PM Modi and Belgian PM Bart De Wever Back Dialogue and Diplomacy While Expanding Cooperation in Defence, Trade and Technology
Summary
India and Belgium have called for an early end to conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, emphasizing dialogue, diplomacy and respect for international law as the preferred means of resolving global disputes.
The message came during Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s visit to India, where he held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The two leaders also discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in defence, trade, critical minerals, clean energy, semiconductors and research.
India and Belgium Back Diplomacy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said both India and Belgium believe in the rule of law, dialogue and diplomacy.
“Whether it is Ukraine or West Asia, we support all efforts aimed at an early end to conflicts and the restoration of peace,” Modi said during a joint press statement.
Both countries also reaffirmed their shared commitment to eliminating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
Ukraine War Remains a Major Concern
The war in Ukraine was among the major international issues discussed by the two leaders.
India has repeatedly called for dialogue and a negotiated settlement to the conflict. Modi has also recently urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to work toward ending the war, saying the continuation of hostilities causes serious humanitarian consequences.
Belgium, meanwhile, has strongly supported Ukraine and remains closely involved in European efforts to address the war and its wider security consequences.
West Asia Conflict Raises Global Concerns
The two countries also discussed the continuing instability in West Asia.
The conflict has created concerns over civilian casualties, regional security, energy supplies and disruptions to international trade routes. India has consistently called for de-escalation and peaceful diplomatic efforts to end hostilities.
For India, stability in West Asia is particularly important because the region is closely connected to India’s energy supplies, trade and the safety of millions of Indian citizens working across the Gulf.
Defence Cooperation Expands
Alongside the peace discussions, India and Belgium agreed to strengthen cooperation in defence and security.
The two countries are exploring cooperation involving military hardware, maritime security, drones, advanced technologies and intelligence sharing. A Letter of Intent has also been signed to establish greater structural cooperation between their armed forces, including training, officer exchanges, research and joint exercises.
The growing defence relationship comes as both countries face an increasingly complex international security environment.
Focus on Trade and Critical Minerals
Economic cooperation was another major focus of the talks.
India and Belgium agreed to deepen collaboration in critical minerals, clean energy, semiconductors, research and technology. The two countries also aim to double bilateral trade over the next five years.
India sees Belgium as an important European partner, particularly because of its expertise in advanced technology, pharmaceuticals, logistics and the diamond industry.
Semiconductor Partnership Planned
The two countries are also looking to connect Belgium’s semiconductor capabilities with India’s expanding electronics and chip ecosystem.
Modi said Belgium’s expertise and India’s scale could complement each other, with cooperation involving Belgium’s IMEC research institute and India’s semiconductor ecosystem.
The partnership could create opportunities in semiconductor research, advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.
Migration and People-to-People Links
India and Belgium are also working toward concluding a Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement.
The agreement is expected to facilitate the movement of skilled professionals and strengthen educational, research and people-to-people connections between the two countries.
The two governments also plan to expand cooperation between startups and universities.
Shared Commitment Against Terrorism
Terrorism was another important issue discussed by the leaders.
India and Belgium reaffirmed that combating terrorism remains a shared priority. The two countries have emphasized the need for international cooperation against terrorism and for preventing terrorist networks from obtaining financial, technological or logistical support.
The issue has become increasingly important as both countries seek closer cooperation on security and intelligence matters.
Conclusion
India and Belgium have called for an early end to the conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Bart De Wever emphasizing dialogue, diplomacy and the rule of law.
At the same time, the two countries are significantly broadening their bilateral relationship through cooperation in defence, critical minerals, semiconductors, clean energy, trade and research.
The discussions reflect India’s growing engagement with European partners and Belgium’s interest in strengthening ties with one of the world’s major emerging economies.