India-Netherlands Relations Deepen During Jaishankar’s Official Visit
| 2025-05-20
Indian External Affairs Minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar held a meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof today (May 20, 2025) in The Hague.
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's visit to the Netherlands highlights expanding India-Netherlands ties across trade, defence, and technology sectors.
Indian External Affairs Minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar concluded a two-day official visit to the Netherlands on Tuesday (May 20 2025), marking a significant step forward in the two nations’ growing diplomatic and strategic partnership.
During the visit from 19 to 20 May 2025, Dr Jaishankar met with senior Dutch leaders, including Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, and Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans. Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation across a wide spectrum of sectors, including defence, trade, digital technologies, and green energy.
Strategic Dialogue at the Highest Level
The Indian minister’s itinerary included a meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, where both leaders reviewed the evolving strategic relationship between India and the Netherlands. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the leaders acknowledged their growing convergence on regional and global issues and agreed to encourage regular high-level exchanges.
Dr Jaishankar also expressed India’s appreciation for the Netherlands’ statement of solidarity with India in its fight against terrorism—a stance that continues to underpin security cooperation between the two nations.
Bilateral Engagement Across Key Sectors
In a comprehensive meeting with Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, the two sides reviewed existing collaborations and explored potential in newer domains. They noted strong progress in traditional areas such as trade and economic cooperation, agriculture, water management, science and technology, healthcare, education, and cultural exchange.
According to official sources, discussions also highlighted the potential for joint initiatives in emerging sectors like artificial intelligence, semiconductors, digital technologies, and green hydrogen—fields considered critical to both countries' long-term strategic goals.
Foreign Minister Veldkamp had visited India just a month earlier, in April 2025, underlining a mutual commitment to regular diplomatic dialogue.
Expanding Defence and Security Cooperation
Defence and security ties were a focal point of Dr Jaishankar’s conversation with Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans. The leaders explored opportunities to deepen defence collaboration, including technology transfers and joint training initiatives.
The discussions reflect a broader strategic trend, as both countries seek to diversify defence partnerships in response to a shifting global security environment.
Engagement with Strategic Think Tanks
Dr Jaishankar also engaged with Dutch strategic affairs experts and representatives of international think tanks. The dialogue focused on the growing relevance of partnerships in a multipolar world, and the importance of strategic autonomy for both the European Union and India.
“The current era demands deeper engagement between India and the Netherlands in shaping global conversations,” Dr Jaishankar was quoted as saying in a discussion that examined shared geopolitical challenges and opportunities.
Indian Diaspora: A Vital Bridge
The minister also met members of the Indian diaspora in the Netherlands. These interactions emphasised the role of overseas Indian communities in strengthening bilateral ties and promoting cultural understanding.
The Netherlands is home to a significant Indian-origin population, particularly of Surinamese-Hindustani descent, many of whom trace their roots back to India’s Bihar and Uttar Pradesh regions. The diaspora plays an active role in the social, economic, and political life of the country.
Ongoing Momentum in Bilateral Relations
Dr Jaishankar’s visit, closely following his Dutch counterpart’s recent trip to India, marks a continuation of deepening diplomatic engagement. Both sides have reaffirmed their intent to maintain a steady pace of dialogue, with regular ministerial visits and joint initiatives expected in the coming months.
As global dynamics evolve, the India-Netherlands relationship appears poised for expanded cooperation, with shared interests spanning sustainable development, digital transformation, and international security.
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