India and GCC Launch Free Trade Agreement Negotiations

India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) launched negotiations for a free trade agreement during a Troika Ministerial meeting in New York on September 26, 2026. Co-chaired by Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, the meeting focused on expanding economic ties with the GCC, which is currently India's largest trade partner with bilateral trade totaling approximately $178 billion in 2024-25.

Participants reviewed the India-GCC Joint Action Plan 2024–28, emphasizing cooperation in energy, health, trade, and food security. The discussions also addressed investment, new technologies, and people-to-people exchanges, specifically regarding the 9 million Indians residing in the Gulf region.

Beyond economic goals, the ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the safety of seafarers and commercial shipping. Jaishankar reiterated a strong commitment to the freedom of navigation during the session.