Jaishankar, EU Council Chief Push Stronger India-Europe Trade and Technology Partnership

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a series of high-level meetings in Brussels on Wednesday, reaffirming India's commitment to expanding its partnership with the European Union , with a strong focus on trade, technology and strategic cooperation . During his two-day visit to Belgium, Jaishankar met European Council President Antonio Costa , appreciating his leadership in strengthening bilateral ties and advancing cooperation across key sectors.

Following the meeting, Jaishankar said he valued Costa's "guidance and warm sentiments" in taking forward the rapidly growing India-EU partnership. He noted that both sides acknowledged the significant progress achieved since the landmark India-EU Summit held in New Delhi earlier this year, where leaders agreed on a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and unveiled a new Security and Defence Partnership .

The minister is in Brussels to participate in the third India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) meeting , accompanied by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Minister of State Jitin Prasada . The council has emerged as a key platform for driving collaboration in emerging technologies, resilient supply chains, digital innovation and economic growth.

Jaishankar also met European Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas , with discussions covering the evolving West Asia conflict , maritime security and the importance of ensuring safe and unimpeded maritime commerce . Both leaders underlined the need to strengthen supply chain resilience while advancing the broader India-EU Strategic Partnership .

Kallas described 2026 as a "historic year for EU-India relations" , highlighting expanding cooperation in trade, technology, security and defence. She also stressed closer coordination between EU naval missions ATALANTA and ASPIDES and the Indian Navy to safeguard freedom of navigation and secure Indo-Pacific sea lanes.

Separately, Jaishankar met Flanders Minister-President Matthias Diependaele and Minister Annick De Ridder , discussing fresh business and investment opportunities following the India-EU FTA. The meetings underscored the growing strategic convergence between India and Europe, with both sides committed to translating political momentum into stronger economic, technological and security partnerships.