Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the positive outcomes of his recent visit to the Netherlands, highlighting their significance for the enhancement of bilateral relations across sectors of strategic and economic importance. In a post shared on X, he stated that the new developments would energize India-Netherlands ties and contribute to the prosperity of both nations.
During the visit, 17 agreements were finalized, covering various aspects of cooperation. Sibi George, Secretary (West) of the Ministry of External Affairs, noted that both countries recognized the increasing convergence in their bilateral relationship, formally upgrading it to a strategic partnership. “The two leaders acknowledged increasing convergence and formally elevated the bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership, which is very significant. They adopted an ambitious roadmap for strategic partnership, guiding cooperation across various sectors,” George mentioned.
Among the key achievements of the visit was the signing of a partnership agreement between Tata Electronics and ASML, aimed at supporting a semiconductor fabrication facility in Dholera. This agreement marks ASML’s first collaboration with an Indian company, significantly bolstering India’s semiconductor goals. George remarked on the implications for India’s semiconductor ecosystem, calling it a major advancement.
PM Modi outlined the reforms and transformative changes in India during discussions with the Dutch royals. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the progress made in their bilateral relationship and explored opportunities for further collaboration.
On his arrival in The Hague late Friday evening, PM Modi received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora. He expressed gratitude for their contributions to Dutch society, referring to the community as a “living bridge of friendship” between India and the Netherlands. In his address, he praised the enthusiastic reception and mentioned the increasing number of Indian professionals in the technology sector and students pursuing education in Dutch universities, particularly in innovation-driven fields. Furthermore, he noted that the sporting connections, especially in cricket and hockey, were enriching the people-to-people relationship.
The Netherlands visit was the second leg of PM Modi’s five-nation tour, with Sweden being the next destination as part of the itinerary, following an invitation from Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.
