Belgian Delegation Visits Bharat Diamond Bourse, Strengthens Trade Ties

Mumbai | Maharashtra —In a significant diplomatic and trade outreach, the Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) on Friday hosted a high-powered Belgian delegation, reaffirming the long-standing and strategic partnership between India and Belgium—two nations that anchor the global diamond supply chain. The visit marked yet another step toward strengthening trade, bolstering security cooperation, and aligning future policy pathways for one of the world’s most interconnected luxury sectors.

Led by H.E. Ambassador William Asselborn, Director for Asia & Oceania at the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the delegation also included Brigadier General Mario Engels, Defense Attaché; H.E. Frank Geerkens, Consul General of Belgium in Mumbai; Ms. Eva Verstraelen, Trade Commissioner, Flanders Investment & Trade; and Mr. Filippe De Potter, Director for Asia-Pacific at Flanders Investment & Trade.

They were welcomed by senior BDB leadership including Mr. Mehul Shah, Vice President, Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, Mr. Saunak Parikh, Vice Chairman GJEPC, and members of the Board of Directors. A ceremonial Guard of Honour by the BDB Security & Fire Safety Team, followed by the national anthems of both countries, underscored the importance of the occasion.

Calling the partnership “deep-rooted and future-facing,” Ambassador Asselborn praised India’s central role in the global diamond trade. “Our engagement with BDB highlights Belgium’s unwavering commitment to a resilient and mutually beneficial diamond ecosystem,” he said, expressing appreciation for the bourse’s advanced infrastructure and zero-crime environment.

The delegation toured BDB’s sprawling, world-class campus, visiting the MDMA, IDTC, and reviewing SC3 Security Systems, which have earned the bourse global recognition for its risk-proof operational model. Officials were briefed on the latest technological and procedural upgrades designed to protect both domestic and international traders.

Though unable to attend, BDB President Anoop Mehta conveyed his sentiments in a message,“I extend my warmest regards to Ambassador Asselborn, Brigadier General Engels, Consul General Geerkens, Ms. Verstraelen, and Mr. De Potter. Their visit reflects the strength of India–Belgium partnership in the diamond sector. We look forward to deepening collaboration and shaping a future-ready engagement.”

During the interaction, BDB leadership emphasized two key agenda points: the long-pending India–EU Free Trade Agreement and the need for extended business visas of 5–10 years for diamond professionals. Such reforms, they argued, would significantly streamline business mobility between India, Belgium, and other European markets.

Mr. Mehul Shah, in his address, highlighted Belgium’s pivotal role in India’s diamond journey. “The ties between India and Belgium—especially Antwerp—are the backbone of the global diamond trade. We acknowledge the continued support of Hon’ble Consul General Frank Geerkens, who has been instrumental in deepening these relations,” Shah said.

In response, the Belgian side assured that the suggestions—particularly regarding long-term visas—would be taken up “with utmost seriousness and intent.”