India and EU aim for 2025 free trade agreement

India and the European Union aim to finalize a free trade agreement (FTA) by the end of 2025. Irish Minister James Lawless expressed support for the deal, noting it would enhance trade but acknowledged that such agreements are complex. Lawless, visiting India with a business delegation, highlighted opportunities for Indian skilled workers in healthcare, fintech, and STEM fields. He emphasized the importance of Indian services in IT and technology sectors for Ireland's economy. Currently, two-way trade between India and Ireland is valued at 16 billion euros. Lawless mentioned the growing demand for Indian professionals in various sectors, including healthcare and technology, as Ireland seeks to expand its workforce.