Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Sep 30: European Union (EU) envoy Herve Delphin on Monday described the recent round of India–EU negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) as a “missed opportunity,” while urging New Delhi to move towards a mutually beneficial deal.
Speaking to reporters, Delphin said the EU “was and is still ready” to agree on a “meaningful” trade package and highlighted the growing convergence of economic, geopolitical and security interests between India and the European bloc. The 13th round of FTA negotiations was held from September 9 to 12.
“The 13th round earlier in September was a bit of a missed opportunity to make some breakthrough. We look forward to India engaging in earnest and moving, like the EU has shown readiness to do, towards a mutually beneficial deal,” Delphin remarked.
Emphasizing that the strategic confluence of India and EU’s interests “has never been greater,” the envoy called for a transformative partnership pact. “The trust and thrust in our relationship can take it to a new strategic level. This is Brussels’ call to Delhi,” he said.
Citing that India and the EU together represent nearly 25% of the world’s GDP and population, Delphin noted both sides stand as cooperative global actors committed to a rules-based international order. “We both reject wars of aggression and terrorism; or economic coercion. As large democracies, we attach importance to the respect and promotion of human values,” he added.
He pointed out that Europe’s evolving “strategic autonomy” makes the EU a valuable partner for India, especially amid challenges posed by China, Russia and the US. “Circumstances of necessity to de-risk, to hedge by diversifying partnerships and affirmation of greater strategic autonomy certainly provide a strong impetus for deepening our strategic ties,” he observed.
Delphin also referred to the broader geopolitical reshuffle, including intensifying US–China rivalry and the resurgence of nationalist politics. He warned that these trends are eroding international law and multilateralism, adding that both India and the EU face common challenges to their economic development, security and vision of a cooperative global order.
Quoting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Delphin said, “This world is fraught with danger. But this modern version of great power competition is an opportunity for Europe and India to re-imagine their partnership. In many ways, the EU and India are uniquely placed to respond to this challenge together.”