Belgium Advocates Defense Collaboration with India Amidst Geopolitical Changes
Belgian officials advocate for enhanced defense cooperation with India, emphasizing the need for Europe’s strategic autonomy amid the changing U.S. stance on Ukraine. A forthcoming MoU aims to strengthen military capabilities and promote local manufacturing. Additionally, ongoing discussions address the impact of G-7 sanctions on the diamond trade, illustrating the multifaceted nature of Belgian-Indian relations during a turbulent geopolitical climate.
Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot emphasized the need for Europe to develop its “strategic autonomy” in light of the shifting U.S. stance on the Ukraine conflict. He indicated that Belgium plans to strengthen its defense sector through collaboration with India, a partnership discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with Belgian Royal Princess Astrid, who led a delegation of over 300 Belgian business leaders on an economic mission to India.
Following these discussions, Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken announced that India and Belgium would finalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defense cooperation by the end of 2025. This agreement is part of Belgium’s broader strategy to enhance military capabilities in response to the ongoing war in Ukraine, with India seen as a vital partner.
As tensions rise due to the U.S. decision to halt aid to Ukraine, Belgium continues to support Ukraine while highlighting India’s potential role in strengthening European defense. Mr. Prévot noted that while the Belgian delegation did not discuss the Ukraine issue directly with Mr. Modi, there is recognition of Europe’s concerns and hopes for Indian support in military endeavors.
Furthermore, Belgium plans to appoint a Defence Attache in India and has initiated a joint venture between John Cockerill Defence and Pune-based Electro Pneumatics & Hydraulics to manufacture tank turrets, focusing initially on the Indian Army’s light tank program.
On another note, India has expressed concerns over G-7 sanctions affecting the importation of raw diamonds for processing in Surat. Mr. Prévot acknowledged Belgium’s role as a certifying authority while highlighting that Belgium is not part of the G-7, hence its limitations in facilitating a resolution to this issue.
In summary, Belgium seeks to enhance its defense capabilities in cooperation with India while addressing the geopolitical shifts resulting from the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The expected MoU on defense cooperation and projects like tank turret manufacturing exemplify the growing partnership between India and Belgium. Additionally, discussions regarding the diamond trade sanctions indicate an interest in resolving trade challenges between the two nations.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
