India-EU trade deal: France to be 'big driver' — cooperation in AI, space, healthcare, energy pushed

According to Gulf News, France is positioning itself as a primary advocate for the proposed trade agreement between India and the European Union. French Minister Delegate for European Affairs Benjamin Haddad stated that Paris intends to act as a significant driver for the pact, aiming to deepen the economic relationship between the two regions.

Haddad emphasized that the cooperation will extend beyond traditional trade, focusing on strategic sectors including artificial intelligence, space exploration, healthcare, and energy. The French government views the potential agreement as a vital mechanism to accelerate mutual investment and strengthen supply chains, which have become a priority for both New Delhi and Brussels in the current global economic climate.

The push for this trade deal follows ongoing discussions between EU and Indian officials aimed at reducing barriers and fostering a more integrated economic partnership. While negotiations are complex due to the diverse interests of EU member states, France's explicit commitment to championing the deal signals a concerted effort to move the process forward. The proposed cooperation in high-tech and energy sectors reflects a broader strategy to align European and Indian industrial capabilities.