Prime Minister Modi has arrived in the Netherlands after 9 years. This visit is considered very important for strengthening bilateral relations between India and the Netherlands.
During this visit, discussions will be held on several major issues such as trade, technology, semiconductors, water management, green energy, and defence cooperation.
According to media reports, PM Modi will stay in the Netherlands from 15 to 17 May. During this time, he will meet Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof. Both leaders are expected to discuss several important agreements.
The biggest focus of this visit is expected to be semiconductors and the high-tech industry. India is currently working on expanding its chip manufacturing capacity, which is why it is looking to strengthen partnerships with Dutch technology companies.
The Dutch company ASML is considered one of the world’s largest manufacturers of chip-making machines. India is aiming to enhance cooperation with the Netherlands in chip manufacturing and technological collaboration in the future.
Trade and investment expansion plans
Trade between India and the Netherlands is continuously growing. The Netherlands is among the major countries investing in India. It is expected that new investment plans and trade agreements may also be discussed during this visit.
In particular, cooperation is being prepared to expand in sectors such as ports, logistics, agricultural technology, and green hydrogen. The Netherlands is globally known for its expertise in water management and modern farming techniques, and India aims to benefit from its experience in these areas.
Meeting with the King and Queen of the Netherlands
King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands will also meet Prime Minister Modi. According to reports, an official programme and banquet will be organised in honour of PM Modi.
PM Modi had previously visited the Netherlands in 2017. In the same year, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof visited India, during which both countries discussed strengthening cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital technology, and economic collaboration.
PM Modi had visited the Netherlands in 2017. During the trip, he held talks with then Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on trade, water management, technology and counter-terrorism cooperation.
Part of India’s strategy in Europe
Experts believe that PM Modi’s visit is not just a routine foreign trip, but part of India’s evolving strategic policy in Europe. After the Russia-Ukraine war and the global supply chain crisis, India has been working to strengthen its economic and technological ties with European countries.
The Netherlands is considered a major trade hub in Europe. Through the Rotterdam Port, trade reaches across the continent. In this context, the importance of the Netherlands for India has further increased.