India’s Foreign Minister to Fortify Ties with Europe: Jaishankar’s France, Belgium, and EU Visit

From June 8th to 14th, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will be traveling to France and Belgium to engage in discussions aimed at strengthening relationships and promoting India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism. The visit includes meetings with French and Belgian officials, as well as a strategic dialogue with the EU. The minister will meet with French Foreign Minister Jean Noel Barrot in Paris and Marseille, and will also speak at the Mediterranean Raisina Dialogue. These meetings will provide an opportunity to address India’s military actions against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled territories and discuss India’s updated counter-terrorism approach. The visit marks the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between India and France. In Brussels, Jaishankar will engage in a strategic dialogue with EU High Representative Kaja Kallas and meet with leaders from the European Commission and Parliament. The visit builds on the recent visit of the EU College of Commissioners to New Delhi, which set a year-end target for finalizing a free trade agreement. In Belgium, Jaishankar will hold consultations with Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot. The goal is to enhance cooperation with the EU, France, and Belgium across various sectors, including trade, investment, and green energy.