Belgium Welcomes Larger Indian Role in Ukraine Peace Efforts
New Delhi — Belgian Defence and Trade Minister Theo Francken has called for India to play a larger role in efforts to end the war in Ukraine, saying the U.S.-led peace process has so far failed to produce results.
Francken said Prime Minister Narendra Modi could have an opportunity to advance peace efforts when Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to visit New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit next week.
His comments came after Modi and Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever held talks in New Delhi on Thursday. The two leaders discussed major international issues, including the conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia.
“Regarding the war in Ukraine, both sides reaffirmed their support for efforts towards the achievement of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace through dialogue and diplomacy, in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law,” a joint statement issued after the meeting said.
In a post on X, Francken said De Wever had emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire during the meeting with Modi and noted that India shares that position.
“The US-led peace process is unfortunately leading nowhere. A bigger role for India in that regard would, therefore, be very welcome,” Francken said. “As early as the end of next week, Prime Minister Modi will get a chance to step up. That’s when both Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping will be in New Delhi.”
Francken also highlighted expanding economic ties between Belgium and India, saying Belgium currently exports about €5 billion worth of goods and services to India and aims to double that figure by 2032.
He said nearly 2,000 Belgian companies are already active in India and predicted that more would enter the market in the coming years.
“At the end of this year, Indian Prime Minister Modi will visit Brussels to sign a comprehensive EU-India trade agreement. That will make exporting to India much easier for our businesses,” Francken said.
He described India’s market of roughly 1.4 billion people as presenting major opportunities for Belgian companies, pointing to the country’s rapid economic growth.
Francken said the Belgian delegation’s visit had helped strengthen political ties with India while opening new opportunities for Belgian businesses.
“We’ve opened doors for our companies at the highest level. And we’ve strengthened political ties with two countries that truly matter in the world: India and Japan,” he said. (Source: IANS)
