India And Belgium Launch Strategic Dialogue To Strengthen Defence, Trade And Technology Cooperation

India and Belgium convened the inaugural Strategic Dialogue in Brussels on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in their bilateral relations. The meeting reviewed cooperation across defence, semiconductors, supply chains, trade, investment, clean energy and mobility, reflecting the growing breadth of their partnership.

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that this first Strategic Dialogue represents a structured and comprehensive framework for political engagement. Anchored in the wider India-European Union Strategic Partnership, it is designed to be regular, results-oriented and future-focused.

The session was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs and Development Cooperation, Maxime Prevot. Both leaders emphasised the importance of building on complementarities to deliver tangible outcomes for their countries and for Europe.

Prevot highlighted that the Belgian Economic Mission of March 2025 demonstrated the dynamism of bilateral economic ties. He noted that trade, investment and innovation continue to strengthen relations and provide a solid foundation for future cooperation.

Jaishankar underlined Belgium’s special place in India’s engagement with Europe. He stressed that as the India-EU relationship acquires greater strategic importance, this dialogue will help deepen bilateral ties and expand cooperation across multiple domains.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said the discussions reflected the ambition of India’s partnership with Belgium and the European Union. He noted that the partnership has witnessed significant deepening in recent years and that the dialogue will further consolidate this momentum.

According to the MEA, both sides agreed to intensify collaboration in trade and investment, green energy transition, innovation and technology, connectivity, defence, security, regional and global issues, and people-to-people exchanges. The dialogue will be supported by regular high-level engagements to ensure sustained political momentum.

The two sides also noted that upcoming high-level visits later this year would provide opportunities to advance key initiatives and translate shared ambitions into concrete outcomes for the benefit of both nations.

Complementing the launch of the Strategic Dialogue, the India-EU Business Forum was held at the Federation of Belgian Enterprises. The forum brought together Indian, Belgian and other European businesses to discuss ways of converting political momentum into economic and trade opportunities.

The forum was attended by Jaishankar, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry and Electronics and Information Technology Jitin Prasada, Belgian Minister-President of Flanders Matthias Diependaele, and Minister-President of Wallonia Adrien Dolimont. Discussions focused on the ongoing negotiations for the India-EU Free Trade Agreement and the potential to unlock new opportunities for businesses.

The MEA emphasised that India and Belgium reaffirmed their shared commitment to a stronger, more ambitious and future-oriented partnership.

This reflects the growing importance of bilateral relations and the evolving international environment, with both sides determined to translate political goodwill into practical cooperation.

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Piyush Goyal’s Visit To Spain, Belgium And Finland To Strengthen India’s Trade And Investment Partnerships

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will undertake a five‑day visit to Spain, Belgium, and Finland to strengthen trade and investment ties between India and these European nations.

The official statement from the commerce ministry confirmed that the delegation includes leading Indian companies from advanced manufacturing, clean energy, digital technologies, gems and jewellery, food processing, healthcare, and design.

On 13 July in Spain, the minister will participate in a business roundtable that will bring together Spanish and Indian industry leaders. The discussions will cover opportunities in automotive, renewable energy, railways, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, food processing, and tourism.

Spanish companies such as Iberdrola, Acciona, CAF, Talgo, Gestamp, and Indra already have strong footprints in India, while Indian firms including TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Tech Mahindra, and L&T are expanding their operations in Spain. The roundtable is expected to highlight synergies in sectors where both countries have complementary strengths.

On 14–15 July in Belgium, Goyal will hold CEO‑level meetings with Alain Queverin of Thales Group and Jean‑Christophe Bogaert of Silox Group. Thales, a global leader in aerospace, defence, cybersecurity, and digital identity, has established partnerships in India, while Silox, a speciality chemicals and recycling group, has major operations in Gujarat and collaborations in battery recycling and sustainable manufacturing.

These meetings will focus on technology partnerships and sustainable manufacturing collaborations. The India‑EU Business Roundtable and the Trade and Technology Council plenary will further deliberate on foreign direct investment opportunities, trade facilitation, sustainable technologies, and resilient supply chains, reinforcing India’s role as a trusted partner in Europe’s industrial ecosystem.

On 16–17 July in Finland, the minister will participate in the India‑Finland Business Roundtable. He will engage with Finnish companies in digitalisation, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and the circular economy.

Finland’s expertise in clean energy and digital technologies is expected to align with India’s ambitions in green transition and digital innovation. The discussions will also explore cooperation in advanced manufacturing and circular economy models, areas where Finland has developed significant capabilities.

This engagement builds on the growing India‑Finland partnership, which has recently expanded into critical technologies, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and sustainable energy solutions.

The visit is designed to deepen India’s economic integration with Europe, strengthen industrial collaborations, and attract investments into key sectors. By engaging with major European companies and participating in high‑level business roundtables, Minister Goyal aims to position India as a global hub for innovation, manufacturing, and sustainable development.

The trip also underscores India’s commitment to building resilient supply chains and advancing partnerships in clean energy and digitalisation, which are critical for future growth.

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EAM Jaishankar Forges Strategic Ties With Belgium Amid EU Summit Momentum

India's External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, has conducted high-level diplomatic engagements in Brussels, underscoring New Delhi's commitment to bolstering ties with European partners.

On 16 March 2026, he held productive talks with Belgium's Foreign Minister, Maxime Prevot, focusing on intensifying cooperation across key sectors.

The discussions between Jaishankar and Prevot centred on expanding trade and investment opportunities. They also explored collaboration in semiconductors, health, technology, and innovation, reflecting shared priorities in emerging industries.

A significant outcome was the agreement to establish a Strategic Dialogue between India and Belgium. This mechanism aims to provide a structured platform for regular high-level exchanges, fostering deeper bilateral relations.

Jaishankar shared details of the meeting via a post on X, noting that it marked the start of Day 2 in Brussels. He highlighted the mutual intent to enhance cooperation in the identified areas.

In a parallel engagement, Jaishankar met Cyprus's Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, for his first interaction since Kombos assumed office. The meeting took place ahead of the Foreign Affairs Council and informal exchanges.

The two ministers discussed ways to strengthen the India-Cyprus strategic partnership. They exchanged views on the evolving situation in West Asia, emphasising diplomatic approaches to regional challenges.

Jaishankar appreciated Cyprus's role as the current Presidency of the Council of the EU. He commended its support in advancing EU-India engagement, particularly in light of recent developments.

Kombos echoed these sentiments in his own X post, describing the exchange as insightful. He outlined focus areas including the Cyprus-India strategic partnership, ahead of an upcoming visit by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides to India.

Further topics included EU-India relations post the recent 16th India-EU Summit and the successful conclusion of the EU-India Free Trade Agreement. The ministers addressed concerning developments in the Middle East, advocating diplomacy and dialogue as the path to de-escalation and stability.

Jaishankar's visit to Brussels, from 15 to 16 March, comes at the invitation of EU High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas. It involves interactions with Foreign Ministers from all 27 EU member states during the Foreign Affairs Council Meeting.

The trip affords opportunities to engage with EU leadership and counterparts from Belgium and other member states. Occurring soon after the landmark India-EU Summit, it is poised to deepen the Strategic Partnership between India and the European Union.

These meetings signal India's proactive diplomacy in Europe, aligning with broader geopolitical strategies amid global uncertainties. Enhanced cooperation in trade, technology, and security could yield mutual benefits, particularly in semiconductors and health sectors critical to both regions.

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John Cockerill To Shift Global Metal Business Headquarters To Mumbai, Marking Strategic Pivot To India

John Cockerill, the multinational engineering firm headquartered in Belgium, is set to relocate the global headquarters of its metals business to Mumbai.

The decision, driven by strategic and operational factors, was confirmed during a high-level meeting on Wednesday involving global CEO François Michel, executives Vivek Bhide and François David Martino, and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The relocation signifies a marked shift in the company’s international operations and underscores Mumbai’s emerging prominence as a destination for global industrial leadership. Chief Minister Fadnavis, via an X post, highlighted the fruitful discussions on bringing advanced steel and defence technologies to Maharashtra, with the support of local partners such as L&T and EPHL, Pune.

This move aligns with John Cockerill’s broader agenda to enhance its footprint within India, aiming to leverage synergies with the nation’s significant manufacturing and engineering ecosystem. Maharashtra’s established industrial infrastructure and growth-oriented governance were cited as strong motivators for selecting Mumbai as the new hub.

An important catalyst for the headquarters’ shift is the proposed complete acquisition of John Cockerill Metals International SA by its Indian listed arm, superseding control from the Belgian parent entity. This acquisition will see the ownership and core strategic direction of the metals business consolidated under the Indian operation, streamlining decision-making and regional growth.

John Cockerill, renowned for its expertise in engineering solutions for the steel sector, banks on the move to unlock new opportunities across the Indian and wider Asia-Pacific markets. With Mumbai as its base, the metals division will be better positioned to address customer demands, expand service offerings, and drive technological innovation.

Senior company officials emphasised in their recent stock exchange filing that the acquisition and headquarters relocation aim to consolidate and advance the strategic position of its metals segment globally. The streamlined structure is expected to foster agility, improve responsiveness to market trends, and accelerate collaboration with domestic and regional partners.

The partnership discussions with Maharashtra’s leadership further covered the localisation of technology, alignment with the state’s industrial policy, and efforts to bolster high-value manufacturing in steel and defence. Collaborative ventures with L&T and EPHL are set to facilitate knowledge transfer and capacity building, supporting both technology absorption and export ambitions.

This transition is viewed as a testament to India’s growing stature in global value chains and a strong endorsement of Maharashtra’s business environment. Industry observers expect the move to generate substantial employment, catalyse ancillary supply chains, and foster innovation within the metals sector.

With this strategic realignment, John Cockerill is not only reaffirming its commitment to India but also reinforcing Mumbai’s standing as a pivotal global industrial hub ready to shape the future of advanced engineering and steel manufacturing.

Based On Business Line Report

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India And Belgium Reaffirm Strategic Partnership During Third Foreign Office Consultations In Brussels

India and Belgium held the third round of Foreign Office Consultations in Brussels on Tuesday, co-chaired by Sibi George, Secretary (West) of the Ministry of External Affairs, and Theodora Gentzis, President of the Board, Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs of Belgium.

The meeting reflected the growing depth and maturity of India-Belgium ties, reviewing the full spectrum of their bilateral relationship and mapping the road ahead for mutually beneficial collaboration.

During the discussions, both delegations reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the strategic partnership across multiple sectors, including trade and investment, science and technology, innovation, defence and security, renewable energy, and education. They also highlighted the importance of fostering stronger people-to-people connections that underpin long-term cooperation.

The talks underscored the significance of recent high-level exchanges between the two countries. Particular reference was made to the successful visit of Princess Astrid of Belgium earlier this year, who led a large economic delegation to India in March 2025. That mission, alongside subsequent visits by the Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister to India and the External Affairs Minister to Belgium, has injected renewed momentum into the partnership.

Both sides reviewed progress under existing institutional dialogue mechanisms and explored new avenues of engagement. The wide-ranging consultations focused on sectoral synergies, especially in technology-driven industries, green energy, pharmaceuticals, and advanced manufacturing, where complementary strengths offer scope for joint ventures and innovation-led growth.

A major focus of the meeting was the broader India-European Union relationship. The delegations discussed developments following the historic visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India in February 2025 and the subsequent articulation of the new India-EU Strategic Agenda. They reaffirmed shared commitment to advancing negotiations on a comprehensive, balanced, and equitable Free Trade Agreement (FTA), seen as a critical step towards boosting trade volumes and market integration between India and the EU bloc.

In addition to economic cooperation, defence and security collaboration featured prominently on the agenda. Both countries acknowledged the value of dialogue and joint training, particularly in the context of emerging global security challenges, maritime safety, and supply chain resilience. The consultations also emphasised coordination in multilateral fora such as the United Nations and global climate platforms.

Regional and global developments of common interest were also discussed, providing an opportunity for India and Belgium to exchange perspectives on geopolitical trends and challenges. Both sides reiterated the importance of sustaining open communication and cooperation in promoting peace, stability, and rule-based international order.

Following the meeting, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, shared details on social media platform X, noting that Secretary (West) Sibi George and Theodora Gentzis had conducted an extensive review of bilateral ties and discussed pathways to further deepen India-EU relations.

In conclusion, the third round of Foreign Office Consultations reaffirmed the shared vision of India and Belgium to advance their partnership in a multidimensional manner — encompassing political dialogue, economic development, investment promotion, defence cooperation, technology collaboration, and vibrant people-to-people exchanges. The session reiterated the intent of both sides to strengthen institutional cooperation and sustain the upward trajectory of their engagement in the years ahead.

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Cyberattack On Service Provider Disrupts Flights At European Airports Including London Heathrow, Berlin Airport

A widespread cyberattack targeting Collins Aerospace, a major service provider for airline check-in and boarding systems, severely disrupted flight operations across several prominent European airports including Brussels, London Heathrow, and Berlin.

The attack, which struck late on September 19, forced automated passenger processing offline and compelled airports to revert to manual check-in and boarding processes, leading to significant delays, long queues, and multiple flight cancellations.

Brussels Airport confirmed the breach against its service provider, cautioning passengers to allow extra time for travel procedures—two hours in advance for Schengen flights and three hours for international departures.

Heathrow acknowledged the disruption, attributing it to Collins Aerospace’s network outage, and similarly advised travellers not to arrive more than three hours prior to long-haul flights or two hours before domestic departures, while mobilising additional staff to assist with congestion.

Berlin Airport also faced extended waiting times at check-in, citing the same Europe-wide provider disruption, though it stressed that technical teams were engaged in efforts to quickly restore normal operations.

Despite the widespread impact across key European hubs, neither Collins Aerospace nor airport authorities have provided a clear timeline for full service restoration, leaving passengers and carriers in continued uncertainty as the cyberattack underscores vulnerabilities in shared critical IT systems across the airline industry.

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EAM Jaishankar Extends Warm Wishes To Belgium On Its National Day

India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar extended heartfelt congratulations to the Government and people of Belgium on their National Day. In a post addressed to Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot, EAM Jaishankar expressed confidence in the enduring and multifaceted partnership between the two nations and reiterated India’s commitment to further deepening bilateral ties in the coming years.

Earlier this year, EAM Jaishankar visited Brussels for a series of high-level meetings aimed at enhancing India’s collaboration with Belgium. During his discussions with Deputy PM Maxime Prevot, Jaishankar highlighted Belgium’s steadfast support in combatting terrorism and welcomed the ongoing solidarity between the two countries.

The visit underscored the strong and expanding momentum in India-EU relations, with a particular emphasis on exploring new opportunities for cooperation in areas such as clean energy, mobility, and pharmaceuticals.

Both leaders engaged in comprehensive talks covering a wide spectrum of sectors including trade, investment, technology, defence, security, and healthcare. The dialogue reflected a shared vision to build on the already robust engagement between India and Belgium, leveraging mutual strengths to promote sustainable growth and innovation.

Notably, Jaishankar’s trip followed an economic mission to India led by Princess Astrid of Belgium three months prior. Princess Astrid’s 300-member delegation met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and EAM Jaishankar, focusing on key domains such as labour migration, pharmaceuticals, defense, the diamond industry, space exploration, and green energy transitions. This high-level exchange highlighted the breadth and depth of India-Belgium collaboration.

The Ministry of External Affairs affirmed that the relationship between India and Belgium is characterized by warm and friendly ties, underpinned by a strong economic partnership. Today, bilateral cooperation spans a multitude of fields, including trade, green technology, pharmaceuticals, diamonds, and reinforced people-to-people linkages. Both sides reiterated their resolve to continue nurturing this dynamic partnership for mutual benefit and global good.

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EAM Jaishankar Meets Belgium Pm Bart De Wever, Discusses Cooperation In Security, Defence

External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar’s recent official visit to Belgium, as part of a broader European tour from June 8 to 14, marked a significant step in deepening India’s strategic and economic partnerships with both Belgium and the European Union.

On June 10, Dr. Jaishankar met with Prime Minister Bart De Wever of Belgium, where the two leaders discussed a wide range of areas for enhanced cooperation, including security, defence, trade, investment, clean energy, semiconductors, and innovation. The EAM conveyed the warm greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and underscored the importance of furthering bilateral ties between the two countries.

During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar was also received by His Majesty King Philippe of Belgium. In his remarks, he expressed his honour at being received by the King and appreciated the monarch’s warm sentiments towards India, as well as his guidance on strengthening the bilateral relationship. This meeting highlighted the strong foundation of mutual respect and shared interests that underpin India-Belgium relations.

Earlier in the day, Dr. Jaishankar held a press conference with Kaja Kallas, the Vice-President of the European Union and High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Kallas reiterated the EU’s strong condemnation of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and affirmed the EU’s support for India’s right to protect its citizens in accordance with international law. She emphasized the need for accountability for those responsible and noted the close coordination between herself and Dr. Jaishankar following the attack.

In addition to meetings with Belgian and EU leadership, Dr. Jaishankar engaged with members of the Indian community in Belgium and Luxembourg. During these interactions, he briefed the community on the steady progress in India-Belgium relations and India’s ongoing engagement with the European Union. He also discussed India’s efforts to counter terrorism and promote national progress and prosperity, reflecting the government’s commitment to both security and development.

The visit also included a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who stated that the strategic partnership between India and the EU is “getting stronger.” This sentiment was echoed in the Ministry of External Affairs’ official communications, which highlighted the robust economic and strategic ties between India and Belgium, spanning trade, investment, green energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, and the diamond sector.

Dr. Jaishankar’s visit to Belgium was marked by a series of high-level engagements that underscored the growing convergence of interests between India, Belgium, and the European Union. The discussions covered not only traditional areas like security and trade but also emerging sectors such as clean energy and semiconductors, reflecting the forward-looking nature of these partnerships. The visit also reinforced India’s commitment to countering terrorism and promoting prosperity, both domestically and internationally.

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EAM Jaishankar Interacts With Indian Community In Belgium, Luxembourg

External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar, during his official visit to Europe from June 8 to 14, 2025, engaged with members of the Indian community in Belgium and Luxembourg, highlighting the significant progress in India-Belgium relations and India’s growing engagement with the European Union.

In his interaction, Jaishankar discussed the deepening of bilateral ties, emphasising the robust economic partnership between India and Belgium, which now spans diverse sectors such as trade, investment, technology, pharmaceuticals, green energy, the diamond industry, and strong people-to-people connections.

Jaishankar also briefed the community on India’s ongoing efforts to counter terrorism and promote national progress and prosperity, underscoring the government’s commitment to a policy of “zero tolerance” towards terrorism. He shared updates on India’s diplomatic initiatives and the momentum in India-EU relations, particularly in areas like clean energy, mobility, and pharmaceuticals.

The visit to Belgium began with a meeting between Jaishankar and the Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Maxime Prevot, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in counter-terrorism, trade, defence, and technology. Jaishankar expressed appreciation for Belgium’s solidarity in combating terrorism and recognised the convergence of strategic interests between the two countries, especially following the recent economic mission to India led by Princess Astrid of Belgium, which covered labour migration, defence, diamonds, space exploration, and green energy.

Jaishankar’s visit coincided with the detention of fugitive Indian diamantaire Mehul Choksi in Belgium. Choksi, wanted in India for a major bank fraud, was arrested in mid-April on India’s extradition request; the matter is expected to be discussed during the minister’s stay, given the existing extradition treaty between India and Belgium.

Beyond Belgium, Jaishankar’s European tour includes high-level engagements in France and with the European Union, where he is participating in strategic dialogues and multilateral events like the Mediterranean Raisina Dialogue, further reinforcing India’s commitment to multilateralism and global cooperation.

The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that Jaishankar’s visit is poised to deepen India’s relations with France, Belgium, and the European Union, giving renewed momentum to ongoing cooperation in a wide range of sectors.

Jaishankar’s interactions with the Indian diaspora in Belgium and Luxembourg reflect the importance India places on its overseas communities and their role in strengthening bilateral and multilateral partnerships.

Based On ANI Report

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EAM S Jaishankar Welcomes Belgium's Support And Solidarity In Combatting Terrorism

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar commenced the Belgium leg of his official visit to Europe on Monday, June 9, 2025, by meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot. The discussions were comprehensive, centring on strengthening bilateral ties and reinforcing cooperation in countering terrorism.

Dr. Jaishankar expressed appreciation for Belgium’s steadfast support and solidarity in the global fight against terrorism, a stance that aligns closely with India’s policy of “zero tolerance” towards terrorism. 

He underscored the robust momentum in both the India-Belgium bilateral engagement and the broader India-European Union partnership, emphasising the potential for further collaboration in emerging sectors such as clean energy, mobility, and pharmaceuticals.

The meeting between the two leaders explored a wide array of collaborative opportunities. Trade and investment featured prominently, reflecting the longstanding economic partnership between India and Belgium.

Both sides recognised the importance of technology, defence, and security cooperation, which are increasingly vital in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. The pharmaceutical sector, a key area of mutual interest, was highlighted for its potential to drive innovation and address global health challenges. The diamond sector, historically significant in bilateral trade, was also discussed, along with the ongoing efforts to enhance people-to-people ties between the two nations.

Dr. Jaishankar’s visit follows a notable economic mission to India led by Princess Astrid of Belgium three months prior, which included discussions on labour migration, pharmaceuticals, defence, diamonds, space exploration, and green energy.

This recent high-level engagement has set a strong foundation for further deepening cooperation in these areas. The timing of Dr. Jaishankar’s visit is also noteworthy due to the ongoing detention in Belgium of fugitive Indian diamantaire Mehul Choksi, who was arrested in mid-April on India’s extradition request. India’s extradition treaty with Belgium is expected to be a point of discussion, as the Indian government seeks to expedite Choksi’s extradition process during the Minister’s stay.

During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar is also scheduled to engage with members of the Indian community in Belgium, reflecting the importance of diaspora relations in India’s foreign policy. The Ministry of External Affairs has highlighted that the collaboration between India and Belgium now spans trade and investment, green energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, the diamond sector, and strong people-to-people ties.

This multifaceted partnership is seen as a model for bilateral cooperation, with both countries committed to expanding their engagement across all relevant domains.

The broader context of Dr. Jaishankar’s European tour includes stops in France and the European Union, where he is engaging in high-level strategic dialogues. In Paris and Marseille, he is meeting with French Foreign Minister Jean Noel Barrot and participating in the inaugural Mediterranean Raisina Dialogue, an event that underscores India’s commitment to multilateralism and global cooperation.

The visit to Brussels includes a Strategic Dialogue with EU High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas, further solidifying the India-EU partnership, which has gained momentum following the first-ever visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India earlier in the year.

The Ministry of External Affairs has emphasised that Dr. Jaishankar’s visit is expected to deepen India’s friendly relations with the European Union, France, and Belgium, and to give renewed momentum to ongoing cooperation in diverse areas. The discussions in Belgium, in particular, have highlighted the convergence of strategic interests between India and Belgium, with a shared commitment to promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the region and beyond.

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Jaishankar's Europe Visit Aims To Deepen Strategic Partnerships With France, EU, And Belgium

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has embarked on a significant week-long visit to France, the European Union, and Belgium from June 8 to 14, 2025, in a move designed to further bolster India's strategic ties with its key partners in Europe.

The visit underscores New Delhi's commitment to deepening cooperation across a range of sectors, including defence, trade, technology, and counter-terrorism, while also marking important diplomatic milestones with each of these countries and institutions.

In France, Jaishankar's itinerary includes bilateral discussions with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean Noel Barrot in both Paris and Marseille. This visit comes as India and France celebrate 25 years of their strategic partnership, a relationship characterised by deep trust and robust cooperation in areas of strategic and contemporary relevance.

The two countries share similar perspectives on many regional and global issues, and Jaishankar's engagements will include meetings with senior French leadership, think tanks, and media. Notably, he will participate in the inaugural Mediterranean Raisina Dialogue in Marseille, further cementing the intellectual and diplomatic exchange between the two nations. This focus aligns with your interest in India-France relations, especially in the domains of counter-terrorism and economic cooperation.

The next leg of Jaishankar's visit takes him to Brussels, where he will hold a Strategic Dialogue with EU High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas. This marks the first such dialogue, reflecting the growing depth of the India-EU partnership, which has seen significant momentum following the historic visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India earlier this year. Discussions are expected to cover security, defence, and international issues of mutual concern.

Jaishankar will also meet senior leaders from the European Commission and European Parliament, and engage with think tanks and media, reinforcing India's commitment to a comprehensive and future-oriented relationship with the EU. This is particularly relevant to your focus on India-EU relations in defence, trade, and counter-terrorism.

The final segment of the visit centres on Belgium, where Jaishankar will hold bilateral consultations with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot.

India and Belgium enjoy warm relations and a robust economic partnership spanning trade, green energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, the diamond sector, and strong people-to-people ties. The visit will include meetings with senior Belgian leadership and interactions with the Indian diaspora, further strengthening the multifaceted cooperation between the two countries.

A key theme throughout Jaishankar's European tour is the reaffirmation of India's zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, particularly in the context of recent events such as Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam terror attack. The minister is expected to brief European leaders on India's firm stance against cross-border terrorism, seeking greater alignment and cooperation on security matters.

The Ministry of External Affairs has emphasised that this visit is poised to give renewed momentum to India's ties with France, the EU, and Belgium, providing new impetus to ongoing collaborations in diverse areas and reinforcing India's role as a proactive and reliable partner on the global stage.

Based On ANI Report

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Ravi Shankar Prasad’s Remarks In Belgium: Pakistan’s Military-Terrorist Coalition And India’s Diplomatic Outreach

During a high-level diplomatic visit to Brussels, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad, leading an all-party Indian parliamentary delegation, made strong statements regarding Pakistan’s internal power structure and its implications for global security.

Prasad asserted that Pakistan is effectively governed by its generals through a "military-terrorist coalition," characterising this nexus as a direct threat to democracy and humanity worldwide. This message was central to the delegation’s discussions with European leaders and think tanks, particularly in the context of rising concerns about terrorism in the European Union.

The visit followed Operation Sindoor, India’s military response to a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam by Pakistan-sponsored militants, which resulted in significant casualties and prompted targeted strikes by Indian Armed Forces against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The delegation, comprising members from multiple Indian political parties, highlighted India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism and positioned the country as the "voice" for victims of terrorism, emphasising the need for global solidarity against such threats.

Prasad’s remarks to the European Parliament underscored demands for the international community, especially the EU, to hold Pakistan accountable for its support of terrorism and to impose tangible costs—such as restrictions on aid—on Islamabad’s "terror machine".

He stressed that the global fight against terrorism requires a collective resolve rooted in shared democratic values, peace, and humanity. The delegation also raised the issue of human rights, questioning whether the victims of terrorism are adequately recognised and protected under international frameworks.

Former Deputy National Security Adviser Pankaj Saran, also part of the delegation, reinforced India’s growing stature as a major economic and geopolitical force. He noted that European leaders now recognise India as the world’s fourth-largest economy and view the India-EU partnership as fundamental for the future. Saran further accused Pakistan of attempting to destabilise the democratic fabric not only of India but also of Europe, framing the challenge as one between democracy and military dictatorship.

The delegation’s outreach was met with appreciation from European counterparts, who expressed solidarity with India’s anti-terrorism stance and acknowledged the importance of strengthening diplomatic and strategic ties between India and the EU. The visit, described by Prasad as "very satisfying," served to refocus international attention on the dangers posed by state-sponsored terrorism and the urgent need for coordinated action.

The Brussels visit by the Indian delegation led by Ravi Shankar Prasad marked a significant diplomatic initiative to highlight the threat posed by Pakistan’s military-terrorist nexus, advocate for stronger international accountability, and reinforce India’s role as a key voice in the global fight against terrorism.

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All-Party Delegation Led By BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad Arrives In Brussels

An all-party parliamentary delegation from India, headed by BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad, arrived in Brussels following a high-profile visit to the United Kingdom. The delegation, received by India’s Ambassador to Belgium, Saurabh Kumar, is on a diplomatic mission focused on consolidating global consensus against cross-border terrorism.

The Brussels visit is part of a two-day program packed with meetings aimed at strengthening international resolve and cooperation to counter terrorism. The Indian Embassy in Belgium and Luxembourg highlighted the unified message of the delegation, stating that they are "On One Mission, One Message, One India," emphasising the bipartisan nature of India’s stand against terrorism.

The delegation comprises a cross-section of Indian political leadership, including BJP MPs Daggubati Purandeswari and Samik Bhattacharya, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, Congress MPs Ghulam Ali Khatana and Amar Singh, former Union Minister MJ Akbar, and former Ambassador Pankaj Saran. This composition underscores the Indian Parliament’s collective approach to the issue, transcending party lines to present a united front globally.

Prior to their arrival in Brussels, the delegation concluded a significant outreach in the UK, where they engaged with key British parliamentarians, think tanks, and the Indian diaspora. The meetings included interactions with the Speaker of the House of Commons, the Chairman of the Conservative Party, and Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel. The discussions centred on the imperative of international accountability for terrorism financing and the need to scrutinise Pakistan’s use of international funds, particularly in the context of loans from the IMF and World Bank.

Ravi Shankar Prasad, addressing the press, described terrorism as a "cancer" that demands global action. He highlighted the novelty of the all-party delegation initiative, which received strong support from British lawmakers and opinion leaders. The delegation also pressed for greater transparency regarding Pakistan’s financial flows, questioning whether funds intended for development were being diverted to support terrorism and weapons procurement.

Congress MP Amar Singh elaborated on the delegation’s efforts to communicate India’s challenges with terrorism to UK leaders, urging Pakistan to clarify its stance and take responsibility for its actions. The delegation’s meetings with UK officials, including Minister for Citizenship and Migration and Minister for Equalities Seema Malhotra, further reinforced India’s commitment to combating cross-border terrorism and sought to build a broader coalition of support.

The diplomatic outreach is closely linked to recent security developments, notably Operation Sindoor. Launched on May 7 in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack by Pakistan-sponsored militants, Operation Sindoor marked a decisive military response. Indian Armed Forces targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the elimination of over 100 terrorists associated with groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.

This operation has been cited as setting a "new normal" in India’s counter-terrorism posture, demonstrating both military resolve and diplomatic engagement.

The all-party delegation’s visits to London and Brussels are part of a broader global outreach to convey India’s firm stance against terrorism, seek international cooperation, and ensure that the issue remains at the forefront of global diplomatic agendas. The initiative reflects a rare moment of cross-party unity in Indian politics, with leaders from across the spectrum working together to address one of the country’s most pressing security challenges.

This sustained diplomatic effort not only reinforces India’s position on the global stage but also seeks to hold Pakistan accountable for its role in fostering terrorism, urging the international community to demand transparency and responsibility in the use of international financial resources.

Based On ANI Report

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Piyush Goyal Meets Belgian Defence Minister; Discusses Trade, Tech And Investments

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal held a significant meeting in Brussels on May 2, 2025, with Belgian Minister of Defence and Foreign Trade Theo Francken and Minister-President of Flanders Matthias Diependaele, aimed at deepening the Indo-Belgian partnership across trade, technology, investment, and innovation.

This engagement builds on the momentum generated by the March 2025 visit of HRH Princess Astrid of Belgium to India, during which she met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and led a 300-member Belgian Economic Mission, highlighting the shared ambition to unlock new avenues for collaboration in sectors such as trade, technology, defence, agriculture, life sciences, innovation, skilling, and academic exchanges.

During the Brussels meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to forging resilient, future-focused ties that enhance mutual growth and contribute to a more integrated global economic framework.

The discussions focused on scaling bilateral trade, fostering industrial collaboration, and deepening investments in strategic sectors including semiconductors, clean energy, defence production, and pharmaceuticals. The Flanders region, recognized as Belgium’s economic engine, was highlighted for its advanced manufacturing ecosystem, robust R&D infrastructure, and its role as a strategic gateway to Europe.

India, as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, presents unprecedented opportunities for bilateral cooperation, driven by its young, aspirational population and a reform-oriented environment. Minister Goyal emphasized India’s transformative economic journey over the past decade, noting that reforms have empowered citizens and entrepreneurs, and stating that the past eleven years have been about "enabling aspirations" as much as economic upliftment.

A key agenda item was the ongoing EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. Both parties recognized the need to address tariff and non-tariff barriers to enhance market access, with Minister Goyal reiterating India’s position as a trusted and long-term economic partner for Europe, emphasizing that “India is not just a market of the future-it is a collaborator of trust”.

Belgium remains one of India’s most significant economic partners within Europe, ranking as India’s fifth-largest trading partner in the EU, with bilateral trade reaching USD 15.07 billion in 2023-24. Belgian Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India totaled USD 3.94 billion from April 2000 to September 2024, including a remarkable 39% increase-USD 1.1 billion-in the past year alone. The expanding depth and strategic nature of the Indo-Belgian economic relationship is evident in areas such as defence manufacturing, green hydrogen, nano-electronics, nuclear medicine, and pharmaceutical R&D.

Both sides agreed to strengthen high-level engagements and facilitate regular visits by business delegations to accelerate trade and investment outcomes, reaffirming their shared vision of mutual prosperity and resilient economic cooperation amidst evolving global challenges.

ANI

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Belgium Confirms Arrest of Fugitive Businessman Mehul Choksi, Says India Has Introduced Extradition Request

Fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi has been arrested in Belgium, as confirmed by the Belgian Federal Public Service of Justice on April 14, 2025. Choksi, who fled India on January 2, 2018, is wanted by Indian authorities for his alleged involvement in defrauding the Punjab National Bank (PNB) of ₹13,850 crore.

He was detained on April 12 and is currently awaiting judicial proceedings, with access to legal counsel assured. The Belgian authorities also confirmed that India has submitted an extradition request for Choksi, but further details regarding the case remain undisclosed at this stage.

Mehul Choksi, aged 65, is accused of orchestrating a massive financial fraud alongside his nephew Nirav Modi. Between 2014 and 2017, Choksi allegedly colluded with associates and PNB officials to fraudulently obtain Letters of Undertaking and Foreign Letters of Credit from the bank, resulting in a wrongful loss of ₹6,097.63 crore to PNB. The case has been under investigation by India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED for several years.

Following Choksi's arrest, his lawyer Vijay Aggarwal expressed concerns about his client’s human rights and health condition if extradited to India. During a press conference, Aggarwal stated that the defense team would challenge the extradition on two primary grounds: the political nature of the case and concerns over proper medical treatment for Choksi in India. Aggarwal claimed that Choksi's human rights would be "greatly affected" upon extradition and alleged potential harassment by political parties in India. He further argued that Choksi had not been declared a fugitive since he had remained cooperative with Indian investigative agencies.

The arrest marks a significant development in the long-running legal battle surrounding one of India’s largest banking frauds. While Belgium has confirmed Choksi’s detention and India’s extradition request, the judicial process is expected to involve complex legal challenges from Choksi’s defence team.

ANI

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