German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul will commence his journey to Brussels on Monday to engage with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Indian Trade Minister Piyush Goyal, and other high-ranking officials, as stated by a spokesperson from the ministry.
This visit comes after the cancellation of a planned trip to China, which was initially scheduled to start on Sunday, following Beijing’s confirmation of only one of Wadephul’s requested meetings. This situation underscores the escalating tensions between Berlin and Beijing regarding trade and security matters.
While in Brussels, Wadephul is also expected to meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, according to the spokesperson.
“The discussions with representatives from the EU and NATO – the organizations that unite our most significant and closest partners and allies – will concentrate on ongoing support for Ukraine and enhancing European security and defense capabilities,” the spokesperson remarked.
Additionally, the conversations will address international trade matters, focusing on the prospects and potential solutions for ensuring a steady supply of critical raw materials, particularly rare earth elements and computer chips, which are currently facing supply chain challenges.
India’s Goyal is present in Brussels for discussions on trade policy, as noted by the spokesperson.
The EU and India are striving to meet a deadline by the end of the year to finalize a free trade agreement.
