Strengthening India–Netherlands Ties: PM Modi’s Conversation with Dutch PM Dick Schoof
At the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Dutch counterpart Dick Schoof held a bilateral meeting that reflects an increasingly ambitious and strategic partnership between India and the Netherlands.
Key Themes From Their Conversation :
1. Rapidly Growing Bilateral Partnership
Modi pointed out that the partnership between India and the Netherlands is “growing rapidly,” especially in crucial sectors such as water resources, innovation, technology, and energy.
2. Deepening Trade and Investment
In their discussion, both leaders expressed a strong desire to deepen trade and investment linkages. Modi emphasized that India is committed to working with the Netherlands to expand mutual investments under a Strategic Partnership.
3. Mutual Investment Opportunities
Schoof highlighted the potential for increased Dutch investments in India, pointing out that his country is already one of India’s major investors. He discussed how both nations can leverage their strengths in innovation and security as part of this long-term cooperation.
4. Sustainable & Future-Focused Sectors
The two leaders looked at cooperation through a forward-looking lens: green energy (especially green hydrogen), water management, semiconductors, agriculture, and healthcare were among the prioritized areas.
5. Shared Values and Global Stability
Their conversation wasn’t limited to just economics. Modi and Schoof reaffirmed their shared commitment to democratic values, multilateralism, and regional/global stability. For instance, Schoof acknowledged the importance of working together in a rapidly changing world, underlining that India–Netherlands ties are not just transactional but strategic.
6. Long-Term Vision
Both PMs expressed optimism about a long-term partnership. Schoof said that their collaboration would remain “close … in the long term,” cementing this relationship beyond immediate incentives or short-term gains. Modi’s remarks about deepening trade and investment reflect a similar long-term perspective.
