India and Belgium Forge New Strategic Dialogue, Says EAM Jaishankar
Synopsis
In a significant move to strengthen ties, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Belgium's FM Maxime Prevot have agreed to establish a Strategic Dialogue focusing on trade, technology, and more. This partnership promises to deepen bilateral cooperation and enhance mutual interests.
Key Takeaways
Strategic Dialogue Established: India and Belgium agreed to initiate a Strategic Dialogue for enhanced cooperation.
Focus Areas: Key sectors include trade, investment, semiconductors, health, and technology.
Historical Ties: Belgium was one of the first European countries to recognize independent India.
Support for UNSC Membership: Belgium endorses India's bid for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.
Continued Engagement: EAM Jaishankar's visit follows the historic India-EU Summit, indicating ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Brussels, March 16 (NationPress) The External Affairs Minister (EAM) of India, S. Jaishankar, met with Belgium's Foreign Minister, Maxime Prevot, on Monday to discuss the enhancement of bilateral collaboration across various sectors, including trade, investment, semiconductors, health, technology, and innovation.
"Kicked off Day 2 in Brussels by engaging with FM Maxime Prevot of Belgium. We explored ways to strengthen our cooperation in trade & investment, semiconductors, health, technology & innovation. I am pleased to announce our agreement to initiate a Strategic Dialogue," EAM Jaishankar shared on X.
This meeting followed their previous encounter at the Sir Bani Yas Forum last December.
Belgium was one of the first European nations to establish diplomatic relations with a newly independent India in September 1947. The relationship between India and Belgium is founded on mutual interests and a commitment to the principles of rule of law, federalism, and pluralism. Belgium has expressed its support for India’s quest for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), as noted by the Indian Embassy in Belgium.
EAM Jaishankar is on a two-day visit to Belgium at the invitation of European Union (EU) High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas to engage with Foreign Ministers from the 27 EU Member States at the Foreign Affairs Council Meeting.
On Sunday, EAM Jaishankar held discussions with his counterpart from Cyprus, Constantinos Kombos, regarding bilateral relations and the situation in West Asia.
"It was a pleasure meeting FM Constantinos Kombos of Cyprus today in Brussels. We discussed how to further enhance our strategic partnership and exchanged insights on the situation in West Asia. As Cyprus holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU, I appreciate their support for advancing EU-India engagement," EAM Jaishankar posted on X after their meeting.
According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), during his visit, EAM Jaishankar plans to meet with EU leadership and counterparts from Belgium and other EU Member States. This visit, occurring shortly after the significant 16th India-EU Summit, is anticipated to further solidify India’s Strategic Partnership with the European Union.
Point of View
Both nations demonstrate a commitment to mutual growth and international collaboration, reflecting the evolving dynamics in global diplomacy.
NationPress
6 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main outcome of the meeting between EAM Jaishankar and FM Maxime Prevot?
The primary outcome was the agreement to establish a Strategic Dialogue aimed at enhancing cooperation in trade, technology, and other sectors.
When did India and Belgium first establish diplomatic relations?
India and Belgium established diplomatic relations in September 1947, shortly after India's independence.
What sectors will the Strategic Dialogue focus on?
The Strategic Dialogue will focus on trade, investment, semiconductors, health, technology, and innovation.
Why does Belgium support India's UNSC membership?
Belgium supports India's aspiration for permanent membership in the UNSC due to shared democratic values and commitment to international law.
What other meetings did EAM Jaishankar conduct during his visit?
EAM Jaishankar also met with Cyprus's FM Constantinos Kombos to discuss bilateral ties and the situation in West Asia.
