Belgium has given India assurances after New Delhi raised concerns over arms supplies to Pakistan, even as India-Belgium strategic ties enter a new phase. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever in New Delhi, with defence, trade, technology, clean energy and critical minerals emerging as key areas of cooperation. The two sides are also pushing deeper defence-industrial cooperation, including collaboration linked to the Zorawar light tank, while India and Belgium aim to significantly expand bilateral trade.

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah has praised India’s assistance following the devastating floods, calling the situation “exceptional” and highlighting the rapid response of Indian technicians and rescue teams. India has continued its large-scale humanitarian and disaster relief operation, with the fifth tranche of relief bringing total assistance to 68.5 tonnes. The latest support includes medicines and an 11-member rescue team. Balen Shah said Indian technicians reached remote areas as soon as conditions allowed, despite extreme mud and sludge that left even excavators and Nepal’s Army and Armed Police Force struggling to find space to operate.