PM Modi discusses India-EU partnership and bilateral ties with Belgian counterpart

New Delhi, March 26 (IANS) – Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephone conversation with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and congratulating on the successful hosting of the First Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels. They also affirmed commitment to enhance the India-EU Strategic Partnership under the ongoing Belgian Presidency.

During the conversation, Prime Minister Modi expressed, “Spoke to Belgium PM @alexanderdecroo… Exchanged views on strengthening bilateral ties; advancing India-EU Partnership under Belgian Presidency; and cooperation on regional and global issues.” The leaders reviewed the excellent relations between India and Belgium and discussed enhancing partnerships in diverse sectors like trade, investment, clean technologies, and more.

Both leaders agreed on the need to support the early restoration of peace and security in the West Asia region and the Russia-Ukraine war. They exchanged views on regional and global developments and committed to remaining in touch. The discussions aimed at further strengthening cooperation between the two nations.

The First Nuclear Energy Summit, jointly organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Belgium, had global leaders reaffirming their commitment to nuclear energy for reducing carbon emissions. India, as a responsible nuclear power with advanced technology, reiterated its commitment to expanding peaceful applications of nuclear technology and ensuring nuclear safety.

Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, stated India’s aim to increase nuclear energy’s share in the country’s electricity mix by 2047 and to triple nuclear power generation capacity by 2030. India also expressed commitment to international civil nuclear cooperation for the nation’s development needs and engagement with foreign companies to expand the nuclear energy program.

The summit highlighted India’s three-stage nuclear power programme and its efforts to enhance nuclear safety and security globally. India continues to support the IAEA in its mission to provide a robust and sustainable framework. The discussions at the summit aimed at promoting the use of nuclear energy for sustainable development goals.

The dialogue between Prime Minister Modi and Belgian Prime Minister De Croo signifies the commitment of both nations to deepen their ties and collaborate on various issues of mutual interest. The discussions aimed at exploring opportunities for partnership and cooperation in multiple sectors for the benefit of both countries.

The engagement between the two leaders reflects a shared vision of furthering bilateral relations and contributing to global peace and security. The dialogue also underlines the importance of collaboration between India and Belgium in advancing common goals for prosperity and sustainability in the region and beyond.