Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently said the recently concluded India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would unlock major opportunities across trade, technology, manufacturing and resilient supply chains, while positioning India as a trusted economic partner for Europe.
Addressing the European Round Table for Industry (ERT) in Gothenburg, hosted by Volvo Group, PM Modi highlighted the growing strategic alignment between India and Europe amid increasing global economic uncertainty. He said trusted partnerships and stronger economic cooperation would play a critical role in ensuring long-term growth and stability.
The Prime Minister underlined the importance of connectivity initiatives such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), stating that such projects would deepen India-Europe business engagement and create fresh momentum for economic collaboration between the two regions.
Projecting India as one of the world’s fastest-growing and most attractive investment destinations, Modi pointed to the country’s rapid economic expansion, next-generation reforms, digital public infrastructure and large-scale infrastructure development. Reiterating the government’s vision of “Design for India, Make in India and Export from India,” he invited European companies to expand their manufacturing and innovation partnerships with India.
PM Modi also stressed the need for India and Europe to jointly develop diversified and resilient global supply chains. He identified sectors including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, electronics, telecom infrastructure, clean energy, mobility, healthcare and deep-tech manufacturing as key areas for future cooperation.
Emphasising India’s demographic advantage, the Prime Minister said talent mobility, education and skill development partnerships would become increasingly important for global growth. He proposed the creation of an annual India-Europe CEOs Round Table and suggested establishing an India Desk at the ERT to strengthen institutional engagement with European industry leaders.
The interaction was attended by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and senior business leaders from India and Europe.
