India and EU to Upgrade Ties; Trade Deal and Security Partnership on Agenda

India and the EU are set to announce a new strategic roadmap and a Defense and Security partnership during the upcoming 16th India-EU Summit. While a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is still being negotiated, agreements on information security and mobility are expected. The mobility MoU will address the movement of skilled workers, students, and seasonal workers. Despite differences over Russia and the Zapad 2025 military exercises, both sides are committed to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and cooperation in areas like climate change and critical mineral supply chains.

Key Points

  • A new strategic roadmap and Defense and Security partnership are expected at the 16th India-EU Summit.
  • An MoU on mobility will facilitate the movement of four categories of workers and students.
  • Both sides are collaborating on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
  • Differences persist regarding India's participation in Russian military exercises and oil trade.

Exam Facts

  • 16th India-EU Summit (January 27)
  • Zapad 2025 military exercises
  • India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)

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All current affairs of 24 January 2026