Belgium on Tuesday announced it is looking at firming up a broad-based defence pact with India and will soon appoint a military attache to its embassy in New Delhi as part of efforts to expand overall bilateral strategic ties

The announcement was made shortly after Belgium's Princess Astrid, accompanied by Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot and Defence Minister Theo Francken, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Astrid is leading an Economic Mission to India that comprises top ministers and business leaders

"Deeply appreciate her initiative to lead a 300-member Economic Mission to India," PM Modi said on X

"Look forward to unlocking limitless opportunities for our people through new partnerships in trade, technology, defence, agriculture, life sciences, innovation, skilling and academic exchanges," he said