EAM Jaishankar Embarks on Week-Long European Tour to Strengthen Ties

EAM Jaishankar's European Engagements

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has commenced a week-long journey to Europe, where he will engage in discussions with leaders from France, the European Union, and Belgium. The aim is to enhance bilateral relations and reaffirm India's unwavering stance against terrorism.

This trip follows the initiation of 'Operation Sindoor' by India in response to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which occurred a month ago. Jaishankar is expected to share New Delhi's perspective on addressing cross-border terrorism with European leaders.

During the first leg of his visit, Jaishankar will travel to France, a nation recognized as a steadfast ally of India.

The Ministry of External Affairs stated, 'The minister will visit Paris and Marseille, where he will hold bilateral talks with his counterpart, Jean-Noël Barrot, who oversees European and foreign affairs.'

Jaishankar will also participate in the inaugural edition of the 'Mediterranean Raisina Dialogue' taking place in Marseille.

In Brussels, he will engage in strategic discussions with the EU's High Representative and Vice President, Kaja Kallas. The Ministry noted, 'The strategic partnership between India and the EU has strengthened across various sectors in recent years, further bolstered by the first visit of the EU's College of Commissioners to India in February this year.'

In addition to engaging with think tanks and media, Jaishankar will meet with senior leadership from the European Commission and the European Parliament. In the final phase of his trip, he will hold extensive discussions with leaders in Belgium.

The Ministry emphasized, 'India and Belgium share a cordial and friendly relationship, with a robust economic partnership. Currently, cooperation between the two nations spans various sectors, including trade and investment, green energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, the diamond industry, and strong people-to-people connections.'

Jaishankar is set to engage in bilateral discussions with Belgium's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Maxim Prévot, and will also meet with the country's senior leadership. He plans to interact with members of the Indian community as well.