EU Leaders and PM Modi Discuss Roadmap for 2026 Summit and Trade Deal

In a significant development for international diplomacy, European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen engaged in an important call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, affirming a robust, forward-looking EU–India partnership. The EU leaders warmly welcomed India’s ongoing engagement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, describing such dialogue as pivotal to promoting peace and global stability.

The official statements from President Costa and President von der Leyen emphasized the importance of constructive engagement: “We warmly welcome India's continued engagement with President Zelenskyy.” This recognition highlights India's growing diplomatic influence in fostering peaceful solutions to international challenges.

India’s Vital Role in Global Peace Efforts

Both EU presidents underscored India's “important role to play in helping create a path towards peace” through its global diplomatic efforts and steady advocacy for dialogue. The leaders noted that the current conflict has “global security consequences and undermines economic stability,” making peaceful resolution an urgent concern for the world community.

India’s position as a bridge-builder was clearly acknowledged, with the EU reaffirming the value of India’s commitment to peaceful negotiations and stability in its international partnerships.

Joint Strategic Agenda and Future Summit

Looking ahead, the leaders charted a course for deepened cooperation, planning to agree on a joint strategic agenda at the next EU–India summit, targeted for as early as 2026. This agenda is expected to cover key sectors such as trade, technology, innovation, sustainability, defence, security, and supply chain resilience.

Building on recent high-level visits and ongoing dialogues, both parties expressed intent to organize the forthcoming summit at the earliest mutually convenient date, demonstrating the urgency and priority assigned to strengthening EU–India ties.

Commitment to Conclude Free Trade Agreement Negotiations

One of the most consequential outcomes of the call was the shared commitment to finalizing the Free Trade Agreement negotiations between India and the EU by the end of the year. Leaders on both sides emphasized that timely progress is essential to unlock the full economic potential and mutual benefit inherent in closer partnership.

EU presidents reiterated, “We also remain fully committed to concluding the Free Trade Agreement negotiations by the end of the year. To achieve this, progress is needed now.” This call to action reflects an unambiguous dedication to delivering results for the people and economies of both regions.

Advancing Stability and Shared Prosperity

Throughout their exchange, the leaders reinforced the role of the EU–India Strategic Partnership in addressing global issues collaboratively and promoting a rules-based order for mutual prosperity. Both sides welcomed recent advancements in cooperation across trade, investment, technology, sustainability, and more, underlining the comprehensive nature of this bilateral relationship.

By prioritizing peaceful resolution of conflicts, economic openness, and inclusive development, the EU and India have set an example of diplomatic engagement aimed at achieving global stability and prosperity through persistent dialogue and concrete actions.