Belgium strengthens defence ties with India

New Delhi

Belgium has announced its intention to strengthen defence ties with India by establishing a broad-based defence pact and appointing a military attaché at its embassy in New Delhi. This move aims to enhance strategic cooperation between the two nations.

The announcement came after Belgium's Princess Astrid, alongside Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot and Defence Minister Theo Francken, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Astrid is leading an Economic Mission to India, accompanied by top ministers and business leaders.

"Deeply appreciate her initiative to lead a 300-member Economic Mission to India," Modi said on X, emphasizing the opportunities in trade, technology, defence, and other sectors.

At a press briefing, Defence Minister Francken highlighted India's request for a defence task force to finalize an agreement before year-end. "Your prime minister asked us to make the task force here in New Delhi and in Brussels and to conclude the agreement before the end of the year," he said.

Belgian defence firm John Cockerill Defence is participating in the Indian Army's light tank procurement project. Foreign Minister Prevot stressed the need for strategic autonomy in Europe’s defence sector, stating, "Times are changing and we need to absolutely reinforce ties between Belgium and a powerful democracy like India."

Belgium reaffirmed its support for Ukraine amid evolving global geopolitical dynamics, emphasizing its stance against aggression in the ongoing conflict.