Its their first commitment to a deadline on talks that have been going for years, as they look to soften the effect of tariff increases from the US.

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.