France, Sept. 19 -- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has renewed calls for a comprehensive trade agreement with India, signalling that the EU aims to finalise the deal before the end of the year.

Speaking after a recent discussion with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, von der Leyen framed the partnership as a strategic move to strengthen economic ties, diversify supply chains and bolster cooperation on technology, defence and the green transition.

She added that the EU must diversify its ties and look to trade deals with countries such as India, in the face of higher United States import tariffs.

"We want to make a deal with India this year," von der Leyen said at a conference with German business leaders in Berl...