June 17, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held a trilateral meeting with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Evian, underlining the growing momentum in India-European Union relations. The talks took place at a significant moment for both sides, following the conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement and amid efforts to deepen strategic and economic cooperation.
After the meeting, Modi described his discussions with Costa and von der Leyen as productive and forward-looking. He recalled that India had hosted both leaders during the Republic Day celebrations earlier this year and said the period since then had marked an important phase in India-EU ties. The Prime Minister said the conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement represented a major milestone and reflected the shared commitment of India and the EU to expanding economic engagement.
During a working lunch, US President Donald Trump struck a light-hearted note while referring to Modi, describing him as “calm, cool and a total killer”. Gesturing towards the Indian Prime Minister, Trump remarked, “Unlike PM Modi, who’s calm, cool and a total killer… I am not. Look at him.” Modi later said the discussions with the EU leadership focused on strengthening economic linkages and creating new opportunities for cooperation. He added that a stronger India-EU partnership could contribute to global peace, stability and prosperity at a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty.