Diplomacy – PM Modi Highlights India-Netherlands Partnership During Hague Visit
Diplomacy – Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the growing relationship between India and the Netherlands during an interaction with the Indian diaspora in The Hague on Saturday, describing the city as a reflection of deep friendship between the two nations. Addressing a large gathering, he highlighted the importance of cultural connections, economic cooperation, and future-focused partnerships in areas such as technology, energy, and innovation.
Warm Welcome From Indian Community
The Prime Minister received an enthusiastic reception from members of the Indian community and supporters of India living in the Netherlands. Referring to the vibrant atmosphere at the event, he said the affection shown by the audience made him feel as though he was attending a celebration back home in India.
Drawing a symbolic comparison between the two countries, PM Modi spoke about the tulip, widely associated with the Netherlands, and the lotus, which holds cultural significance in India. He remarked that both flowers represent strength and beauty despite growing in different environments, reflecting the resilience shared by the two nations.
Concerns Over Global Challenges
During his address, the Prime Minister also spoke about the global difficulties affecting economies and societies worldwide. He mentioned that the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing international conflicts, and the energy crisis linked to tensions in West Asia have created serious disruptions over the past few years.
According to him, these developments have exposed weaknesses in global supply systems and increased concerns about poverty and economic instability. He said countries now recognise the importance of building stronger and more reliable supply chains, adding that India and the Netherlands are working together to develop future-ready trade and logistics networks.
Focus on Technology and Economic Growth
Highlighting India’s ongoing transformation, PM Modi said the country is making rapid progress across several sectors. He pointed to advancements in artificial intelligence, semiconductor manufacturing, digital infrastructure, clean energy, and startup innovation as examples of India’s changing economic landscape.
He noted that India now hosts one of the world’s largest startup ecosystems and continues to invest heavily in infrastructure and public welfare programmes, including government-supported healthcare schemes. He also emphasised the role of young Indians in driving innovation and economic growth.
The Prime Minister stated that cooperation between India and the Netherlands is expanding steadily, especially in fields such as water management, energy security, technology, and innovation. He added that the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement could further strengthen commercial ties and create fresh opportunities for businesses in both countries.
Netherlands Seen as Key Gateway to Europe
PM Modi described the Netherlands as an important entry point for Indian companies looking to expand across European markets. He said the Indian diaspora in the country could play a significant role in strengthening business and cultural relations between India and Europe.
He encouraged people of Indian origin living in the Netherlands to increase their engagement with India through investment and knowledge-sharing. According to him, their experience and global exposure can contribute meaningfully to India’s long-term development goals.
Recognition of Indian Diaspora Contributions
The Prime Minister praised the Indian-origin community for its contribution to Dutch society and acknowledged the historical connection of the Surinami-Hindustani community with India. He appreciated their efforts to preserve cultural traditions and pass them on to future generations.
He also referred to the growing presence of Indian professionals in the Dutch technology sector and the increasing number of Indian students pursuing higher education in innovation-driven disciplines at universities in the Netherlands.
In addition, he highlighted how sports such as cricket and hockey are helping strengthen people-to-people ties between the two nations and bringing renewed energy to bilateral relations.
Expanding Bilateral Cooperation
PM Modi said trade relations between India and the Netherlands continue to grow, with the Netherlands remaining one of India’s major export destinations in Europe and an important investment partner. He expressed confidence that stronger cooperation in trade, technology, and innovation would benefit both countries in the coming years.
The Netherlands hosts the largest Indian-origin population in mainland Europe, including nearly 200,000 members of the Surinami-Hindustani community. The Prime Minister also referred to recent changes in Overseas Citizen of India eligibility rules, which now extend benefits to later generations of the Surinami-Hindustani diaspora.
The Netherlands visit marks the second leg of PM Modi’s five-nation diplomatic tour after his visit to the United Arab Emirates.