Overview
- Brussels unveiled a multi‑pillar EU‑India agenda spanning prosperity, technology, security, connectivity and enablers, with a pledge to accelerate FTA talks.
- Trade chief Maroš Šefčovič reaffirmed the goal of concluding negotiations by the end of 2025 after 13 rounds, with the 14th round set for 6–10 October in Brussels.
- Kaja Kallas called India’s discounted Russian oil imports and participation in the Zapad exercises obstacles to deeper ties, while noting the EU does not expect a full decoupling from Moscow.
- The strategy outlines defence‑industrial cooperation and classified information‑sharing, including a proposed Security of Information Agreement, alongside plans for an EU‑India Business Forum.
- Parallel US‑India talks resumed after Washington’s 50% tariffs on Indian goods, and India’s chief economic adviser predicted the 25% penal tranche could be withdrawn within 8–10 weeks with broader rates possibly cut, subject to negotiations.