India, EU Agree on Trilateral Framework for Global Development Cooperation in First JSC Meeting
India and the European Union have taken a significant step toward strengthening their strategic partnership by holding the first meeting of the Joint Steering Committee (JSC) on trilateral development cooperation in New Delhi.
First JSC Meeting Sets the Direction
According to officials from the Ministry of External Affairs, the meeting focused on establishing practical mechanisms that will allow India and the EU to work together with third countries on development projects across priority regions.
The session was jointly chaired by the European Union’s Ambassador to India, Herve Delphin, and MEA Joint Secretary Priyanka Chauhan.
Focus on Shared Goals
Participants discussed how the trilateral framework would be guided by common values, mutual interests, and aligned development priorities. The aim is to design collaborative solutions that respond effectively to challenges faced by partner nations.
Global Development Cooperation in Priority Sectors
Under the newly agreed framework, India and the EU plan to engage closely with partner countries to implement projects in sectors such as infrastructure, sustainability, capacity building, and social development.
Officials emphasised that the approach is intended to be cooperative and transparent, ensuring long-term benefits for all stakeholders involved.
India–EU Free Trade Agreement Gains Momentum
In a related development, business leaders and policymakers reiterated the importance of concluding the long-pending India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) at the earliest.
High-Level Dialogue in New Delhi
The call for faster progress on the trade deal emerged during a high-level discussion titled “India–EU Summit: FTA and the Road Ahead”, hosted at the India International Centre. The event brought together industry representatives, diplomats, and policy experts.
Speakers argued that the agreement could boost exports, strengthen supply chains, and encourage long-term investment amid growing global economic uncertainty.
Looking Ahead
With renewed political momentum following recent international discussions, including those at Davos, both sides appear keen to deepen cooperation — not only in trade but also in global development initiatives through the new trilateral framework.
