India-EU FTA: Netherlands' Support Crucial as Negotiations Enter Decisive Phase

New Delhi: As India and the European Union (EU) approach a critical juncture in their Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, the backing of key member states like the Netherlands has emerged as a strategic necessity. During an official visit to New Delhi, Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel held high-level talks with India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, focusing on deepening bilateral ties and accelerating the trade pact.

Dr. Jaishankar emphasized that India places immense value on its relationship with the Netherlands, both as a bilateral partner and as a significant voice within the EU. The discussions covered a wide spectrum of sectors, including trade, defense, shipping, agriculture, and health.

"Glad to meet FM David van Weel of Netherlands today in New Delhi. We had productive discussions on our bilateral cooperation... and also spoke about new opportunities in semiconductors, talent mobility, and renewables," Dr. Jaishankar shared on X (formerly Twitter). He further expressed appreciation for the Netherlands' consistent support in strengthening India-EU relations and finalizing the FTA.

Highlighting the importance of international cooperation, Minister David van Weel remarked that in these "turbulent times," it is essential for like-minded democracies to stand together. He stressed that nations adhering to international rule-based orders and free trade must intensify their collaboration to withstand geopolitical shifts.

Prior to the bilateral meet, Dr. Jaishankar interacted with a multi-party parliamentary delegation that recently represented India at the UN General Assembly. He lauded their efforts in articulating India’s global stance effectively.

With the FTA talks entering a "decisive round," the alignment between New Delhi and The Hague is expected to provide the necessary momentum to overcome long-standing trade barriers, fostering a more resilient economic partnership between India and Europe.