New Delhi, May 30 : The 19th India-European Union Troika Ministerial Meeting will begin here today to help the two sides to strengthen their political and economic ties.

During the meeting, External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee will hold discussions with his counterpart from Slovenia Dimitrij Rupel, who represents the outgoing presidency of the European Council, and French Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Rama Yade of the incoming Presidency of the grouping.

"The meetings provide an opportunity for general exchange of views on bilateral, regional and global issues," the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

The European Union is an important trade, technology and investment partner of India, besides home to a large Indian Diaspora.

The European Union is also India's largest trading partner. The bilateral trade has crossed 55 billion euro in 2007.

India and the European Union share a 'Strategic Partnership' since 2004. (ANI)