India-Belgium Relations Expand Beyond Diamonds With New Trade and Defence Push
India and Belgium have agreed to deepen cooperation in trade, defence, investment, technology and clean energy following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever in New Delhi on September 3.
The two countries also set an ambitious target to double bilateral trade over the next five years. Their new focus extends beyond the traditional diamond trade and includes semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, critical minerals, defence manufacturing and sustainable industries.
India and Belgium also launched an Investment Fast-Track Mechanism. The initiative aims to help companies from both countries address investment-related challenges and create a smoother environment for cross-border investment.
Defence cooperation also gained major attention during the talks. India and Belgium agreed to expand collaboration in defence production, military technology, maritime security, training and research. The countries also signed agreements covering defence-related industrial cooperation.
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Critical minerals emerged as another important area. Both sides want to strengthen cooperation in the processing and recycling of critical minerals, which play an important role in batteries, electronics, clean-energy systems and advanced manufacturing.
The partnership also covers semiconductors, renewable energy and research. India and Belgium are looking to build stronger supply chains and encourage cooperation in advanced technologies.
The talks come as India seeks deeper economic and strategic relationships with European countries. Belgium, meanwhile, sees India as an important partner for trade, investment, technology and security.
The latest agreements mark a broader shift in India-Belgium relations. While diamonds remain an important part of bilateral trade, both countries are now placing greater emphasis on defence, high technology, clean energy and strategic supply chains.
