Belgium Advocates for Enhanced Defense Cooperation with India Amidst Global Tensions

Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prévot advocated for Europe to develop “strategic autonomy” in defense during a visit to India. Following discussions with Prime Minister Modi, an MoU on defense cooperation is set to be signed by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, India is preparing diplomatic efforts concerning the Russia-Ukraine conflict and addressing G-7 sanctions affecting diamonds.

Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot emphasized the necessity for Europe to attain “strategic autonomy” during a statement made on March 4, 2025. This call for action arises in the context of the changing U.S. position regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Mr. Prévot highlighted the need for Belgium to enhance its defense sector, advocating for strengthened defense cooperation with India.

The discussions followed a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Belgian Royal Princess Astrid, who led a delegation of over 300 Belgian business leaders on an economic mission to India. Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken announced that both countries plan to formalize their defense cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), expected to be signed by the end of 2025.

During this geopolitical upheaval, New Delhi will also assert its diplomatic role by sending Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to Moscow to engage in consultations. He is tasked with preparing for a potential high-level meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin amid ongoing tensions following U.S. President Donald Trump’s withdrawal of aid to Ukraine.

The Belgian delegation’s visit is significant as it unfolds amid an extraordinary European Union summit scheduled for March 6, 2025, where members will discuss their strategy in response to the altered U.S. policy. “The situation has changed from a couple of weeks ago, so we need to be flexible and united… That’s the message that we are disseminating in the European Union,” Mr. Prévot expressed, underscoring the urgency for Europe to develop its own defense capabilities.

Mr. Prévot reaffirmed Belgium’s support for Ukraine, acknowledging the moral clarity of the conflict while also maintaining strong ties with the U.S. Although the Ukraine situation was not a focus of discussions with Prime Minister Modi, Mr. Prévot indicated that Belgium aims to enhance military collaboration with India, particularly in defense technology, to bolster the “Make in India” initiative.

To facilitate increased defense cooperation, Belgium will appoint a Defense Attaché to India. Additionally, a joint venture between Belgium’s John Cockerill Defence and India’s Electro Pneumatics & Hydraulics aims to manufacture tank turrets for the Indian Army’s light tank project, further evidencing the commitment to collaboration in the defense sector.

As discussions evolve, India has raised concerns regarding G-7 sanctions affecting the import of raw diamonds via Antwerp and proposed becoming a certifying authority to alleviate issues plaguing its diamond industry. Mr. Prévot acknowledged that while Belgium operates as a certifying authority, its non-G-7 status limits its decision-making power on these sanctions.

In summary, Belgium seeks to enhance its defense collaboration with India to secure strategic autonomy amid shifting geopolitical landscapes fueled by U.S. policy changes on the Ukraine war. With a focus on mutual cooperation, including the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on defense and joint ventures in industry, both nations stand poised to fortify their military capabilities and economic relations. Simultaneously, discussions on sanctions impacting the diamond industry illustrate the multifaceted nature of India-Belgium ties.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com