New Delhi, March 1 -- With the transatlantic alliance strained like never before and both the European Union and India threatened by high American tariffs, a huge 330-member Belgian economic mission led by Princess Astrid, representing King Philippe, begins an eigh-day visit to India from March 1, aimed at boosting Belgium's image as an attractive partner and a gateway to the European market.

The high-ranking Belgian mission follows close on the heels of the visit of the EU College of Commissioners, led by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, that just concluded its India visit and signed what Prime Minister Narendra Modi called a "historic and unparalleled" agreement. .

"India is an important player on the world stage an...