New Delhi, March 9 -- The success of European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen's visit to India must not be measured merely in terms of the progress made on free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations. The new ground covered by our bilateral ties should also be considered.

To be sure, progress on India's FTA with the European Union has not been insubstantial. Both sides have committed themselves to signing it by the end of this calendar year. When it happens, it will be the world's largest deal of its kind. A trade pact between both sides will not just strengthen our trade and investment links, but also help foster innovation, sustainability and resilient supply chains.

Equally important is this visit's message across the worl...