The talks were centered on strengthening ties, with special attention given to sectors such as the diamond industry, semiconductors, and sustainable growth…reports Asian Lite News
In a notable gathering held in New Delhi on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM), S Jaishankar, and Theodora Gentzis, Secretary-General of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, convened to discuss strategies for deepening economic and political collaboration among India, Belgium, and the European Union (EU). The talks were centered on strengthening ties, with special attention given to sectors such as the diamond industry, semiconductors, and sustainable growth.
EAM Jaishankar expressed his contentment over hosting Gentzis, highlighting the discussions on mutual economic and political interests.
“Pleased to receive Secretary General @BelgiumMFA Theodora Gentzis today. Discussed strengthening economic and political cooperation between India, Belgium and the EU. Took up the concerns of our diamond industry. Also exchanged views on semiconductors and green growth,” EAM Jaishankar posted on social media platform X.
Earlier, Gentzis also engaged with Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi, discussing methods to strengthen bilateral ties.
“Pleasure meeting Ms. Theodora Gentzis, Secretary General at Belgium MFA today. Reiterated our commitment to further deepen our close, friendly and multifaceted ties,” MoS Lekhi posted on X after their meeting on Monday (April 8, 2024).
These discussions are a continuation of the diplomatic engagement following last month’s telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Belgian PM Alexander De Croo, where both leaders deliberated on advancing the India-EU Partnership under the Belgian Presidency.
The two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen the bilateral partnership in diverse sectors including trade, investment, clean technologies, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, green hydrogen, IT, defence, ports, among other others, the MEA said after their conversation on March 26, 2024.
Historically, Belgium was one of the first European nations to establish diplomatic ties with independent India in September 1947. The relationship has been marked by high-level visits, shared democratic values, and robust economic engagement. Trade, particularly in diamonds, has been a significant aspect of the bilateral relations, complemented by investments and cooperation in various sectors like science and technology, renewable energy, and education.
The latest discussions reinforce the commitment of both nations to strengthen the strategic partnership, with an emphasis on technology, environment-friendly growth, and trade, continuing the legacy of cooperation and mutual respect that has characterized India-Belgium relations for decades. (India News Network )
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