In a significant diplomatic exchange, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a telephonic conversation with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. The leaders discussed critical issues related to international relations, regional conflicts, and bilateral cooperation. Here are the key takeaways from their conversation:
- Peace and Security in West Asia and Russia-Ukraine Conflict:
- Both leaders expressed their commitment to enhancing cooperation between India and Belgium.
- They deliberated on the early restoration of peace and security in two crucial regions: West Asia and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
- Prime Minister Modi emphasized the significance of dialogue and diplomacy as the path forward in resolving the Russia-Ukraine crisis.
- Belgium’s Successful Nuclear Energy Summit:
- PM Modi congratulated Mr. De Croo on the successful hosting of the First Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels last week.
- The summit focused on nuclear energy cooperation and its potential impact on global security.
- Strengthening Bilateral Ties and India-EU Partnership:
- The two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral partnership across various sectors.
- Areas of collaboration included trade, investment, clean technologies, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, green hydrogen, IT, defense, and ports.
- They affirmed their commitment to bolstering the India-EU Strategic Partnership during the ongoing Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
- Belgium’s Role in Global Affairs:
- Mr. De Croo highlighted the importance of addressing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
- The protection of shipping lanes in the Red Sea was also a topic of discussion.
- The upcoming royal trade mission to India further underscored the growing commercial relations between the two nations.
In a joint statement, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) emphasized the excellent relations between India and Belgium. Both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting peace, security, and cooperation on the global stage.
“Spoke to Belgium PM @alexanderdecroo. Congratulated him on the success of the First Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels. Exchanged views on strengthening bilateral ties; advancing India-EU Partnership under Belgian Presidency; and cooperation on regional and global issues.” – Prime Minister Narendra Modi
“Called Prime Minister @narendramodi to discuss the conflicts in #Ukraine & #Gaza and protecting shipping lanes in the Red Sea. We also talked about our growing commercial relations #semiconductors #pharmaceuticals #greenhydrogen and the upcoming royal trade mission to India.” – Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo