India-EU Set to Announce Major Trade and Strategic Deals Following Republic Day

New Delhi, January 26, 2026: Ahead of the India–European Union (EU) Summit, key announcements are expected on completing negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA), finalizing a strategic defense partnership, and establishing a framework to facilitate mobility for Indian and European citizens. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, during the summit.

The summit is likely to focus on trade, defense, security, climate change, critical technologies, and strengthening the rules-based global order, while developing a joint approach to geopolitical challenges arising from shifts in US policies.

Historic Trade Agreement on the Horizon
European leaders recently stated that India and the EU are close to signing a historic trade deal, potentially creating a market of two billion people, accounting for nearly a quarter of the global GDP. Negotiations for an FTA began in 2007 but were paused in 2013 due to differences in ambitions. Talks resumed in June 2022, and the finalized agreement is expected to enhance bilateral relations across multiple sectors.

India-EU Strategic Partnership
India and the EU have been strategic partners since 2004. The proposed Security and Defense Partnership (SDP) will deepen collaboration in defense and security, improve operational coordination, and provide opportunities for Indian companies to participate in the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SEAF) programme. Negotiations are also expected to begin on an Information Security Agreement (SOIA).

Mobility and Other Agreements
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) to facilitate the movement of Indian professionals across EU member states is expected to be a major outcome of the summit. Countries such as France, Germany, and Italy are already engaged with India in migration and mobility partnerships. Several other cooperation agreements across multiple sectors are also likely to be signed, strengthening India-EU ties.

The summit follows a historic moment during India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations, when EU leaders attended as chief guests, underscoring the growing India-EU partnership.