External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, addressing members of the Indian community in Belgium and Luxembourg on Tuesday, underscored the growing momentum in India-Europe relations as both regions navigate a rapidly evolving global order.
Speaking at an interaction in Brussels during his official visit to France, the EU, and Belgium, Jaishankar noted that Europe is increasingly rethinking its external dependencies and seeking strategic autonomy—mirroring India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) vision.
Addressing the Indian Community representatives from Belgium and Luxembourg.
🇮🇳 🇧🇪 🇱🇺
https://t.co/Dc2vHZbJgp— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 10, 2025
“Many used to speak of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, but today we are also seeing the emergence of an ‘Aatmanirbhar Europe,’” Jaishankar said. “Europe now recognizes that some of its problems require European solutions. That introspection has triggered a greater need for dependable partnerships, and India is central to that equation.”
Amid growing global instability and supply chain shifts, Jaishankar highlighted that Europe’s recalibration is driving it to build stronger, more resilient ties with countries like India. “There is a sharper interest in Europe to develop deeper relationships with India—economically, politically, and strategically,” he said.
Lauding the role of the Indian diaspora, the minister thanked community members for their contributions to their adopted countries while also being “important bridges” for India’s global engagement. “You come from diverse backgrounds and contribute meaningfully to society here. Belgium has long been a valuable partner for India, one of the first to establish diplomatic ties post-Independence,” he said.
Jaishankar also emphasized India’s intention to broaden cooperation across key sectors. “We have always enjoyed political stability in our ties with Belgium. But our effort now is to push beyond the status quo—especially in economic engagement, people-to-people connections, and community well-being,” he said.
His remarks come just months after a major Belgian economic delegation of over 300 members, led by Princess Astrid, visited India to explore collaborations in sectors like defence, green energy, pharmaceuticals, space, diamonds, and labour mobility. Princess Astrid held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jaishankar during that trip, underlining growing strategic convergence.
On the sidelines of his Brussels visit, Jaishankar also met with Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prevost. The two discussed expanding bilateral cooperation and tackling common challenges, including terrorism.
Pleased to meet DPM & FM @prevotmaxime at the start of my visit to Belgium.
Welcomed Belgium’s support and solidarity in combatting terrorism.
Appreciated the strong momentum of our bilateral engagement and the India – EU partnership.
Also held wide – ranging discussions on… pic.twitter.com/5GQbSROYUX
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 9, 2025
Jaishankar’s week-long visit to Europe (June 8–14) reflects New Delhi’s growing diplomatic thrust across the continent, aimed at bolstering political and economic ties while reinforcing India’s global partnerships amid a turbulent international landscape.
