PM Modi’s visit to Netherlands.
Amidst the changing global situation and geopolitical challenges, India and the Netherlands have given their relations a new height and given them the status of strategic partnership. During the talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Netherlands Prime Minister Rob Jetton, both the countries signed 17 agreements to increase cooperation in defence, critical minerals, semiconductors and many other important sectors.
Expressed concern over the situation in West Asia
In the meeting held on Saturday evening, both the leaders expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in West Asia. He said that this is having a serious impact on the global energy supply and trade network. Both leaders stressed the need to continue unhindered movement of ships and global trade in the Strait of Hormuz. He opposed any kind of restrictive measures.
In fact, about 20% of the world’s energy supply passes through this sea route. Tension has increased significantly after the attack on Iran by America and Israel.
Ukraine-Russia war also discussed
Prime Minister Modi and Rob Jetton also discussed the Ukraine-Russia war and the regional security situation. Both leaders said that efforts for a lasting and just peace should continue through dialogue and diplomacy.
Special focus on business, defense and technology
After the meeting, both the countries launched the Strategic Partnership Roadmap. Its objective is to increase cooperation in areas like trade, investment, defence, security, semiconductor, space, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. Along with this, Green Hydrogen Development Roadmap was also started. Both countries also agreed to work together on joint manufacturing of defense equipment, technology transfer and joint ventures.
Netherlands is a big gateway to Europe for India.
Netherlands is India’s major trading partner in Europe. Trade between the two countries will reach $27.8 billion in 2024-25. At the same time, Netherlands is the fourth largest foreign investor in India. Netherlands is also considered an important gateway to Europe for Indian exporters through Rotterdam Port.
Cooperation will increase on semiconductor and critical minerals
Both countries also agreed to strengthen the supply chain of semiconductor sector and critical minerals. The initiative to link the Dutch Semicon Competence Center with the Indian Semiconductor Mission was welcomed.
Indians will get benefits in jobs and studies
Migration and mobility agreement has also been signed between the two countries. This can open up more opportunities for jobs and studies in the Netherlands for Indian students and professionals.
Strict stance on terrorism
Netherlands Prime Minister Rob Jetton strongly condemned the Pahalgam terrorist attack in April 2025 and expressed full support to India against terrorism. Both the leaders stressed on adopting zero tolerance policy against terrorism and opposed double standards.
What did Modi say?
Prime Minister Modi said that there has been a lot of progress in India-Netherlands relations in the last 10 years. He said that there are many similarities between the two countries like democratic values, market based economy and responsible behavior. Modi said that the expertise of Netherlands and the speed and skill of India together can achieve new heights in many fields.
