What happened?
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is undertaking a visit to France and Belgium from June 8 to June 14, 2025, for discussions with the leadership of both countries and the European Union (EU). In France, Mr. Jaishankar will meet with French Foreign Minister Jean Noel Barrot in Paris and Marseille and participate in the inaugural Mediterranean Raisina Dialogue. In Brussels, he will hold the first ministerial strategic dialogue with EU foreign and security policy chief Kaja Kallas, and engage with the senior leadership of the European Commission and European Parliament. He will also hold bilateral consultations with Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot. The discussions aim to strengthen bilateral relations and emphasize India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism.
Why it matters to India
This visit is strategically important for India as it seeks to deepen its relationships with key European nations and the EU, bolstering diplomatic and economic ties. Engaging with France, a long-standing strategic partner, and Belgium, with its robust economic partnership, will facilitate cooperation across various strategic domains, including trade, investment, green energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, and the diamond sector. The focus on India’s stance against terrorism allows Mr. Jaishankar to brief interlocutors on India’s counter-terrorism efforts, aligning with India’s foreign policy objectives. The visit is expected to inject renewed momentum into ongoing cooperation and enhance India’s global partnerships, supporting its long-term economic and strategic goals.