Strengthening Ties: PM Modi and King Philippe Discuss Economic Cooperation and Collaboration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently held talks with King Philippe of Belgium, emphasizing the strong bilateral ties between India and Belgium. The discussion emphasized the need to deepen trade and investment links as well as strengthen cooperation in sectors like innovation and sustainability.

In a post shared on social media platform X, PM Modi expressed his appreciation for the recent Belgian Economic Mission to India, which was led by HRH Princess Astrid. The mission aimed to explore new opportunities for cooperation across various sectors and to bolster economic resilience.

The bilateral trade between Belgium and India stands at USD 15 billion, and Belgium is one of the major trading partners of India in Europe. Significantly, Belgium was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with India after its independence and opened a diplomatic mission in New Delhi.

During Princess Astrid’s visit this month, she had a meeting with PM Modi, in which they had discussions on possibilities of cooperation in emerging industries. The delegation also paid a visit to a potato processing plant in Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh, where Agristo has expressed intentions to invest another Rs 750 crores to increase its activities in India.

The talks are happening at a time when India has asked Belgium to start the extradition of Mehul Choksi, who is now in Belgium. This dimension of the talks highlights the constant legal and diplomatic endeavors between the two countries.

The meeting between PM Modi and King Philippe overall highlights the determination of both countries to strengthen their relations and pursue mutual development through increased co-operation across various sectors.