Belgium’s Bart De Wever targets deeper strategic ties with India

De Wever, who assumed office in February of the previous year, framed the diplomatic mission as a bridge between India’s massive scale and Belgium’s specialized industrial expertise. During his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House, the Belgian premier noted that his country’s strengths in pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and clean energy offer direct synergy with India's growth trajectory. He stated that the relationship is moving beyond historical trade roots toward a more robust strategic integration, particularly as the two nations navigate an increasingly fragmented global landscape.

The visit coincides with ongoing negotiations for an India-European Union Free Trade Agreement, a focal point for De Wever’s upcoming keynote at a summit organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry. Accompanied by Defence Minister Theo Francken, the Belgian delegation aims to build upon the momentum established by Princess Astrid’s economic mission earlier this year. Following his engagements in the capital, which included a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, De Wever will travel to Mumbai on Friday to engage with industry leaders in the diamond, maritime, and logistics sectors.