New Delhi: On Monday, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal engaged in discussions with French Finance Minister Eric Lombard in Paris, focusing on the advancements in the negotiations for the India-EU free trade agreement (FTA).

Goyal shared on the X social media platform, stating, “Had a fruitful meeting with @Eric_R_Lombard, the French Minister of Economy, Finance, and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty.”

He elaborated, “We exchanged insights on enhancing our economic collaboration, boosting trade and investments, particularly emphasizing technology and innovation in key sectors. We also reviewed the progress of the India-EU FTA discussions.”

The Union Minister expressed optimism about strengthening economic relations between India and France.

Earlier that day, Goyal met with Christophe Perillat, the CEO of Valeo Group, a prominent global automotive supplier with significant operations in India.

He acknowledged the company's confidence in India's growth trajectory and their intentions to increase investments in the nation, discussing ways to expand their manufacturing footprint in India.

Additionally, he met with Nicolas Hieronimus, CEO of the L’Oréal Group, to discuss potential opportunities for L’Oréal to adopt a 'Make in India' approach for global markets.

The Commerce Minister also interacted with various leading global CEOs in Paris to investigate their future investment strategies in India, particularly in sectors like electric vehicles and renewable energy.

This official visit to France aims to enhance trade and investment relations, and Goyal is scheduled to participate in a ministerial meeting of the World Trade Organization (WTO) on Tuesday.

Furthermore, he hinted at an imminent free trade agreement (FTA) with Oman, as negotiations between the two nations are progressing positively.

After his engagements in France, the Union Minister will head to Italy for the subsequent phase of his official trip.