Having decided to sign an economic cooperation agreement with the European Union, India on Wednesday said it will widen the free trade regime in Europe by exploring other such pacts with the European Free Trade Association, comprising northern states of the continent, including Switzerland.

A joint study group between India and the European Free Trade Associations has been set up and would hold its first meeting next month, an official release said.

This was indicated at the meeting of the India-Swiss Joint Economic Commission early this week at Zurich.

Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland are members of the EFTA, established in 1960. In addition, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway entered into an agreement on the European Economic Area, which came into force in 1994.

Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath held a meeting on Tuesday with the Swiss Minister of Economy and Federal Councilor Doris Leuthard, the release added.

Delegations of the two countries agreed to enhance cooperation in intellectual property rights and geographical indications. Through the GI mechanism, as provided in the World Trade Organisation, countries can protect their traditional knowledge and products like neem, Darjeeling tea and champagne from being patented by a commercial entity.