New Delhi: India and the European Union have formally sealed the largest free trade agreement in India’s history, marking a major milestone in global economic cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the conclusion of the pact on Tuesday, describing it as the “mother of all trade deals” and a new blueprint for shared prosperity. The agreement was signed in New Delhi by the Prime Minister and European Council President Antonio Costa, in the presence of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

In a post-signing statement, Prime Minister Modi said the deal brings together two of the world’s largest democratic trading blocs, with bilateral trade valued at over US$ 213 billion. He noted that the agreement, signed with all 27 EU member states, is not merely a trade pact but a comprehensive framework for mutual growth, job creation, and economic stability. The Prime Minister also highlighted that nearly eight lakh Indians living in the European Union are expected to benefit significantly from the agreement.

European leaders welcomed the deal as a strategic step forward. European Council President Antonio Costa said India and the EU stand together as reliable partners and are taking their relationship to the next level to help shape a resilient global order focused on peace and stability. President von der Leyen echoed these sentiments, stating that India’s growth is essential for a more secure world and that Europe is pleased to be part of India’s success story.

The India–EU FTA covers nearly 25 per cent of global GDP and is expected to deliver major benefits to key Indian sectors such as textiles, gems and jewellery, leather goods, and manufacturing, while also boosting cooperation in green energy, climate action, and sustainable development. Leaders from both sides described the agreement as a partnership for the global good, underlining its long-term significance for international trade and diplomacy.