Polish researchers and a former ambassador have set out expectations of closer economic, research and security links with India ahead of Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s visit, the first by a Polish leader in 16 years. The three speakers described the upcoming visit, centred on business forums in Delhi and Bengaluru &amp; meeting with the Indian PM, as an opportunity to give substance to the strategic partnership signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2024 visit to Warsaw. Adam Burakowski, former Polish ambassador to India and South Africa and now associate professor at the Institute of Political Studies of the Polish Academy of Sciences, said bilateral trade stands at roughly $6–7 billion and both sides want to raise it to $10 billion. He pointed to the forthcoming EU-India free-trade agreement, expected to eliminate tariffs on nearly all goods including agriculture, as a major catalyst. “We really count on this agreement to increase the trade volume to the benefit of both sides,” he said. Burakowski also recalled practical foundations of goodwill, Polish assistance during the evacuation of Indian students from Ukraine under Operation Ganga, and the direct Warsaw–Delhi flights that have operated since 2019. “Based on that we can build a lot,” he said, adding that Polish interest in India is rising. He has just published a book, "The Third Global Power?", examining India’s potential emergence as a global superpower.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rubio-jaishankar-hold-talks-in-mumbai-discuss-energy-security-and-defence-cooperation-1792499079567">Rubio says India-US trade pact is ‘very close’, holds trilateral talks with Jaishankar, UAE FM</a>&nbsp; Paweł Marczewski, director of the Strategy and Analysis Department at the Łukasiewicz Research Network’s ITECH Institute of Innovation and Technology, said research-oriented innovation offers a strong platform for cooperation. He noted that both countries are investing heavily in moving beyond the role of back offices for larger economies and want locally invented technologies.&nbsp; Marczewski also highlighted defence. Poland is spending nearly 5 per cent of GDP on defence and is seeking dual-use technologies that serve both military needs and civilian economic growth. “This is a dilemma that both countries have in common,” he said, arguing that such technologies could help translate high defence outlays into broader development.&nbsp; Michał Matlak, director of the ITECH Institute, identified artificial intelligence as one of the most important areas for collaboration. He said Poland hopes to work with the Indian Institutes of Technology and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, noting that “cooperation could be very fruitful” given Poland’s strengths in relevant scientific and industrial questions. Polish companies, he said, are keen to learn from India’s startup culture and to co-develop products. “We would like to learn from Indian experience… and develop products together,” he said.

Polish experts see scope to strengthen trade, research, artificial intelligence and defence cooperation with India ahead of Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s visit, the first by a Polish leader in 16 years.

Polish researchers and a former ambassador have set out expectations of closer economic, research and security links with India ahead of Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s visit, the first by a Polish leader in 16 years. The three speakers described the upcoming visit, centred on business forums in Delhi and Bengaluru & meeting with the Indian PM, as an opportunity to give substance to the strategic partnership signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2024 visit to Warsaw. Adam Burakowski, former Polish ambassador to India and South Africa and now associate professor at the Institute of Political Studies of the Polish Academy of Sciences, said bilateral trade stands at roughly $6–7 billion and both sides want to raise it to $10 billion. He pointed to the forthcoming EU-India free-trade agreement, expected to eliminate tariffs on nearly all goods including agriculture, as a major catalyst. “We really count on this agreement to increase the trade volume to the benefit of both sides,” he said. Burakowski also recalled practical foundations of goodwill, Polish assistance during the evacuation of Indian students from Ukraine under Operation Ganga, and the direct Warsaw–Delhi flights that have operated since 2019. “Based on that we can build a lot,” he said, adding that Polish interest in India is rising. He has just published a book, "The Third Global Power?", examining India’s potential emergence as a global superpower. Also Read: Rubio says India-US trade pact is ‘very close’, holds trilateral talks with Jaishankar, UAE FM Paweł Marczewski, director of the Strategy and Analysis Department at the Łukasiewicz Research Network’s ITECH Institute of Innovation and Technology, said research-oriented innovation offers a strong platform for cooperation. He noted that both countries are investing heavily in moving beyond the role of back offices for larger economies and want locally invented technologies. Marczewski also highlighted defence. Poland is spending nearly 5 per cent of GDP on defence and is seeking dual-use technologies that serve both military needs and civilian economic growth. “This is a dilemma that both countries have in common,” he said, arguing that such technologies could help translate high defence outlays into broader development. Michał Matlak, director of the ITECH Institute, identified artificial intelligence as one of the most important areas for collaboration. He said Poland hopes to work with the Indian Institutes of Technology and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, noting that “cooperation could be very fruitful” given Poland’s strengths in relevant scientific and industrial questions. Polish companies, he said, are keen to learn from India’s startup culture and to co-develop products. “We would like to learn from Indian experience… and develop products together,” he said.

Polish experts see scope to strengthen trade, research, artificial intelligence and defence cooperation with India ahead of Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s visit, the first by a Polish leader in 16 years.

Polish experts see scope for tech, trade and defence ties ahead of PM Tusk's India visit

The European Union’s new ambassador to India has said a long-negotiated free trade agreement with New Delhi will create “one economic space” of two billion people and send a message that open, rules-based commerce still matters as global trade comes under strain.&nbsp;Jean-Eric Paquet, who has just presented his credentials in New Delhi, told WION's Sidhant Sibal that India and the EU together account for “2 billion people, 25% of world GDP” and that their partnership would be “one of the most defining relationship[s] of this century”. This was his first TV interview after taking charge.&nbsp;Negotiations on the pact were concluded in January. The European Commission put a proposal to sign the agreement to EU ministers on 11 September. “Everybody… is looking at the end of the year for the signature,” Paquet said. After that, he added, the European Parliament must give its assent, which “will take a few more months”, with “entry into force… in the first half of next year”.&nbsp;He described the deal as the “mother of all trade agreement[s]” and “the biggest trade deal we ever entered into”. The economic effect, he said, would go beyond tariffs. The agreement “creates one economic space across Indian and the European internal markets… reduce[s] trade frictions… facilitate[s] investments” and lets firms work “across the two economies on their supply chains”. “The impact I think would be very, very deep, much deeper… than we are even anticipating.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cec-has-become-a-puppet-kharge-demands-gyanesh-kumar-s-removal-lists-5-demands-1790681614607">‘CEC has become a puppet’: Kharge demands Gyanesh Kumar’s removal, lists 5 demands</a>&nbsp;Paquet cast the pact as a political signal as well as a commercial one. Trade had “benefited humanity” for decades after the Second World War, he said, even as “the system is under pressure”. The message from Brussels and New Delhi was that “we all want these rules to be preserved” so firms have “predictability” and can “invest also into the future”.&nbsp;Investment protection talks should move “in sync” with the FTA, he said, because companies want to “invest in some parts of that supply chain”, not only ship goods.&nbsp;Defence, he added, is a newer and fast-growing pillar after a security and defence partnership was signed in January. It covers diplomatic consultations, counter-terrorism and cybersecurity, plus maritime coordination in the region and industrial co-operation. Europe, he said, is “investing by 2030 [some] 800 billion euros” to rebuild capacity and will look to partners, including India, for supply chains. “This is really a space to watch.”&nbsp;On the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor launched in Delhi in 2023, he accepted that conflict in West Asia had slowed progress, but said investment planning in India continues.&nbsp;When it comes to the war in Ukraine, which is in its 5th year, he said, "whatever India can [do]… to [bring] Russia to the real ceasefire would be appreciated". Delhi has called for diplomacy to end the war, which has had a huge impact on global food, fuel and fertiliser prices.&nbsp;He explained that the EU is “prioritising” its ties with India and other partners in the Indo-Pacific while treating China as both a vital trading partner and a source of “often unfair competition”. His own task, he said, was to make the agendas “practical [and] concrete” and to travel “across India”. &nbsp;

EU ambassador Jean Eric Paquet said the India-EU free trade deal could create a major economic partnership while signalling continued support for open, rules-based commerce amid global trade pressures.

The European Union’s new ambassador to India has said a long-negotiated free trade agreement with New Delhi will create “one economic space” of two billion people and send a message that open, rules-based commerce still matters as global trade comes under strain. Jean-Eric Paquet, who has just presented his credentials in New Delhi, told WION's Sidhant Sibal that India and the EU together account for “2 billion people, 25% of world GDP” and that their partnership would be “one of the most defining relationship[s] of this century”. This was his first TV interview after taking charge. Negotiations on the pact were concluded in January. The European Commission put a proposal to sign the agreement to EU ministers on 11 September. “Everybody… is looking at the end of the year for the signature,” Paquet said. After that, he added, the European Parliament must give its assent, which “will take a few more months”, with “entry into force… in the first half of next year”. He described the deal as the “mother of all trade agreement[s]” and “the biggest trade deal we ever entered into”. The economic effect, he said, would go beyond tariffs. The agreement “creates one economic space across Indian and the European internal markets… reduce[s] trade frictions… facilitate[s] investments” and lets firms work “across the two economies on their supply chains”. “The impact I think would be very, very deep, much deeper… than we are even anticipating.” Also Read: ‘CEC has become a puppet’: Kharge demands Gyanesh Kumar’s removal, lists 5 demands Paquet cast the pact as a political signal as well as a commercial one. Trade had “benefited humanity” for decades after the Second World War, he said, even as “the system is under pressure”. The message from Brussels and New Delhi was that “we all want these rules to be preserved” so firms have “predictability” and can “invest also into the future”. Investment protection talks should move “in sync” with the FTA, he said, because companies want to “invest in some parts of that supply chain”, not only ship goods. Defence, he added, is a newer and fast-growing pillar after a security and defence partnership was signed in January. It covers diplomatic consultations, counter-terrorism and cybersecurity, plus maritime coordination in the region and industrial co-operation. Europe, he said, is “investing by 2030 [some] 800 billion euros” to rebuild capacity and will look to partners, including India, for supply chains. “This is really a space to watch.” On the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor launched in Delhi in 2023, he accepted that conflict in West Asia had slowed progress, but said investment planning in India continues. When it comes to the war in Ukraine, which is in its 5th year, he said, "whatever India can [do]… to [bring] Russia to the real ceasefire would be appreciated". Delhi has called for diplomacy to end the war, which has had a huge impact on global food, fuel and fertiliser prices. He explained that the EU is “prioritising” its ties with India and other partners in the Indo-Pacific while treating China as both a vital trading partner and a source of “often unfair competition”. His own task, he said, was to make the agendas “practical [and] concrete” and to travel “across India”.

EU ambassador Jean-Eric Paquet said the India-EU free trade deal could create a major economic partnership while signalling continued support for open, rules-based commerce amid global trade pressures.

India-EU free trade deal sends signal that rules-based commerce still matters, new EU envoy Paquet says

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday (Jun 22) announced that India and the European Union are set to sign the Free Trade Agreement by December this year. The pact is expected to come into effect by February-March 2027. The FTA is expected to strengthen trade, investment, and economic cooperation between India and the EU. Under the agreement, about 93 per cent of Indian exports will get duty-free access to the European market, while imports of EU goods like wines and luxury cars are expected to become cheaper.<h2>Key provisions of India-EU FTA</h2>Under the proposed India-EU FTA, majority of Indian exports entering European markets will be granted duty-free access. According to the Indian government, 99.5 per cent of the value of Indian exports would enjoy tariff-free access in the EU.The agreement is also expected to open 144 European service subsectors to Indian companies, particularly in information technology, consulting, and professional services. India would open 102 service subsectors to European investors.Other provisions include tariff reductions on goods, investment protection measures, regulatory cooperation, transparency in government procurement, and commitments related to labour, environmental standards, and sustainable supply chains.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-in-europe-what-are-india-s-objectives-at-the-g7-summit-1781594601788">PM Modi in Europe: What are India’s objectives at the G7 Summit?</a><h2>Indian industries are poised to gain the most</h2>Duty-free access of Indian goods in European market can boost several industries, especially textile and apparel, with an increased export of garments, cotton textiles, home furnishings, and technical textiles. Engineering Goods like machinery, auto components, electrical equipment, and industrial products are also expected to rise in exports.Apart from these, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and speciality chemicals are also expected to benefit from FTA. Reduced duties could also boost exports of diamonds, gemstones, and value-added jewellery products. Other sectors that may benefit from the landmark deal include leather, footwear, handicrafts, agriculture, food processing, and IT-enabled services<h2>European Union’s key demands</h2>During negotiations, the European Union has sought to secure lower Indian tariffs on automobiles, auto components, wines, and spirits. The EU is also seeking stronger intellectual property protections, broader access for its services sector, and enhanced investment safeguards. Sustainability commitments, labour standards, and climate-related regulations remain important priorities for European negotiators.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-politics-of-perception-decoding-the-g7-s-most-viral-moments-1781782259617">The politics of perception: Decoding G7 Summit’s most viral moments</a><h2>How duty-free access could transform Indian exports</h2>Duty-free access to European market is expected to provide substantial advantages for Indian exporters. By removing tariffs that currently range from 4 per cent to more than 12 per cent in many sectors, Indian products would become more competitive in Europe. Labour-intensive industries could witness higher export orders and increased employment generation. The agreement may also encourage foreign investment as multinational companies look to use India as a manufacturing base for exports to Europe. Small and medium enterprises are expected to benefit from reduced trade costs and improved integration into global supply chains.<h2>How the EU deal compares with India’s recent FTAs</h2>Compared with India’s recent trade agreements with UAE, Australia, and the UK, the India-EU FTA stands out because of its scale and strategic importance. Covering markets worth nearly $25 trillion and around two billion people, it is often described as the most ambitious trade agreement India has negotiated. While similar to other FTAs in offering extensive tariff liberalisation and professional mobility provisions, it also includes unique sustainability commitments and faces challenges such as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. &nbsp;

India and the EU are set to sign a landmark FTA by December 2026, granting duty-free access to most Indian exports, boosting key sectors, attracting investment, and deepening economic ties.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday (Jun 22) announced that India and the European Union are set to sign the Free Trade Agreement by December this year. The pact is expected to come into effect by February-March 2027. The FTA is expected to strengthen trade, investment, and economic cooperation between India and the EU. Under the agreement, about 93 per cent of Indian exports will get duty-free access to the European market, while imports of EU goods like wines and luxury cars are expected to become cheaper. Key provisions of India-EU FTA Under the proposed India-EU FTA, majority of Indian exports entering European markets will be granted duty-free access. According to the Indian government, 99.5 per cent of the value of Indian exports would enjoy tariff-free access in the EU. The agreement is also expected to open 144 European service subsectors to Indian companies, particularly in information technology, consulting, and professional services. India would open 102 service subsectors to European investors. Other provisions include tariff reductions on goods, investment protection measures, regulatory cooperation, transparency in government procurement, and commitments related to labour, environmental standards, and sustainable supply chains. Also read | PM Modi in Europe: What are India’s objectives at the G7 Summit? Indian industries are poised to gain the most Duty-free access of Indian goods in European market can boost several industries, especially textile and apparel, with an increased export of garments, cotton textiles, home furnishings, and technical textiles. Engineering Goods like machinery, auto components, electrical equipment, and industrial products are also expected to rise in exports. Apart from these, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and speciality chemicals are also expected to benefit from FTA. Reduced duties could also boost exports of diamonds, gemstones, and value-added jewellery products. Other sectors that may benefit from the landmark deal include leather, footwear, handicrafts, agriculture, food processing, and IT-enabled services European Union’s key demands During negotiations, the European Union has sought to secure lower Indian tariffs on automobiles, auto components, wines, and spirits. The EU is also seeking stronger intellectual property protections, broader access for its services sector, and enhanced investment safeguards. Sustainability commitments, labour standards, and climate-related regulations remain important priorities for European negotiators. Also read | The politics of perception: Decoding G7 Summit’s most viral moments How duty-free access could transform Indian exports Duty-free access to European market is expected to provide substantial advantages for Indian exporters. By removing tariffs that currently range from 4 per cent to more than 12 per cent in many sectors, Indian products would become more competitive in Europe. Labour-intensive industries could witness higher export orders and increased employment generation. The agreement may also encourage foreign investment as multinational companies look to use India as a manufacturing base for exports to Europe. Small and medium enterprises are expected to benefit from reduced trade costs and improved integration into global supply chains. How the EU deal compares with India’s recent FTAs Compared with India’s recent trade agreements with UAE, Australia, and the UK, the India-EU FTA stands out because of its scale and strategic importance. Covering markets worth nearly $25 trillion and around two billion people, it is often described as the most ambitious trade agreement India has negotiated. While similar to other FTAs in offering extensive tariff liberalisation and professional mobility provisions, it also includes unique sustainability commitments and faces challenges such as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.

India and the EU are set to sign a landmark FTA by December 2026, granting duty-free access to most Indian exports, boosting key sectors, attracting investment, and deepening economic ties.

India-EU Free Trade Agreement: What landmark deal means for India

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has described recent talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a continuation of efforts to strengthen economic and strategic partnerships, with progress on a long-awaited EU-India free trade agreement high on the agenda. In an interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal during the India-Nordic Summit, Kristersson highlighted the importance of bilateral discussions that built on PM Modi's recent visit to Sweden.&nbsp;Kristersson said, "we discussed a lot about the free trade agreement between the European Union and India, and since Sweden is a very big exporter, that means a lot to us today", adding ,"We had a broader discussion also on diplomacy and the role of UN and geopolitics. They complemented each other pretty well."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-natural-partners-pm-modi-pushes-for-skill-development-at-india-nordic-summit-1779195589970">‘Natural Partners’: PM Modi Pushes for Skill Development at India-Nordic Summit</a>&nbsp;Trade remains a cornerstone of the relationship. Sweden, a major exporter of engineering goods, vehicles and high-tech products, sees significant potential in deeper access to the Indian market. Negotiations for the EU-India FTA have been ongoing for years, and both sides are keen to resolve outstanding issues around tariffs, regulations and market access. Defence cooperation also featured prominently. India's Prime Minister received a notable welcome involving Swedish fighter jets, showcasing growing military-to-military ties between the two democracies.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/media-house-deletes-story-after-pm-modi-rare-fact-checks-foreign-travel-tax-report-totally-false-cnbc-tv18-shut-down-global-travel-panic-1778899536032">Media house forced to delete story after PM Modi fact-checks misleading report on X: 'Totally false'</a>&nbsp;Asked about the welcome, Sweden PM said, “we produce our own fighter jets, we are eager to show them, and since they are extremely good at, meeting incoming aircraft. I think that was a good sign.” Sweden's Gripen fighter jets, manufactured by Saab, are see as among the world's most advanced multi-role aircraft. The display was seen as a subtle signal of Sweden's defence export ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. When asked if the demonstrations had impressed the Indian side, the Swedish leader answered cautiously: "We always show our capabilities in a friendly manner."&nbsp;India has been diversifying its defence suppliers as it seeks to modernise its armed forces and reduce reliance on any single source. While no immediate deals were announced, defence was among the areas of conversation. &nbsp;

Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson praised the India-EU free trade agreement during PM Modi's visit, announcing a strategic pact to double bilateral trade within five years.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has described recent talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a continuation of efforts to strengthen economic and strategic partnerships, with progress on a long-awaited EU-India free trade agreement high on the agenda. In an interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal during the India-Nordic Summit, Kristersson highlighted the importance of bilateral discussions that built on PM Modi's recent visit to Sweden. Kristersson said, "we discussed a lot about the free trade agreement between the European Union and India, and since Sweden is a very big exporter, that means a lot to us today", adding ,"We had a broader discussion also on diplomacy and the role of UN and geopolitics. They complemented each other pretty well." Also read: ‘Natural Partners’: PM Modi Pushes for Skill Development at India-Nordic Summit Trade remains a cornerstone of the relationship. Sweden, a major exporter of engineering goods, vehicles and high-tech products, sees significant potential in deeper access to the Indian market. Negotiations for the EU-India FTA have been ongoing for years, and both sides are keen to resolve outstanding issues around tariffs, regulations and market access. Defence cooperation also featured prominently. India's Prime Minister received a notable welcome involving Swedish fighter jets, showcasing growing military-to-military ties between the two democracies. Also read: Media house forced to delete story after PM Modi fact-checks misleading report on X: 'Totally false' Asked about the welcome, Sweden PM said, “we produce our own fighter jets, we are eager to show them, and since they are extremely good at, meeting incoming aircraft. I think that was a good sign.” Sweden's Gripen fighter jets, manufactured by Saab, are see as among the world's most advanced multi-role aircraft. The display was seen as a subtle signal of Sweden's defence export ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. When asked if the demonstrations had impressed the Indian side, the Swedish leader answered cautiously: "We always show our capabilities in a friendly manner." India has been diversifying its defence suppliers as it seeks to modernise its armed forces and reduce reliance on any single source. While no immediate deals were announced, defence was among the areas of conversation.

Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson praised the India-EU free trade agreement during PM Modi's visit, announcing a strategic pact to double bilateral trade within five years.

Swedish PM Kristersson hails progress on India-EU free trade agreement

New Delhi: Portugal has thrown its weight behind the long-awaited India-EU Free Trade Agreement, with a key minister declaring the pact is now in its “last mile” and on track to take effect on 1 January 2027.&nbsp;João Rui Ferreira, Portugal’s Secretary of State for Economy, told WION’s Sidhant Sibal that Lisbon had backed the agreement “since day one” and remained a strong supporter. “We believe we are in the last mile now,” he said. “We are confident… it will be in place on the first of January 2027.”&nbsp;The presence in India of the Presidents of the European Commission and Council, alongside the Trade Commissioner, demonstrated the strength of European commitment, Mr Ferreira added. “In a complex world, in uncertainty [at this] moment, agreements like this will give companies, businesses a new opportunity,” he said, pointing to India’s rapid growth as the world’s fourth-largest economy, on course to become the third.&nbsp;With its young population and ambitious infrastructure and manufacturing plans under “Make in India” and the 2047 vision, India offers major scope for collaboration, he argued. Portuguese firms could bring know-how in decarbonised industry, clean energy technologies and sustainable manufacturing. “I think we can bring… complementarity to that ambition,” Mr Ferreira said.&nbsp;Portuguese companies eye infrastructure and tech partnerships. The minister drew a clear distinction between infrastructure and industrial opportunities. Portuguese companies were keen to participate as contractors in energy, electrical systems, waste management and broader infrastructure projects. Industrial firms and a growing cohort of startups showcase the potential in advanced technologies and joint ventures.&nbsp;“For Portuguese companies to succeed… local partnerships, local joint ventures [are key],” he stressed. “India is a continent, so the market is huge. Companies need to focus on sectors, or regions or cities.”&nbsp;Mr Ferreira said that the recent reopening of Portugal’s trade and investment agency office in New Delhi is a sign of long-term commitment. “This is just the beginning of a journey,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Indian companies have been invited to invest in Portugal across several high-growth sectors. Mr Ferreira highlighted space and defence, including satellites, aeronautics and drones; pharmaceuticals and life sciences; advanced manufacturing backed by strong STEM education; battery value chains from lithium to production; data centres; and digital technologies.&nbsp;Energy stood out as a particular strength. “Eighty per cent of our energy comes from renewable sources at a very competitive price,” he said, describing Portugal as well-positioned for industrial development. Portugal is also open to skilled Indian workers. “Qualified, skilled workers will always have an opportunity in Portugal,” the minister said, citing programmes with companies and sector associations, supported by the embassy and consulate in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mr Ferreira acknowledged the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations but insisted the focus was now firmly on the future. “We are proud of our history, but we are looking to the future… The numbers are still far from the potential we have and that’s what we want to change,” he said.

Portuguese companies are eyeing infrastructure and tech partnerships and are keen to participate as contractors in energy, electrical systems, waste management and broader infrastructure projects, said Portugal’s Secretary of State for Economy João Rui Ferreira.

New Delhi: Portugal has thrown its weight behind the long-awaited India-EU Free Trade Agreement, with a key minister declaring the pact is now in its “last mile” and on track to take effect on 1 January 2027. João Rui Ferreira, Portugal’s Secretary of State for Economy, told WION’s Sidhant Sibal that Lisbon had backed the agreement “since day one” and remained a strong supporter. “We believe we are in the last mile now,” he said. “We are confident… it will be in place on the first of January 2027.” The presence in India of the Presidents of the European Commission and Council, alongside the Trade Commissioner, demonstrated the strength of European commitment, Mr Ferreira added. “In a complex world, in uncertainty [at this] moment, agreements like this will give companies, businesses a new opportunity,” he said, pointing to India’s rapid growth as the world’s fourth-largest economy, on course to become the third. With its young population and ambitious infrastructure and manufacturing plans under “Make in India” and the 2047 vision, India offers major scope for collaboration, he argued. Portuguese firms could bring know-how in decarbonised industry, clean energy technologies and sustainable manufacturing. “I think we can bring… complementarity to that ambition,” Mr Ferreira said. Portuguese companies eye infrastructure and tech partnerships. The minister drew a clear distinction between infrastructure and industrial opportunities. Portuguese companies were keen to participate as contractors in energy, electrical systems, waste management and broader infrastructure projects. Industrial firms and a growing cohort of startups showcase the potential in advanced technologies and joint ventures. “For Portuguese companies to succeed… local partnerships, local joint ventures [are key],” he stressed. “India is a continent, so the market is huge. Companies need to focus on sectors, or regions or cities.” Mr Ferreira said that the recent reopening of Portugal’s trade and investment agency office in New Delhi is a sign of long-term commitment. “This is just the beginning of a journey,” he said. Indian companies have been invited to invest in Portugal across several high-growth sectors. Mr Ferreira highlighted space and defence, including satellites, aeronautics and drones; pharmaceuticals and life sciences; advanced manufacturing backed by strong STEM education; battery value chains from lithium to production; data centres; and digital technologies. Energy stood out as a particular strength. “Eighty per cent of our energy comes from renewable sources at a very competitive price,” he said, describing Portugal as well-positioned for industrial development. Portugal is also open to skilled Indian workers. “Qualified, skilled workers will always have an opportunity in Portugal,” the minister said, citing programmes with companies and sector associations, supported by the embassy and consulate in India. Mr Ferreira acknowledged the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations but insisted the focus was now firmly on the future. “We are proud of our history, but we are looking to the future… The numbers are still far from the potential we have and that’s what we want to change,” he said.

Portuguese companies are eyeing infrastructure and tech partnerships and are keen to participate as contractors in energy, electrical systems, waste management and broader infrastructure projects, said Portugal’s Secretary of State for Economy João Rui Ferreira.

Portugal confident India-EU trade deal will enter force in 2027; sees investments growing

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Polish experts see scope for tech, trade and defence ties ahead of PM Tusk's India visit

India-EU trade deal signals rules-based commerce still matters: EU envoy Paquet

India-EU Free Trade Agreement: What landmark deal means for India

Swedish PM Kristersson hails progress on India-EU free trade agreement

Portugal confident India-EU trade deal will come into force in 2027