EAM Jaishankar Initiates Visit to Belgium to Enhance EU Relations
Synopsis
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's visit to Belgium aims to bolster India-EU ties through strategic discussions and bilateral meetings, marking a significant step in international relations.
Key Takeaways
EAM Jaishankar's visit to Belgium aims to boost India-EU relations.
The visit includes participation in the EU Foreign Affairs Council .
India-EU relations have evolved into a highly integrated partnership .
The historic Free Trade Agreement was finalized during the 16th India-EU Summit.
Trade discussions cover critical sectors including security, technology, and sustainability .
New Delhi, March 15 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar is set to commence his trip to Belgium on Sunday, where he will participate in the European Union (EU) Foreign Affairs Council and engage in bilateral discussions with EU leaders and his Belgian counterparts, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
The EAM will remain in Brussels until March 16, following an invitation from the EU High Representative and Vice President, Kaja Kallas.
Scheduled shortly after the 16th India-EU Summit, the MEA noted that the EAM's visit is designed to enhance the Strategic Partnership, building upon recent dialogues.
Throughout his stay, the EAM will also meet with the leadership of the European Union and his counterparts from Belgium and other EU Member States.
Relations between India and the EU have reached a remarkable peak in 2026, transitioning from a long-standing strategic partnership to a highly integrated economic and geopolitical alliance. Both sides are reinforcing ties in areas such as trade, security, technology, sustainability, and global challenges.
India's trade discussions with the EU culminated in a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA), often referred to as the “mother of all deals” due to its vast scale, which creates a preferential trade zone encompassing nearly 2 billion individuals and approximately a quarter of the world's GDP.
The journey for the India-EU FTA began in 2007, but was paused in 2013. It was revitalized in 2022 and gained momentum significantly in late 2025, leading to the successful conclusion of the final rounds.
The negotiations were finalized on January 27, during the 16th India-EU Summit held in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and others deemed it a historic achievement.
Point of View
The visit of EAM Jaishankar to Belgium underscores India's commitment to enhancing its global partnerships. The focus on trade negotiations and strategic alliances with the EU reflects a robust approach to international diplomacy in a rapidly changing world.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of EAM Jaishankar's visit to Belgium?
The purpose of EAM Jaishankar's visit is to participate in the EU Foreign Affairs Council and hold bilateral meetings to strengthen India-EU relations.
How long will the EAM be in Brussels?
EAM Jaishankar will be in Brussels from March 15 to March 16.
What significant agreement is tied to India-EU relations?
India's trade negotiations with the EU resulted in a landmark Free Trade Agreement, often referred to as the 'mother of all deals.'
When did negotiations for the India-EU FTA begin?
Negotiations for the India-EU FTA began in 2007.
What was the outcome of the recent India-EU Summit?
The recent India-EU Summit led to the successful conclusion of trade negotiations, marking a historic milestone in bilateral relations.
