On Wednesday, Finnish President Alexander Stubb spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi over phone and reiterated his country’s strong backing for a “mutually beneficial” trade pact between India and the 27-nation bloc.

Finland has joined the growing list of European Union nations voicing support for the early conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). 

During their conversation, both leaders reviewed the progress in India-Finland relations and reaffirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation in cutting-edge areas such as quantum technologies, 6G, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and sustainability. Prime Minister Modi also extended an invitation to President Stubb to visit India at an early date, a move seen as further strengthening bilateral ties.

The talks also touched upon global issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. President Stubb shared his assessment of the recent developments in the region, underlining the importance of international dialogue and stability.

This show of support from Finland comes at a time when the Modi government is actively expanding its trade horizons beyond the United Kingdom, with which India recently concluded a successful trade agreement. As tariff pressures mount, New Delhi is accelerating its push to conclude the long-pending FTA with the EU, a deal that could significantly bolster India’s economic influence across Europe.

Observers note that with Finland joining the chorus, the prospects of finalizing the India-EU FTA in the near future appear stronger than ever.