xternal Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar begins a pivotal two-day visit to Brussels on March 15, 2026, to bolster India-EU ties following their landmark Free Trade Agreement. Interactions with EU leaders and foreign ministers aim to deepen strategic, economic, and trade collaborations amid global uncertainties. This high-profile trip underscores India's focus on enhancing partnerships with the 27-nation bloc.
India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar arrived in Brussels today at the invitation of EU High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas. The visit coincides with the EU Foreign Affairs Council Meeting, marking the first major Indian delegation post the January 2026 India-EU Free Trade Agreement. Discussions seek to elevate bilateral relations in trade, security, and connectivity.
Visit Objectives
Jaishankar's agenda centers on engaging foreign ministers from all 27 EU member states during the council meeting. He will hold bilateral talks with EU leadership, including Kallas, and counterparts from Belgium and other nations. The external affairs ministry highlights this as a step to deepen the strategic partnership forged at the 16th India-EU Summit.
Post-FTA Momentum
This Brussels trip follows the historic Free Trade Agreement, dubbed the "mother of all deals," finalized after PM Narendra Modi's summit with EU officials on January 27, 2026. It builds on ongoing Free Trade Agreement negotiations, emphasizing balanced economic growth and market access. Recent statements from Jaishankar predict an upswing in India-EU relations throughout 2026.
Key Highlights
-
First high-level Indian visit to EU headquarters after January 2026 FTA signing
-
Meetings with EU High Rep Kaja Kallas and 27 foreign ministers at Foreign Affairs Council
-
Focus on trade, economic security, strategic alliance, and global issues like energy stability
-
Follows 16th India-EU Summit, aiming to expand cooperation in connectivity and defense
Sources: The Hindu BusinessLine, The Tribune India, Economic Times, New Delhi Times