Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever engaged in extensive discussions at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on September 3, 2026. The meeting aimed to review and assess the full range of relations between India and Belgium, reflecting a deep commitment to enhancing their partnership.

The leaders focused their discussions on key areas such as defence, trade, investment, innovation, semiconductors, fintech, critical minerals, and the strengthening of people-to-people connections. According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the dialogue included an exploration of academic and research collaborations, further highlighting the multifaceted nature of the partnership.

In addition to bilateral matters, PM Modi and PM De Wever also addressed various regional and global issues that share mutual importance for both nations. Their conversation reaffirmed the intention to deepen ongoing collaborations and explore new avenues for partnership.

Key Agreements and Future Trade Goals

During their meeting, Prime Ministers Modi and De Wever presided over the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), which encompass cooperation in defence, renewable energy, crime prevention, and diplomatic training initiatives. These agreements signify a commitment to foster closer ties, particularly in critical sectors important for both countries.

Both leaders committed to ambitious aims of doubling bilateral trade over the next five years. To facilitate this goal, they unveiled plans for the establishment of a business forum, an investment forum, and ongoing consular dialogue, as reported by the MEA. These frameworks are expected to enhance commercial engagement and create new opportunities for economic collaboration.

The meeting included notable attendance from several high-ranking officials, including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Principal Secretary to PM PK Mishra, and Secretary (West) of the MEA, Sibi George. This demonstrated a collective governmental focus on nurturing the bilateral relationship.

Significance of the Visit

Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s visit to India marks his first official engagement since assuming office in February 2025. His presence is significant, as it is the first visit by a Belgian Prime Minister to India in two decades, symbolising a new phase in diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Later on the same day, PM De Wever is scheduled to present a keynote address at a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) business event. This gathering is set within the context of the ongoing discussions related to the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, demonstrating the strategic economic dimensions of his visit.

Following his engagements in New Delhi, the Belgian Prime Minister will travel to Mumbai, where he is expected to interact with various stakeholders, including representatives from the diamond, ports, and logistics sectors. These interactions aim to emphasise Belgium’s commitment to strengthening trade ties with India.

The MEA stated that this visit provides an important opportunity to enhance the India-Belgium partnership by advancing cooperation in diverse areas. These include trade, security, technology, and renewable energy, while also aiming to bolster India-EU and India-Europe engagements for the future.

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