India and EU Near Historic Free Trade Agreement Ahead of January Summit

India and the European Union are nearing the conclusion of a landmark free trade agreement (FTA) expected to be announced at the India-EU summit on January 27, 2026. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described it as the "mother of all deals," highlighting its potential to create a market of nearly two billion people, accounting for almost a quarter of global GDP. The agreement aims to deepen trade, investment, and regulatory cooperation, while also including a security and defence partnership and a framework for professional mobility. The EU leadership will attend India's Republic Day celebrations as chief guests, marking a significant diplomatic engagement amid global trade uncertainties and geopolitical shifts.