In a landmark move heralded as a significant stride towards sustainable and fair trade practices, India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) inked the Trade and Economic Participation Agreement (TEPA) on Sunday. Jan Christian Vestre, Norway’s Minister of Trade and Industry, hailed the occasion as “a day for the history books,” underscoring the magnitude of this collaborative effort.
Vestre lauded the agreement as a groundbreaking step towards fostering sustainable business practices, emphasizing the collective commitment to combat climate change, eradicate poverty, and promote prosperity across nations. He articulated, “Today is a day for the history books because what we have created today is tremendous.”
Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, alongside his counterparts, co-chaired the momentous meeting in the national capital, showcasing the shared determination to forge robust economic partnerships.
आज का दिन ऐतिहासिक है!
— Ambassador May-Elin Stener (@NorwayAmbIndia) March 10, 2024
Today is a day for the history books, says @NFdep Minister @jcvestre as the historic India EFTA trade & economic partnership agreement is signed with @PiyushGoyal @Bjarni_Ben @DominiqueHasler @ParmelinG @EFTAsecretariat @NorwayMFA @IndiainNorway pic.twitter.com/CRy8eUiq20
The significance of this accord was further underscored by Swiss Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, representing the EFTA Member States. Parmelin highlighted the prospect of increased foreign investment flowing into India from EFTA nations, envisaging a surge in job opportunities. “EFTA countries gain market access to a major growth market,” Parmelin remarked, underlining the pivotal role of this agreement in facilitating trade expansion.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his felicitations to the negotiators and signatories, acknowledging the inherent synergies between the Indian economy and those of the EFTA nations. In a letter commemorating the occasion, PM Modi characterized March 10, 2024, as a watershed moment, heralding a new chapter in the bilateral relationship.
Despite structural diversities, PM Modi emphasized the complementary nature of the economies involved, foreseeing a mutually beneficial outcome for all stakeholders. The agreement holds promise not only in terms of economic growth but also in advancing shared objectives of sustainability and inclusivity.
The TEPA signifies more than just a trade agreement; it embodies a collective resolve to pursue economic development in a manner that is equitable, environmentally responsible, and conducive to the well-being of all citizens. As the global community grapples with myriad challenges, this accord stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
With the ink now dry on this historic pact, the stage is set for a new era of economic cooperation between India and the EFTA, one that promises to redefine the contours of international trade and foster prosperity on a global scale.
