India’s Top Diplomat to Visit France, Belgium, and EU for Strategic Talks

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is scheduled to visit France and Belgium from June 8th to 14th. The primary objectives of the visit are to strengthen bilateral relations and to highlight India’s firm stand against terrorism. During the visit, Jaishankar will meet with his counterparts from France and Belgium, and will hold a strategic dialogue with the EU. In France, he will meet with French Foreign Minister Jean Noel Barrot and participate in the Mediterranean Raisina Dialogue. These meetings will allow Jaishankar to discuss India’s military strikes against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled areas and the country’s new counter-terrorism strategy. The visit will also mark the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between India and France. In Brussels, Jaishankar will hold a strategic dialogue with EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, as well as engage with the European Commission, European Parliament and think tanks. Discussions will also be held with Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot. The visit aims to enhance cooperation across various areas and deepen ties with the EU, France, and Belgium, building on the momentum generated by the India-EU strategic partnership, including the aim to finalize a free trade agreement.