Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prévot called for Europe to enhance its “strategic autonomy” amid changing U.S. policies on the Ukraine war. A Belgian delegation, led by Princess Astrid, visited India to strengthen defense cooperation, culminating in a planned MoU by 2025. Concurrently, India addresses challenges regarding G-7 sanctions on diamonds affecting its industry.
Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot emphasized the need for Europe to establish its own “strategic autonomy” during discussions about the changing dynamics of the Ukraine war. Belgium is keen to enhance its defense sector and is advocating for increased cooperation with India, particularly in military capabilities. This statement follows a visit by Belgian Royal Princess Astrid, who led a delegation to India, consisting of over 300 Belgian business leaders.
Together with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Prévot announced that India and Belgium aim to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defense cooperation by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will travel to Moscow for consultations and to prepare for a high-level meeting between Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin later this year.
The Belgian delegation’s visit coincides with significant shifts in European dynamics, especially following the reported cessation of U.S. aid to Ukraine after a meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Prévot remarked on the necessity of flexibility and unity among EU states, asserting that the situation requires Europe to prioritize its defense sector.
Belgium has affirmed its support for Ukraine, categorically stating that it recognizes the nature of the conflict between the aggressor and the victim. Although the discussions with Modi did not include specifics about the Ukraine crisis, Prévot acknowledged Europe’s concerns and expressed hope that India would play a crucial role in bolstering Belgium’s military capacities through collaboration with Belgian defense firms.
To advance defense cooperation, Belgium plans to appoint a Defense Attaché in India. The partnership also includes a joint venture by Belgium’s John Cockerill Defence and Pune’s Electro Pneumatics & Hydraulics, focusing on manufacturing tank turrets for the Indian Army. This development is part of wider cooperation, complemented by other agreements across various sectors such as food processing and education.
In addition, India has raised concerns regarding G-7 countries’ sanctions on raw diamonds processed through Antwerp, impacting the Indian diamond industry. Mr. Prévot indicated that while Belgium serves as a certifying authority, it lacks G-7 member status. However, ongoing discussions aim to find an acceptable resolution involving Indian and Belgian diamond exchange officials.
In summary, Belgium is advancing its defense initiatives in light of recent geopolitical shifts, particularly the U.S.’s changing stance on the Ukraine conflict. Collaborative efforts with India are expected to bolster Belgium’s defense capabilities, highlighted by planned agreements and a joint venture for military equipment manufacturing. Both nations seek to navigate challenges in diverse areas such as technology and trade, aiming to strengthen their economic and defense ties.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
