North News

New Delhi, January 21

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Belgian Minister Bernard Quintin held talks in Brussels to bolster bilateral trade and investment ties, officials said today. Progress in the EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations was a key focus, with the ministers underscoring the need to resolve trade barriers and streamline regulatory processes for sectors like pharmaceuticals and agri-products. Emerging sectors such as renewable energy, life sciences, infrastructure, digital technologies, and food products were identified as areas for collaboration.

The discussions highlighted India-Belgium trade, estimated at $15.07 billion in 2023-2024, and Belgian investments in India, valued at $3.94 billion. Both leaders emphasized the importance of leveraging India’s growing economy and Belgium’s trade-driven framework to diversify relations. Goyal also engaged with European business leaders and investors in maritime services, solar energy, clean technologies, waste treatment, and green hydrogen.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic diplomacy and fostering sustainable growth through enhanced cooperation.