Indias Diplomatic Triumph at G7: Strengthening Trade Ties with the UK, Canada, and EU

Avignon, June 17: At the G7 summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bilateral meetings highlighted India’s ‘multi-alignment’ strategy, proving beneficial for the global economy.

Following a meeting between Prime Minister Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, it was announced that the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) will come into effect on July 15, 2026. This agreement is expected to significantly boost trade and investment between the two nations.

The implementation of this agreement marks a major and significant shift in India’s global trade landscape. Additionally, India has ensured the protection of several sensitive sectors, including dairy products, grains, millets, edible oils, oilseeds, apples, and various vegetables.

After a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, a joint statement was released indicating that both leaders are satisfied with the progress of negotiations on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). They reiterated their shared goal of finalizing this agreement by 2026.

During discussions with EU leaders, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa stated, “We have completed this major trade agreement, referred to as the ‘mother of all trade deals,’ and are now moving swiftly to fulfill our commitments. We aim to sign the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by the end of this year.”

Prime Minister Modi expressed his satisfaction on social media platform ‘X,’ stating, “It was great to meet with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Avignon today.”

He added, “Earlier this year, we had the honor of welcoming them during India’s Republic Day celebrations. This is a crucial time for India-EU relations as we have completed the Free Trade Agreement. In our discussions, we focused on further strengthening economic ties in the future. Our growing cooperation in today’s global environment can play a vital role in enhancing peace, stability, and prosperity.”