New Delhi: On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions with Princess Astrid of Belgium, expressing his eagerness to explore new partnership opportunities across various sectors between the two nations.
PM Modi commended Princess Astrid for her leadership of a 300-member Economic Mission to India.
In a post on X, he stated, "It was a pleasure to meet HRH Princess Astrid of Belgium. I greatly value her initiative in leading a 300-member Economic Mission to India. I look forward to unlocking vast opportunities for our citizens through new collaborations in trade, technology, defense, agriculture, life sciences, innovation, skill development, and academic exchanges."
Previously, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Princess Astrid on Monday, expressing optimism that her visit would enhance collaboration between the two countries.
In a post on X, the EAM remarked, "It was a delight to meet Princess Astrid of Belgium, who is leading an economic mission to India. I am confident that her visit will strengthen the India-Belgium and India-EU partnerships."
Princess Astrid, the second child of King Albert II and Queen Paola and sister to King Philippe, represents the King in Belgium's economic missions. According to a statement from the Belgian Monarchy, these missions play a vital role in enhancing economic and trade relations between Belgium and its regions, as well as with various international partners.
She serves as the Honorary President of the Queen Elisabeth Medical Foundation (QEMF) and supports the King Baudouin Foundation's Scientific and Medical Funds. Princess Astrid actively engages with the scientific community to promote fundamental medical research across diverse fields, attending various sites and participating in award ceremonies.
Additionally, she was involved in a conference focused on water and waste management.
The Belgian Royal Palace announced on X that Princess Astrid participated in a conference focused on water and waste management, discussing the assistance Belgium can provide to India in this area. She subsequently attended seminars addressing the decarbonisation of the steel industry and women's entrepreneurship.
Additionally, the Princess was involved in the virtual inauguration of the research and development center established by the Belgian company Silox, which is dedicated to decarbonising the steel sector, as noted by the Belgian Royal Palace.
Her day concluded with a reception attended by more than 800 guests.
