European Council President António Costa said the EU–India free trade agreement (FTA) will strengthen economic ties, boost security, and reinforce global stability, echoing European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s view that a “successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous, and secure.”
European Council President António Costa echoed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s remark that a “successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous, and secure.”
In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18 Managing Editor Zakka Jacob, Costa said the EU–India free trade agreement (FTA) sends a “strong and important message to the world,” reinforcing the strategic partnership and deepening cooperation between India and Europe.
“The EU and India believe in free trade over tariffs,” Costa said. “It boosts the economy, creates jobs, promotes prosperity, and provides geopolitical stability. Two of the largest economies and democracies, upholding a rules-based world order, must create predictability—and this agreement does just that.”
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Landmark trade deal
India and the European Union are poised to sign the long-awaited FTA during the EU–India summit in New Delhi, hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. Hailed as the “mother of all deals,” the pact is expected to be the largest trade agreement ever signed by India and the EU.
Economic and security opportunities
Costa highlighted that the FTA is not only a milestone economically but also strategically. The agreement is expected to open European markets to Indian companies while strengthening cooperation on security and defence, particularly maritime security, ensuring safe shipping lanes for trade.
“This is a great opportunity for both India and European countries,” he said. “Our cooperation will focus on maritime security and defence capabilities, while creating economic avenues for Indian companies in Europe.”
Energy transition and climate cooperation
Referring to India’s Republic Day tableau on renewable energy, Costa emphasised the role of the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in accelerating the global energy transition. He praised India’s commitment to the Paris Agreement, describing it as a significant step toward shared climate goals.
“India’s commitment to the Paris Agreement is remarkable. Cooperation on energy transition will benefit both India and Europe,” he said.
EU stance on sovereignty and global security
Addressing tensions over US President Donald Trump’s Greenland remarks, Costa reaffirmed the EU’s support for Denmark and Greenland, stressing respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also underlined Europe’s commitment to NATO and Ukraine’s defence.
“Europe and the EU stand for the UN Charter. Greenland’s future is for Denmark and Greenland to decide,” he said. “We continue to support Ukraine, pressuring Russia toward a ceasefire and a just, lasting peace.”
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Celebrating India’s diversity
Costa, of Indian origin, lauded India’s cultural diversity, which he experienced firsthand during the Republic Day parade alongside von der Leyen and PM Modi.
“It will be the largest free trade agreement in the world—an economic and geopolitical stabiliser, and a milestone in security, defence, and mobility,” he said.
The EU–India FTA is expected to create a combined market of nearly two billion people, accounting for close to a quarter of global GDP, marking a historic step in bilateral relations and strengthening cooperation across trade, security, climate, and cultural engagement.
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