The Government of India has adopted a cautious and strategic approach toward Free Trade Agreements, placing priority on safeguarding the interests of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and farmers.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of aligning trade negotiations with domestic policies to ensure that FTAs support rather than harm Indian economic sectors, particularly manufacturing.
He highlighted the need to reconsider ASEAN-India trade agreements due to adverse impacts on Indian manufacturing, and pointed to the complex non-trade-related issues in negotiations with the European Union and the United Kingdom.
Regarding disrupted shipping routes in the Red Sea due to ongoing conflicts, India is actively working to mitigate related economic impacts through deploying naval assets and engaging in diplomatic efforts to ensure stability in West Asia and the Middle East.
The government’s approach reflects its commitment to protect vulnerable sectors while strengthening India’s global trade stature.
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