A Game-Changer on the Horizon: EU-India FTA Hailed as ‘Mother of All Deals’

In a powerful testament to the potential of global economic cooperation, Lithuania’s Ambassador to India, Diana Mickeviciene, has unequivocally dubbed the prospective European Union–India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as the “mother of all deals.” Speaking exclusively to IANS, Ambassador Mickeviciene didn’t just express optimism; she highlighted the pact’s profound implications, describing it as a “historic” and truly transformative agreement.

Her emphatic declaration underscores the sheer scale, ambitious scope, and critical geopolitical significance that this FTA carries. It’s not merely another trade agreement; it represents a monumental step towards forging deeper economic and strategic ties between two of the world’s largest and most dynamic economies.

Why the ‘Mother of All Deals’?

Ambassador Mickeviciene’s choice of words perfectly encapsulates the multifaceted impact anticipated from this landmark agreement:

• Unprecedented Scale: Bringing together the EU, a market of over 450 million people, and India, with its rapidly growing population exceeding 1.4 billion, the FTA promises to unlock immense market access for goods, services, and investment.
• Broadened Scope: Beyond traditional trade in goods, the agreement is expected to delve into areas like intellectual property rights, sustainable development, digital trade, and investment facilitation, creating a comprehensive framework for future cooperation.
• Geopolitical Significance: In a shifting global landscape, a robust EU-India partnership through an FTA signals a shared commitment to a rules-based international order, diversifying supply chains, and fostering stability and prosperity across continents. It strengthens the strategic autonomy of both partners while enhancing their influence on the world stage.

The Ambassador’s strong enthusiasm reflects a shared vision among EU member states regarding the strategic importance of India as a partner. An FTA with India would not only boost bilateral trade and investment but also create new opportunities for businesses, consumers, and innovators across both regions.

As negotiations continue, the expectation is that this “historic” pact will not only redefine economic relations but also solidify a critical strategic alliance, paving the way for a more integrated, prosperous, and resilient future for the European Union and India.

Source: Original Article