UN chief Antonio Guterres highlighted the India-EU trade deal in his address, underlining the need to support global trade networks and multipolarity.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has spotlighted the recently concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union as a significant step towards fostering multi-polarity in global relations. Speaking at a press conference on January 30, 2026, Guterres emphasized the importance of supporting a network of relationships among various countries to ensure global stability and peace.
Guterres pointed out that the world’s most powerful nation, the United States, along with China, are often seen as the primary poles of power. However, he argued that solving global issues requires a more distributed power structure, highlighting recent trade agreements as positive developments. “We need to support a dense set of relations among different countries,” Guterres stated, mentioning the EU’s agreements with Mercosur, Indonesia, and India, among others.
The India-EU Trade Deal
The India-EU FTA, finalized on January 27, 2026, is hailed as a landmark deal that creates a market of two billion people. This agreement was unveiled by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President Antonio Costa. It includes crucial pacts on security, defense collaboration, and mobility of Indian talents to Europe, occurring amidst tense relations with the U.S.
Guterres underscored the need for global institutions to reflect the new realities where emerging economies are gaining influence. He stressed the importance of reforming the UN Security Council to enhance its effectiveness in maintaining international peace and security. “Global problems will not be solved by one power calling the shots,” he remarked, urging for a multipolar world that fosters partnerships in trade, technology, and international cooperation.
Looking ahead, Guterres called for deliberate acceleration towards multi-polarity, advocating for inclusive and balanced international partnerships. He also addressed the importance of the UN Security Council’s central role in maintaining global peace, emphasizing the need for its reform to adapt to contemporary challenges.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 30th, 2026
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