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In a significant milestone for India-European Union (EU) relations, the inaugural meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council took place in Brussels. The meeting was described as a 'milestone' in India-EU ties by India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar.
The council aims to deepen bilateral relations, focusing on trade and technology. In a press statement, Jaishankar said the meeting began a new era in India-EU engagement, emphasizing shared democratic values and mutual interests.
Among the topics discussed were closer cooperation in the digital market, climate change, and energy transition, reflecting the council's goal of establishing a robust technology and trade partnership. The council also discussed the global geopolitical landscape, reflecting their commitment to a rules-based international order.
Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar dismissed a statement by EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell that the EU could restrict imports of Indian petroleum products made from Russian oil. In response, Jaishankar advised Borrell to familiarize himself with the rules of… pic.twitter.com/H4c3k8VCME
— Zlatti71 (@djuric_zlatko) May 17, 2023
One of the controversial topics discussed was India's import of Russian oil. When questioned about it by an EU official, Jaishankar responded by asking the official to look at EU council regulations. His remarks highlighted the complexities of international diplomacy amid global crises.
The successful initiation of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council signifies an enhanced commitment to mutual growth and understanding, paving the way for a stronger India-EU partnership in the years ahead.
