Union Minister of Railways and Commerce & Industry  Piyush Goyal has said that trade and economy are one of the most important pillars of India- European Union (EU)  partnership.

Addressing the Diplomatic & Industry Leadership Session on EU-India Collaborative Economic Growth today, he said  India is also hopeful of working with EU towards a Free Trade Agreement for which he suggested a Preferential Trade Agreement may be inked in a near future.

Mr. Goyal said that under the able guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India and EU have furthered their relationship across the European Union.

He said both India and European Union are natural partners who are willing to engage as responsible global citizens in order  to address pressing global challenges.

The Minister emphasised on strengthening a 3-R approach of Re-energise, Re-invent and Re-orient in order to embolden the mutual relationship. He said removing barriers to trade between Europe and India is essential to move forward.