A 4-member French delegation led by the Special Representative for Bilateral Economic Relations, Mr. Paul Hermelin calls on Shri Som Prakash

Shri Som Prakash enumerates India’s priorities ahead of the WTO 12th Ministerial Conference

France keen to pursue FTA talks between the EU and India: Mr. Hermelin

A four member French delegation led by the Special Representative for Bilateral Economic Relations, Mr. Paul Hermelin called on the Union Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, ShriSomPrakash here today. They discussed the scope for mutual cooperation across the entire gamut of bilateral and international trade and economic issues.

Shri Som Prakash gave an overview of major initiatives and reforms of the Modi Government in reducing cost of business and increasing Ease of Doing Business in India. He also explained about the success of India-France Fast Track Mechanism.

Shri Som Prakash highlighted India’s priorities ahead of the impending 12^th Ministerial Conference (MC12) of the WTO due to be held in Geneva next week. The Minister sought support of Government of France for India’s proposal seeking TRIPS waiver in view of the global fight against the Covid pandemic. He also pointed out India’s stance on WTO negotiations related to e-Commerce and the moratorium on Customs duties on electronic transmissions that is due to expire in the run up to the MC12.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Hermelin said France is keen to pursue the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between European Union and India. Both sides hoped to conclude the agreement before 2024. The pact will pave the way for India to give a boost to trade with the 27-member nation EU bloc, subject to ratification by both sides including the European Parliament. The two sides are due to reopen FTA talks in Brussels on the 17^th June.

The French delegation included the Ambassador of France to India, Mr. Emmanuel Lenain.

TRIPS waiver sought for pandemic response, with FTA negotiations to advance bilateral trade and economic cooperation. India sought support for a TRIPS waiver for pandemic response and set out its WTO negotiating priorities, including positions on e commerce and the moratorium on customs duties for electronic transmissions, while bilateral talks emphasized advancing a Free Trade Agreement with the European bloc alongside reforms to reduce business costs and the India France Fast Track Mechanism.