India is keen on expanding ties into emerging technologies including artificial intelligence and partnering with the EU in building resilient supply chains. “EU is an important partner. We are interested in their technology and we offer them scale. We are also finding salience in many of their security construct,” the senior MEA official said.Though both sides resumed the talks for a Free Trade Area (FTA), EU wants India to cut import duties on cars, wines and agriculture products. But India contends that World Trade Organization rules permit differential tariffs between developed and developing nations, but has expressed willingness to gradually reduce tariffs in consultation with domestic industries.The talks between Modi and Von der Leyen on Friday are set against the backdrop of rising tensions between the EU and the Trump administration. In a pointed statement, the US President on Wednesday accused the EU of being formed to “screw” with the US, while also threatening to impose 25% tariffs on imports from the EU.The two sides are also expected to deliberate on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as issue on which they contentious views.
Source link
