India and Belgium deepen ties in defence, semiconductors and critical minerals as PM Modi highlights the Zorawar tank project and new cooperation.

India and Belgium are looking to deepen cooperation across defence, critical minerals, semiconductors and clean energy, with several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) exchanged in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.

During the meeting, PM Modi highlighted the long-standing partnership between the two countries and discussed ways to expand cooperation in strategic and emerging sectors. The latest developments indicate that India-Belgium Relations are moving beyond traditional trade ties towards wider economic, technological and defence cooperation.

PM Modi Welcomes Belgian Prime Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi warmly welcomed Bart De Wever during his visit to India. It is De Wever’s first visit to the country, although he has had a long association with India through his years as mayor of Antwerp.

PM Modi noted De Wever’s engagement with Antwerp’s large Indian community and his support for the diamond trade between India and Belgium. The diamond industry has traditionally been an important link between the two countries.

Partnership Has Deep Historical Roots

PM Modi also spoke about the historical foundations of India-Belgium Relations. He recalled the contribution and sacrifice of Indian soldiers in Belgium during the First World War, describing their role as an important part of the shared history between the two nations.

According to PM Modi, democratic values, market-oriented economies and strong people-to-people connections have helped India and Belgium develop a natural partnership.

He also recalled his visit to Belgium around a decade ago and said bilateral cooperation has made significant progress over the past ten years.

Zorawar Tank Project Gets Special Mention

Defence cooperation emerged as one of the key areas of discussion between the two countries. PM Modi specifically referred to the Zorawar tank project, saying that India and Belgium are working together on the initiative.

The two sides also discussed expanding cooperation in the wider defence sector. For India, strengthening domestic defence production remains an important priority, while international technology partnerships can support the development of advanced defence capabilities.

The Zorawar project is therefore expected to remain an important element of the growing defence dimension of India-Belgium Relations.

Critical Minerals and Semiconductor Cooperation

India and Belgium are also planning to expand cooperation in critical minerals, particularly in areas such as processing and recycling.

Critical minerals are increasingly important for modern industries, clean technologies and advanced manufacturing. Greater cooperation in this field could help both countries explore new opportunities across supply chains.

Semiconductors were another important area discussed during the meeting. PM Modi highlighted Belgium’s technological expertise and India’s large market and manufacturing potential as complementary strengths.

The two countries will work towards connecting Belgium-based IMEC with India’s growing semiconductor ecosystem, potentially opening new avenues for research, technology and industrial cooperation.

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India’s Economy Maintains Momentum Amid Global Uncertainty

PM Modi also discussed the challenging international environment, pointing to conflicts and uncertainty affecting food, fuel and global supply chains.

Despite these challenges, he said India’s economy has maintained its momentum. The Prime Minister highlighted a 7.8% growth figure for the previous quarter and said India’s growth story is creating confidence and new opportunities globally.

India and Belgium Back Peace and Diplomacy

The two countries also share an emphasis on the rule of law, dialogue and diplomacy. PM Modi said India supports efforts aimed at ending conflicts and restoring peace, including in Ukraine and West Asia.

He also underlined the shared commitment of India and Belgium to counter terrorism in all its forms.

These common positions add another strategic dimension to India-Belgium Relations as both countries seek greater cooperation on global issues.

PM Modi Congratulates Belgium on Hockey World Cup

PM Modi also congratulated Belgium and the Netherlands for jointly hosting the Hockey World Cup. He praised the organisation of the tournament and appreciated the efforts and performance of Indian players.

Sports and people-to-people connections remain important components of the bilateral relationship, alongside trade and economic cooperation.

From Diamond Trade to Defence and Technology

India and Belgium have traditionally shared strong commercial links, particularly through the diamond industry. However, the latest discussions indicate that the partnership is expanding into several strategic areas.

With defence projects such as the Zorawar tank, cooperation in critical minerals, semiconductor technology and clean energy, India-Belgium Relations are gaining a broader economic and strategic dimension.

The exchange of MoUs at Hyderabad House reflects the effort by both sides to build on their historical ties while creating new opportunities in technology, industry, defence and sustainable development.