India-EU Elevate Strategic Partnership, FTA Nears Finalization Amid Global Shifts

• India and the European Union have strengthened their strategic partnership amidst global trade uncertainties and US tariff threats.
• EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas lauded the strong India-EU relations, highlighting the significance of this cooperation.
• Top EU leaders, Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, will be chief guests at Republic Day 2026, symbolizing the alliance's strength.
• The 16th India-EU Summit saw an agreement to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), including duty cuts on cars and wine, and market access for electronics and textiles.
• A security agreement focusing on cyber and maritime security was also finalized, with broad political support from Europe.

Why It Matters: India and the EU are deepening their strategic and economic ties, with an FTA and security pact on the horizon.