India and the European Union have reaffirmed their commitment to concluding a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) by the end of 2025. The pact focuses on enhancing market access, digital trade, and innovation, aiming to reshape their economic relationship amid global trade uncertainties. Negotiations have been revitalized, with both parties engaging in regular discussions to address challenges such as tariffs and non-tariff barriers. The agreement is expected to bolster bilateral trade, which reached over $130 billion in the 2023-24 fiscal year, and strengthen strategic alignment between India and the EU.Contact: Ministry of External AffairssWebsite: www.mea.gov.inTel: +91-11-23011954 India, Maldives Sign 13 MoUs to Enhance Ferry ServicesIndia and the Maldives have signed 13 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) under the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) Phase III, backed by an MVR 100 million (approximately Rs 55 crore) Indian grant. These agreements aim to enhance ferry services, improve maritime connectivity, and uplift community livelihoods across the Maldives. The projects include constructing 12 new passenger vessels and developing a dedicated ferry terminal in Raa Ungoofaaru, supporting the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry network, which currently connects 81 islands across nine atolls. The initiative reflects the deepening ties between the two nations and India's continued commitment to supporting development in the Maldives.Contact: Ministry of External AffairssWebsite: www.mea.gov.inTel: +91-11-23011954Capacit'e Eyes Middle East Expansion Post-Maldives EntryCapacit'e Infraprojects is expanding its global footprint following its inaugural international project in the Maldives. The company is now targeting the Middle East market, focusing on sectors like data centres and hospitals. To facilitate this expansion, Capacit'e plans to form joint ventures with strong local partners in West Asia. With a robust domestic order book of Rs 120 billion, this strategic move aims to diversify its portfolio and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the region.Contact: Capacit'e InfraprojectsWebsite: https://capacite.in/ Tel: +91-22 717 33 717Email: info@capacite.in India Accelerates mRNA Biomanufacturing InitiativesOn May 16, 2025, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and BIRAC hosted the 14th BioE3 webinar, focusing on Biomanufacturing for mRNA Therapeutics. This session, part of India's BioE3 Policy, emphasized the nation's commitment to advancing mRNA-based therapies for diseases like cancer and infectious ailments. Experts highlighted India's active role in developing mRNA vaccines and therapeutics, while also addressing challenges such as delivery mechanisms, product stability, and dependence on imported raw materials. The webinar underscored the need for innovation, infrastructure development, and investment to bolster India's position in the global bioeconomy.Contact: Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of IndiaWebsite: https://dbtindia.gov.in/Tel: 011-24362950IIFT Opens First Overseas Campus in DubaiThe Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) is set to launch its first overseas campus in Dubai, marking a significant step in India's educational globalization efforts. The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy 2020's emphasis on internationalization and aims to strengthen India's presence in global business education. The Dubai campus will offer full-time and executive programs tailored to regional market dynamics, serving both the Indian diaspora and international students. This expansion underscores India's commitment to fostering global trade expertise and educational excellence.Contact: Indian Institute of Foreign TradeWebsite: www.iift.ac.in/iift/index.phpTel: +91-11-39147200