India-EU relations are stronger than they have been in years, according to EU Ambassador Herve Delphin.
As he prepares to conclude his tenure in India, Delphin said greater strategic understanding has strengthened cooperation across multiple sectors.
He described the recent Free Trade Agreement as the result of realism and pragmatism from both sides.
Delphin said the latest negotiations were effectively “FTA-2”, separate from the original talks that began nearly two decades ago.
Both sides identified shared priorities and negotiating red lines early, helping accelerate discussions.
He said strong political momentum and complementary markets also helped the negotiations move forward.
Delphin expects the agreement to be formally signed within less than a year.
On the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, Delphin said the measure aims to prevent carbon leakage and encourage lower emissions.
More than 80% of India’s high-carbon-content exports to Europe come from steel and iron, making the impact concentrated in these sectors.
He said Indian producers using cleaner production methods could eventually benefit as European demand for low-emission steel grows.
India and the EU are also seeking more resilient supply chains in areas including semiconductors, pharmaceuticals and clean technology.
Delphin highlighted “blue valleys”, where Indian and European companies could collaborate on research, manufacturing, investment, startups and skills.
