Key Highlights
- Belgian delegation visits BDB, reaffirming long-standing India–Belgium partnership.
- Senior diplomats and trade officials toured BDB’s world-class infrastructure.
- Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral trade, security systems, and cooperation.
- Delegation appreciated BDB’s zero-crime security model and operational excellence.
- Talks included India–EU Free Trade Agreement and long-term business visa proposals.
- Both sides expressed commitment to deeper, future-ready collaboration.
Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) hosted a Belgian delegation, underscoring the historical partnership between the two countries. The delegation led by H.E. Ambassador William Asselborn (Director Asia & Oceania, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Belgium), Brigadier General Mario Engels, Defense Attaché, Hon’ble H.E. Mr. Frank Geerkens, Consul General Belgium in Mumbai, Ms. Eva Verstraelen Trade Commissioner, Flanders Investment & Trade, and Mr. Filippe De Potter, Director Asia-Pacific, Flanders Investment & Trade.
The delegation was received by BDB’s leadership including Mr. Mehul Shah, Vice President, BDB, Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Chairman & Mr. Saunak Parikh VC GJEPC, and members of the BDB Board of Directors BDB.
As part of the ceremonious welcome, a Guard of honor was accorded by BDB- Security & Fire Safety Team, followed by playing of the National Anthems of India and Belgium by the BDB Security Brass Band.
The dignitaries engaged with BDB leadership in a spirit of mutual respect and partnership discussing strategies for enhancing business relations between the two economies that will play an important role in not only deepening bilateral trade between two countries but also will facilitate growth of diamond trade and security between the two nations.
Ambassador Asselborn displayed notable openness to BDB’s strategic suggestions, reaffirming a shared commitment to mutually beneficial solutions and robust bilateral relations. The Belgian delegation took a tour of the world class infrastructure situated within Bharat Diamond Bourse and were enlightened on the robust security systems within BDB that boasts of zero crime rate. The delegation also visited facilities such as Mumbai Diamond Merchants Association (MDMA), IDTC and were briefed on the advanced SC3 Security Systems and professional protocols across the campus including the recognition and appreciations received by the bourse.
Hon’ble Consul General H.E. Frank Geerkens an old-time friend and a well-wisher of Bharat Diamond Bourse commended BDB’s exemplary infrastructure capabilities and professional security standards, noting its role in enabling seamless and secure trade. In his message, BDB President Anoop Mehta who could not be present during the delegation visit said, “I extend my warmest regards and heartfelt appreciation to H.E. Ambassador William Asselborn, Brigadier General Mario Engels, Hon’ble Frank Geerkens, Ms. Eva Verstraelen, and Mr. Filippe De Potter for their visit to BDB. Their engagement and openness reaffirm the strength of India – Belgium partnership in diamond sector. I look forward to meeting them soon and to advancing our shared vision for deeper, and future-ready collaboration.”
“Mr. Mehul Shah in his welcome speech reiterated on the strong ties that India enjoys with Belgium especially in the Diamond sector and complimented the efforts of Hon’ble Consul General H.E. Frank Geerkens for close ties that both the nations enjoy today”. The discussions regarding Free Trade agreement between India & EU and extended long term visa was the highlight of the discussion as BDB Leadership pointed out the advantages of offering extended visa of 5 to 10 years for business travelers as this would save time and help in frequent visits from India to Belgium & other European countries.
HE & team took note of this suggestion and assured to try their level best to achieve this.
