Tanmaya Lal, Secretary (West) of the Ministry of External Affairs, recently held a meeting with Angelika Niebler, the European Parliament Chair of the Delegation for Relations with India. They discussed the strengthening of India-EU bilateral relations, parliamentary exchanges, and key global issues.
In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the news, stating, “Secretary (West) Mr. Tanmaya Lal met with @ANiebler Ms. Angelika Niebler, European Parliament Chair of the Delegation for Relations with India. They discussed India-EU bilateral ties, parliamentary exchanges, and global issues.”
Earlier this week, former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt expressed optimism about the future of India-EU relations, calling 2025 a “breakthrough year.” He mentioned in an interview with ANI that both India and the EU were committed to finalizing an agreement by the end of the year.
“I believe 2025 will be a turning point in EU-India relations. Both sides are committed to concluding an agreement by year’s end,” Bildt said. He acknowledged that the process would require compromises from both parties, but emphasized the importance of such a deal amidst the challenges posed by global trade uncertainties and tariffs.
During EU President Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to India in February, both parties instructed their teams to conclude negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by the end of the year.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs revealed that discussions between delegations from India and the European Union covered a wide range of topics. These included trade, digital green technology, energy, environmental issues, and connectivity, with the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and EU President Ursula von der Leyen. The visit was also marked by the involvement of 20 union cabinet ministers and Ministers of State.
Tanmaya Lal added, “The leaders have directed their teams to conclude the India-EU FTA within the year. This is a significant outcome.”
