New Delhi: In a significant step toward enhancing economic and trade cooperation, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar met Princess Astrid of Belgium on Monday. The Belgian royal is leading a high-level economic mission to India, aimed at deepening bilateral ties and expanding business opportunities between the two nations.
Following their meeting, Jaishankar underscored the importance of the visit, expressing confidence that it would pave the way for stronger collaborations between India, Belgium, and the European Union (EU).
Delighted to meet HRH Princess Astrid of Belgium, leading an economic mission to India.
Confident that her visit will foster greater collaborations for a stronger India – Belgium and India – EU partnership.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) March 3, 2025
EAM Jaishankar highlighted that Belgium has long-standing historical and economic connections with India. He noted that the two nations share war memorials dedicated to Indian soldiers who fought in Belgium during the World Wars, underscoring the depth of their historical ties.
According to a statement from the External Affairs Ministry (MEA), Princess Astrid will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi during her visit and visit various states, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Delhi.
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Before his discussions with Princess Astrid, Jaishankar also met Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot at Hyderabad House. Their talks focused on expanding cooperation in trade, industry, education, and innovation.
Opening remarks at my meeting with FM @prevotmaxime of Belgium.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) March 3, 2025
EAM Jaishankar emphasized India’s growing role in cutting-edge sectors such as semiconductors, AI, clean energy, and research & innovation. He pointed out that Belgium’s economic delegation—comprising nearly 360 businesses—had a significant opportunity to explore India’s evolving industrial landscape.
Belgium, as a key European economy, plays an important role in India’s trade with the European Union. The economic mission, led by Princess Astrid, is expected to enhance collaboration in high-tech sectors, manufacturing, and investment, reinforcing India’s engagement with the EU market.
