The Belgian government is calling on Tony Blair to back moves to increase the EU's involvement in foreign affairs.

The Belgians, current holders of the rotating EU presidency, are said to want to cash in on Blair's new positive approach to Europe by securing his support for a new foreign affairs body in the EU.

The country wants to see the EU developing a single voice on international matters - a move which could see greater powers being given to the European Commission.

Whilst Number 10 said the meeting between Blair and the Belgian prime minister, Guy Verhofstadt, on Monday would discuss the conflict in Afghanistan and the Laeken summit, the two were also thought to have discussed the development of a common foreign policy.

Under the current arrangements, the EU divides its foreign affairs functions between its high representative, Javier Solana, and the external relations commissioner Chris Patten - with some involvement of the leader of the country which holds the presidency.

Since the advent of the war in Afghanistan, Blair has been critical of the EU's record on foreign affairs. He is understood to believe that too many bodies are involved and is expected to look positively at any attempt to rationalise the situation.

The meeting between the two leaders is the first "Tour de Capitale" - where the leader of the country which holds the presidency engages in a round of shuttle diplomacy to the capitals of all EU member states.

The Tories have criticised the proposals, saying they are further evidence of the government's desire to engage in deepening EU integration.