EAM S. Jaishankar Highlights India’s Fight Against Terrorism and Stronger India-EU Ties During Belgium Visit.jpeg)
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Brussels, Belgium: On his ongoing official visit to Europe, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar delivered a powerful address to the Indian diaspora in Belgium and Luxembourg, spotlighting India’s determined stance against cross-border terrorism, and the expanding scope of India-EU relations under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The event, held during the EAM’s June 8–14 tour of France, the EU, and Belgium, served as a platform to engage with the community and convey the Indian government’s efforts on both the global diplomatic stage and in ensuring national security.
“Terrorism Is Not a Country’s Problem—It’s a Global Challenge”
Dr. Jaishankar did not mince words in addressing the persistent threat of cross-border terrorism, drawing a stark contrast between sporadic acts of terror in Europe and state-sponsored terrorism, particularly referencing Pakistan.
“Terrorism is not a particular country’s problem. This is a challenge for everyone. But what distinguishes this challenge for India is that it’s very rare to have a country that openly uses terrorism as a state policy,” Jaishankar said.
He emphasized how India has been uniquely impacted by this menace over the decades and declared that India’s resolve to counter terrorism is stronger than ever.
Operation Sindoor: A Message to Terror Networks
The EAM also referenced Operation Sindoor, a classified counter-terror operation recently declassified by the Government of India. The operation reportedly targeted two major terrorist hubs in Pakistan—Muridke and Bahawalpur, known bases of extremist groups responsible for attacks on Indian soil.
“From these two places, terror attacks were launched against India. But this time India was determined to send the message that we will find terrorists and eliminate them wherever they are,” he asserted.
This was seen as a firm declaration of India’s proactive defence posture, reinforcing its policy of zero tolerance to terrorism.
India-Europe Relations: A Strategic Shift in Motion
On the diplomatic front, EAM Jaishankar shed light on India’s evolving engagement with Europe and the European Union, marking a new chapter of strategic cooperation.
“Europe is today realizing that there are many problems of Europe that have to be addressed by Europe itself,” he said. “In this changing global landscape, there is a much sharper interest in Europe to build stronger ties with India.”
Key Focus Areas in India-Europe Collaboration:
- Trade and investment
- Green energy and climate technology
- Pharmaceutical and diamond sectors
- People-to-people connectivity
- Digital and innovation ecosystems
He added that India-Belgium relations have always been politically cordial, but there is now an intentional push to intensify economic and community-based cooperation.
Atmanirbhar Bharat to Atmanirbhar Europe
In a striking comment linking India’s self-reliance movement to a broader global trend, Jaishankar said:
“There is also Atmanirbhar Europe in the making—Europe, which realises that it must stand on its own feet.”
This observation resonated with the audience, drawing parallels between India’s post-pandemic strategy of self-reliance and Europe’s current geopolitical recalibrations, especially in the wake of energy crises and the Russia-Ukraine war.
Indian Diaspora: A Bridge Between Nations
Dr. Jaishankar also acknowledged the vital role of the Indian diaspora in building bridges across continents.
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the Indian government sees the diaspora as a key to our global outreach. You are not only brand ambassadors of India, but also stakeholders in India’s success story.”
The event witnessed vibrant participation from professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and second-generation Indian citizens based in Belgium and Luxembourg.
High-Level Meetings and Outcomes
During his visit to Belgium, the EAM also held bilateral talks with his Belgian counterpart, focusing on:
- Strengthening bilateral economic cooperation
- Enhancing strategic collaboration in clean technologies
- Advancing scientific research and educational exchanges
- Exploring joint initiatives under India-EU frameworks
Belgium and India currently enjoy a robust partnership in the diamond trade, and cooperation is rapidly growing in biotech, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductor technology.
What This Visit Signifies for India and the World
Jaishankar’s address underscores India’s dual global strategy:
- Strengthening national security by taking a clear stand against terrorism, especially cross-border threats.
- Building international coalitions rooted in mutual benefit, self-reliance, and people-centric diplomacy.
As India positions itself as a leading voice in the Global South and a preferred partner for the Global North, visits like these reaffirm India’s geopolitical maturity and diplomatic pragmatism.