New Delhi, April 10 (NationPress) On Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) officially shared the news of the appointment of seasoned diplomat Pranay Verma as India’s forthcoming Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium, who will also serve concurrently as Ambassador to the European Union.

According to the MEA's press release, "Shri Pranay Verma (IFS:1994), currently the High Commissioner of India to the People's Republic of Bangladesh, has been designated as the next Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Belgium, with concurrent accreditation to the European Union."

The ministry further noted, "He is anticipated to commence his new role shortly."

Verma will take over from Saurabh Kumar, who concluded his term earlier this year. During his time in Brussels, Kumar was also accredited as Ambassador to both the European Union and Luxembourg.

This appointment is particularly significant as India strengthens its ties with Europe, especially following the pivotal India-EU free trade agreement finalized in January.

This landmark agreement is poised to enhance bilateral trade by reducing over 90% of tariffs, impacting trade that represents nearly a quarter of global GDP. It is expected to render Indian exports more competitive while also decreasing the prices of European goods like automobiles and wines in India.

Officials indicate that Verma’s new responsibilities will be crucial in navigating the agreement through the European Parliament, a process that entails complex legal evaluations and translations into 27 languages before it can be ratified.

The Indian Embassy in Brussels, which has been operational since 1948, acts as a vital diplomatic center accredited to Belgium, Luxembourg, and the European Union. Verma’s role will place him at the forefront of India’s strategic, economic, and political initiatives with this region.

A member of the 1994 batch of the Indian Foreign Service, Verma possesses over three decades of diplomatic expertise, having previously served as Ambassador to Vietnam. His background in East Asia is seen as beneficial as India aims to broaden its international partnerships.

Presently the High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Verma has been actively involved in enhancing bilateral relations.

This week, he held discussions with Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, where he expressed New Delhi’s commitment to fostering "positive, constructive, and people-centric ties" based on shared interests.

This meeting is part of ongoing efforts by both nations to mend relations following recent political changes in Dhaka, highlighting Verma’s pivotal role in managing critical diplomatic responsibilities as he prepares for his new assignment in Brussels.