Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with King Philippe of Belgium, reaffirming the commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between India and Belgium. The conversation focused on boosting trade and investment, as well as advancing cooperation in innovation and sustainability.
Prime Minister Modi expressed appreciation for the recent Belgian Economic Mission to India, which was led by Princess Astrid. In a post on X, he stated, “It was a pleasure to speak with HM King Philippe of Belgium. Appreciated the recent Belgian Economic Mission to India led by HRH Princess Astrid. We discussed deepening our strong bilateral ties, boosting trade & investment, and advancing collaboration in innovation & sustainability.”
Earlier this month, on March 4, Prime Minister Modi met Princess Astrid, lauding her initiative in leading a 300-member economic delegation to India. He emphasized the potential for new partnerships between the two nations across multiple sectors.
Following the meeting, he shared on X, “Pleased to meet HRH Princess Astrid of Belgium. Deeply appreciate her initiative to lead a 300-member Economic Mission to India. Look forward to unlocking limitless opportunities for our people through new partnerships in trade, technology, defence, agriculture, life sciences, innovation, skilling, and academic exchanges.”
Princess Astrid, the second child of King Albert II and Queen Paola and sister to King Philippe, plays a key role in Belgium’s international economic engagements. As a representative of the King, she leads Belgian economic missions, which, according to a statement from the Belgian Monarchy, contribute significantly to Belgium’s economic and trade relations with numerous foreign partners.
The phone conversation between Prime Minister Modi and King Philippe comes at a significant time, as Belgium closely monitors the legal case involving fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi. David Jordens, Spokesperson and Head of Service for social media and press at Belgium’s Federal Public Service (FPS) Foreign Affairs, confirmed that the Belgian government is giving serious attention to the case.
When asked about Choksi’s possible presence in Belgium, Jordens stated, “I can confirm that the Federal Public Service (FPS) Foreign Affairs is aware of this case and attaches great importance and attention to it. However, we do not comment on individual cases. Furthermore, this case falls under the competence of the Federal Public Service Justice.”
(Inputs from ANI)
