Modi holds talks with Belgian king to strengthen bilateral ties
What's the story
PM Narendra Modi met Belgium's King Philippe in New Delhi to discuss how bilateral ties could be strengthened.
The talks, held at Hyderabad House, included a high-level delegation which comprised of six Belgian ministers and CEOs of 86 Belgian companies.
A ceremonial welcome was also accorded to King Philippe and his wife, Queen Mathilde at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Twitter Post
Modi says "India is delighted to welcome" Belgian royals
India is delighted to welcome HM the King and HM the Queen of the Belgians. pic.twitter.com/uaLyOQHIvL
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 7, 2017
Bilateral trade
India is Belgium's second largest export destination
India's bilateral trade with Belgium stood at $13.28 billion in 2016-17. Indian exported goods and services worth $5.65 billion to Belgium, while its imports stood at $6.62 billion.
India has emerged as Belgium's second largest export destination and is its third largest trading partner outside the European Union.
King Philippe's visit along with the delegation of CEOs indicates Belgium's willingness to boost bilateral trade.
Twitter Post
Sushma discusses how to expand "warm and friendly bilateral relations"
EAM @SushmaSwaraj call on His Majesty The King Philippe of Belgium. Engaging conversation on expanding warm and friendly bilateral relations pic.twitter.com/qvXe41dcSG
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) November 7, 2017