Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a grand cultural welcome from the Indian diaspora in The Hague on May 16, 2024 [2].

The event marks a strategic effort by India to leverage its global population to foster economic partnerships and expand diplomatic influence across Europe. By engaging the diaspora, the Indian government seeks to create bridges for trade and investment in key sectors.

The welcome at the hotel venue featured traditional Garba beats and the display of tricolors [1]. During his address, Modi said that "Indians never forget their roots" [2].

This visit is part of a larger diplomatic itinerary involving five nations [1]. The tour aims to strengthen outreach and secure trade partnerships in areas such as energy, defense, and semiconductors [1]. Modi said that "India is a ‘land of opportunities’" [2].

Throughout the gathering, supporters greeted the Prime Minister with chants of "Modi Modi" [1]. The event focused on the idea that India's aspirations are no longer limited to its own borders, reflecting a broader goal of projecting Indian leadership on the global stage [2].

While reports on the exact day of arrival varied between Thursday and Friday, the primary event in The Hague occurred on May 16, 2024 [2]. The Prime Minister's itinerary includes visits to other European nations, including Sweden, Italy, and Norway, to discuss bilateral cooperation [1].

“India is a ‘land of opportunities’”

This diplomatic tour signals India's intent to diversify its economic partnerships and solidify its role as a global power. By combining high-level state visits with diaspora engagement, the administration is utilizing 'soft power' to facilitate 'hard power' goals in trade and technology.