New Delhi: Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot, along with Princess Astrid, engaged in discussions on Monday aimed at enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the discussions focused on advancing bilateral relations in areas such as trade, investment, clean energy, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, digital technology, mobility, and defense. Jaishankar highlighted new opportunities for initiatives like ‘Make in India, Design in India, and Research in India,’ while also addressing EU and multilateral cooperation as well as global and regional developments.
Jaishankar expressed a desire to establish a close working relationship with Belgium, emphasizing historical ties between the two nations. He noted Belgium was among the first European countries to establish an embassy in independent India and acknowledged the war memorials honoring Indian soldiers in Belgium. He expressed optimism for growth in trade, industry, education, innovation, and culture.
The presence of Princess Astrid and the economic mission, comprising nearly 360 businesses, was welcomed by Jaishankar, who saw it as an opportunity for them to explore India’s advancements and opportunities in innovation and industry.
In a related meeting, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh discussed potential defense collaborations with Princess Astrid and Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken, focusing on the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in maritime security. The Defence Ministry noted discussions on enhancing defense industrial cooperation, with Singh encouraging Belgian investments in India’s defense sector and integration of Indian vendors in their supply chains.
The Belgian delegation is set to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow, further underscoring the strengthening ties between the two countries.