India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot in Brussels on Monday to discuss strengthening cooperation across several sectors, including trade, investment, semiconductors, healthcare, technology, and innovation. The meeting marked the second day of Jaishankar’s diplomatic engagements in Belgium and highlighted efforts to deepen bilateral relations between the two countries.
Following the meeting, Jaishankar shared that both sides explored ways to expand collaboration in emerging industries and agreed to establish a formal Strategic Dialogue to strengthen cooperation. The proposed dialogue is expected to create a structured platform for discussions on economic partnerships, innovation, and technological development.
The two ministers had previously interacted in December during the Sir Bani Yas Forum, and the latest meeting builds on earlier conversations aimed at advancing cooperation between India and Belgium. The relationship between the two nations dates back to 1947, when Belgium became one of the first European countries to establish diplomatic relations with independent India. Over the decades, ties have grown steadily, supported by shared values such as respect for the rule of law, federal governance, and pluralistic societies.
Belgium has also expressed support for India’s bid to become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, reflecting the depth of political cooperation between the two countries.
Jaishankar’s visit to Brussels is part of a broader diplomatic engagement with the European Union. He traveled to Belgium at the invitation of Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission. During the visit, he is scheduled to interact with foreign ministers from all 27 EU member states during the Foreign Affairs Council meeting.
Earlier during his trip, Jaishankar also met Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos. Their discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and exchanging views on the evolving situation in West Asia. Cyprus currently holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, and India acknowledged its support in advancing engagement between India and the EU.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the visit follows the recent 16th India–EU Summit and is expected to further strengthen the strategic partnership between India and the European Union. Officials believe continued dialogue will expand cooperation in trade, innovation, and regional security while reinforcing long-term diplomatic and economic ties.
