This approval has been given on the basis of joint negotiations by the High Representative of the European Union and the European Commission. Its objective is to take the relations between India and the European Union to a new strategic dimension.

The Council particularly welcomed the ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between India and the European Commission. The target is to complete this agreement by the end of 2025. The Council described it as balanced, ambitious and beneficial to both sides.

The agreement will include provisions to improved market access, removal of trade barriers and sustainable development.

In view of the changing global situation, the Council reiterated the commitment to enhance cooperation in the security and defense sector between India and the EU. This cooperation will be based on mutual trust and respect.

In this direction, a plan to establish ‘Security and Defense Partnership’ is also being considered, which can also promote defense production and technical cooperation.

The Council called for continued dialogue and cooperation with India in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war. Additionally, the Council also underlined the joint responsibility of India and the EU in maintaining the UN Charter-based multilateral order and the rules-based international system.

The protection of democratic values, human rights and especially the rights of women and children has been given a prominent place in the EU-India agenda.

The Council has appealed to the European Commission and the High Representative to implement this strategic agenda on the basis of set priorities, so that the relations between the two sides can be further strengthened.