Discours de Son Altesse Royale la Princesse Astrid à Mumbai

Discours de Son Altesse Royale la Princesse Astrid à l'occasion du Gala organisé par le Port of Antwerp-Bruges International à Mumbai

6 mars 2025

 

Excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – Namasté.

It is a great pleasure to inaugurate what promises to be a very special and truly festive evening.

Before anything else, I would like to thankmost sincerely the organizers and all those who have contributed to making this inspiring initiative a reality.

In a world where fragmentation often seems to prevail, moments like these —where Indian and Belgian fellow travelers come together, in Mumbai, in a spirit of unity —are more valuable than ever.

For over seven decades, our two nations have cultivated a steadfast and enduring friendship.

Since the establishment of our diplomatic ties in 1947, we have not only built strong economic relations but also developed a shared curiosity in history, academia, arts and science.

Here we are today, celebrating 78 years of partnership. More than just a number, it is “magic” and a testament to the trust and respect that unite us. Beyond trade and diplomacy, our relationship is built on shared aspirations, on a vision of the future that we design together.  Wouldn’t it be a good idea for example, to reestablish a direct flight connection between India and Brussels ?

I know that Air India is working hard on this and I thank them.

Moreover, if there is one element that connects us in a unique way, it is carbon.Yes, carbon—one of the fundamental building blocks of nature. In its most precious form, the diamond, it has linked our countries economically, while symbolizing beauty, endurance, and value—qualities that also define our partnership.

Yet, in another form, carbon represents one of the greatest challenges of our time: climate change.The urgency of de-carbonization and the transition to a green economy are challenges we must face together. Fortunately, our nations have everything it takes to rise to this challenge—expertise, resources, and a shared commitment to sustainability.

By aligning our industries with the growing demand for green energy, we can transform this challengeinto an opportunity, strengthening the prosperity of both our countries.

Speaking of transformation, I am reminded of an ancient Indian parable —one that beautifully echoes tonight’s theme, Sangam, a confluence of wisdom, perspectives, and collaboration.

You may know the story of the six blind men and the elephant. Each man touches only a part of the animal and perceives something different. One feels a leg and believes it is a pillar; another touches the tail and describes it as a rope. The trunk is compared to a tree branch, the ear to a hand fan, the side to a wall, and the tusk to a solid pipe. Each man insists on his own truth, leading to disagreement—until they step back, listen to one another, and together, see the full picture.

This parable teaches us a simple yet profound truth: complex challenges cannot be solved in isolation. True understanding—and progress—come when we embrace different perspectives, when we listen, when we collaborate.

So tonight, and in the days to come, I hope that the spirit of Sangam—the coming together of minds, cultures, and ideas—will continue to guide us.

Let this evening be a celebration of partnership, friendship, and shared purpose. Let the magicians do their work ! Let the cards speak in our favor ! Let the music enlighten us ! Let our ports live forever ! Let us have all a wonderful evening !

Thank you.