India is asserting itself as a formidable player in global trade, negotiating free trade agreements (FTAs) with unwavering confidence and equal footing, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada declared on Wednesday. Speaking at the inauguration of the newly expanded Intellectual Property Office (IPO) building in Dwarka, Prasada credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for transforming India’s approach to international trade.

“We negotiate FTAs with countries like the US, EU, Peru, Chile, and New Zealand with firmness, putting forth our perspective forcefully,” Prasada said, highlighting India’s rapid economic growth as a backdrop to its assertive stance. He emphasized that India will not compromise on critical sectors like agriculture and dairy, a key point in ongoing talks with the US, where five rounds of negotiations have already taken place.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, who inaugurated the Rs 88 crore state-of-the-art IPO facility, underscored the role of innovation in driving India’s global progress. “Innovation is a symbol of sovereignty and a cornerstone of development,” Goyal said, noting that research, new ideas, and intellectual property are priorities in every developed nation. The expanded IPO building, now spanning 12,000 square feet and accommodating over 700 personnel—up from 200 in the old 6,082-square-foot structure—features modern design to enhance workspace efficiency and support India’s innovation ecosystem.

Also Read: India’s FTAs to Capture $875B EU-UK Market

The ministers’ remarks reflect India’s ambition to balance economic growth with strategic trade policies. As the country negotiates high-stakes FTAs, its firm stance on protecting key sectors while fostering innovation signals a new era of global influence. The upgraded IPO facility is poised to play a pivotal role in safeguarding intellectual property, further strengthening India’s position as a hub of creativity and economic prowess.

Also Read: Jitendra Singh Hails Modi, Operation Sindoor Success