VP Naidu calls on Belgian King

Indian Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, who is in Brussels ahead of the 12th Asia-Europe meeting (ASEM) summit, called on Belgian King Philippe at the Royal City Palace on Thursday.

Recalling the friendly ties between the two countries based on shared commonalities and commitment to rule of law, pluralism and federalism, the two leaders discussed their expectations from the 2018 Summit which is centered on the theme, "Global Partners for Global Challenges".

King Philippe had hosted the ASEM Summit in 2010, when Belgium had held the rotating Presidency of the European Union.

Naidu elaborated on the priority accorded by India to the urgent need for collective efforts of the global community in addressing the menace of terrorism.

He also shared his perspective on the successful flagship initiatives by the Government of India, including innovative governance to address the complex challenges faced by India as the world's largest democracy and to simultaneously put India on a faster, inclusive growth and development trajectory.

India further expressed gratitude towards Belgium for their consistent support for India's candidacies at the UN and other international organizations.

India also thanked Belgium for its support to India's candidacy at the UNSC for the term 2021-22.

Naidu had earlier met King Philippe when the King and Queen of the Belgians visited India in November 2017.