What’s Next for India-EU Relations? Jaishankar's Key Meetings in Brussels
Strengthening Ties: Jaishankar's Visit to Belgium
Brussels: During his two-day trip to Belgium on July 14-15, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged with European Council President Antonio Costa, expressing appreciation for his insights and support in enhancing trade and technology collaboration between India and the EU.
Jaishankar's agenda included attending the 3rd India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting and holding discussions with his counterparts from the EU and Belgium. He was joined by Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and Minister of State Jitin Prasada.
Following his meeting with Costa, Jaishankar shared on social media, acknowledging the significant advancements in their partnership since the pivotal India-EU summit earlier this year.
My opening remarks at the inaugural India – Belgium Strategic Dialogue.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 15, 2026
The India-EU Summit took place in New Delhi in January, where Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen were the chief guests for the Republic Day celebrations.
Co-chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European leaders, this summit resulted in a significant Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and a new Security and Defence Partnership.
Earlier in his visit, Jaishankar met with European Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas, where they discussed the ongoing conflict in West Asia and the necessity for secure maritime trade.
Jaishankar emphasized the importance of enhancing the India-EU Strategic Partnership to bolster supply chain resilience.
In a social media update, he noted, "Started my visit to Brussels, meeting with EU HRVP @kajakallas. Had useful discussions on West Asia and the need to ensure peace and stability. Exchanged views on the importance of safe and unimpeded maritime commerce."
Kallas remarked that this year marks a historic milestone for EU-India relations, highlighting the deepening cooperation in trade, technology, security, and defense.
She stated, "It was good to speak today with @DrSJaishankar about taking our partnership further, including on maritime security."
Kallas further stressed the need to protect freedom of navigation and enhance collaboration between EU operations ATALANTA and ASPIDES and the Indian navy to ensure security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Jaishankar also met with Minister-President of Flanders, Matthias Diependaele, and Minister Annick De Ridder, discussing the potential for business and investment opportunities from the Flanders region, enabled by the India-EU FTA.