In a significant step toward deepening diplomatic and economic relations, India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar embarked on a six-day visit to Europe, starting with the Netherlands on May 19, 2025. The visit, which also includes stops in Denmark and Germany, underscores India’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with key European partners. In the Netherlands, Jaishankar’s engagements focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, engaging with the Indian diaspora, and exploring opportunities for collaboration with the European Union (EU) in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Jaishankar arrived in The Hague on May 19, where he was warmly received by the Indian Ambassador to the Netherlands, Kumar Tuhin, and Gabriella Sancisi, Director of Protocol and Host Country Affairs at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The visit, part of a broader European tour scheduled from May 19 to 24, comes at a time when India is actively strengthening its global partnerships. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Jaishankar’s trip aims to deepen strategic ties, boost trade and investment, and address pressing global and regional challenges.
The Netherlands, a key EU member, has long been an important partner for India. The two nations share a rich history of diplomatic relations, established in 1947, and celebrated 75 years of ties in 2022. Jaishankar’s visit builds on this foundation, aiming to elevate cooperation in areas like trade, technology, security, and climate action.
During his time in the Netherlands, Jaishankar held productive discussions with Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp. The talks covered a wide range of topics, from deepening bilateral partnerships to addressing global issues in an era of multi-polarity. Jaishankar expressed gratitude for the Netherlands’ strong condemnation of the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack in India, which claimed 26 lives. The Dutch government’s firm stance against terrorism and its support for a zero-tolerance policy resonated strongly with India, reinforcing shared values of security and stability.
Jaishankar also met with Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans to explore opportunities for a bilateral defence partnership. The discussions highlighted the potential for collaboration in addressing shared security challenges, with both sides exchanging views on their respective strategic perspectives. These high-level engagements reflect a mutual desire to strengthen ties in critical areas like defence, technology, and innovation.
The Role of the Indian Diaspora
One of the highlights of Jaishankar’s visit was his interaction with the Indian community in the Netherlands. He praised the diaspora for its significant contributions to strengthening ties between the two nations. The Indian community, known for its vibrant presence in the Netherlands, has played a key role in fostering cultural and economic connections. From professionals in technology and business to students and entrepreneurs, the diaspora has helped bridge the gap between India and the Netherlands, creating opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth.
Jaishankar’s appreciation for the Indian community underscores the importance of people-to-people ties in diplomacy. By engaging with community representatives, he emphasized the value of their efforts in building a stronger, more connected relationship between the two countries.
A key focus of Jaishankar’s visit was strengthening India’s engagement with the EU through the Netherlands, a major player in European affairs. In meetings with strategic experts in The Hague, Jaishankar discussed the need for deeper India-EU ties in an era defined by multi-polarity and strategic autonomy. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in areas like trade, technology, climate change, and security, noting that a stronger India-EU relationship could serve as a stabilizing force in a volatile global environment.
India and the EU share robust trade and investment ties, with the EU being India’s largest trading partner. Jaishankar’s discussions emphasized the potential for further growth in sectors like semiconductors, renewable energy, and digital technologies. The Netherlands, known for its expertise in water management, agriculture, and health, offers unique opportunities for collaboration with India, particularly in sustainable development and innovation.
Building on Recent Engagements
Jaishankar’s visit to the Netherlands follows a series of high-level interactions between the two countries. In April 2025, India’s Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal visited the Netherlands, where both sides agreed to strengthen bilateral trade and economic cooperation. These efforts highlight India’s commitment to expanding its economic footprint in Europe, with the Netherlands serving as a gateway to the broader EU market.
Additionally, the visit comes in the context of recent geopolitical developments. The Netherlands’ Prime Minister Dick Schoof, who assumed office on July 2, 2024, has expressed strong support for India, particularly in condemning the Pahalgam terror attack. This shared commitment to fighting terrorism and promoting global stability has further strengthened the foundation for deeper bilateral ties.
A Broader European Outreach
Jaishankar’s six-day tour also includes visits to Denmark and Germany, where he will engage with government leaders and discuss bilateral relations, regional challenges, and global issues. In Denmark, talks are expected to focus on the Green Strategic Partnership, which emphasizes renewable energy collaboration. In Germany, Jaishankar’s visit coincides with the recent appointment of Friedrich Merz as Federal Chancellor, offering an opportunity to reinforce the India-Germany Strategic Partnership.
The timing of the visit is significant, as it follows India’s Operation Sindoor, a response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Jaishankar is expected to brief his counterparts in all three countries on India’s actions and its commitment to combating terrorism. The solidarity expressed by the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany in the wake of the attack highlights the shared values that underpin India’s relationships with these nations.
Why This Matters
Jaishankar’s visit to the Netherlands is more than just a diplomatic trip; it’s a reflection of India’s growing role on the global stage. As the world navigates a complex geopolitical landscape, marked by shifting alliances and emerging challenges, India’s partnerships with countries like the Netherlands are crucial. The focus on trade, technology, and security underscores the potential for mutual growth and collaboration.
For readers, this visit highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. From climate change to terrorism, the issues discussed during Jaishankar’s trip affect people across borders. The emphasis on people-to-people ties, through the Indian diaspora, also reminds us of the human connections that drive diplomacy.
Looking Ahead
As Jaishankar continues his European tour, the outcomes of his discussions in the Netherlands are expected to pave the way for stronger bilateral and EU-level partnerships. The focus on emerging sectors like semiconductors and green hydrogen, alongside traditional areas like water and agriculture, signals a forward-looking approach to India-Netherlands relations.
For businesses, students, and professionals in both countries, this visit opens doors to new opportunities. Whether it’s Dutch companies investing in India’s renewable energy sector or Indian students pursuing education in the Netherlands, the strengthened ties promise a brighter future for collaboration.
In a world that feels increasingly uncertain, Jaishankar’s visit to the Netherlands sends a powerful message: partnerships built on shared values and mutual respect can create a more stable and prosperous future. As India and the Netherlands deepen their ties, they are setting an example of how nations can work together to tackle global challenges while fostering growth and innovation.
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