Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Netherlands on May 16, 2024, for an official state visit to the country [1].
The visit marks a strategic effort by India to diversify its global supply chains and reduce economic reliance on China. By strengthening ties with European partners, India seeks to secure new technology partnerships and expand its trade footprint across the continent [2].
The stop in the Netherlands is the first leg of a broader European tour spanning five nations [1]. The full itinerary for the diplomatic mission runs from May 15 to May 20, 2024 [2]. During his time in the Netherlands, Modi focused his activities in The Hague and Amsterdam [1].
Modi emphasized the cultural connection between the two nations during his visit. "It feels like being in India; the Indian community here has made the Netherlands feel like home," Modi said [1].
Beyond cultural diplomacy, the prime minister focused on the economic necessity of technological independence. He noted that India aims to explore partnerships that minimize the risk of depending on any single country for critical infrastructure or technology [2].
"We aim to deepen trade ties with the Netherlands and explore technology partnerships that reduce our dependence on any single country," Modi said [2].
The visit comes as India continues to seek high-tech collaborations in sectors ranging from semiconductors to green energy. These discussions are central to the five-nation tour, as India positions itself as a primary alternative for manufacturing and trade within the global market [1], [2].
“"It feels like being in India; the Indian community here has made the Netherlands feel like home."”
This diplomatic push signals India's intent to pivot its trade strategy toward the European Union to mitigate geopolitical risks. By targeting the Netherlands—a major logistics and tech hub—India is attempting to secure the specialized technology and investment needed to scale its domestic manufacturing capabilities while decreasing its vulnerability to Chinese supply chain disruptions.
