Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Netherlands from May 15 to May 17, 2026, to strengthen bilateral trade and technology cooperation [1].
The visit marks a strategic effort to integrate Indian markets with Dutch expertise in high-tech manufacturing and sustainable energy. As India seeks to diversify its supply chains and accelerate its green transition, the Netherlands serves as a critical European gateway for semiconductor technology and renewable energy infrastructure.
Modi arrived in the Netherlands on May 16 [1] as part of the second leg of a broader five-nation diplomatic tour [2]. In The Hague, he met with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten to discuss a comprehensive agenda covering trade, technology, defence, and renewable energy cooperation [3].
A central pillar of the talks involved the development of a green-hydrogen roadmap and cooperation on clean energy [1]. The two leaders also focused on semiconductor cooperation, a critical sector for the global electronics and automotive industries [1].
Economic ties between the two nations have seen significant growth. Modi said that more than 300 Dutch firms are now part of India's growth story [4]. This investment surge reflects a growing confidence in the Indian economy and a desire for Dutch companies to scale operations within the region [4].
During his time in the city, Modi said The Hague is a living symbol of Indian friendship [5]. The discussions aimed to deepen the partnership across multiple sectors, including defence, to ensure long-term strategic alignment between the two governments [1, 3].
“The Hague has become living symbol of Indian friendship”
This state visit signals India's intent to secure critical technology transfers in semiconductors and green hydrogen to reduce reliance on a few dominant global suppliers. By deepening ties with the Netherlands, India leverages Dutch technical leadership in lithography and water management, while the Netherlands gains more stable access to one of the world's fastest-growing major economies.
