India and EU Enhance Tech and Trade Cooperation Ahead of Key Pact

India and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, and advanced technologies as they prepare to finalize a landmark free trade agreement next month. The two parties aim to foster mutually beneficial and transformative developments across multiple sectors including quantum technologies, semiconductors, and biotechnology.

The discussions took place during the seventh India-EU Strategic Partnership Review Meeting (SPRM) held in New Delhi on Monday. This high-level meeting involved a comprehensive evaluation of the bilateral relationship and set the stage for the anticipated signing of what has been described as the "mother of all deals," a pact that will create a combined market of around two billion people.

According to a joint press release, both India and the EU reviewed progress on boosting trade and investment cooperation. They emphasized the importance of swiftly concluding the free trade agreement alongside other pending agreements such as the investment protection pact and the deal on geographical indications. These agreements are expected to provide stronger legal frameworks and protections for investors and intellectual property rights.

Another key topic during the SPRM was strengthening supply chains and economic security. The parties discussed strategic collaborations within the framework of the Trade and Technology Council (TTC) and the Blue Valleys initiative. Established in 2022, the TTC facilitates the exchange of critical technologies, focusing on fields like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, semiconductors, and cybersecurity.

Both sides also explored cooperation in emerging and critical technologies such as digital public infrastructure (DPI), clean technologies, and biotechnology. The discussions highlighted their shared interest in fostering a supportive digital environment that promotes innovation while ensuring secure and resilient digital infrastructure.

Research collaboration was another area where progress was noted. India’s potential association with Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation program with a budget of €93.5 billion, was discussed as a significant step towards deeper scientific partnership. This association aligns with the strategic agenda the two sides aim to pursue over the next five years.

The meeting also underscored the need to enhance connectivity partnerships, including initiatives like Global Gateway and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). Trilateral projects focused on clean energy, climate resilience, green mobility, and digitalization were also part of the agenda, reflecting shared priorities on sustainability and technological advancement.

Coordination on global governance issues was another focal point, with both sides agreeing on the importance of collaborative efforts to shape effective international standards and policies. Beyond technological and economic cooperation, India and the EU also exchanged views on people-to-people contacts, talent mobility, education, and skill development. Updates on the European Legal Gateway Office were shared, and plans for the next India-EU Human Rights Dialogue were discussed.

As trusted partners, India and the EU reiterated their commitment to a deeper strategic partnership aimed at delivering tangible and impactful outcomes. The meeting also served as a platform to prepare for future engagements at the leadership level, ensuring continued momentum in bilateral relations.

Additionally, both parties committed to advancing the green transition, with talks on including Indian ship recycling yards that comply with EU regulations in the official list of approved facilities. This move supports sustainable practices in maritime industries and aligns with environmental goals.

The SPRM was co-chaired by Sibi George, Secretary (West) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and Matti Maasikas, Deputy Secretary General for Geoeconomics and Interinstitutional Issues at the European External Action Service. Their leadership reflects the importance both sides place on maintaining and expanding this multifaceted partnership.

India-EU relations have been evolving steadily with a focus on strategic collaboration in trade, technology, and sustainability. The upcoming free trade agreement is expected to further accelerate economic integration, providing new opportunities for businesses and innovation across both regions.