India, EU discuss West Asia conflict, push for de-escalation
Jaishankar meets European leaders in Brussels
The escalating conflict in West Asia figured prominently in discussions between India and the European Union on Monday, as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a series of high-level meetings in Brussels with European leaders and foreign ministers.
Jaishankar, who is attending the European Union Foreign Affairs Council at the invitation of EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, said the deteriorating situation in West Asia and its global repercussions were a key focus of consultations with the 27-member bloc.
“Delighted to meet my fellow foreign ministers from the European Union today. Our conversation covered trade, investment, technology, mobility and defence in particular,” Jaishankar said, adding that ministers also discussed the conflict in West Asia, the war in Ukraine and developments in the Indo-Pacific.
The talks come amid heightened regional tensions involving Iran, Israel and the US, with global concerns growing over energy supplies and maritime security in the Gulf.
Jaishankar also met Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, with both sides emphasising the need for de-escalation and stability in the region.
The minister also held bilateral talks with Maxime Prévot, Foreign Minister of Belgium, where the two countries agreed to establish a strategic dialogue to intensify cooperation in trade and investment, semiconductors, health, technology and innovation.
In a separate meeting with Johann Wadephul, Foreign Minister of Germany, the two leaders exchanged views on the West Asia crisis and reviewed progress in bilateral ties following the recent India visit by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
Jaishankar also met Juraj Blanár, Foreign Minister of Slovakia, and Giorgos Gerapetritis, Foreign Minister of Greece, discussing cooperation in areas such as manufacturing, defence, space, connectivity and trade, while also reviewing the wider implications of the conflict in West Asia.
The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit is expected to further strengthen India’s strategic partnership with the European Union and build momentum following the 16th India-EU summit held earlier this year.
