An important step in strengthening India’s strategic and economic ties with Belgium and the EU was taken recently when External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar paid an official visit to Belgium as part of a larger European tour that took place from June 8 to June 14.
Dr. Jaishankar and Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever met on June 10 and talked about a variety of topics for increased collaboration, such as innovation, clean energy, trade, investment, security, defense, and semiconductors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm congratulations were sent by the EAM, which further emphasized the significance of strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.
His Majesty King Philippe of Belgium also welcomed Dr. Jaishankar on his visit. He said in his remarks that he was honored to be received by the King and that he valued the monarch’s good feelings for India and his advice on enhancing the two countries’ ties. The solid basis of respect for one another and common interests that support India-Belgium relations was emphasized at this conference.
Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s vice president and high representative for foreign affairs and security policy, spoke with Dr. Jaishankar earlier in the day. The recent terrorist assault in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, was strongly condemned by the EU, Kallas said, adding the EU supports India’s right to defend its citizens in line with international law. She underlined the necessity of holding those accountable and mentioned how closely she and Dr. Jaishankar worked together after the incident.
Along with discussions with EU and Belgian leaders, Dr. Jaishankar also met with Indian community members in Belgium and Luxembourg. He updated the community on India’s continued involvement with the European Union and the steady advancement of India-Belgium relations during these exchanges. In keeping with the government’s commitment to both security and development, he also talked about India’s initiatives to combat terrorism and advance the country’s growth and prosperity.
During the visit, Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, said that India and the EU’s strategic alliance is “getting stronger.” The strong economic and strategic linkages between India and Belgium, which cover trade, investment, green energy, technology, medicines, and the diamond industry, were emphasized in official messages from the Ministry of External Affairs, which mirrored this attitude.
A number of high-level meetings during Dr. Jaishankar’s visit to Belgium highlighted the expanding areas of shared interest between Belgium, India, and the EU. As a reflection of these relationships’ forward-looking nature, the talks touched on both established topics like trade and security as well as newer industries like semiconductors and clean energy. Additionally, the visit reaffirmed India’s resolve to combat terrorism and advance development on a national and worldwide scale.
