<h1>India and EU Target Year-End Free Trade Deal; Explore Security, Defence Partnership Amid Geopolitical Challenges</h1> India and the European Union (EU) are aiming to finalize a significant free trade agreement by the end of the year, as stated by the European Commission President. This agreement is anticipated to be the largest of its kind globally. The EU is also considering a Security and Defence Partnership with India, similar to its agreements with Japan and South Korea. The European leader emphasized the importance of strengthening strategic ties to address geopolitical challenges. Discussions with India's Prime Minister aim to elevate the EU-India Strategic Partnership, focusing on trade, security, and global connectivity. The EU also reiterated its stance on the Ukraine conflict and highlighted the potential of the India-Middle East-Europe corridor.