India-EU Relations – Jaishankar Strengthens Strategic Partnership During Belgium Visit
India-EU Relations – External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a series of high-level meetings in Brussels during his two-day visit to Belgium, reaffirming India’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the European Union across trade, technology, security, and regional connectivity. The discussions came as senior leaders from both sides reviewed the progress made since the India-EU Summit held earlier this year and explored new opportunities to deepen strategic engagement.
Focus on Expanding India-EU Cooperation
Jaishankar met European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas, where the leaders exchanged views on strengthening bilateral relations in several priority areas. Their discussions covered trade, digital innovation, maritime security, resilient supply chains, and broader strategic cooperation. The meetings were held alongside the third India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) gathering, which brought together senior representatives from both sides.
The Indian delegation included Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Minister of State Jitin Prasada, and Principal Scientific Adviser Prof. Ajay K. Sood, reflecting India’s focus on combining economic, technological, and policy engagement with Europe.
Progress Since the January Summit
After meeting Antonio Costa, Jaishankar said that India and the European Union had witnessed significant progress in their relationship following the landmark summit in New Delhi earlier this year. He conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s greetings and expressed appreciation for the continued efforts to strengthen cooperation in trade and technology.
The January summit marked an important milestone in India-EU ties. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited India during the occasion, with discussions resulting in important understandings on a proposed Free Trade Agreement and a broader framework for security and defence cooperation.
Security and Maritime Issues Featured in Talks
Jaishankar also held detailed discussions with Kaja Kallas, focusing on developments in West Asia, regional stability, and the importance of maintaining secure maritime routes. Both leaders agreed that uninterrupted global shipping and resilient supply chains remain essential for economic stability and international trade.
Kallas described the current phase as an important period for India-EU relations, noting that cooperation has continued to expand in areas including trade, technology, defence, and security. She underlined the need to safeguard freedom of navigation, strengthen supply chain resilience, and enhance collaboration between European maritime missions and the Indian Navy to support stability across the Indo-Pacific region.
Business Opportunities with Belgium
During his visit, Jaishankar also met the Minister-President of Flanders, Matthias Diependaele, along with Minister Annick De Ridder, to discuss investment opportunities and regional business cooperation.
The conversations focused on encouraging greater commercial engagement between Indian companies and businesses based in Flanders. Jaishankar said that growing India-EU economic cooperation has created fresh possibilities for partnerships, investments, and industrial collaboration, particularly following the recent progress in trade discussions between India and the European Union.
Strategic Partnership Continues to Expand
The meetings in Brussels highlighted the growing momentum in India-EU relations as both sides seek closer cooperation across multiple sectors. From technology and digital innovation to maritime security, investment, and supply chain resilience, the discussions reflected a shared commitment to building a stronger long-term partnership.
The Trade and Technology Council meeting also provided an opportunity for policymakers to identify practical areas of collaboration that can support sustainable economic growth while addressing emerging global challenges. With regular high-level engagements continuing between New Delhi and Brussels, both partners are aiming to strengthen strategic coordination and expand opportunities for businesses, innovation, and regional security in the years ahead.