India’s relationship with the European Union (EU), particularly with countries like the Czech Republic, is crucial for mutual interests.
“Negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has been complex due to the vastness and diversity of both India and the EU. Despite challenges, the shared goal of fostering free and safe trade drives ongoing negotiations,” says Dr Eliska Zigova, Ambassador of the Czech Republic in an exclusive interaction with Financial Express Online.
India-EU FTA
Talking about the India-EU FTA getting delayed, the Czech envoy says: “The FTA negotiations between India and the EU represent a strategic imperative for both parties. Despite geographical and cultural differences, the shared objective of fostering free and safe trade underscores the significance of these negotiations. The complexity of the negotiations arises from the diverse interests and viewpoints of the 28 EU member states and the 28 states and 8 territories of India. However, both sides remain committed to reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.”
Adding, “The negotiation process has been protracted, with multiple rounds of discussions taking place. Each round presents unique challenges as various contentious issues require careful deliberation and consensus-building. From trade tariffs to regulatory standards, the negotiations cover a wide range of economic sectors, reflecting the complexity of modern trade agreements. However, each round shows both sides are willing to work-out points of dispute and move forward.”
While progress has been made, frustrations linger on both sides due to perceived delays and differing priorities, she states. However, the EU’s meticulous approach to negotiation reflects its commitment to ensuring a robust and enduring agreement that caters to the interests of all stakeholders. “The eventual signing of the FTA will mark a significant milestone in India-EU relations, paving the way for increased economic cooperation and prosperity,” she says.
India-Czech Military Cooperation
Moving beyond trade, military cooperation between India and EU member states, such as the Czech Republic, holds immense potential for bolstering defence capabilities and fostering regional security. According to Dr Zigova “The discussion on military cooperation is underpinned by concerns related to data security, particularly in the context of defence technology transfer.
The Czech Republic, having undergone a transition from Soviet-era dependence, is keen to collaborate with India in defence modernization efforts. Proposals for offering spare parts, technologies and expertise to enhance existing defence equipment underscore the commitment of both sides to strengthening military ties.”
In her view, despite bureaucratic challenges and sensitivities surrounding defence cooperation, there is a shared recognition of the geopolitical importance of the Indo-Pacific region and India being the crucial partner and force in this region. As India seeks to diversify its defence partnerships and modernize its armed forces, collaborations with EU member states assume greater significance.
Space Cooperation
According to her as far as space cooperation is concerned, India and the EU share common interests in areas such as artificial intelligence, satellite technology, and surveillance capabilities. Collaborative projects in these domains not only facilitate knowledge exchange but also contribute to scientific advancement and innovation.”
Recent initiatives, such as hosting Indian space companies and signing strategic partnerships in science and technology, underscore the growing convergence of interests between India and the Czech Republic.
A group of scientists from the Indian Space Research Organisation had visited the European Space Agency to understand more about monitoring military know-how and other related technologies.
According to the Czech envoy, later this year in September, a group of companies will visit ISRO. The potential for joint ventures and research collaborations holds promise for the future of space exploration and technology development.
Earlier this year, Financial Express Online reported that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala agreed to elevate India-Czechia relations in innovative sectors to a Strategic Partnership on Innovation.
In his address at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, Czech PM Fiala highlighted the vast potential for Czech-Indian collaboration, and focus on long-term strategic investment underscored the importance of Artificial Intelligence Research, electromobility, and semiconductors in driving high-tech industries.
India-Czech Relations
While negotiations for an FTA continue to evolve, the prospects for deepening military and space cooperation remain promising. By capitalizing on shared interests and fostering mutual trust, India and the Czech Republic can build a stronger foundation for enduring partnership and collaboration in the years to come.