'India has big role to play': EU leaders speak to PM Modi; FTA, Ukraine conflict discussed

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a joint telephone conversation with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, where the leaders reviewed progress in bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and global issues. The discussions covered key areas such as trade, technology, investment, innovation, sustainability, defence, security and supply chain resilience. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the early conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations and the implementation of the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, "Had a very good conversation with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Reaffirmed our shared commitment for an early conclusion of the India-EU FTA and implementation of the IMEEC corridor."Reffering to the matter of Ukraine peace, the PM said that they "exchanged views on issues of mutual interest and efforts for bringing an early end to the conflict in Ukraine. We agreed that our Strategic Partnership has a key role to play in fostering stability and promoting a rules-based order." Building on the historic visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India in February, the leaders also spoke about organising the next India-EU Summit in India. PM Modi extended an invitation to both President Costa and President von der Leyen to attend the summit at an early, mutually convenient date.The leaders also exchanged views on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. PM Modi reiterated India’s consistent stand in favour of a peaceful resolution and the early restoration of stability. In a statement on social media, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said, "We had the pleasure of speaking with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We warmly welcome India’s continued engagement with President Zelenskyy. India has an important role to play in bringing Russia to end its war of aggression and helping create a path towards peace. This war carries global security consequences and undermines economic stability. So it is a risk to the entire world. Looking ahead, we plan to agree on a joint strategic agenda at the next EU–India summit, as early as possible in 2026. We also remain fully committed to concluding the Free Trade Agreement negotiations by the end of the year. To achieve this, progress is needed now." India and the EU highlighted strong and close partnership, grounded in trust, shared values and a common vision for the future. The leaders highlighted the role of the India-EU Strategic Partnership in jointly addressing global challenges, fostering stability, and promoting a rules-based international order for mutual prosperity. The three leaders agreed to remain in regular contact as both sides work towards the next summit.