India's robust growth offers confidence to world, Modi tells Belgium

India and Belgium have committed to expanding ties across multiple strategic sectors following high-level talks in Brussels on Thursday. The two nations identified trade, defence, critical minerals, clean energy and technology transfer as priority areas for enhanced collaboration, signalling a deepening of diplomatic and economic engagement.

Addressing reporters after his meeting with De Wever, Modi underscored India's economic resilience in the face of international headwinds. "India's economy has maintained its momentum despite global challenges," the Prime Minister said, noting that the country had achieved a 7.8 per cent growth rate in the last quarter. He framed India's economic ascendancy as a source of confidence and fresh opportunities for the world, particularly as many regions grapple with conflict, supply chain disruptions, and food and fuel insecurity.

De Wever welcomed the deepening partnership between the two nations, characterising the recently concluded India-European Union free trade agreement as a significant milestone. The Belgian Prime Minister stated that relations between New Delhi and Brussels had evolved into a partnership that is "broad and more strategic than ever before," reflecting shared interests in stability and prosperity.

The talks reflect India's growing strategic importance in global affairs and its efforts to forge stronger partnerships with European nations during a period of geopolitical flux.