Belgian PM Bart De Wever Addresses Europe's Economic Dependence on China

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever stated that Europe is experiencing significant challenges due to its growing economic dependence on China. Speaking at a Confederation of Indian Industry event in New Delhi, De Wever, who is visiting India for two days, emphasised that India had cautioned Europe about the risks before they were widely acknowledged. De Wever remarked that Europe has allowed an influx of inexpensive foreign goods to dominate its markets, consequently undermining domestic industries and increasing dependence on foreign suppliers. He described the recent years as a 'rude awakening' for Europe, stating, 'For too long, Europe looked on as overcapacity was dumped below costs on our markets.' The Prime Minister did not directly mention China but indicated that the continent is now facing the repercussions of these economic dependencies, which could be leveraged as political tools. De Wever stated, 'India saw this earlier than we did. And they warned us. And we didn't listen.' He highlighted that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had previously alerted Europe to these dangers, but these warnings went unheeded. He asserted, 'Your Prime Minister warned Europe about this a long time ago. But he was ignored.' In discussing bilateral relations, De Wever pointed to India's growing significance as a trusted partner for Europe amid geopolitical uncertainties. He noted, 'India is No.1 on our list. If India is not on your list, then you are missing something fundamental.' He raised concerns about the reliability of other nations whose trade policies could change unpredictably, asserting the need for partnerships built on trust. The Belgian leader articulated his intention to elevate ties with India across economic, political, and strategic dimensions. De Wever's comments are particularly relevant given India's security concerns. Belgium has indicated it will refrain from supplying essential military equipment to Pakistan, fostering an atmosphere conducive to increased defence collaboration with India. This understanding comes as both countries aim toward closer cooperation in defence industries, including proposals for joint manufacturing of military technology in India using Belgian expertise. Notably, ten agreements related to defence were finalised during discussions between Prime Minister Modi and De Wever. This cooperation may encompass the joint production of military assets, such as rockets, along with enhanced military exchanges, training, and intelligence-sharing efforts. Prime Minister Modi underscored that defence and security collaboration constitutes a 'key pillar' of the broader relationship between India and Belgium.