Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani has reaffirmed his country’s support for the early conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union. During a high-level meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, Tajani emphasized the strategic importance of strengthening political and economic ties between Italy and India.

“I confirmed Italy’s support for a rapid finalisation of the Free Trade Agreement,” Tajani said on X. He highlighted India as a priority country under Italy’s #PianoExport initiative and detailed a 500 million euro commitment to support Italian exporters. He also announced plans for a future visit to India to further deepen bilateral cooperation.

The discussions between Italy and India came amid broader diplomatic engagements. EAM Jaishankar met with British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and other foreign ministers from Australia, Guatemala, Egypt, Malaysia, Costa Rica, and Panama. The meetings included follow-up on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s July visit to the UK, which produced the India-UK Vision 2035 roadmap, a ten-year plan for defence, technology, education, and economic cooperation.

Tajani noted that Italy and India share a strong strategic partnership, both politically and economically, and highlighted opportunities to expand trade, investment, and technology collaboration. The FTA is expected to enhance bilateral trade, reduce tariffs, and support Italian companies exporting to India.

This move underscores Italy’s commitment to fostering stronger Indo-European trade relations while signaling support for faster negotiation and implementation of the EU-India FTA. Strengthening ties with India aligns with Italy’s broader economic and geopolitical strategy in Asia and the Indo-Pacific region, reflecting shared interests in global trade, innovation, and sustainable growth.

By prioritizing trade, investment, and collaboration, Italy and India aim to reinforce their long-standing partnership and create new opportunities for businesses and communities on both sides.