Diplomatic Drive: Jaishankar’s Visit to France and Luxembourg Marks India’s EU Push |

Updated: January 05, 2026 12:50

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External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has begun a six-day visit to France and Luxembourg to bolster India’s ties with Europe. The trip includes talks on defense, technology, and trade, groundwork for Macron’s India visit, and focus on the India–EU FTA. The visit underscores India’s proactive diplomacy amid global tensions.

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has begun a six-day official visit to France and Luxembourg from January 4 to January 10, 2026, aimed at deepening India’s strategic, economic, and diplomatic engagement with Europe. The visit comes at a time of heightened global uncertainty and renewed momentum in India–EU relations.

Key highlights of the visit include:

France agenda: In Paris, Jaishankar will meet French leadership, including Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, to discuss progress under the India–France strategic partnership, which was first launched in 1998. Talks will cover defense cooperation, technology, climate change, and global security challenges. He will also address the 31st French Ambassadors’ Conference, underscoring India’s role in global diplomacy.

Macron’s upcoming India visit: The discussions are expected to lay the groundwork for French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to India next month to participate in the AI Summit, further cementing bilateral cooperation in emerging technologies.

Luxembourg engagement: Jaishankar’s stop in Luxembourg will focus on strengthening economic and financial ties, particularly in investment flows and collaboration in fintech and green finance.

Global backdrop: The visit takes place amid international tensions, including the U.S. military operation in Venezuela, which has heightened global concerns. India’s outreach to Europe is seen as part of its broader strategy to diversify partnerships and reinforce multilateral cooperation.

EU trade talks: Diplomats note that the visit coincides with a “decisive phase” in negotiations for the long-pending India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signaling India’s intent to accelerate economic integration with Europe.

This tour highlights India’s proactive diplomacy in Europe, aiming to balance strategic partnerships, expand economic opportunities, and strengthen its global standing.

Sources: Firstpost, CNBC-TV18, The Hindu, Business Standard, Financial Express

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