Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has stated that the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which is set to come into force on July 15, represents much more than a conventional trade arrangement.

Speaking on the sidelines of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s engagements during the G7 Summit in Evian, he emphasised that the agreement is expected to strengthen not only economic ties but also broader bilateral relations between India and the United Kingdom.

The deal is projected to significantly enhance annual bilateral trade, currently estimated at around 48 billion pounds, while also opening new avenues in technology cooperation and mobility of people between the two countries.

Mr Misri highlighted that businesses in both India and the UK have been preparing for the implementation of the agreement and are keen to expand operations once it becomes operational.

He described the UK as one of India’s most important trading and technology partners, underlining that the agreement will facilitate deeper engagement beyond goods and services, extending into people-to-people connections and professional mobility.

During the visit, discussions also advanced on the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement, with leaders reaffirming their intent to finalise it within the year.Additionally, Prime Minister Modi held high-level meetings with European leaders, reinforcing India’s ongoing trade diplomacy push.

The Foreign Secretary also noted the strong and multifaceted India–France relationship, particularly in defence, nuclear energy, and space cooperation, and highlighted India’s growing collaboration with key global partners in multilateral forums.

Overall, the statement reflects India’s broader strategy of strengthening comprehensive economic partnerships that combine trade, technology, and strategic cooperation with major global economies.