Belgium seeks to strengthen defense cooperation with India amidst changing U.S. policies on the Ukraine war. With plans to sign an MoU by the end of 2025, Belgium emphasizes developing its defense sector for strategic autonomy. This collaboration follows significant discussions involving Indian officials and comes at a time of turmoil in European geopolitics. Both nations also address trade issues, particularly in the diamond industry.
On March 4, 2025, Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot emphasized the necessity for Europe to cultivate its own “strategic autonomy” in response to the shifting U.S. stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He underscored the importance of fortifying Belgium’s defense sector and advocated for collaboration with India. This discussion followed a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Belgian Royal Princess Astrid, who led a significant delegation of Belgian business leaders to India.
Belgium’s Defense Minister Theo Francken announced that an MoU on defense cooperation between India and Belgium would be established by the end of 2025. In conjunction, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to visit Moscow for high-level consultations, possibly setting the stage for a meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin later in the year. This visit illustrates India’s efforts to engage in dialogue amidst the ongoing conflict.
Amid rising tension due to the U.S. decision to halt aid to Ukraine, Prévot relayed the need for unity among European nations. He remarked, “The situation has changed from a couple of weeks ago, so we need to be flexible and united.” He reiterated the importance of defense capabilities and expressed hope that India could support Belgium in this endeavor while maintaining strong European solidarity in supporting Ukraine.
Belgium and India are set to enhance defense relations. Belgium plans to assign a Defense Attaché in India, reflecting their commitment to deepening collaboration. In a significant partnership, John Cockerill Defence from Belgium and Pune-based Electro Pneumatics & Hydraulics announced joint ventures aimed at manufacturing tank turrets in India, specifically tailored for the needs of the Indian Army.
India has also expressed concerns regarding the impact of sanctions imposed by G-7 countries on the raw diamond trade, particularly concerning Antwerp’s processing capabilities. Prévot clarified Belgium’s stance, noting that while it serves as a certifying authority, it is not part of the G-7; however, officials are negotiating a potential compromise with the Indian diamond industry.
In sum, the discussions between Belgium and India signal a forward-looking approach towards enhancing defense cooperation amidst international geopolitical changes. Both countries are exploring various avenues of partnership, as demonstrated by the impending MoUs and collaborations in the defense sector.
In conclusion, the recent visit of Belgian officials to India highlights a strategic pivot towards strengthening defense cooperation amid evolving geopolitical circumstances. Belgium’s push for “strategic autonomy” resonates within the context of the Ukraine conflict and reflects a commitment to enhancing military collaboration with India. This partnership, together with continued dialogue over trade matters such as diamond processing, indicates a multifaceted approach to international relations between the two nations.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
