NEW DELHI: India and the European Union have finalized a massive free trade deal, Indian government officials said on Monday, about two decades after negotiations were first launched. Facing challenges from China and the United States, Brussels and New Delhi have sought closer ties, producing a pact that is to be unveiled in the Indian capital on Tuesday. Feted Monday as guests of honor at India’s Republic Day parade, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council president Antonio Costa are to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a summit.

Trade negotiations are nearing the finish line after nearly two decades of hard bargaining on both sides.

Ursula von der Leyen begins her India visit ahead of the EU-India Summit to strengthen bilateral ties and trade agreements.