New Delhi and Brussels strengthen defence ties with fresh agreements and industrial cooperation….reports Asian Lite News Desk – Photo by Amlan Palliwal
Belgian Defence and Trade Minister Theo Francken has described India as a “stabilising factor” in South Asia and the Indian Ocean, saying a stronger India could act as a useful counterweight to China’s growing dominance in Asia.
Francken made the remarks during a two-day visit to India alongside Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, saying Belgium had a direct security interest in India’s rapid expansion of its military-industrial base.
“A stronger India can provide a useful counterweight to China’s dominance in Asia and thus ensure a more stable balance of power,” Francken said in a post on X. He also said India could play a useful role in efforts to find peace in the Russia-Ukraine war.
Earlier, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met Francken in New Delhi, where the two leaders reviewed bilateral defence ties and industrial cooperation. Singh said several memoranda of understanding and contracts had been signed.
Francken highlighted opportunities for Belgian companies to support India’s military modernisation, including its Zorawar light tank designed for high-altitude operations. He said Belgian firm John Cockerill could supply tank turrets, while OIP already provides sights for India’s Arjun tank. Thales Belgium produces 70mm rockets in India, and FN Herstal has agreed to manufacture rifles with an Indian partner.
He also pointed to potential maritime cooperation, saying Belgian firm Exail Robotics could support India’s growing mine countermeasure capabilities with underwater drone technology.
Belgium is also strengthening its defence presence in India by appointing a permanent defence attaché in New Delhi, expanding military training cooperation and sending the Belgian Navy frigate Leopold I to Mumbai, Francken said.
