The European Parliament will scrutinise the India-European Union (EU) free trade agreement to ensure it is fair and balanced, said the chair of the European Parliament's delegation for relations with India.
Angelika Niebler described India as a 'trustworthy partner' and emphasized the European Parliament's role in approving the deal, which is expected to be signed by the third quarter of 2026.
Niebler pointed out that agriculture has largely been kept out of the deal, reducing the likelihood of major obstacles, but noted that the devil is in the details.
The delegation met with Indian parliamentarians, government officials, and civil society, and Niebler referred to an 'EU-India moment' amid geopolitical churn.
She highlighted the importance of trustworthy partnerships, citing India's role in facilitating de-escalation in the West Asia conflict due to its ties with key players in the region.
