.5 billion research and innovation funding program.

This would allow Indian researchers and innovators to participate fully from 2027. Both sides agreed to establish the first India-EU Innovation Hub focused on electric vehicle charging technologies and testing, driven by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre and the Automotive Research Association of India. This hub will integrate research capabilities, testing infrastructure, standards expertise and start-up ecosystems.

Progress was also highlighted under a joint investment of EUR 60 million over four years to support collaborative research projects through Horizon Europe.

These projects include renewable hydrogen production from agricultural and industrial waste, marine pollution monitoring using AI-driven models and advanced biosensors, and recycling of electric vehicle batteries with a focus on critical raw material recovery. Cooperation will continue on hydrogen-related safety standards, hydrogen valleys, electric mobility and green technologies.

The third working group concentrated on strengthening economic cooperation, enhancing supply chain resilience and addressing vulnerabilities in key sectors. India and the EU agreed to build transparent, predictable, diversified and sustainable value chains in areas such as agri-food, active pharmaceutical ingredients and clean technologies.

Discussions also covered food security, pharmaceutical supply chain resilience, renewable energy technologies and reducing trade barriers. Both sides welcomed progress in addressing market access issues through the TTC framework and stressed the importance of outcomes in technical regulations, Quality Control Orders and relevant EU regulations.

India and the EU reaffirmed their commitment to the multilateral trading system and highlighted the need for reforms to address contemporary trade challenges. They agreed to explore a dedicated platform under the TTC for the Blue Valleys initiative, aimed at developing sector-specific industrial clusters involving regulators, industry, start-ups and other stakeholders.

A Deep-Tech Start-up Partnership will also be established, involving the European Innovation Council and Start-Up India, to support cross-border market access and commercialisation opportunities. The India-EU Business Forum will be held annually, with regular sector-specific industry interactions focusing on priority areas.

Both sides agreed that the next Ministerial Meeting of the Trade and Technology Council will take place in New Delhi in 2027.

The TTC will continue to support a more integrated, resilient and sustainable economic partnership between India and the European Union, building on the momentum of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, the Security and Defence partnership and the Mobility Framework.

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Historic UK-India Free Trade Agreement Comes Into Force

The UK-India Free Trade Agreement, described as one of the biggest trade deals of modern times, officially came into force on Wednesday. The agreement marks a transformative moment in bilateral economic relations, immediately impacting trade worth £48 billion in 2025.

Consumers in both countries will now benefit from cheaper, quicker, and easier access to a wide range of British and Indian products and services.

To commemorate this historic occasion, a special package of select British goods arrived at the British Deputy High Commission in Mumbai aboard a British Airways flight. The ceremonial unveiling was conducted by Harjinder Kang, Trade Commissioner for South Asia, and David Wright, British Airways’ General Manager in India. The package symbolised the new opportunities unlocked under the agreement and contained goods benefiting from reduced tariffs, including cosmetics, food products, and alcoholic beverages.

Harjinder Kang hailed the moment as a watershed in the UK-India partnership. He emphasised that the landmark trade deal was designed to deliver benefits to businesses and consumers from day one, making trade cheaper, quicker, and easier. He expressed excitement about the opportunities that would now be available to both nations.

David Wright underlined the importance of India as one of British Airways’ most significant markets. He noted the airline’s long history of connecting people, businesses, and cultures across the UK and India. With 63 flights each week, set to increase to 70 by the end of summer, British Airways plays a vital role in strengthening economic and cultural ties.

Wright described the agreement as a milestone that reinforces the long-term potential of one of the world’s most dynamic international corridors. He affirmed the airline’s pride in supporting the deal and its commitment to deepening links with India.

From today, 99 per cent of Indian goods entering the UK and 90 per cent of UK goods entering India will either be duty-free or subject to reduced tariffs. This sweeping liberalisation will benefit sectors including automotive, manufacturing, consumer goods, creative industries, and medical technology. It represents the most significant milestone yet in the bilateral economic partnership.

To mark the occasion, celebratory events and activations are being hosted by the UK Government across India and the UK. Business receptions are planned in New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and at Lancaster House in London, underscoring the scale of the achievement and the enthusiasm surrounding it.

In the long term, the agreement is expected to boost bilateral trade by £25.5 billion annually. It is projected to increase Indian GDP by £5.1 billion and UK GDP by £4.8 billion every year. These figures highlight the transformative potential of the deal, which is set to reshape economic engagement between the two countries and deliver lasting benefits across multiple sectors.

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India-UK Free Trade Pact Designed To Be Future-Proof

The landmark India-UK Free Trade Agreement has now come into effect, and Harjinder Kang, the United Kingdom’s former chief negotiator for the deal, has described it as being deliberately built to be future-proof.

In an exclusive interview, Kang recalled the long and complex negotiations, noting that India was a tough partner to bargain with, but both sides demonstrated strong political intent which ultimately made the agreement possible. He emphasised that without such intent, the process would have been far more difficult.

Kang pointed out that the negotiations continued despite a change of government in the UK. The process began under the Conservative Party and concluded under the Labour Party, yet both administrations supported the deal.

This continuity gave officials confidence that the agreement had bipartisan backing. On the Indian side, the negotiating team remained consistent throughout, which contributed to the eventual success. Kang stressed that the pact was designed not just for the short term but for decades to come, ensuring resilience against future challenges.

He explained that the agreement provides a stable framework for strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries. While it was not intended to solve global problems, it was crafted to help India and the UK conduct business more effectively on a bilateral basis. Kang acknowledged that turbulent times lie ahead, but the FTA offers both nations greater stability and the ability to build on their relationship in the future.

Earlier in the day, British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron hailed the agreement as a historic moment that would unlock new opportunities for businesses, workers and consumers in both countries.

She described it as the most ambitious free trade agreement either nation has ever implemented, covering 30 chapters on goods, services, procurement and other areas. Cameron highlighted that 99 per cent of Indian goods entering the UK and 90 per cent of tariff lines for UK exports to India would now benefit from duty-free or reduced-tariff access.

She noted that the deal is expected to increase bilateral trade by more than GBP 25 billion annually in the long run, while boosting the combined GDP of both countries by nearly GBP 5 billion. Key sectors set to benefit include infrastructure, clean energy, financial services, manufacturing, creative industries and consumer goods. The agreement reduces tariffs, expands market access and eases business mobility, making collaboration between the two economies more seamless.

Cameron explained that enthusiasm for the agreement was evident among British companies, ranging from large corporations to MSMEs. During a UK-wide roadshow across six cities, businesses expressed optimism about expanding into India as trade barriers fall and new export opportunities arise.

She cited examples such as a Manchester-based dye manufacturer and a copper products company, both expecting reduced tariffs to make their products more competitive in India.

She underlined that the deal combines Britain’s strengths in design, sustainability and innovation with India’s scale, ambition and rapid infrastructure development. Improved business mobility will allow engineers, consultants and professional services firms from both countries to collaborate more easily on major projects.

The agreement also opens government procurement markets, granting UK companies access to India’s central procurement market valued at GBP 38 billion annually, while Indian firms gain entry to UK procurement opportunities. This is expected to particularly benefit urban infrastructure projects, where British specialist equipment and technologies will become more competitive.

Cameron added that financial services firms, including banks, insurers and fintech companies, would enjoy greater certainty under the agreement. Collaboration in creative industries will be strengthened, with intellectual property rights protected for Indian animation studios and UK game developers. Clean energy is another major beneficiary, with 98 per cent of environmental and green goods liberalised, supporting India’s energy transition while boosting UK exports of turbines, generators and renewable energy components.

The India-UK Free Trade Agreement thus represents a new gold standard in trade deals, designed to endure for decades, and is expected to reshape economic ties between the two countries while offering resilience against global uncertainties.

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EAM Jaishankar Meets European Council President In Brussels, Strengthens India-EU Strategic Partnership And Trade Cooperation

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar commenced a high-level diplomatic visit to Brussels on Wednesday, where he held talks with European Council President Antonio Costa to reinforce the India-European Union Strategic Partnership.

Jaishankar is in Belgium from 14 to 15 July, leading a senior delegation of Indian ministers and officials to attend the third India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting. This gathering is seen as a pivotal platform to advance cooperation in trade, technology, and strategic affairs.

Following his meeting with Costa, Jaishankar shared updates on X, noting that he was pleased to call on the European Council President alongside Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Jitin Prasada, and Principal Scientific Adviser Ajay K Sood.

He conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm wishes and joined his colleagues in recognising the significant progress achieved since the landmark India-EU summit earlier this year. He emphasised Costa’s guidance and warm sentiments in advancing trade and technology cooperation.

The dialogue highlighted the expanding trajectory of India-EU cooperation, with particular focus on innovation, trade, strategic alignment, and technology. This builds on the momentum generated by the major bilateral summit held earlier in 2026, which set the stage for deeper collaboration across multiple sectors.

At the start of his Brussels itinerary, Jaishankar held extensive deliberations with Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission.

Detailing the meeting on X, Jaishankar said he had useful discussions on West Asia and the need to ensure peace and stability. He also exchanged views on the importance of safe and unimpeded maritime commerce and spoke about advancing the India-EU Strategic Partnership to ensure supply chain resilience.

The exchange underscored mutual concerns regarding shifting geopolitical situations, particularly in West Asia, and emphasised the necessity of protecting global supply chains and maintaining open sea lanes.

Reflecting on the interaction, Kallas described 2026 as a historic year for India-EU relations, pointing out the broadening horizons of their bilateral cooperation. She noted that ties were deepening across trade, technology, security, and defence.

In her post on X, Kallas stated that it was good to speak with Jaishankar about taking the partnership further, including on maritime security. She stressed that both sides must defend freedom of navigation, protect open and resilient supply chains, and deepen cooperation between EU operations ATALANTA and ASPIDES and the Indian Navy to uphold security in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

Jaishankar’s stop in Brussels represents a critical component of his ongoing multi-nation tour. The focus is heavily on the third India-EU Trade and Technology Council assembly, where both delegations intend to enhance joint efforts in economic security, digital transformation, clean energy, critical technologies, and supply chain strength.

The TTC has emerged as a central program for advancing cooperation in these areas, reflecting the strategic importance of India-EU ties in shaping global economic and security frameworks.

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British Deputy Envoy Hails India-UK Trade Pact As Cheaper, Quicker And Faster

British Deputy High Commissioner to Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry, Sutapa Choudhury, has hailed the entry into force of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement alongside the Agreement on Social Security as a historic milestone in bilateral relations.

The enforcement was formally announced on Wednesday, marking a defining moment in the economic partnership between the two democracies.

The pact guarantees zero-duty market access for nearly 99 per cent of India’s exports, covering almost the entire trade value between the two nations. Choudhury emphasised that the treaty would systematically strip away bureaucratic and financial friction for enterprises, making business between the two countries “cheaper, quicker, and faster.”

She highlighted that Tamil Nadu stands to gain significantly, with sectors such as textiles, leather, automotives, marine, and pharmaceuticals expected to benefit. Expressing optimism over the rapid implementation, she noted that the agreement was signed less than a year ago by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Keir Starmer, underscoring the speed and seriousness with which both governments pursued the deal.

Choudhury described the pact as a stabilising anchor during a period of heightened macroeconomic and geopolitical volatility. She stressed that in a fragile global environment, the agreement brings India and the UK closer together, strengthening economic ties, people-to-people connections, and facilitating the movement of professionals and businesses across borders. She called it “a really profound statement of intent” by both governments.

To ensure that the benefits of the treaty reach regional industrial hubs, the British Deputy High Commission plans to expand commercial outreach beyond state capitals. Choudhury explained that she had recently visited Hosur to meet Tamil Nadu’s investment promotion agency and local businesses, emphasising the importance of engaging with industrial clusters spread across the state. She described this approach as a “win-win for India and for the UK.”

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal formally announced the enforcement of the agreement, highlighting the competitive advantage it secures for domestic manufacturers, small-scale industries, and corporate professionals.

He stated that the deal delivers zero-duty market access for nearly 99 per cent of India’s exports, covering almost 100 per cent of trade value, and described the day as a defining milestone in India-UK ties.

The agreement is expected to reduce costs for businesses, enhance competitiveness, and ultimately deliver cheaper prices for consumers. It represents a landmark achievement in bilateral relations, deepening economic engagement and opening new avenues for cooperation across diverse sectors.

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EAM Jaishankar Begins Brussels Visit With EU Talks, Strengthens Strategic Partnership And Reviews Maritime Security

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar began his Brussels visit on Tuesday as part of his six-nation tour with a meeting with European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas.

The two leaders discussed developments in West Asia, maritime security and ways to strengthen the India-EU Strategic Partnership.

Jaishankar described the discussions as useful, noting that they focused on the need to ensure peace and stability in West Asia. He also emphasised the importance of safe and unimpeded maritime commerce, while underlining the need to advance the India-EU Strategic Partnership to ensure supply chain resilience.

Kallas highlighted the growing cooperation between the European Union and India, stating that this year marked a historic phase in EU-India relations. She pointed out that the partnership has expanded across trade, technology, security and defence.

She stressed the importance of working together to safeguard freedom of navigation, protect open and resilient supply chains and enhance cooperation between EU maritime operations and the Indian Navy.

She specifically mentioned the need to deepen cooperation between EU operations ATALANTA and ASPIDES and the Indian Navy to uphold security in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. This reflects the EU’s increasing focus on maritime security and India’s role as a key partner in ensuring stability in critical sea lanes.

Following his meeting with Kallas, Jaishankar, accompanied by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Jitin Prasada and Principal Scientific Adviser Ajay K Sood, called on European Council President Antonio Costa. Jaishankar conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm wishes and joined his colleagues in recognising the significant progress in the partnership since the landmark India-EU summit earlier this year. He valued Costa’s guidance and sentiments for advancing trade and technology cooperation.

Jaishankar also met Flanders Minister-President Matthias Diependaele and Minister Annick De Ridder. He thanked them for hosting the Indian delegation and discussed opportunities for businesses and investments from the Flanders region. He noted that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement has enabled a wide range of possibilities for India’s cooperation with Belgium.

The Brussels visit comes as the Indian delegation is set to participate in the third India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting and hold interactions with EU and Belgian counterparts from 14 to 15 July. The TTC has become a central program for advancing cooperation in trade, technology and strategic affairs, reflecting the deepening engagement between India and the European Union.

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India And Canada Advance Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement Talks In Ottawa, Aim For 2026 Conclusion

India and Canada have successfully concluded the third round of negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in Ottawa, held between 6 and 10 July 2026.

The Department of Commerce confirmed that the discussions registered positive progress across multiple negotiating tracks, with both sides reaffirming their shared commitment to finalise the agreement within 2026.

The latest round of talks marks a significant step forward in bilateral trade engagement. A CEPA is designed to go beyond the traditional goods-focused free trade agreement, incorporating services, investment, government procurement, digital trade and sustainable development.

This broader framework reflects the evolving priorities of both nations in the context of global supply chain realignments.

Officials engaged in detailed discussions on market access for goods, rules of origin, trade in services and cooperation in critical sectors. These included critical minerals, clean technology, agriculture and pharmaceuticals.

Canada remains a major supplier of potash, pulses and energy to India, while India exports pharmaceuticals, textiles, engineering goods and IT services to Canada, underscoring the complementary nature of their economies.

The push to conclude CEPA by 2026 aligns with India’s wider trade diversification strategy, following recent agreements with the UAE, Australia and the EFTA bloc.

For Canada, India is its tenth largest trading partner and a vital market within its Indo-Pacific strategy, making the agreement strategically important for Ottawa’s global economic positioning.

Although the details of specific chapters agreed during the third round were not disclosed, the statement from the Department of Commerce indicates momentum on technical work. This progress is expected to pave the way for ministerial-level engagement later in the year, which will be crucial in resolving outstanding issues and accelerating the path towards conclusion.

Both governments have emphasised that once negotiations are concluded in 2026, the agreement will undergo legal vetting and ratification before coming into force. This process will ensure that the CEPA provides a robust and enforceable framework for expanding bilateral commerce and investment flows.

Currently, two-way goods trade between India and Canada stands at around CAD $10 billion annually. A concluded CEPA is expected to significantly enhance this figure by providing a formal structure for trade and investment, unlocking new opportunities in diverse sectors and strengthening the economic partnership between the two nations.

The negotiations also reflect the broader geopolitical context, where both countries are seeking to reduce dependence on traditional markets and build resilient supply chains.

For India, Canada’s resources and technology complement its domestic priorities in clean energy, food security and advanced manufacturing. For Canada, India’s growing economic stature offers access to a dynamic market and a strategic partner in Asia.

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India-EU Free Trade Agreement To Boost Investments, Jobs And Strategic Cooperation With Finland

India and Finland are witnessing a significant strengthening of their bilateral relationship, with Finnish Foreign Affairs Minister Elina Valtonen emphasising the transformative potential of the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement.

She stated that the agreement would bring substantial benefits in terms of investments, trade intensification, and job creation across both sides.

The India-EU FTA, concluded in January 2026, eliminates tariffs on a wide range of goods including textiles, apparel, leather, footwear, marine products, gems and jewellery, handicrafts, engineering goods, and automobiles. The formal signing of the agreement is expected in December 2026, marking a milestone in India’s expanding economic diplomacy.

Valtonen highlighted that Finland would actively push for the swift implementation of the FTA within the European Union. She noted that the pact holds immense promise for businesses, prosperity for citizens, and political cooperation.

She described Finland and India as having a “special friendship” rooted in shared values of freedom and choice, underscoring the importance of closer collaboration between nations that uphold democratic principles.

The Finnish Minister recalled discussions with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar during his visit to Finland in June, where both sides reviewed progress under the India-Finland Strategic Partnership. She stressed that the relationship between the two countries has never been stronger and that there is vast potential to deepen cooperation further.

She pointed to opportunities in trade, investment, digitalisation, the green transition, security, space, and ground breaking technologies. According to her, the FTA provides the foundation for this cooperation and has been extremely well received, offering a strong basis for future collaboration.

Valtonen also reaffirmed Finland’s commitment to supporting India’s climate goals. Finland aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035 and is willing to assist India in its own pursuit of climate neutrality. She explained that clean energy is not only vital for the planet but also represents an attractive business case, benefiting both people and industries.

During Jaishankar’s visit, both nations discussed expanding cooperation in emerging technology sectors such as start-ups, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, critical minerals, quantum technologies, 6G, clean energy, and space. These areas are expected to form the backbone of the next phase of India-Finland collaboration.

The India-EU FTA is therefore seen as a catalyst for intensifying trade, boosting investments, creating jobs, and laying the groundwork for deeper strategic cooperation. Finland’s proactive stance reflects the growing synergy between New Delhi and Helsinki, as both nations align on economic, technological, and environmental priorities.

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