India-EU Summit 2026: Historic Free Trade Deal Expected Today

India and the European Union are poised to take a major step toward finalizing a landmark free-trade agreement today, a deal that could reshape one of the world’s largest economic partnerships. Years in the making, the proposed pact is seen as part of a broader strategic effort by New Delhi and Brussels to navigate global uncertainties triggered by US trade and foreign policy.

The summit is expected to cover more than just trade. Leaders will discuss defence and security cooperation, climate change, critical technologies, and a shared commitment to a rules-based global order.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is hosting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa in New Delhi for the talks. Momentum has been building in recent weeks, with von der Leyen describing the agreement as “historic,” potentially creating a market of nearly two billion people and representing almost a quarter of global GDP.

Negotiations on the free-trade deal began in 2007 but were suspended in 2013 due to differences in ambition, before being revived in 2022. If successfully concluded, the agreement would mark a decisive strengthening of India-EU ties, as Europe seeks to reduce dependence on the US and China while India positions itself as a key economic and strategic partner.

What’s on the agenda:

Finalizing the free-trade agreement

Expanding defence and security cooperation

Addressing climate change and critical technologies

Strengthening commitment to global rules-based governance

Exploring potential mobility arrangements for Indian workers in Europe

Today’s summit could be a turning point in India-EU relations, potentially establishing a combined market of nearly two billion people and setting the stage for deeper strategic collaboration.