Belgian Delegation Visits India to Enhance Trade and Diplomatic Relations
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Synopsis
A high-ranking Belgian delegation led by Princess Astrid is in India from March 1-8 to enhance trade and diplomatic relations. The focus is on sectors like pharmaceuticals, logistics, and renewable energy, with significant meetings scheduled with Indian officials.
Key Takeaways
- High-level delegation led by Princess Astrid
- Focus on trade in pharmaceuticals and renewable energy
- Meetings with key Indian ministers
- Strengthening Belgium's image in India
- Emphasis on technological partnerships and cleantech
New Delhi, March 1 (NationPress) A high-level Belgian delegation, spearheaded by Princess Astrid, has arrived in India from March 1-8 with the aim of enhancing trade and diplomatic relations.
The focus of this visit will be on sectors such as pharmaceuticals, logistics, aerospace, and renewable energy, according to an official announcement.
The delegation is set to hold discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and other senior officials in the upcoming week.
"A substantial group from various sectors and the three regions will travel to New Delhi and Mumbai to bolster Belgium's status as a desirable partner and a gateway to the European market," the announcement further stated.
Belgium currently ranks 18th among its export destinations, with around 200 Belgian companies operating in India.
The mission kicks off on Sunday with a meeting with the EU ambassador to India. The delegation will also visit the Agristo Masa factory, which is the first production site of the Belgian company Agristo outside Europe, to officially commence the construction of a new Belgian fry production line.
The existing facility employs a biomass boiler manufactured and installed by the Belgian firm Vyncke. The Belgian identity is further emphasized by the recent acquisition of a potato harvester from AVR.
A seminar focusing on water and waste management will unite Belgian and Indian partners around cleantech, while the virtual inauguration of the Silox research and innovation centre exemplifies Belgian aspirations in this domain within India, as noted in the statement from the Belgian government.
In addition to defence, the construction sector is also a key focus of this economic mission. A seminar on this subject will delve into future market trends, business opportunities, contemporary practices, and challenges. Belgian and Indian companies and organizations will share best practices and discuss current technologies and innovations.
This delegation comprises representatives from 36 Brussels-based companies, including 61 participants, with 30 percent being women. On March 5, the India-Belgium Tech Forum will concentrate on fortifying technological partnerships.
