Germany’s Merz Hints at EU-India Trade Pact Timeline

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the European Union and India could sign a free trade agreement by late January. He made the statement on Monday in Ahmedabad after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Merz said senior EU leaders would travel to India if negotiators complete talks on time. He described the discussions as moving strongly toward a final agreement. This visit marked Merz’s first trip to India since becoming chancellor.

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EU Merz officials prepare possible India visit if negotiations conclude on time

European Union officials have not yet responded to his comments. Both sides view the deal as a way to strengthen trade ties and reduce dependence on China and Russia. India and the EU recorded bilateral trade worth 120 billion euros in 2024. Talks gained momentum after the United States raised tariffs on Indian goods. A separate India-US trade deal collapsed last year after negotiations broke down.

The EU-India pact would follow the bloc’s recent agreement with Mercosur countries. Indian Trade Minister Piyush Goyal said negotiations were nearing the final stage. German officials described Merz’s talks with Modi as intensive and productive.

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