EAM Jaishankar Advocates for Deeper India-Belgium Engagement

New Delhi, India Jul 15, 2026 ALN: External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar stated on Wednesday that the current international landscape necessitates deeper engagement between nations like India and Belgium, which share a close relationship. In his opening remarks at the India-Belgium Strategic Dialogue with his counterpart Maxime Prevot in Brussels, EAM Jaishankar emphasized the potential for both countries to enhance their already substantial relationship.

Jaishankar's remarks come at a time when global geopolitical dynamics are shifting, with countries increasingly recognizing the need for strategic partnerships to navigate complex international challenges. The relationship between India and Belgium has historically been strong, characterized by mutual cooperation in trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. As both nations face the implications of globalization, climate change, and security threats, the call for deeper engagement is becoming more pertinent.

He noted that India and Belgium have opportunities to collaborate in various sectors, including clean energy, digital technologies, life sciences, the chemical industry, logistics, and manufacturing. "I think both bilaterally and globally there is a strong case for us to engage more. What we are doing with Belgium is very much in tandem with what we are doing with the European Union," he remarked. This statement underscores the interconnected nature of international relations today, where bilateral engagements are often influenced by broader regional and global frameworks.

Jaishankar highlighted that India’s ties with Belgium align closely with its relationship with the European Union (EU), which is becoming increasingly strategic due to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two sides. He stated, "You are in a way the core of the European Union, and I would say we can see in front of our eyes that the Indian relationship with the European Union is acquiring a strategic character. The FTA itself is something much bigger than just a trade agreement." The FTA is expected to facilitate trade and investment flows, enhance economic cooperation, and create a more favorable environment for businesses in both countries.

The ongoing negotiations for the FTA reflect a broader trend of countries seeking to strengthen economic ties amidst rising protectionism and trade tensions globally. By establishing a robust framework for trade, India and Belgium aim to capitalize on each other's strengths, with India’s rapidly growing economy and Belgium’s position as a gateway to Europe. This partnership could lead to increased market access for Indian goods and services while providing Belgian companies with opportunities to invest in one of the world's largest markets.

In addition to the FTA, Jaishankar mentioned the ongoing security and defense partnership, the negotiation of a security of information agreement, and the establishment of a mobility framework. He noted that India is also engaging in a trade and technology council with major European initiatives, such as the global gateway and Horizon Europe. These initiatives are crucial as they not only foster economic ties but also enhance cooperation in technology and innovation, areas where both nations have significant capabilities.

Jaishankar reiterated New Delhi's commitment to deeper engagement across various sectors, stating that discussions are underway to expedite the process. "Our discussions, in fact, are how do we speed it up. A few months ago, people said we’ll do our best by the end of the year so that by next year everything is ready," he said. The urgency in these discussions highlights the recognition that timely action is necessary to address the evolving global landscape and to seize opportunities for collaboration.

He also addressed the challenges facing the international economy, including overdependence on production sources, market access, and connectivity. Jaishankar pointed out that global tensions cannot be contained regionally and have a cascading impact on international relations. This observation is particularly relevant in the context of recent geopolitical events that have disrupted supply chains and raised concerns about economic stability.

"The international situation today really warrants countries like ours, which have a close relationship, to engage with each other more deeply. It’s very clear that the international economy faces structural challenges, including overdependence on sources of production and challenges of connectivity. We are seeing this very sharply today in the Gulf," he stated. The Gulf region, which is a critical hub for energy supplies and trade, has been experiencing heightened tensions that have implications for global markets and economic security.

He concluded by emphasizing the importance of stabilizing, de-risking, and diversifying international relations, noting that these issues are central to contemporary world diplomacy. Jaishankar remarked, "The levels of conflicts and tensions happening around the world cannot be contained regionally anymore. In a globalized world, conflicts in one part of the world have cascading effects elsewhere." This perspective reflects a growing understanding among nations that collaboration and strategic partnerships are essential to navigate the complexities of today's world.

In summary, EAM Jaishankar's advocacy for deeper India-Belgium engagement is timely and reflective of the broader trends in international relations. As nations grapple with the challenges posed by globalization, security threats, and economic uncertainties, the call for enhanced cooperation in various sectors is not only a strategic necessity but also an opportunity to build a resilient and sustainable future. The ongoing dialogue between India and Belgium, framed within the context of their respective relationships with the European Union, could set a precedent for similar collaborations among countries facing common challenges in the evolving global landscape.