India moved to strengthen its engagement with European partners as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a series of high-level meetings in Brussels focused on economic cooperation, strategic ties, and regional stability. During discussions with Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot, both leaders explored new opportunities to deepen collaboration across sectors including trade, investment, healthcare, semiconductors, technology, and innovation.
The meeting marked an important step in expanding bilateral engagement between India and Belgium. Following their talks, the two countries agreed to establish a Strategic Dialogue mechanism aimed at creating stronger coordination on political, economic, and emerging global issues. The initiative is expected to provide a structured platform for regular discussions and future partnerships between the two nations.
Jaishankar later shared on X that his discussions with Prevot centered on increasing cooperation in several priority sectors that are becoming increasingly important in the global economy. The conversations reflected India’s growing efforts to build stronger economic and diplomatic ties with European countries amid shifting geopolitical and technological landscapes.
In another key engagement during his Brussels visit, Jaishankar met Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos to review the progress of the India–Cyprus strategic partnership. Both leaders discussed ways to expand bilateral relations while also exchanging perspectives on ongoing developments in West Asia and the Middle East.
Jaishankar acknowledged Cyprus for supporting closer ties between India and the European Union. He highlighted the country’s current role as the holder of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, describing it as an important opportunity to advance broader EU–India cooperation.
Kombos also commented publicly on the meeting, stating that discussions included preparations for the upcoming India visit of Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides. The leaders additionally reviewed the state of relations between India and the European Union following the latest summit involving both sides.
The ministers emphasized that diplomatic engagement and constructive dialogue remain essential for reducing tensions and maintaining long-term stability in the Middle East. Their discussions reflected shared concerns over regional developments and the importance of peaceful solutions.
Jaishankar’s Brussels visit, held at the invitation of European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, includes interactions with foreign ministers from all 27 EU member states as part of the Foreign Affairs Council meeting. Alongside these engagements, the Indian minister is also meeting senior European Union leaders and representatives from multiple member nations to further strengthen India’s strategic presence in Europe.
