India and EU target year-end finalization of trade and security pacts

India and the EU aim to finalize a Free Trade Agreement and a security pact by the end of 2026. EU Ambassador Herve Delphin confirmed the year-end target for the FTA, citing aligned economic interests. Defense and security cooperation, including in the Indian Ocean, is also rapidly advancing. The EU views India as a strategic partner for trade, security, and supply chain resilience, signaling a new phase of convergence.