India, one of the world’s most protected markets, has been reluctant to lower tariffs, while the EU has been hesitant to ease visa restrictions for Indian professionals. “We have prepared a blueprint for collaboration in the areas of trade,

India and the European Union have agreed to finalize a long-pending free trade agreement this year and boost cooperation in trade, technology, connectivity and defense.

By Manoj Kumar and Shivangi Acharya NEW DELHI (Reuters) -Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the European Union have agreed to push for the conclusion of a free trade pact this year, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Friday.