India and Belgium discussed maritime security, training and naval technology during a visit to India by Belgian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Tanguy Botman on November 14, 2026. The visit was aimed at strengthening bilateral maritime cooperation and Navy-to-Navy engagement.
Official engagements in New Delhi
After arriving, RAdm Botman laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in honour of fallen soldiers. He was then accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour at South Block, formally beginning his official engagements in India.
RAdm Botman met Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS). Their discussions covered issues of mutual interest, including maritime security, operational engagements, training, personnel exchanges and collaboration in naval technology.
Exploring areas for closer cooperation
The two naval leaders reviewed existing cooperation and considered ways to expand engagement between their navies. The discussions also highlighted the role of continued professional exchanges and institutional interactions in developing maritime partnerships.
In addition to meeting the CNS, RAdm Botman held interactions with other senior officials to explore further opportunities for bilateral cooperation, including closer naval coordination.
The visit marks a step in India-Belgium Navy-to-Navy relations. The engagement is expected to give fresh impetus to existing ties and open avenues for cooperation in areas of shared interest.
By addressing maritime security, training, operational cooperation and naval technology, the discussions focused on deepening the maritime partnership between India and Belgium.
