Jaishankar Says India-EU Partnership Deepened After Brussels Talks on Trade, Security

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said the India-European Union partnership has made significant progress following high-level meetings with senior EU leaders in Brussels, where discussions focused on expanding cooperation in trade, technology, security, maritime commerce and resilient global supply chains.

During his two-day visit to Belgium, Jaishankar held talks with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas, reaffirming India's commitment to strengthening strategic ties with the European Union.

India-EU partnership gains momentum

Jaishankar highlighted the growing momentum in India-EU relations, stating that the partnership has advanced considerably since the landmark India-EU Summit held earlier this year.

Sharing details of his meeting with Antonio Costa, the External Affairs Minister said the discussions reviewed the progress achieved since the summit and explored ways to further deepen collaboration in trade and technology.

"Joined my colleagues to recognise the significant progress in our partnership since the landmark India-EU summit earlier this year," Jaishankar said in a post on X.

The minister is in Brussels to participate in the 3rd India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) meeting alongside Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Minister of State Jitin Prasada.

Focus on maritime security and supply chains

One of the major themes of the Brussels meetings was strengthening cooperation on maritime security and ensuring uninterrupted global trade routes.

During talks with Kaja Kallas, Jaishankar discussed the evolving situation in West Asia, regional stability and the importance of maintaining safe and open maritime commerce.

He also stressed the need to enhance supply chain resilience as both India and the European Union seek to diversify trade networks amid global geopolitical uncertainties.

"Had useful discussions on West Asia and the need to ensure peace and stability. Exchanged views on the importance of safe and unimpeded maritime commerce," Jaishankar posted on social media.

EU calls 2026 a historic year for India ties

European Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas described 2026 as a landmark year for India-EU relations, highlighting expanding cooperation across multiple strategic sectors.

According to Kallas, both sides are working to strengthen collaboration in:

• Trade and investment
• Technology and innovation
• Security and defence
• Maritime security
• Supply chain resilience

She also emphasised closer coordination between EU naval missions ATALANTA and ASPIDES and the Indian Navy to safeguard freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

FTA opens new business opportunities

Jaishankar also met Flanders Minister-President Matthias Diependaele and Minister Annick De Ridder, where discussions centred on expanding investment opportunities between India and Belgium.

He noted that the recently concluded India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has created fresh opportunities for businesses and investors, particularly from Belgium's Flanders region.

The minister said the discussions focused on increasing bilateral investments and strengthening commercial partnerships.

India-EU strategic ties continue to expand

The Brussels visit follows the landmark India-EU Summit held in New Delhi earlier this year, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi, European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen agreed to deepen cooperation across trade, technology, defence and strategic security.

The summit resulted in the signing of a Free Trade Agreement and a new Security and Defence Partnership, marking one of the most significant milestones in India-EU relations in recent years.

With the latest round of talks in Brussels, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in critical technologies, maritime security, resilient supply chains and economic growth.

Key Highlights

• S Jaishankar met top EU leaders during his Brussels visit.
• India and the EU reviewed progress made since the landmark summit earlier this year.
• Discussions focused on trade, technology, security and supply chain resilience.
• Maritime security and freedom of navigation emerged as major priorities.
• India and the EU aim to deepen cooperation between the Indian Navy and EU naval missions.
• The India-EU Free Trade Agreement is expected to boost business and investment opportunities.

FAQs

Why is S Jaishankar visiting Brussels?

Jaishankar is attending the 3rd India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting and holding discussions with EU leaders on trade, security and strategic cooperation.

What were the key issues discussed?

The talks covered trade, technology, maritime security, resilient supply chains, regional stability and expanding India-EU strategic relations.

What is the India-EU Trade and Technology Council?

The Trade and Technology Council (TTC) is a bilateral platform that promotes cooperation in digital technologies, trade, innovation, critical infrastructure and emerging technologies.

Why is maritime security important for India and the EU?

Both India and the EU support freedom of navigation, secure global shipping routes and resilient supply chains, particularly amid rising geopolitical tensions affecting international maritime trade.

What is the significance of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement?

The FTA is expected to increase bilateral trade, attract investments, improve market access and strengthen long-term economic cooperation between India and European Union member states.