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.

While the trade agreement is a major focus, discussions between Modi and von der Leyen also revolved around enhancing security cooperation, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. Both leaders acknowledged the growing strategic importance of this area,

The announcement was made by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a joint press conference.