Finland's Ambassador to India&nbsp;Kimmo Lähdevirta told WION that G20 under India's presidency has raised India's profile as the voice of the Global&nbsp;South. The envoy also exuded confidence in the potential that the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) holds. In a conversation with WION's Heena Sharma, the envoy also spoke at length about the ongoing India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, Finland's bilateral cooperation with India, the IMEC project, and, the unique framework called DESI (Digitalisation, Education, Sustainability and Innovation partnership).&nbsp;

Here's the full interview:&nbsp;

WION: India and Finland have traditionally historical ties. Next year in 2024, the countries will be completing 75 years of diplomatic relations. How do you look at it?&nbsp;

Finland's Ambassador: It's indeed an important milestone and I think we, as you said, have been enjoying a very good relationship. In the last few years it has become wider and deeper in many respects that we have, For example, we have partnerships in digitalisation, sustainability, regarding innovations, startups, and all kinds of things like that. Especially in the field of digitalization, Finland has a lot to offer to India because we have very advanced companies such as Nokia, who are developing solutions. Also here in India for 6G... already applying 5G here in India. We also have new interests in new areas such as quantum computing and atmospheric sciences, AI. To put things in order and make it more understandable we have also developed a new concept. We call it DESI. Coming from Digitalisation, Education, Environment, Sustainability, and Innovation. With this concept, we are trying to make the portfolio more visible and more understandable what we are doing together. Next week, we will have a visit of the Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Mr. Tavio, attending the 2nd CII India Nordic Baltic Business Conclave. He will also have bilateral meetings, and also, will then launch DESI, here in India. It was launched in Finland this September.&nbsp;

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WION: How do you look at India, as a collective voice for Global South and African countries?&nbsp;

Finland's Ambassador: India succeeded very well in hosting the G20, including the summit. It was really a worthwhile effort and also raised India's profile as a spokesperson for the Global South. I would congratulate India. Also, of course the membership of AU, which was also supported by the European Union, is an important indicator of the relevance of the African countries. I think that will also shape the agenda in the years to come.

WION: India and EU are vying to take forward the FTA negotiations. What is the current status and if agreed upon how it will benefit India and Finland?&nbsp;

Finland's Ambassador: India and EU are strategic partners and we have many areas of cooperation and many mutual interests so starting from that point of view I think it is very important that we would also have an FTA, an Investment protection agreement, and an agreement on geographical indications. So all these free agreements would be important for mutual benefits. I think always, the negotiations for agreements need to reach a compromise that is really mutually beneficial. So that is the starting point. I think the EU wants to have ambitious agreements that would go beyond the existing multinational rules and for example our commitments at the WTO. So modern agreements will then be on important areas like market access government procurement and also digital trade.

We certainly had hoped that the negotiations could have been completed or could be completed by the end of this year. But as time goes by, it becomes more and more difficult to reach that goal. And there are still negotiations coming up in December I think. But if a breakthrough is not achieved, let's say by early next year, then I think the elections both in India and the EU will cause a delay in the negotiation process.

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WION:&nbsp;The Israel war going on in the West Asian region has raised concerns about the viability of the IMEC project. How do you see it?&nbsp;

Finland's Ambassador: The project is a long-term project and it certainly has good logic behind it. So, I am still confident that the project has a lot of promise. But obviously, there has to be a resolution to the present conflict in the Middle East to enable the project to go forward. But in the long term, I am still very confident that it will have good potential.

Finland's Ambassador to India Kimmo Lähdevirta told WION that G20 under India's presidency has raised India's profile as the voice of the Global South. The envoy also exuded confidence in the potential that the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) holds.

Finland's Ambassador to India Kimmo Lähdevirta told WION that G20 under India's presidency has raised India's profile as the voice of the Global South. The envoy also exuded confidence in the potential that the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) holds. In a conversation with WION's Heena Sharma, the envoy also spoke at length about the ongoing India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, Finland's bilateral cooperation with India, the IMEC project, and, the unique framework called DESI (Digitalisation, Education, Sustainability and Innovation partnership). Here's the full interview: WION: India and Finland have traditionally historical ties. Next year in 2024, the countries will be completing 75 years of diplomatic relations. How do you look at it? Finland's Ambassador: It's indeed an important milestone and I think we, as you said, have been enjoying a very good relationship. In the last few years it has become wider and deeper in many respects that we have, For example, we have partnerships in digitalisation, sustainability, regarding innovations, startups, and all kinds of things like that. Especially in the field of digitalization, Finland has a lot to offer to India because we have very advanced companies such as Nokia, who are developing solutions. Also here in India for 6G... already applying 5G here in India. We also have new interests in new areas such as quantum computing and atmospheric sciences, AI. To put things in order and make it more understandable we have also developed a new concept. We call it DESI. Coming from Digitalisation, Education, Environment, Sustainability, and Innovation. With this concept, we are trying to make the portfolio more visible and more understandable what we are doing together. Next week, we will have a visit of the Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Mr. Tavio, attending the 2nd CII India Nordic Baltic Business Conclave. He will also have bilateral meetings, and also, will then launch DESI, here in India. It was launched in Finland this September. Also Read | Five countries request for war crimes investigation in Palestinian territories WION: How do you look at India, as a collective voice for Global South and African countries? Finland's Ambassador: India succeeded very well in hosting the G20, including the summit. It was really a worthwhile effort and also raised India's profile as a spokesperson for the Global South. I would congratulate India. Also, of course the membership of AU, which was also supported by the European Union, is an important indicator of the relevance of the African countries. I think that will also shape the agenda in the years to come. WION: India and EU are vying to take forward the FTA negotiations. What is the current status and if agreed upon how it will benefit India and Finland? Finland's Ambassador: India and EU are strategic partners and we have many areas of cooperation and many mutual interests so starting from that point of view I think it is very important that we would also have an FTA, an Investment protection agreement, and an agreement on geographical indications. So all these free agreements would be important for mutual benefits. I think always, the negotiations for agreements need to reach a compromise that is really mutually beneficial. So that is the starting point. I think the EU wants to have ambitious agreements that would go beyond the existing multinational rules and for example our commitments at the WTO. So modern agreements will then be on important areas like market access government procurement and also digital trade. We certainly had hoped that the negotiations could have been completed or could be completed by the end of this year. But as time goes by, it becomes more and more difficult to reach that goal. And there are still negotiations coming up in December I think. But if a breakthrough is not achieved, let's say by early next year, then I think the elections both in India and the EU will cause a delay in the negotiation process. Also Read | Colorado Judge rules Trump can stay on Presidential primary ballot despite Capitol attack incitement WION: The Israel war going on in the West Asian region has raised concerns about the viability of the IMEC project. How do you see it? Finland's Ambassador: The project is a long-term project and it certainly has good logic behind it. So, I am still confident that the project has a lot of promise. But obviously, there has to be a resolution to the present conflict in the Middle East to enable the project to go forward. But in the long term, I am still very confident that it will have good potential.

G20 raised India's profile as voice of Global South, IMEC has potential: Finnish envoy to WION

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak held a telephonic conversation on Friday (Nov 3) and discussed the development in West Asia and the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The two leaders also discussed the recent progress on Free Trade Agreement negotiations, said Downing Street, in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>About Israel-Hamas war</h2>

“Both leaders expressed deep concern at terrorism, worsening security situation and the loss of civilian lives. They agreed on the need for regional peace, security, stability and continued humanitarian assistance,” said the Indian PM’s Office, in a statement.&nbsp;

The leaders also discussed the “deeply distressing situation in the Middle East and condemned Hamas’&nbsp;attacks on Israel,” Sunak’s office said in a readout.&nbsp;

“They reiterated that Hamas did not represent the Palestinian people and reflected on the need to de-escalate tensions in the wider region,” it added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-35-killed-after-israel-strikes-ambulance-school-in-gaza-says-hamas-run-health-ministry-654931">At least 35 killed after Israel strikes ambulance, school in Gaza, says Hamas-run health ministry</a>

This comes as countries including the United Kingdom and the United States have previously said that the Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people.&nbsp;

Sunak also “underscored the importance of protecting innocent civilians in Gaza and ensuring aid was able to flow into the country,” said his office.&nbsp;

This comes as the UK PM has previously said that they would send millions of dollars worth of humanitarian aid to support civilians in Gaza.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talks-with-uk-pm-rishi-sunak-634224">G20 Summit: PM Modi holds bilateral talks with UK PM Rishi Sunak</a>

Last month, India sent nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief material on an Indian Air Force (IAF) flight to Egypt where it was handed over to the Egyptian Red Crescent for the people of Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>Bilateral ties and FTA</h2>

The two leaders also agreed on the importance of securing an “ambitious” trade deal, as talks continue over a deal which could be finalised this year.&nbsp;

“The leaders discussed recent progress on Free Trade Agreement negotiations. They agreed on the importance of securing an ambitious deal that benefited both sides,” said a spokeswoman for Sunak’s office said in a readout following the call.&nbsp; 
 
In an interview with PTI,&nbsp;Sunak, earlier this year had said&nbsp;there was “still some way to go” for a free trade pact with India to be finalised.

PM Modi also congratulated his British counterpart&nbsp;on the successful completion of one year of his tenure in office.

After the call, PM Modi also took to X and said that he discussed “means to strengthen bilateral relations and exchanged views on the situation in West Asia,” with his British counterpart.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-announces-extra-ps20-mn-aid-for-civilians-in-gaza-650412">UK PM Rishi Sunak announces extra £20 million aid for civilians in Gaza</a> 
 
“We agree that there is no place for terror and violence. Death of civilians is a serious concern. Need to work towards regional peace, security, stability and continued humanitarian assistance,” said the Indian PM, in a post on X.&nbsp;

Both leaders agreed to remain in touch and exchanged greetings for the festive occasion of Diwali, PM Modi's office said in a statement.&nbsp;

The leaders reiterated their commitment to continue to strengthen bilateral ties and Comprehensive Strategic partnership, including in the areas trade, investment, emerging technology, defence, security, health and others, the statement by the PMO added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak held a telephonic conversation on Friday (Nov 3) and discussed the development in West Asia and the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak held a telephonic conversation on Friday (Nov 3) and discussed the development in West Asia and the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The two leaders also discussed the recent progress on Free Trade Agreement negotiations, said Downing Street, in a statement. About Israel-Hamas war “Both leaders expressed deep concern at terrorism, worsening security situation and the loss of civilian lives. They agreed on the need for regional peace, security, stability and continued humanitarian assistance,” said the Indian PM’s Office, in a statement. The leaders also discussed the “deeply distressing situation in the Middle East and condemned Hamas’ attacks on Israel,” Sunak’s office said in a readout. “They reiterated that Hamas did not represent the Palestinian people and reflected on the need to de-escalate tensions in the wider region,” it added. ALSO READ | At least 35 killed after Israel strikes ambulance, school in Gaza, says Hamas-run health ministry This comes as countries including the United Kingdom and the United States have previously said that the Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people. Sunak also “underscored the importance of protecting innocent civilians in Gaza and ensuring aid was able to flow into the country,” said his office. This comes as the UK PM has previously said that they would send millions of dollars worth of humanitarian aid to support civilians in Gaza. ALSO READ | G20 Summit: PM Modi holds bilateral talks with UK PM Rishi Sunak Last month, India sent nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief material on an Indian Air Force (IAF) flight to Egypt where it was handed over to the Egyptian Red Crescent for the people of Gaza. Bilateral ties and FTA The two leaders also agreed on the importance of securing an “ambitious” trade deal, as talks continue over a deal which could be finalised this year. “The leaders discussed recent progress on Free Trade Agreement negotiations. They agreed on the importance of securing an ambitious deal that benefited both sides,” said a spokeswoman for Sunak’s office said in a readout following the call. In an interview with PTI, Sunak, earlier this year had said there was “still some way to go” for a free trade pact with India to be finalised. PM Modi also congratulated his British counterpart on the successful completion of one year of his tenure in office. After the call, PM Modi also took to X and said that he discussed “means to strengthen bilateral relations and exchanged views on the situation in West Asia,” with his British counterpart. ALSO READ | UK PM Rishi Sunak announces extra £20 million aid for civilians in Gaza “We agree that there is no place for terror and violence. Death of civilians is a serious concern. Need to work towards regional peace, security, stability and continued humanitarian assistance,” said the Indian PM, in a post on X. Both leaders agreed to remain in touch and exchanged greetings for the festive occasion of Diwali, PM Modi's office said in a statement. The leaders reiterated their commitment to continue to strengthen bilateral ties and Comprehensive Strategic partnership, including in the areas trade, investment, emerging technology, defence, security, health and others, the statement by the PMO added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi, UK counterpart Rishi Sunak discuss Israel-Hamas war, progress on FTA

Days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over “anti-India activities of extremist elements” in Canada, at his meeting with Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau on the sidelines of the G20 Summit.

India and Canada hit pause on FTA talks after Trudeau visit

Amidst the G20 Trade Ministers' meeting in India, EU's Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis emphasises a pragmatic approach in the ongoing India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations.

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said, "As we are seeing in the EU, it's substance over deadlines. So we are willing to engage intensively and continue to work... but at the end of the day, we need to get the substance right."&nbsp;

The commissioner, who is also the EU’s executive vice president, outlined the comprehensive nature of the negotiations, emphasising the EU's intention to craft a thorough agreement. "From the EU, we're aiming for a deep and comprehensive free trade agreement, which covers not only traditional tariff questions but also other questions including on sustainable development," he explained.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/with-massive-compensation-for-flyers-saudi-arabia-brings-new-aviation-rules-to-combat-flight-disruptions-629394">With massive compensation for flyers, Saudi Arabia brings new aviation rules to combat flight disruptions</a>

Dombrovskis also advocated for the overhaul of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to match contemporary challenges. He highlighted the need to address novel issues arising from China's economic model, such as industrial subsidies and state-owned enterprise roles.

Here's the full interview:

WION: You are coming from Jaipur where the G20 trade ministers met, what kind of conversations took place, what is your assessment?

Valdis Dombrovskis: First of all, I would like to congratulate India on a very successful G20 trade ministers' meeting. So, indeed we had a very good trade ministers meeting. But I'm hearing this also from other ministerial meetings... about the organisation of meetings and indeed also reaching substantial agreements. So as regards our G20 trade ministerial meetings over a number of topics we covered including insurance, resilience of supply chains in a current more conflictual geopolitical context, discussing digital tools to facilitate trade, participation, and trade related to small and medium-sized enterprises. And we're making progress across all sectors.

WION: Sir, any update on the India-EU FTA? This is something that has been part of the conversation as one of the key things when it comes to the EU-India relationship.

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Valdis Dombrovskis: Indeed, I'm using this visit also to have bilateral discussions including on the progress we're making on the free trade agreement, and investment protection agreement..to achieve agreement as soon as possible. There is still a lot of ground to cover. Also, in terms of the scope of the agreement, because, from the EU, we're aiming for a deep and comprehensive free trade agreement, which covers not only traditional tariff questions but also other questions including sustainable development to avoid a situation where trade is causing harm to the environment or leads to lower labor standards. So we'll need to discuss how to properly address all those topics.&nbsp;

WION: Any deadline when it comes to FTA talks? I know when it comes to FTA talks, these aren't easy conversations. So any deadline you're looking at?

Valdis Dombrovskis: As we are seeing in the EU, it's substance over deadlines. So we are willing to engage intensively and continue to work.. but at the end of the day, we need to get the substance right.

WION: So India has been calling for reforms of the World Trade Organization. What is your take? On the reforms of the body?

Valdis Dombrovskis: Well, indeed, that's very much also the EU's view. This was also one of the topics we discussed at G20. And I think the G20 can be an important player in this regard in preparation for the WTO ministerial meeting and it is something that was being agreed also among broader WTO membership in the last ministerial conference that we need to work on this WTO reform. We need to bring WTO into the 21st century, with ways to address climate change, with ways to function in a digital economy, and also to address new challenges stemming from the socio-economic model of China like questions on industrial subsidies and transparency of industrial subsidies, the role of state-owned enterprises and property rights. And when we discuss WTO, another important element for WTO reform is the restoration of the functioning of the dispute settlement system which we.. as we know currently... is not working because the appellate body is blocked.

Watch | Ex-French president faces corruption charges

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WION: Movement of people from India to EU especially skilled migration, what kind of conversation has been happening? Are you looking at a mobility pact with India? Several EU countries have signed a pact... eager to sign. For example, Italy.&nbsp;

Valdis Dombrovskis: It must be said this is not an area that I'm covering in the European Commission. As regards our free trade agreement negotiations, they are covering some specific aspects of mobility like the mobility of professionals in the provision of services. So these discussions, we are obviously going to have in the context of our negotiations.&nbsp;

WION: So the import of refined oil products from India to the European Union, what sort of policy you have, because there have been comments coming from the EU especially the refined products, which are made from Russian crude oil..

Valdis Dombrovskis: Well, it's a new phenomenon and indeed we are currently assessing it. I'd say it's a cause of concern because we have introduced sanctions against Russia and the largest revenue source for the Russian budget is oil and oil products export. So with the EU oil embargo, with G7 plus price cap, we aim to reduce Russia's oil revenue. We know that Russia is actively seeking new markets. But now when we see a situation where many refined products are arriving into the EU market, which are made from Russian oil, that actually defeats the purpose of why those sanctions were put in place originally, so we're currently assessing what can be responsible.&nbsp;

WION: And have you raised the matter with the Indian side ever? Do you plan to raise? Is it part of the conversation, not in the context of your conversation which perhaps is happening, but otherwise, as well?&nbsp;

Valdis Dombrovskis: Well, indeed, obviously, we're raising it with our Indian counterparts. And I would also say the broader question of avoidance of sanctions and conventions by Russia is something we are in discussions with quite a number of countries.&nbsp;

WION: Have you raised with your counterpart?

Valdis Dombrovskis: Well, I have been raising this. This is not part of our FTA negotiation but it's something we are obviously flagging. It's a topic we are currently assessing.

WION: You will be holding the EU-India High-Level Dialogue on Trade and Investment with Indian trade minister Piyush Goyal, what will be discussed?

Valdis Dombrovskis: Number of areas which we need to cover. Obviously, we'll take stock of the progress of our FTA negotiations, but we are also discussing the state of play over our existing trade and investment relations. Trade irritants, what can be done to remove them, what can be done to facilitate trade, also in a current context, before we have an FTA.

WION: And what irritants can you talk about?

Valdis Dombrovskis: Well, I think there are a number of topics that are well-known from both sides, which we need to discuss. Maybe I will not go into detail. I will be raising it directly with my counterparts. I will say, that's a fact when you have intensive trade relations between countries, regions inevitably some issues which are emerging. So what is important is not the issues but there is a willingness to resolve those issues from both sides and we try to do so.&nbsp;

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Amidst the G20 Trade Ministers' meeting in India, EU's Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis emphasises a pragmatic approach in the ongoing India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations.

Amidst the G20 Trade Ministers' meeting in India, EU's Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis emphasises a pragmatic approach in the ongoing India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said, "As we are seeing in the EU, it's substance over deadlines. So we are willing to engage intensively and continue to work... but at the end of the day, we need to get the substance right." The commissioner, who is also the EU’s executive vice president, outlined the comprehensive nature of the negotiations, emphasising the EU's intention to craft a thorough agreement. "From the EU, we're aiming for a deep and comprehensive free trade agreement, which covers not only traditional tariff questions but also other questions including on sustainable development," he explained. Also Read | With massive compensation for flyers, Saudi Arabia brings new aviation rules to combat flight disruptions Dombrovskis also advocated for the overhaul of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to match contemporary challenges. He highlighted the need to address novel issues arising from China's economic model, such as industrial subsidies and state-owned enterprise roles. Here's the full interview: WION: You are coming from Jaipur where the G20 trade ministers met, what kind of conversations took place, what is your assessment? Valdis Dombrovskis: First of all, I would like to congratulate India on a very successful G20 trade ministers' meeting. So, indeed we had a very good trade ministers meeting. But I'm hearing this also from other ministerial meetings... about the organisation of meetings and indeed also reaching substantial agreements. So as regards our G20 trade ministerial meetings over a number of topics we covered including insurance, resilience of supply chains in a current more conflictual geopolitical context, discussing digital tools to facilitate trade, participation, and trade related to small and medium-sized enterprises. And we're making progress across all sectors. WION: Sir, any update on the India-EU FTA? This is something that has been part of the conversation as one of the key things when it comes to the EU-India relationship. Also Read | Second aircraft linked to Prigozhin had no connection to Wagner: Report Valdis Dombrovskis: Indeed, I'm using this visit also to have bilateral discussions including on the progress we're making on the free trade agreement, and investment protection agreement..to achieve agreement as soon as possible. There is still a lot of ground to cover. Also, in terms of the scope of the agreement, because, from the EU, we're aiming for a deep and comprehensive free trade agreement, which covers not only traditional tariff questions but also other questions including sustainable development to avoid a situation where trade is causing harm to the environment or leads to lower labor standards. So we'll need to discuss how to properly address all those topics. WION: Any deadline when it comes to FTA talks? I know when it comes to FTA talks, these aren't easy conversations. So any deadline you're looking at? Valdis Dombrovskis: As we are seeing in the EU, it's substance over deadlines. So we are willing to engage intensively and continue to work.. but at the end of the day, we need to get the substance right. WION: So India has been calling for reforms of the World Trade Organization. What is your take? On the reforms of the body? Valdis Dombrovskis: Well, indeed, that's very much also the EU's view. This was also one of the topics we discussed at G20. And I think the G20 can be an important player in this regard in preparation for the WTO ministerial meeting and it is something that was being agreed also among broader WTO membership in the last ministerial conference that we need to work on this WTO reform. We need to bring WTO into the 21st century, with ways to address climate change, with ways to function in a digital economy, and also to address new challenges stemming from the socio-economic model of China like questions on industrial subsidies and transparency of industrial subsidies, the role of state-owned enterprises and property rights. And when we discuss WTO, another important element for WTO reform is the restoration of the functioning of the dispute settlement system which we.. as we know currently... is not working because the appellate body is blocked. Watch | Ex-French president faces corruption charges × WION: Movement of people from India to EU especially skilled migration, what kind of conversation has been happening? Are you looking at a mobility pact with India? Several EU countries have signed a pact... eager to sign. For example, Italy. Valdis Dombrovskis: It must be said this is not an area that I'm covering in the European Commission. As regards our free trade agreement negotiations, they are covering some specific aspects of mobility like the mobility of professionals in the provision of services. So these discussions, we are obviously going to have in the context of our negotiations. WION: So the import of refined oil products from India to the European Union, what sort of policy you have, because there have been comments coming from the EU especially the refined products, which are made from Russian crude oil.. Valdis Dombrovskis: Well, it's a new phenomenon and indeed we are currently assessing it. I'd say it's a cause of concern because we have introduced sanctions against Russia and the largest revenue source for the Russian budget is oil and oil products export. So with the EU oil embargo, with G7 plus price cap, we aim to reduce Russia's oil revenue. We know that Russia is actively seeking new markets. But now when we see a situation where many refined products are arriving into the EU market, which are made from Russian oil, that actually defeats the purpose of why those sanctions were put in place originally, so we're currently assessing what can be responsible. WION: And have you raised the matter with the Indian side ever? Do you plan to raise? Is it part of the conversation, not in the context of your conversation which perhaps is happening, but otherwise, as well? Valdis Dombrovskis: Well, indeed, obviously, we're raising it with our Indian counterparts. And I would also say the broader question of avoidance of sanctions and conventions by Russia is something we are in discussions with quite a number of countries. WION: Have you raised with your counterpart? Valdis Dombrovskis: Well, I have been raising this. This is not part of our FTA negotiation but it's something we are obviously flagging. It's a topic we are currently assessing. WION: You will be holding the EU-India High-Level Dialogue on Trade and Investment with Indian trade minister Piyush Goyal, what will be discussed? Valdis Dombrovskis: Number of areas which we need to cover. Obviously, we'll take stock of the progress of our FTA negotiations, but we are also discussing the state of play over our existing trade and investment relations. Trade irritants, what can be done to remove them, what can be done to facilitate trade, also in a current context, before we have an FTA. WION: And what irritants can you talk about? Valdis Dombrovskis: Well, I think there are a number of topics that are well-known from both sides, which we need to discuss. Maybe I will not go into detail. I will be raising it directly with my counterparts. I will say, that's a fact when you have intensive trade relations between countries, regions inevitably some issues which are emerging. So what is important is not the issues but there is a willingness to resolve those issues from both sides and we try to do so. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Stress on substance over deadlines in India-EU FTA talks: EU trade commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis

India and Britain may sign a free-trade agreement (FTA) this year since both nations have reached a consensus on broader structure of the deal, said Reuters citing a top trade ministry official.

"We want to finalise the deal at the earliest," Sunil Barthwal, India's commerce secretary, told reporters on Friday (July 28).

Barthwal said that negotiations on almost all contentious issues were completed. He added that the deal could be signed "much before" the year-end.

India views FTA with Britain as a crucial step to becoming a bigger exporter. The UK meanwhile, would obtain wider access for its whiskey, premium cars and legal services.

If the deal gets signed, it will be India's first with a developed country after its interim trade pact with Australia last year.

Britain has embarked on a search for diversified global trade relationships after its 2020 exit from the European Union.

It comes at a crucial time for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who wants to solidify New Delhi's business-friendly image ahead of national elections early next year.

Watch | UK government to make big investment in childcare as cost of it rise by over 6%

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The 11th round of talks over the deal concluded recently in London when Barthwal and Commerce &amp; Industry Minister Piyush Goyal were in London.

<h2>Things not final yet</h2>

Barthwal said that out of total 26 chapters in the FTA, discussions on 19 have been closed. These include issues related to the sensitive automobile sector.

In spite of all this progress the countries are yet to settle differences over intellectual property rights (IPR), rules of origin and an investment treaty, separate trade ministry sources said.

Consensus has been reached on the issue of rules of investment but custom authorities of both countries are still working out modalities.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-uk-conclude-11th-round-of-negotiations-for-fta-next-round-of-talks-to-take-place-in-coming-months-619027">India, UK conclude 11th round of negotiations for FTA, next round of talks to take place in coming months</a>

"Nothing is final till everything is final," he said when asked about details of concessions India was offering to the UK, adding that the next round of negotiations will be held shortly.

India is pushing for a "zero tariff" for textile, leather and other labour-intensive manufacturing sectors while Britain had sought tariff concessions in other areas, said Barthwal.

Bilateral trade between India and the United Kingdom rose 16.6% year-on-year to $20.42 billion in the 2022-23 fiscal year ending in March.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

India and Britain may sign a free-trade agreement (FTA) this year since both nations have reached a consensus on broader structure of the deal, said Reuters citing a top trade ministry official.

India and Britain may sign a free-trade agreement (FTA) this year since both nations have reached a consensus on broader structure of the deal, said Reuters citing a top trade ministry official. "We want to finalise the deal at the earliest," Sunil Barthwal, India's commerce secretary, told reporters on Friday (July 28). Barthwal said that negotiations on almost all contentious issues were completed. He added that the deal could be signed "much before" the year-end. India views FTA with Britain as a crucial step to becoming a bigger exporter. The UK meanwhile, would obtain wider access for its whiskey, premium cars and legal services. If the deal gets signed, it will be India's first with a developed country after its interim trade pact with Australia last year. Britain has embarked on a search for diversified global trade relationships after its 2020 exit from the European Union. It comes at a crucial time for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who wants to solidify New Delhi's business-friendly image ahead of national elections early next year. Watch | UK government to make big investment in childcare as cost of it rise by over 6% × The 11th round of talks over the deal concluded recently in London when Barthwal and Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal were in London. Things not final yet Barthwal said that out of total 26 chapters in the FTA, discussions on 19 have been closed. These include issues related to the sensitive automobile sector. In spite of all this progress the countries are yet to settle differences over intellectual property rights (IPR), rules of origin and an investment treaty, separate trade ministry sources said. Consensus has been reached on the issue of rules of investment but custom authorities of both countries are still working out modalities. Also Read | India, UK conclude 11th round of negotiations for FTA, next round of talks to take place in coming months "Nothing is final till everything is final," he said when asked about details of concessions India was offering to the UK, adding that the next round of negotiations will be held shortly. India is pushing for a "zero tariff" for textile, leather and other labour-intensive manufacturing sectors while Britain had sought tariff concessions in other areas, said Barthwal. Bilateral trade between India and the United Kingdom rose 16.6% year-on-year to $20.42 billion in the 2022-23 fiscal year ending in March. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Done deal? India-UK free trade agreement may be signed this year: Official

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a productive meeting with his British counterpart Rishi Sunak on Sunday during which the two leaders reviewed the bilateral strategic partnership between the two countries which included progress in India-UK FTA negotiations. 
 
PM Modi and Rishi Sunak further agreed to deepen bilateral co-operation across a wide range of areas such as science and technology, trade and investment.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a bilateral meeting with United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in Hiroshima, Japan. <a href="https://t.co/qf1VHiMl9i">pic.twitter.com/qf1VHiMl9i</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1660095586513694722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The two leaders held bilateral talks on the sidelines of the G7 Summit which is being held in Hiroshima, Japan. Before their talks, Modi and Sunak also exchanged a tight hug.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-pm-modi-president-zelenskyy-to-meet-in-hiroshima-594003">&nbsp;EXCLUSIVE: Modi, Zelensky to meet in Hiroshima, have first in-person interaction since Russian invasion</a>

<h2>Modi calls talks with Sunak 'fruitful'</h2>

"A boost to - Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. PM @narendramodi held productive talks with PM @RishiSunak of the UK in Hiroshima. The two leaders reviewed their Strategic Partnership, including taking stock of progress in India-UK FTA negotiations," tweeted the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). 
 
“Leaders agreed to deepen co-operation across a wide range of areas, such as trade &amp; investment, science &amp; technology, higher education, and people-to-people relationship,” the MEA stated. 
 
Meanwhile, India's PM Modi tweeted, “The meeting with PM @RishiSunak was a very fruitful one. We discussed boosting co-operation in trade, innovation, science and other such sectors.”

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The meeting with PM <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishiSunak</a> was a very fruitful one. We discussed boosting cooperation in trade, innovation, science and other such sectors. <a href="https://t.co/FI9nI1gc9V">pic.twitter.com/FI9nI1gc9V</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1660114033645846528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Since January 2022, India and the UK have been negotiating an FTA, with a goal towards a comprehensive pact which is expected to significantly increase the bilateral trading relationship which is worth £34 billion ($42 billion) in 2022. 
 
Last month, both nations ended the ninth round of India-UK free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations after holding detailed talks across various policy areas.

WATCH | G7 Hiroshima Meet 2023: Prime Minister Narendra Modi represents India at Summit

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Recently, Britain's Chief Negotiator for the FTA Harjinder Kang was appointed as India's new Trade Commissioner to South Asia and Deputy High Commissioner for Western India based in Mumbai. 
 
As per the official statistics of the UK government, India has been the 12th largest trading partner in the four quarters till the end of Q3 2022, accounting for total UK trade's 2.1 per cent.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi&nbsp;visited the Peace Memorial Museum&nbsp;where he saw the documented exhibits and signed the visitor’s book. He also&nbsp;paid floral&nbsp;tributes to the&nbsp;Hiroshima victims at Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima.&nbsp;

The prime minister also engaged in a brief conversation with Australian PM Anthony Albanese. India's&nbsp;PM Modi also held&nbsp;bilateral talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Modi reached Hiroshima, Japan on Friday for attending the G7 summit's three sessions after receiving an invitation from Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a productive meeting with his British counterpart Rishi Sunak on Sunday during which the two leaders reviewed the bilateral strategic partnership between the two countries which included progress in India-UK FTA negotiations.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a productive meeting with his British counterpart Rishi Sunak on Sunday during which the two leaders reviewed the bilateral strategic partnership between the two countries which included progress in India-UK FTA negotiations. PM Modi and Rishi Sunak further agreed to deepen bilateral co-operation across a wide range of areas such as science and technology, trade and investment. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a bilateral meeting with United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in Hiroshima, Japan. pic.twitter.com/qf1VHiMl9i — ANI (@ANI) May 21, 2023 × The two leaders held bilateral talks on the sidelines of the G7 Summit which is being held in Hiroshima, Japan. Before their talks, Modi and Sunak also exchanged a tight hug. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: Modi, Zelensky to meet in Hiroshima, have first in-person interaction since Russian invasion Modi calls talks with Sunak 'fruitful' "A boost to - Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. PM @narendramodi held productive talks with PM @RishiSunak of the UK in Hiroshima. The two leaders reviewed their Strategic Partnership, including taking stock of progress in India-UK FTA negotiations," tweeted the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). “Leaders agreed to deepen co-operation across a wide range of areas, such as trade & investment, science & technology, higher education, and people-to-people relationship,” the MEA stated. Meanwhile, India's PM Modi tweeted, “The meeting with PM @RishiSunak was a very fruitful one. We discussed boosting co-operation in trade, innovation, science and other such sectors.” The meeting with PM @RishiSunak was a very fruitful one. We discussed boosting cooperation in trade, innovation, science and other such sectors. pic.twitter.com/FI9nI1gc9V — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 21, 2023 × Since January 2022, India and the UK have been negotiating an FTA, with a goal towards a comprehensive pact which is expected to significantly increase the bilateral trading relationship which is worth £34 billion ($42 billion) in 2022. Last month, both nations ended the ninth round of India-UK free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations after holding detailed talks across various policy areas. WATCH | G7 Hiroshima Meet 2023: Prime Minister Narendra Modi represents India at Summit Recently, Britain's Chief Negotiator for the FTA Harjinder Kang was appointed as India's new Trade Commissioner to South Asia and Deputy High Commissioner for Western India based in Mumbai. As per the official statistics of the UK government, India has been the 12th largest trading partner in the four quarters till the end of Q3 2022, accounting for total UK trade's 2.1 per cent. Earlier in the day, PM Modi visited the Peace Memorial Museum where he saw the documented exhibits and signed the visitor’s book. He also paid floral tributes to the Hiroshima victims at Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima. The prime minister also engaged in a brief conversation with Australian PM Anthony Albanese. India's PM Modi also held bilateral talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Modi reached Hiroshima, Japan on Friday for attending the G7 summit's three sessions after receiving an invitation from Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bilateral at G7: Modi, Sunak review FTA progress, agree to deepen cooperation on trade & investment

The negotiations for an ambitious Free Trade Agreement between Britain and India are "well advanced", United Kingdom's Foreign Office Minister for South Asia, Lord Tariq Ahmed said in a parliamentary debate in London's House of Lords. Ahmed added that the next round of FTA talks between New Delhi and London will commence very soon, with his fellow parliamentarians raising India's ambitious economic profile and New Delhi's G20 presidency as determinant factors to ensure an FTA deal.&nbsp;

Successive governments led by various Prime Ministers in Britain have asserted in the past that India being one of the world’s biggest economies is central to Britain's foreign policy.

"It is true that, as we set up and strengthen this relationship, the United Kingdom’s relationship with India is central to U.K. foreign policy,"&nbsp;Ahmad asserted in the House of Lords, repeating Britain's stance on elevated New Delhi-London ties.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-uk-india-hold-sixth-round-of-free-trade-agreement-talks-542415">WION Dispatch: UK, India hold sixth round of free trade agreement talks</a>

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"As one of the world’s biggest and fastest-growing economies, India is a key partner to the UK. We are also looking at lowering non-tariff barriers on medical devices to benefit British exporters, and are well advanced in our negotiations for an ambitious and balanced free trade agreement,"&nbsp;he said.

Ahmad was responding to the debate entitled 'The Importance of the Relationship Between the United Kingdom and India' in the House of Lords on Thursday, tabled by British Indian peer Baroness Sandy Verma.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/britains-sunak-tells-pm-modi-that-excited-about-what-our-two-great-democracies-can-achieve-528949">'Excited about what our two great democracies can achieve', Rishi Sunak tells PM Modi</a>

A strong trade deal with India could boost the U.K. economy by billions of pounds over the long term, helping families across the country, he said.

"Cutting red tape and high tariffs could also make it easier and cheaper for UK&nbsp;companies to sell in India, driving growth and supporting jobs,” he added.

Six rounds of FTA talks done so far

The minister said that so far India and the UK have completed six rounds of talks. In a statement of assurance, he said that as a mark of mutual agreement between New Delhi and London, the two sides are assuring that the FTA deal is not rushed but properly thought through.&nbsp;

"I assure them that we are working those through specifically, but it was very much by mutual agreement to ensure that the trade deal signed is not rushed but properly thought through, and that all chapters are discussed in an exhaustive manner so that we reach a deal that is of mutual benefit to both countries and their peoples,” the Minister said.

According to official UK&nbsp;government data, India-U.K. bilateral trade currently stands at around 29.6 billion pounds a year (36.67 billion dollars).&nbsp;

UK-India FTA talks: From Johnson to Sunak via Truss

London and New Delhi formally launched Free Trade Agreement talks in January 2022, when Prime Minister Boris Johnson was at the helm of affairs. The talks began after years of backchannel negotiations between the two sides, The Times reported.&nbsp;

Johnson set Diwali as the deadline for a Free Trade Agreement with India. The initial deadline could not be honoured for unspecified reasons amid political uncertainty with frequent changes in the 10, Downing Street officeholders.&nbsp;

The current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak committed to working "at pace" towards an FTA that does not “sacrifice quality for speed” after the Diwali deadline was missed.&nbsp;

Lord Karan Bilimoria spoke of the need for large prime ministerial delegations to India and called on Prime Minister Sunak to lead one “as soon as possible”.

"Today India has the presidency of the G20. Today India has a vision to become, in the next 25 years, the second-largest economy in the world with a GDP of $32 billion," he said.

"The Indian express has left the station. It is now the fastest train in the world—the fastest-growing major economy in the world. The UK must be its closest and most trusted friend and partner in the decades ahead," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The negotiations for an ambitious Free Trade Agreement between Britain and India are "well advanced", United Kingdom's Foreign Office Minister for South Asia, Lord Tariq Ahmed said in a parliamentary debate in London's House of Lords.

The negotiations for an ambitious Free Trade Agreement between Britain and India are "well advanced", United Kingdom's Foreign Office Minister for South Asia, Lord Tariq Ahmed said in a parliamentary debate in London's House of Lords. Ahmed added that the next round of FTA talks between New Delhi and London will commence very soon, with his fellow parliamentarians raising India's ambitious economic profile and New Delhi's G20 presidency as determinant factors to ensure an FTA deal. Successive governments led by various Prime Ministers in Britain have asserted in the past that India being one of the world’s biggest economies is central to Britain's foreign policy. "It is true that, as we set up and strengthen this relationship, the United Kingdom’s relationship with India is central to U.K. foreign policy," Ahmad asserted in the House of Lords, repeating Britain's stance on elevated New Delhi-London ties. ALSO WATCH | WION Dispatch: UK, India hold sixth round of free trade agreement talks × "As one of the world’s biggest and fastest-growing economies, India is a key partner to the UK. We are also looking at lowering non-tariff barriers on medical devices to benefit British exporters, and are well advanced in our negotiations for an ambitious and balanced free trade agreement," he said. Ahmad was responding to the debate entitled 'The Importance of the Relationship Between the United Kingdom and India' in the House of Lords on Thursday, tabled by British Indian peer Baroness Sandy Verma. ALSO READ | 'Excited about what our two great democracies can achieve', Rishi Sunak tells PM Modi A strong trade deal with India could boost the U.K. economy by billions of pounds over the long term, helping families across the country, he said. "Cutting red tape and high tariffs could also make it easier and cheaper for UK companies to sell in India, driving growth and supporting jobs,” he added. Six rounds of FTA talks done so far The minister said that so far India and the UK have completed six rounds of talks. In a statement of assurance, he said that as a mark of mutual agreement between New Delhi and London, the two sides are assuring that the FTA deal is not rushed but properly thought through. "I assure them that we are working those through specifically, but it was very much by mutual agreement to ensure that the trade deal signed is not rushed but properly thought through, and that all chapters are discussed in an exhaustive manner so that we reach a deal that is of mutual benefit to both countries and their peoples,” the Minister said. According to official UK government data, India-U.K. bilateral trade currently stands at around 29.6 billion pounds a year (36.67 billion dollars). UK-India FTA talks: From Johnson to Sunak via Truss London and New Delhi formally launched Free Trade Agreement talks in January 2022, when Prime Minister Boris Johnson was at the helm of affairs. The talks began after years of backchannel negotiations between the two sides, The Times reported. Johnson set Diwali as the deadline for a Free Trade Agreement with India. The initial deadline could not be honoured for unspecified reasons amid political uncertainty with frequent changes in the 10, Downing Street officeholders. The current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak committed to working "at pace" towards an FTA that does not “sacrifice quality for speed” after the Diwali deadline was missed. Lord Karan Bilimoria spoke of the need for large prime ministerial delegations to India and called on Prime Minister Sunak to lead one “as soon as possible”. "Today India has the presidency of the G20. Today India has a vision to become, in the next 25 years, the second-largest economy in the world with a GDP of $32 billion," he said. "The Indian express has left the station. It is now the fastest train in the world—the fastest-growing major economy in the world. The UK must be its closest and most trusted friend and partner in the decades ahead," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK says FTA talks with India ‘well advanced’, seventh round soon

United Kingdom's Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch will be in Delhi from today as the 6th round of FTA negotiations between the UK and India begin. Both sides are working on an ambitious trade pact that aims to ease customs duties on goods.

World Business Watch | UK trade Secretary Kemi in Delhi to hold sixth round of FTA talks

Will student visa find a mention in the FTA talks?

Lauding India and Australia for sealing the free trade agreement (FTA) after 10-year-long talks, Australia’s former prime minister Tony Abbot has hoped that the pact benefits both the countries and also gives a massive boost to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ programme.

In an exclusive conversation with WION’s Diplomatic Corresponded Sidhant Sibal, Abbott, who is also a key architect of the FTA, said that this free trade deal seeks to substitute China with India as Australia’s main trading partner.

WION: You are being credited for the India-Australia Free Trade Agreement, how do you see this free trade helping both the countries?

Tony Abbott: It was a great team effort from both sides. Indian commerce minister Goyal did a fabulous job and so did minister Dan Tehan for Australia. In the end, it was the prime minsters Narendra Modi and Scott Morrison that really made it happen. I saw my role happening about six months ago when things were stacked. Back in 2004, when I first met Modi (who was then CM of Gujarat), I raised the idea of a free trade deal. He was very enthusiastic, and I guess I made the most of my friendship with PM Modi to make sure to seal the deal with India because, let's face it, the world is bidding a path to India's door and Australia could have been easily neglected amongst other countries. But thank God, we weren't.

&nbsp;

WION: How do you see the India-Australia relationship panning out? Because there are a lot of positive developments. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi met three times in a gap of one month.

Tony Abbott: The India-Australia relationship is strong. But historically, it's been underdeveloped. And for a lot of reasons, it needs to develop. Quite quickly, for economic reasons, we had to kind of replace China in supply chains and frankly, there is no better substitute for China in so many of the supply chains given India's very sophisticated manufacturing bias.

There is also the geostrategic issue. The world is more polarised now than it has been for many years. India is a democracy under the rule of law, and so is Australia. The other thing is that there are millions of Australians with Indian backgrounds now. These are people who have very strong links to India and what's going to make this trade deal work is not the government or individuals or businesses.

It is all of those Australians with Indian connections, and all of those Indians with Australian connections are going to make this whole thing work. I am very confident that there will be a lot more Australian coal and other minerals, particularly strategic minerals, to help Prime Minister Modi's ‘Made in India’ campaign. But I am also very confident that we will also get Indian jewellery, and textiles as well as intermediate goods. India is an extraordinary manufacturing country and let's make the most of it in Australia.

&nbsp;

WION: You mentioned China, it is a big worry for India as well as Australia. How do you see the Chinese role in the Indo Pacific where they have been very aggressive in terms of weaponising trade?

Tony Abbott: That's why China is not a trustworthy partner at the moment. China has been weaponising trade against us, China has been either bribing or bullying other countries right around the region, including quite close to India, and this is just not right. The country should have a right to have good relations with those they choose. But you do not want to see a large and powerful country either bullying or bribing others. Relationships got to be on a fair, honourable and transparent basis and that hasn't always been the case with China.

&nbsp;

WION: You mentioned many things between India and Australia about how relationships have been going, but it's the diaspora perhaps that is essentially being the living bridge between the two countries.

Tony Abbott: Indian people have been coming to Australia for 200 years. But in the last 30 years, there has been a massive influx of Indian people to Australia. Some of them came as students and stayed. Others have just come because they have heard what a great country is, and what a wonderful opportunity Australia has to offer. Indians are first-class people, they have become wonderful contributors and citizens. I am confident that one of the ways they can continue to contribute to their own country as well as ours is by enhancing our two-way trade.

&nbsp;

WION: There are a lot of convergences between the two countries, there must be some areas where both the countries can work. What are those areas?

Tony Abbott: I think critical minerals are going to be very important in the economic sphere. The education sector can continue to develop. I think Australia has certain strengths in resources and agriculture which India can benefit more from, and just the fact that India is such an incredibly capable country and the supply chains where we've been China dependent, it would really help if we could substitute China.

Watch |&nbsp;Former Australian PM Tony Abbott speaks to WION on growing India-Australia partnership

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Lauding India and Australia for sealing the free trade agreement (FTA) after 10-year-long talks, Australia’s former prime minister Tony Abbot has hoped that the pact benefits both the countries and also gives a massive boost to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ programme.

Lauding India and Australia for sealing the free trade agreement (FTA) after 10-year-long talks, Australia’s former prime minister Tony Abbot has hoped that the pact benefits both the countries and also gives a massive boost to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ programme. In an exclusive conversation with WION’s Diplomatic Corresponded Sidhant Sibal, Abbott, who is also a key architect of the FTA, said that this free trade deal seeks to substitute China with India as Australia’s main trading partner. WION: You are being credited for the India-Australia Free Trade Agreement, how do you see this free trade helping both the countries? Tony Abbott: It was a great team effort from both sides. Indian commerce minister Goyal did a fabulous job and so did minister Dan Tehan for Australia. In the end, it was the prime minsters Narendra Modi and Scott Morrison that really made it happen. I saw my role happening about six months ago when things were stacked. Back in 2004, when I first met Modi (who was then CM of Gujarat), I raised the idea of a free trade deal. He was very enthusiastic, and I guess I made the most of my friendship with PM Modi to make sure to seal the deal with India because, let's face it, the world is bidding a path to India's door and Australia could have been easily neglected amongst other countries. But thank God, we weren't. WION: How do you see the India-Australia relationship panning out? Because there are a lot of positive developments. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi met three times in a gap of one month. Tony Abbott: The India-Australia relationship is strong. But historically, it's been underdeveloped. And for a lot of reasons, it needs to develop. Quite quickly, for economic reasons, we had to kind of replace China in supply chains and frankly, there is no better substitute for China in so many of the supply chains given India's very sophisticated manufacturing bias. There is also the geostrategic issue. The world is more polarised now than it has been for many years. India is a democracy under the rule of law, and so is Australia. The other thing is that there are millions of Australians with Indian backgrounds now. These are people who have very strong links to India and what's going to make this trade deal work is not the government or individuals or businesses. It is all of those Australians with Indian connections, and all of those Indians with Australian connections are going to make this whole thing work. I am very confident that there will be a lot more Australian coal and other minerals, particularly strategic minerals, to help Prime Minister Modi's ‘Made in India’ campaign. But I am also very confident that we will also get Indian jewellery, and textiles as well as intermediate goods. India is an extraordinary manufacturing country and let's make the most of it in Australia. WION: You mentioned China, it is a big worry for India as well as Australia. How do you see the Chinese role in the Indo Pacific where they have been very aggressive in terms of weaponising trade? Tony Abbott: That's why China is not a trustworthy partner at the moment. China has been weaponising trade against us, China has been either bribing or bullying other countries right around the region, including quite close to India, and this is just not right. The country should have a right to have good relations with those they choose. But you do not want to see a large and powerful country either bullying or bribing others. Relationships got to be on a fair, honourable and transparent basis and that hasn't always been the case with China. WION: You mentioned many things between India and Australia about how relationships have been going, but it's the diaspora perhaps that is essentially being the living bridge between the two countries. Tony Abbott: Indian people have been coming to Australia for 200 years. But in the last 30 years, there has been a massive influx of Indian people to Australia. Some of them came as students and stayed. Others have just come because they have heard what a great country is, and what a wonderful opportunity Australia has to offer. Indians are first-class people, they have become wonderful contributors and citizens. I am confident that one of the ways they can continue to contribute to their own country as well as ours is by enhancing our two-way trade. WION: There are a lot of convergences between the two countries, there must be some areas where both the countries can work. What are those areas? Tony Abbott: I think critical minerals are going to be very important in the economic sphere. The education sector can continue to develop. I think Australia has certain strengths in resources and agriculture which India can benefit more from, and just the fact that India is such an incredibly capable country and the supply chains where we've been China dependent, it would really help if we could substitute China. Watch | Former Australian PM Tony Abbott speaks to WION on growing India-Australia partnership

Australia-India FTA will boost PM Modi's ‘Make in India’ initiative: Ex-PM Abbott to WION

The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) chair Richard Heald says that India offers a more "favourable opportunity and operating environment" for businesses, as compared to China. This is because of "ease of doing business, because of transparency,(and) rule of law that exists". India has taken a number of reforms in the last few years and climbed up the ease of doing business ladder of the world bank.

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Heald also spoke about the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks.&nbsp;He said that the talks will focus on, "what India wants and what UK can provide in terms of satisfying India's ambition. Like areas of Eletronic vehicles, batteries, the technology is being developed in UK but is being deployed and refined in India."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-pays-tribute-to-jawaharlal-nehru-on-his-132nd-birth-anniversary-429312" hreflang="en">PM Modi pays tribute to Jawaharlal Nehru on his 132nd birth anniversary</a>

Talks on the India-UK FTA is set to begin in December with the visit of the UK commerce secretary to India.

UK is the 6th largest inward investor in India, after Mauritius, Singapore, Netherlands, Japan, and the USA with a cumulative equity investment of US $28.39 billion. Meanwhile, India has invested in 120 projects and created 5,429 new jobs in the UK to become the second-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) after the US in 2019 according to the Department for International Trade (DIT) inward investment statistics for 2019-2020.

WION: How do you see India-UK business and investment engagement?

Richard Heald: The business relationship is in a very good place, at this present moment in time. That might be a surprising statement, given what India and UK have gone through (during) Covid.&nbsp;

The way businesses in both countries have collaborated in order to alleviate a lot of negativity and suffering that has occurred during the past months has been remarkable.

For example, the collaboration between AstraZeneca and Serum Institute is a real exemplar of how the collaboration can occur, the benefits to the economy. I really do think that we (have) established very good business-to-business (B2B) ties, going forward.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-putin-visit-russia-begins-delivery-of-s400-air-defence-system-to-india-429195" hreflang="en">Ahead of Putin visit, Russia begins delivery of S400 air defence system to India</a>

WION: India-UK FTA talks are expected to start in December. What is UKIBC's expectation?

Richard Heald: I think it is a very exciting time. It is being built up over government-to-government (G2G) collaboration between your minister and his UK counterpart and what we are seeing is many months of dialogue which has been going on over a number of years. Business is extremely excited over the opportunities available here.&nbsp;

In the UK we have gone through a statutory consultation period. We have submitted that to our govt and we know that FICCI and CII have done the same. That is being fed into both governments' positions in relation to FTA.&nbsp;

I would add, there is going to be an announcement about the commencement of discussion around the FTA. There has already been considerable dialogue between the two governments going forward. A lot of groundwork has been put in place. I have been involved in dialogue on both the Indian and UK sides.&nbsp;

I have been struck by how similar have been the requests of businesses to each government. We are looking forward to levelling the playing field in terms of standards, in terms of operating practices, in terms of tariffs that align with world standards.&nbsp;

(This) allows us to develop those areas which both PMs have indicated are important for our two nations. Within a general context, those are the real thing that we are looking forward to.

WION: How do you see India as an investment destination?

Richard Heald: In terms of FTA, we focus on tariff barriers, in terms of trade and investment and we focus on operating ease of doing business.&nbsp;

What we have heard from UK businesses is that they are asking the UK Government to have an equal emphasis and equal focus on helping India improve its ease of doing business ranking.&nbsp;

To a large extent that is an indication of the amount of investment UK businesses are doing or have done in the past few years and decades. We employ 700,000 people in India and 5 per cent of the organised sector. So ease of doing business is equally important. GST is equally important, the digitisation of licenses is also important, more things can be done. Progress has been significant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-rbis-warning-against-cryptocurrency-pm-modi-chairs-crucial-meeting-429192" hreflang="en">After RBI's warning against cryptocurrency, PM Modi chairs crucial meeting</a>

WION: The rationale of having India-UK FTA...How does it help India in having FTA with the UK?

Richard Heald: If we look at the relationship between UK and India historically it has always been knowing each other's wishes, each other's requirements and being able to transact business on a relatively free basis between each other.&nbsp;

Indian diaspora is fundamental to the understanding between our two countries. UK has been historically very much present in India and therefore what we are looking forward to in terms of FTA if you like to consolidate that--to focus on what India wants and what the UK can provide in terms of satisfying India's ambition.&nbsp;

Like areas of Electronic vehicles, batteries; the technology is being developed in the UK but is being deployed and refined in India. It is that sort of colouration we are looking at FTA to catalyze and accelerate.

WION: Any timeline for the FTA? We saw India-EU taking their time.

Richard Heald: One observation, that when you are dealing with an entity made up of multiple nations, and you have to square off the different interests, that certainly becomes problematic.&nbsp;

Here we are dealing on a bilateral basis between two nations (that have) known each other for a long time and have a good relationship. I am optimistic, we will not be in the same situation.&nbsp;

That being said, there are complicated issues at stake here and certain items within the FTA, which both sides want to discuss and resolve, that are going to take longer to resolve.&nbsp;

There are early harvest agreement talks, which is a positive development and UK IBC will welcome them since it shows willingness and momentum. The way forward is to have a series of agreements that, aggregated together, will become part and parcel of the FTA. I don't think we will see a big bang, I think it will be an incremental process.

WION: India vs China, where will UK businesses put money, especially in the backdrop of the Evergrande crisis in China?

Richard Heald: What I always say, businesses don't tend to invest in either India or China. They don't see the two entities as mutually exclusive; you look at where the opportunity is, which may cause you to invest in both countries.&nbsp;

If you look at the operating basis, I believe that opportunity and operating environment is more favourable in India versus China. Because of ease of doing business, because of transparency, rule of law that exists in India.&nbsp;

Also, reforms and legislations that exists in India, particularly in relation to addressing the thorny issue of dealing with retrospective tax have had a positive impact on businesses that aren't yet invested in India.&nbsp;

Taken as a whole, plus, you have an extremely dynamic consumer sector and opportunity within the domestic economy. Therefore, India is an extremely attractive investment destination across a whole range of sectors. We are seeing that we have seen businesses engage, as operators within India.

The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) chair Richard Heald says that India offers a more "favourable opportunity and operating environment" for businesses, as compared to China.

The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) chair Richard Heald says that India offers a more "favourable opportunity and operating environment" for businesses, as compared to China. This is because of "ease of doing business, because of transparency,(and) rule of law that exists". India has taken a number of reforms in the last few years and climbed up the ease of doing business ladder of the world bank. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Heald also spoke about the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks. He said that the talks will focus on, "what India wants and what UK can provide in terms of satisfying India's ambition. Like areas of Eletronic vehicles, batteries, the technology is being developed in UK but is being deployed and refined in India." Also read | PM Modi pays tribute to Jawaharlal Nehru on his 132nd birth anniversary Talks on the India-UK FTA is set to begin in December with the visit of the UK commerce secretary to India. UK is the 6th largest inward investor in India, after Mauritius, Singapore, Netherlands, Japan, and the USA with a cumulative equity investment of US $28.39 billion. Meanwhile, India has invested in 120 projects and created 5,429 new jobs in the UK to become the second-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) after the US in 2019 according to the Department for International Trade (DIT) inward investment statistics for 2019-2020. WION: How do you see India-UK business and investment engagement? Richard Heald: The business relationship is in a very good place, at this present moment in time. That might be a surprising statement, given what India and UK have gone through (during) Covid. The way businesses in both countries have collaborated in order to alleviate a lot of negativity and suffering that has occurred during the past months has been remarkable. For example, the collaboration between AstraZeneca and Serum Institute is a real exemplar of how the collaboration can occur, the benefits to the economy. I really do think that we (have) established very good business-to-business (B2B) ties, going forward. Also read | Ahead of Putin visit, Russia begins delivery of S400 air defence system to India WION: India-UK FTA talks are expected to start in December. What is UKIBC's expectation? Richard Heald: I think it is a very exciting time. It is being built up over government-to-government (G2G) collaboration between your minister and his UK counterpart and what we are seeing is many months of dialogue which has been going on over a number of years. Business is extremely excited over the opportunities available here. In the UK we have gone through a statutory consultation period. We have submitted that to our govt and we know that FICCI and CII have done the same. That is being fed into both governments' positions in relation to FTA. I would add, there is going to be an announcement about the commencement of discussion around the FTA. There has already been considerable dialogue between the two governments going forward. A lot of groundwork has been put in place. I have been involved in dialogue on both the Indian and UK sides. I have been struck by how similar have been the requests of businesses to each government. We are looking forward to levelling the playing field in terms of standards, in terms of operating practices, in terms of tariffs that align with world standards. (This) allows us to develop those areas which both PMs have indicated are important for our two nations. Within a general context, those are the real thing that we are looking forward to. WION: How do you see India as an investment destination? Richard Heald: In terms of FTA, we focus on tariff barriers, in terms of trade and investment and we focus on operating ease of doing business. What we have heard from UK businesses is that they are asking the UK Government to have an equal emphasis and equal focus on helping India improve its ease of doing business ranking. To a large extent that is an indication of the amount of investment UK businesses are doing or have done in the past few years and decades. We employ 700,000 people in India and 5 per cent of the organised sector. So ease of doing business is equally important. GST is equally important, the digitisation of licenses is also important, more things can be done. Progress has been significant. Also read | After RBI's warning against cryptocurrency, PM Modi chairs crucial meeting WION: The rationale of having India-UK FTA...How does it help India in having FTA with the UK? Richard Heald: If we look at the relationship between UK and India historically it has always been knowing each other's wishes, each other's requirements and being able to transact business on a relatively free basis between each other. Indian diaspora is fundamental to the understanding between our two countries. UK has been historically very much present in India and therefore what we are looking forward to in terms of FTA if you like to consolidate that--to focus on what India wants and what the UK can provide in terms of satisfying India's ambition. Like areas of Electronic vehicles, batteries; the technology is being developed in the UK but is being deployed and refined in India. It is that sort of colouration we are looking at FTA to catalyze and accelerate. WION: Any timeline for the FTA? We saw India-EU taking their time. Richard Heald: One observation, that when you are dealing with an entity made up of multiple nations, and you have to square off the different interests, that certainly becomes problematic. Here we are dealing on a bilateral basis between two nations (that have) known each other for a long time and have a good relationship. I am optimistic, we will not be in the same situation. That being said, there are complicated issues at stake here and certain items within the FTA, which both sides want to discuss and resolve, that are going to take longer to resolve. There are early harvest agreement talks, which is a positive development and UK IBC will welcome them since it shows willingness and momentum. The way forward is to have a series of agreements that, aggregated together, will become part and parcel of the FTA. I don't think we will see a big bang, I think it will be an incremental process. WION: India vs China, where will UK businesses put money, especially in the backdrop of the Evergrande crisis in China? Richard Heald: What I always say, businesses don't tend to invest in either India or China. They don't see the two entities as mutually exclusive; you look at where the opportunity is, which may cause you to invest in both countries. If you look at the operating basis, I believe that opportunity and operating environment is more favourable in India versus China. Because of ease of doing business, because of transparency, rule of law that exists in India. Also, reforms and legislations that exists in India, particularly in relation to addressing the thorny issue of dealing with retrospective tax have had a positive impact on businesses that aren't yet invested in India. Taken as a whole, plus, you have an extremely dynamic consumer sector and opportunity within the domestic economy. Therefore, India is an extremely attractive investment destination across a whole range of sectors. We are seeing that we have seen businesses engage, as operators within India.

Exclusive | "Operating environment favourable in India than China," UKIBC Chief

Georgia's Vice Prime Minister and foreign minister David Zalkaliani has expressed confidence on signing a free trade agreement with India which he said will "greatly contribute to the further development of our economic cooperation".

The Georgian embassy is currently coordinating for the first round of online negotiations between the Indian commerce ministry and the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia. &nbsp;

Speaking exclusively to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Zalkaliani pitched for connectivity between the two&nbsp;countries saying, "(I) would like to underline also the importance of implementing multi-modal connectivity projects and exploiting the transit and transport potential of Georgia. In this regard, I mean the location of Georgia. Let me stress the importance of developing the south–west corridor project, primarily in the context of India."

In July, India's external affairs minister Dr&nbsp;Jaishankar had visited Georgia, the first such visit from the Indian side since the independence of the country in the 1990s.

During the visit, EAM handed over part of the relics of St. Queen Ketevan to government.&nbsp;St. Ketevan was a 17th century Georgian Queen martyred in Iran's Shiraz with her remains brought to Goa by the Portuguese in 1627. On that development, Zalkaliani said, "The Georgian people have been waiting for this day for a long time and I am really delighted to note that the above gesture of goodwill from the Indian government is a result of our mutual commitment and spirit of strong cooperation."

WION: How do you see India-Georgia ties panning out in future?

David Zalkaliani: India and Georgia enjoy centuries-old friendly relationship. I am quite sure that despite the geographic distance between Georgia and India, we can do much more and share a lot together, making the interaction even more result-oriented. Our countries could give one of the best examples in this regard. I think that the development of bilateral trade and economic cooperation should be a top priority in the agenda of our bilateral relations. Unfortunately, the low numbers in the bilateral trade turnover between India and Georgia do not really reflect the existing high potential for the development of trade relations. Along with dynamically developing political relations, quite a solid legal base was laid for the development of bilateral trade and economic relations as well. Several memorandums of understanding were signed in&nbsp;recent years between the various trade communities of Georgia and India.&nbsp;So, with joint efforts, all this should be materialised and become much more result oriented in the near future.

I am confident that the signing of the Free Trade Agreement between Georgia and India will greatly contribute to the further development of our economic cooperation. The embassy is closely cooperating and coordinating with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of India, as well as with the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia in order to plan the first round of online negotiations in the near future. We would welcome more direct investments from India to Georgia, as well as the establishment of joint ventures. In the recent years, important direct investments were made from India, mainly in the energy sector. At the same time, we are also eager to promote the exports of Georgian products to the Indian market, especially the agricultural products and the Georgian wine.

I would also like to underline the importance of implementing multi-modal connectivity projects and exploiting the transit and transport potential of Georgia. In this regard, I mean the location of Georgia. Let me stress the importance of developing the south–west corridor project, primarily in the context of India. The main role of the south–west corridor is the realisation of goods transportation between EU countries and India. I believe that in the context of raising the connectivity, the establishment of fruitful cooperation between the Georgian and Indian ports will be also extremely important.

WION:&nbsp;How will EAM Jaishankar's visit consolidate the ties?

David Zalkaliani: The first ever historical visit of the Indian Minister of Foreign Affairs to Georgia held on July 9-10, 2021 is a clear proof of dynamically developing bilateral relationship and friendship between our two countries and nations. The visit can be considered extremely important in terms of further strengthening our political and economic relations as well as cultural ties and people-to-people exchanges. Dr S. Jaishankar, besides meeting with me, also held high-level meetings with the top officials of the Georgian government and Parliament, namely, with the President of Georgia, H.E. Ms&nbsp;Salome Zourabichvili, with the Prime Minister of Georgia, H.E. Mr&nbsp;Irakli Garibashvili and with the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, Ms&nbsp;Natia Turnava. I am confident that the institutional meetings held in the framework of the visit will give additional impetus to the future development of our bilateral cooperation in different fields and sectors. I also hope that the visit of the Indian Minister of Foreign Affairs will accelerate the establishment of the Indian Embassy in Georgia.

WION:&nbsp;What were the ongoing conversations between you and your Indian counterpart?

David Zalkaliani: We discussed a very wide range of issues in the agenda of our bilateral and multilateral relations and noted with satisfaction the increasing dynamics of our bilateral relations in different fields, including the political, economic, cultural, educational and legal areas. Me and my Indian colleague highly appraised ongoing cooperation in the sectors of transport, investments, tourism, agriculture, technologies, communications and innovations. We also discussed the prospects for further enhancing these relations, especially in the fields of trade and economy.

During the meeting, I expressed my sincere gratitude for India’s firm and unwavering support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Obviously, during the meeting I thanked the Indian government and the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, as well as all representatives of the Indian side, including the Ministry of External Affairs, the Ministry of Culture and the Indian Archaeological Agency, who, through close coordination with the Georgian Embassy in India, were involved in returning the one part of holy relics of St. Queen Ketevan to the Georgian nation.

We also exchanged our views on the current and important regional and global developments. We are attentively watching the latest developments in the region of South Asia, especially with regard to Afghanistan. Being a reliable and responsible member of the international community, also recognising the rapidly deteriorating environment in Afghanistan and anticipating the needs of our many partners in NATO and Europe, Georgia initiated an interagency task force responsible for supporting the transit operation with all necessary measures. Working with other NATO member states, we rapidly transformed part of the facilities at Tbilisi International Airport to process, feed, service, provide sanitary facilities and medical treatment and care for evacuees from Afghanistan.&nbsp;

A Georgian military base adjacent to the Tbilisi International Airport immediately became committed to the humanitarian care efforts by erecting enormous, multi-purpose tents to host, feed and accommodate evacuees on an emergency basis. &nbsp;Evacuees were provided with the temporary accommodations on the territory of Georgia. In the maelstrom of the mass evacuation from Kabul Airport, Georgia undertook more than 20 return flights between Tbilisi and Kabul, facilitating the evacuation of more than 2,500 people. During these flights Georgia’s airspace and its territory were used as a transit route from Afghanistan. Our country became an important regional hub and focal point for the evacuation of many nationals representing different countries. The efforts of the Georgian government were highly appreciated by our friends and international partners, including USA, Norway, Finland, EU, NATO and other countries or international organisations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

WION:&nbsp;EAM gave the relics of Holy Relic of St. Queen Ketevan. How do you see the development? This has been a long-standing request of Georgia.

David Zalkaliani: Yes, indeed, the visit was marked by a very important cultural event which has highest spiritual significance for the Georgians, namely, a part of the holy relics of the Great-Martyr St. Ketevan, Queen of Georgia was handled to Georgia and to the Georgian nation on the permanent basis and for free. I would like to extend my special gratitude to my Indian colleague, Minister of External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar for this valuable gesture to bring the holy relics to Georgia. The Georgian people have been waiting for this day for a long time and I am really delighted to note that the above gesture of goodwill from the Indian government is a result of our mutual commitment and spirit of strong cooperation. Georgia and India have strong historical ties dating back to ancient times. The discovery and subsequent return to Georgia exemplify yet another powerful basis of the unbreakable bond of friendship between our countries and people.

It is worth mentioning that the entire process, from the search and excavation to the authentication of the Relics, was time-consuming and took enormous efforts and hard work on the part of India and Georgia alike. We want to express utmost appreciation to those in India who were involved in the process and made an invaluable contribution to this historic event. We will always remember this kind and generous gesture from the Indian side, the unprecedented decision taken by the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. In the framework of the visit, the Minister S. Jaishankar attended the official ceremony of handling the part of the Holy Relics to the Georgian Orthodox Church that was held at the Sameba "Trinity" Cathedral.

WION: Can we expect a high level visit from Georgia anytime soon?

David Zalkaliani: We attach high importance to further exchanging bilateral visits between Georgia and India. Hopefully, with the consideration of the global pandemic situation, we will be able to schedule a high level visit from Georgia to India in the near future.

WION: What kind of practical cooperation is expected between the two sides?

David Zalkaliani: Our countries enjoy very fruitful cooperation in different fields but obviously there is a big potential for expanding more practical cooperation. We see a lot of potential in boosting mutually fruitful cooperation in the fields of innovations and informational technologies, defense and security, agriculture, healthcare, education, science etc. Deepening of cultural ties and people-to-people exchanges as well as development of tourism between our countries is also extremely important. Our embassy in New Delhi is actively working with the Indian side in order to launch the direct commercial flights between Georgia and India. The launch of the direct flights will further facilitate the development of people-to-people contacts, tourism, educational and cinematographic cooperation and will help us achieve the higher level of trade-economic cooperation as well. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

We attach high importance to the further development of cultural relations between Georgia and India. In this regard, it is important to mention that with the efforts of the Georgian embassy and thanks to the perfect cooperation with the relevant Indian institutions. In 2020, the first ever Hindi translation of the epic Georgian poem "The Knight in the Panther's Skin" was published in India. This is an extremely important and noteworthy event since it identifies those historical and cultural-economic ties which existed as bridges for centuries between our civilisations. This story is a typical Indian narrative and one of its archetypes can be found in the ancient Indian epic "Ramayana", love story of Rama and Sita. Our embassy is also planning to foster the translation of the Georgian poem in other languages of India. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Georgia's Vice Prime Minister and foreign minister David Zalkaliani has expressed confidence on signing a free trade agreement with India which he said will "greatly contribute to the further development of our economic cooperation".

Georgia's Vice Prime Minister and foreign minister David Zalkaliani has expressed confidence on signing a free trade agreement with India which he said will "greatly contribute to the further development of our economic cooperation". The Georgian embassy is currently coordinating for the first round of online negotiations between the Indian commerce ministry and the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia. Speaking exclusively to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Zalkaliani pitched for connectivity between the two countries saying, "(I) would like to underline also the importance of implementing multi-modal connectivity projects and exploiting the transit and transport potential of Georgia. In this regard, I mean the location of Georgia. Let me stress the importance of developing the south–west corridor project, primarily in the context of India." In July, India's external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar had visited Georgia, the first such visit from the Indian side since the independence of the country in the 1990s. During the visit, EAM handed over part of the relics of St. Queen Ketevan to government. St. Ketevan was a 17th century Georgian Queen martyred in Iran's Shiraz with her remains brought to Goa by the Portuguese in 1627. On that development, Zalkaliani said, "The Georgian people have been waiting for this day for a long time and I am really delighted to note that the above gesture of goodwill from the Indian government is a result of our mutual commitment and spirit of strong cooperation." WION: How do you see India-Georgia ties panning out in future? David Zalkaliani: India and Georgia enjoy centuries-old friendly relationship. I am quite sure that despite the geographic distance between Georgia and India, we can do much more and share a lot together, making the interaction even more result-oriented. Our countries could give one of the best examples in this regard. I think that the development of bilateral trade and economic cooperation should be a top priority in the agenda of our bilateral relations. Unfortunately, the low numbers in the bilateral trade turnover between India and Georgia do not really reflect the existing high potential for the development of trade relations. Along with dynamically developing political relations, quite a solid legal base was laid for the development of bilateral trade and economic relations as well. Several memorandums of understanding were signed in recent years between the various trade communities of Georgia and India. So, with joint efforts, all this should be materialised and become much more result oriented in the near future. I am confident that the signing of the Free Trade Agreement between Georgia and India will greatly contribute to the further development of our economic cooperation. The embassy is closely cooperating and coordinating with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of India, as well as with the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia in order to plan the first round of online negotiations in the near future. We would welcome more direct investments from India to Georgia, as well as the establishment of joint ventures. In the recent years, important direct investments were made from India, mainly in the energy sector. At the same time, we are also eager to promote the exports of Georgian products to the Indian market, especially the agricultural products and the Georgian wine. I would also like to underline the importance of implementing multi-modal connectivity projects and exploiting the transit and transport potential of Georgia. In this regard, I mean the location of Georgia. Let me stress the importance of developing the south–west corridor project, primarily in the context of India. The main role of the south–west corridor is the realisation of goods transportation between EU countries and India. I believe that in the context of raising the connectivity, the establishment of fruitful cooperation between the Georgian and Indian ports will be also extremely important. WION: How will EAM Jaishankar's visit consolidate the ties? David Zalkaliani: The first ever historical visit of the Indian Minister of Foreign Affairs to Georgia held on July 9-10, 2021 is a clear proof of dynamically developing bilateral relationship and friendship between our two countries and nations. The visit can be considered extremely important in terms of further strengthening our political and economic relations as well as cultural ties and people-to-people exchanges. Dr S. Jaishankar, besides meeting with me, also held high-level meetings with the top officials of the Georgian government and Parliament, namely, with the President of Georgia, H.E. Ms Salome Zourabichvili, with the Prime Minister of Georgia, H.E. Mr Irakli Garibashvili and with the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, Ms Natia Turnava. I am confident that the institutional meetings held in the framework of the visit will give additional impetus to the future development of our bilateral cooperation in different fields and sectors. I also hope that the visit of the Indian Minister of Foreign Affairs will accelerate the establishment of the Indian Embassy in Georgia. WION: What were the ongoing conversations between you and your Indian counterpart? David Zalkaliani: We discussed a very wide range of issues in the agenda of our bilateral and multilateral relations and noted with satisfaction the increasing dynamics of our bilateral relations in different fields, including the political, economic, cultural, educational and legal areas. Me and my Indian colleague highly appraised ongoing cooperation in the sectors of transport, investments, tourism, agriculture, technologies, communications and innovations. We also discussed the prospects for further enhancing these relations, especially in the fields of trade and economy. During the meeting, I expressed my sincere gratitude for India’s firm and unwavering support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Obviously, during the meeting I thanked the Indian government and the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, as well as all representatives of the Indian side, including the Ministry of External Affairs, the Ministry of Culture and the Indian Archaeological Agency, who, through close coordination with the Georgian Embassy in India, were involved in returning the one part of holy relics of St. Queen Ketevan to the Georgian nation. We also exchanged our views on the current and important regional and global developments. We are attentively watching the latest developments in the region of South Asia, especially with regard to Afghanistan. Being a reliable and responsible member of the international community, also recognising the rapidly deteriorating environment in Afghanistan and anticipating the needs of our many partners in NATO and Europe, Georgia initiated an interagency task force responsible for supporting the transit operation with all necessary measures. Working with other NATO member states, we rapidly transformed part of the facilities at Tbilisi International Airport to process, feed, service, provide sanitary facilities and medical treatment and care for evacuees from Afghanistan. A Georgian military base adjacent to the Tbilisi International Airport immediately became committed to the humanitarian care efforts by erecting enormous, multi-purpose tents to host, feed and accommodate evacuees on an emergency basis. Evacuees were provided with the temporary accommodations on the territory of Georgia. In the maelstrom of the mass evacuation from Kabul Airport, Georgia undertook more than 20 return flights between Tbilisi and Kabul, facilitating the evacuation of more than 2,500 people. During these flights Georgia’s airspace and its territory were used as a transit route from Afghanistan. Our country became an important regional hub and focal point for the evacuation of many nationals representing different countries. The efforts of the Georgian government were highly appreciated by our friends and international partners, including USA, Norway, Finland, EU, NATO and other countries or international organisations. WION: EAM gave the relics of Holy Relic of St. Queen Ketevan. How do you see the development? This has been a long-standing request of Georgia. David Zalkaliani: Yes, indeed, the visit was marked by a very important cultural event which has highest spiritual significance for the Georgians, namely, a part of the holy relics of the Great-Martyr St. Ketevan, Queen of Georgia was handled to Georgia and to the Georgian nation on the permanent basis and for free. I would like to extend my special gratitude to my Indian colleague, Minister of External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar for this valuable gesture to bring the holy relics to Georgia. The Georgian people have been waiting for this day for a long time and I am really delighted to note that the above gesture of goodwill from the Indian government is a result of our mutual commitment and spirit of strong cooperation. Georgia and India have strong historical ties dating back to ancient times. The discovery and subsequent return to Georgia exemplify yet another powerful basis of the unbreakable bond of friendship between our countries and people. It is worth mentioning that the entire process, from the search and excavation to the authentication of the Relics, was time-consuming and took enormous efforts and hard work on the part of India and Georgia alike. We want to express utmost appreciation to those in India who were involved in the process and made an invaluable contribution to this historic event. We will always remember this kind and generous gesture from the Indian side, the unprecedented decision taken by the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. In the framework of the visit, the Minister S. Jaishankar attended the official ceremony of handling the part of the Holy Relics to the Georgian Orthodox Church that was held at the Sameba "Trinity" Cathedral. WION: Can we expect a high level visit from Georgia anytime soon? David Zalkaliani: We attach high importance to further exchanging bilateral visits between Georgia and India. Hopefully, with the consideration of the global pandemic situation, we will be able to schedule a high level visit from Georgia to India in the near future. WION: What kind of practical cooperation is expected between the two sides? David Zalkaliani: Our countries enjoy very fruitful cooperation in different fields but obviously there is a big potential for expanding more practical cooperation. We see a lot of potential in boosting mutually fruitful cooperation in the fields of innovations and informational technologies, defense and security, agriculture, healthcare, education, science etc. Deepening of cultural ties and people-to-people exchanges as well as development of tourism between our countries is also extremely important. Our embassy in New Delhi is actively working with the Indian side in order to launch the direct commercial flights between Georgia and India. The launch of the direct flights will further facilitate the development of people-to-people contacts, tourism, educational and cinematographic cooperation and will help us achieve the higher level of trade-economic cooperation as well. We attach high importance to the further development of cultural relations between Georgia and India. In this regard, it is important to mention that with the efforts of the Georgian embassy and thanks to the perfect cooperation with the relevant Indian institutions. In 2020, the first ever Hindi translation of the epic Georgian poem "The Knight in the Panther's Skin" was published in India. This is an extremely important and noteworthy event since it identifies those historical and cultural-economic ties which existed as bridges for centuries between our civilisations. This story is a typical Indian narrative and one of its archetypes can be found in the ancient Indian epic "Ramayana", love story of Rama and Sita. Our embassy is also planning to foster the translation of the Georgian poem in other languages of India.

'Confident of signing FTA with India,' says Georgia's Foreign Minister David Zalkaliani

India is upbeat over the Free Trade Agreement(FTA) talks with European Union and the United Kingdom&nbsp;with the commerce secretary Anup Wadhawan saying talks will begin this year.

Speaking at a virtual press conference, Wadhawan said,&nbsp;"within the year, close to the end of the year" talks should start&nbsp;with EU "possibly before that" and with the UK.&nbsp;New Delhi will be "initiating talks" but all the "preparatory work" needs to be done, the commerce secretary added.&nbsp;

He further explained, "trade discussions are already underway, preparatory work has to be done" and very soon "formal negotiations will also start".

India, EU FTA talks were announced during the India-EU leadership summit in May.&nbsp;Both sides are resuming talks after a gap of eight&nbsp;years.

Wadhawan said,&nbsp;"European Union at the highest level cleared agreement on resumption of negotiations, a clear agreement on the tracks on which negotiations will happen. Clear resolve to expedite finality in the negotiation at an early date."&nbsp;

With the UK he recalled the "clear announcement on starting of negotiations, a comprehensive trade agreement with an early harvest" which he described as a "very, very conducive development". At the virtual summit between PM Modi and PM Boris Johnson on May 4&nbsp;both sides made an announcement on Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP).

May 26 saw the UK starting a 14-week consultation period to seek public and business views on the&nbsp;deal with India.

The period of consultations domestically ends on August 31. The UK is keen on a deal that not only slashes trade barriers but also&nbsp;includes removing tariffs of up to 150 per cent&nbsp;on whisky and 125 per cent&nbsp;on British-made cars. The UK also aims to make it easier for its service firms to operate in the Indian market.

For India, upgrading the Preferential Trade Area (PTA) with Chile&nbsp;and taking forward negotiations on trade with Peru and Israel is also on&nbsp;the anvil. India has also initiated&nbsp;new FTAs with Canada and&nbsp;Australia.

India is upbeat over the Free Trade Agreement(FTA) talks with European Union and the United Kingdom with the commerce secretary Anup Wadhawan saying talks will begin this year.

India is upbeat over the Free Trade Agreement(FTA) talks with European Union and the United Kingdom with the commerce secretary Anup Wadhawan saying talks will begin this year. Speaking at a virtual press conference, Wadhawan said, "within the year, close to the end of the year" talks should start with EU "possibly before that" and with the UK. New Delhi will be "initiating talks" but all the "preparatory work" needs to be done, the commerce secretary added. He further explained, "trade discussions are already underway, preparatory work has to be done" and very soon "formal negotiations will also start". India, EU FTA talks were announced during the India-EU leadership summit in May. Both sides are resuming talks after a gap of eight years. Wadhawan said, "European Union at the highest level cleared agreement on resumption of negotiations, a clear agreement on the tracks on which negotiations will happen. Clear resolve to expedite finality in the negotiation at an early date." With the UK he recalled the "clear announcement on starting of negotiations, a comprehensive trade agreement with an early harvest" which he described as a "very, very conducive development". At the virtual summit between PM Modi and PM Boris Johnson on May 4 both sides made an announcement on Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP). May 26 saw the UK starting a 14-week consultation period to seek public and business views on the deal with India. The period of consultations domestically ends on August 31. The UK is keen on a deal that not only slashes trade barriers but also includes removing tariffs of up to 150 per cent on whisky and 125 per cent on British-made cars. The UK also aims to make it easier for its service firms to operate in the Indian market. For India, upgrading the Preferential Trade Area (PTA) with Chile and taking forward negotiations on trade with Peru and Israel is also on the anvil. India has also initiated new FTAs with Canada and Australia.

FTA talks with UK, EU to begin this year: Commerce secretary

India and the EU will agree to resume the negotiations at the virtual summit between Prime Minister Modi and top leadership of the bloc

India, EU to announce resumption of FTA talks at virtual summit

Ahead of the 15th India European Union summit on Wednesday, EU has pointed out at New Delhi's protectionist policies on trade while calling for Free trade agreement to be a far-reaching one.

An EU official said, "We have great potential to develop further and leaders will express to move towards balanced and comprehensive FTA".

European Union is India's trading partner and it is also the largest investor, this despite the Brexit. Highlighting "a lot of untapped trade potential", EU official pointed out to the less than 3% of EU's external trade being with India which is "far below what we expect in such a relationship."

On the question of "early harvest" on the trade front, EU officials said, "it is not something EU wants to see with its engagement with India..we want to have a far-reaching FTA that benefits not only India, EU but it should be win-win, that means we should focus not only on low hanging fruits but bring our relationship overall to a new level".

EU has proposed one "low hanging fruit" in the form of standalone investment protection agreement but says hasn't received a positive reaction from the Indian govt. Both sides working on high-level trade dialogue which will the first institutional mechanism to allow EU trade commissioner and Trade minister Piyush Goyal to engage in talks.

Brussels drawing attention to the increased protectionist policies by New Delhi said, "We have witnessed a trend in India which goes more towards protectionism" and recent announcements that "India wants to pursue a self-reliant economy didn't help". Amidst the COVID crisis, Indian PM has called for Atmanirbhar Bharat or a self-reliant India.&nbsp;

India EU FTA talks failed in 2013 though Technical talks have been going to bridge the gaps. Key issues why talks failed were on customs duty on wine, auto manufacturing and labour issues. While India did not want an FTA without investments being part of it, EU wanted FTA on goods. On European cars, Brussels said it wants to sell full manufactured cars to be sold in India to which New Delhi pointed out to its policy of local manufacturing.

High customs on wine in India was another thorny issue as well as EU raising the issue of labour and human rights issues. EU also wanted to be part of the government procurement, which India is not keen on.

Ahead of the 15th India European Union summit on Wednesday, EU has pointed out at New Delhi's protectionist policies on trade while calling for Free trade agreement to be a far-reaching one.

Ahead of the 15th India European Union summit on Wednesday, EU has pointed out at New Delhi's protectionist policies on trade while calling for Free trade agreement to be a far-reaching one. An EU official said, "We have great potential to develop further and leaders will express to move towards balanced and comprehensive FTA". European Union is India's trading partner and it is also the largest investor, this despite the Brexit. Highlighting "a lot of untapped trade potential", EU official pointed out to the less than 3% of EU's external trade being with India which is "far below what we expect in such a relationship." On the question of "early harvest" on the trade front, EU officials said, "it is not something EU wants to see with its engagement with India..we want to have a far-reaching FTA that benefits not only India, EU but it should be win-win, that means we should focus not only on low hanging fruits but bring our relationship overall to a new level". EU has proposed one "low hanging fruit" in the form of standalone investment protection agreement but says hasn't received a positive reaction from the Indian govt. Both sides working on high-level trade dialogue which will the first institutional mechanism to allow EU trade commissioner and Trade minister Piyush Goyal to engage in talks. Brussels drawing attention to the increased protectionist policies by New Delhi said, "We have witnessed a trend in India which goes more towards protectionism" and recent announcements that "India wants to pursue a self-reliant economy didn't help". Amidst the COVID crisis, Indian PM has called for Atmanirbhar Bharat or a self-reliant India. India EU FTA talks failed in 2013 though Technical talks have been going to bridge the gaps. Key issues why talks failed were on customs duty on wine, auto manufacturing and labour issues. While India did not want an FTA without investments being part of it, EU wanted FTA on goods. On European cars, Brussels said it wants to sell full manufactured cars to be sold in India to which New Delhi pointed out to its policy of local manufacturing. High customs on wine in India was another thorny issue as well as EU raising the issue of labour and human rights issues. EU also wanted to be part of the government procurement, which India is not keen on.

Brussels bats for India-EU FTA, but highlights New Delhi's protectionist policies

The much delayed India-European Union summit will now take place on 15th July. The summit that was to take place earlier this year was postponed due to the COVID pandemic.&nbsp;

It is the 15th edition of the summit and will be co-chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of the European Council Charles Michel and the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. &nbsp;

Ministry of external affairs release said, "The Summit will review India-EU cooperation covering political &amp; security relations, trade &amp; investment and economic cooperation."

COVID-19 crisis will be a major focus&nbsp;with EU release on the summit saying, "As the world is fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, the leaders will discuss global cooperation and solidarity to protect lives, to mitigate the socio-economic consequences and to strengthen preparedness and response capacities."

Reviving the India-EU FTA talks is also expected to be the&nbsp;top focus.

An aggressive China will also be another area of priority. Recently in an exclusive interview with WION, the EU envoy to India Ugo Astuto had said, "EU and India share the same values of democracies and pluralism, we are an open society. We strongly believe in multilateralism, in a cooperative approach to international relations.. EU and India share priorities that will be central when we shape the world's agenda in a post-COVID-19 world. "

Adding, "It is important we strengthen EU cooperation with other major Asian partners such as India, notably India but also Japan, South Korea."

It is the 2nd virtual summit in which Indian PM will participate, the first one being with Australian Prime minister Scott Morrison. The last India EU summit, that is the 14th summit took place in Delhi on 6th October 2017. 
&nbsp;

The much delayed India-European Union summit will now take place on 15th July. The summit that was to take place earlier this year was postponed due to the COVID pandemic.

The much delayed India-European Union summit will now take place on 15th July. The summit that was to take place earlier this year was postponed due to the COVID pandemic. It is the 15th edition of the summit and will be co-chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of the European Council Charles Michel and the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. Ministry of external affairs release said, "The Summit will review India-EU cooperation covering political & security relations, trade & investment and economic cooperation." COVID-19 crisis will be a major focus with EU release on the summit saying, "As the world is fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, the leaders will discuss global cooperation and solidarity to protect lives, to mitigate the socio-economic consequences and to strengthen preparedness and response capacities." Reviving the India-EU FTA talks is also expected to be the top focus. An aggressive China will also be another area of priority. Recently in an exclusive interview with WION, the EU envoy to India Ugo Astuto had said, "EU and India share the same values of democracies and pluralism, we are an open society. We strongly believe in multilateralism, in a cooperative approach to international relations.. EU and India share priorities that will be central when we shape the world's agenda in a post-COVID-19 world. " Adding, "It is important we strengthen EU cooperation with other major Asian partners such as India, notably India but also Japan, South Korea." It is the 2nd virtual summit in which Indian PM will participate, the first one being with Australian Prime minister Scott Morrison. The last India EU summit, that is the 14th summit took place in Delhi on 6th October 2017.

Virtual India-EU summit to take place on July 15

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