PM Narendra Modi's speech at luncheon meeting in Brussels: Top 5 quotes

Brussels: After meeting leading Belgian CEO's at Egmont Palace, PM Narendra Modi spoke at a luncheon meeting, where he addressed the host over a number of issues ranging from fighting terrorism to business opportunities in India. Here are top 10 quotes from PM Modi's speech:-

1)- "We have ties of blood with Belgium. 100 years ago 1,30,000 soldiers from India fought in Belgium and 9,000 made the Supreme sacrifice."

2)- "The scourge of terrorism increasing, important for all nations to fight this menace. India has been battling it for 40 years."

3)- "Diamonds are, of course, an old link between us (India and Beligium). It provides employment to many in India. It is another sector of promise."

4)- "Today we live in an interdependent world. India offers a huge opportunity - not just a market but as a huge talent pool."

5)- "I invite everyone to explore opportunities in India, the fastest growing economy in the world."

Earlier, PM Narendra Modi was introduced to leading Belgian CEO's at Egmont Palace. Also, the PM inspected the parade at the Egmont Palace.

Ceremonial Honours precede the commencement of business. PM @narendramodi inspects the parade at the Egmont Palace pic.twitter.com/rOWSBIeNsV — Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) March 30, 2016

An all star lineup for business. PM @narendramodi is introduced to leading Belgian CEO's at Egmont Palace pic.twitter.com/AA5H5wvQ7X — Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) March 30, 2016

PM Modi arrived here on Wednesday for a hectic day-long visit during which he will attend the India-EU Summit.

Belgian capital Brussels, which was attacked by suicide bombers last week, is the first leg of Modi's three-nation four-day tour which will take him to the US and Saudi Arabia.

Since the terrorist attack on March 22, the Brussels airport is yet to be fully operational and Modi's Special Air India plane had to land at the Brussels Military Airport.

Belgian Army has been deployed for the prime minister's visit. Due to an enhanced terror threat, additional security has been put in place for Modi's public interaction with the Indian diaspora here.