External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday said India views Luxembourg as a “very important” partner and highlighted its growing role in strengthening India’s engagement with the European Union, including accelerating negotiations on the long-pending India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

Jaishankar, who is on a six-day visit to France and Luxembourg, held talks with Luxembourg Prime Minister Luc Frieden and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel, focusing on expanding cooperation in finance, investment, technology and innovation.

In his opening remarks at delegation-level talks with Bettel, Jaishankar said Luxembourg’s influence within the EU was of particular value at a “very crucial time” in India’s ties with the bloc. He noted that while Luxembourg cannot negotiate the FTA on behalf of the EU, it can play an enabling role by helping build consensus among member states, unlocking difficult negotiation chapters and pushing for a pragmatic, growth-oriented agreement.

Highlighting the strong trade relationship between the two countries, Jaishankar said India and Luxembourg also have significant untapped potential for collaboration in emerging sectors such as fintech, space, the digital economy and artificial intelligence. He emphasised that cooperation in AI should be guided by a citizen-centric approach , ensuring that AI systems are ethical, transparent, fair and accountable, with citizens — not algorithms — at the core of decision-making.

Describing his meeting with Bettel as “ excellent ,” Jaishankar said discussions covered bilateral cooperation as well as global developments. “Specifically discussed finance, investments, digital, AI, space and talent mobility, as well as continued deepening of India–EU ties,” he said in a post on X, adding that he appreciated Bettel’s personal interest in explaining Luxembourg’s heritage and traditions.

During his meeting with Prime Minister Frieden, Jaishankar conveyed the warm greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two leaders discussed growing cooperation in financial services, investments, technology and innovation, with Jaishankar thanking Luxembourg for its support for stronger India–EU ties.

Frieden said the talks focused on strengthening bilateral relations and key global developments.

Jaishankar also called on Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg and conveyed the warm greetings of President Droupadi Murmu, noting the Grand Duke’s positive sentiments towards India.reflected in Luxembourg’s consistent support for stronger bilateral ties, encouragement of Indian investments, and backing for closer India–EU engagement.

Frieden said the talks focused on strengthening bilateral relations and key global developments.

During his visit, Jaishankar is also scheduled to interact with members of the Indian community in Luxembourg.