In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, India and the Netherlands have agreed to intensify cooperation in critical sectors like security, defence, and advanced technology. This development comes against a backdrop of shifting global geopolitics, which both democratic nations acknowledge adds fresh urgency to their partnership.
Strategic Pacts and Shared Democratic Values
The recent high-level visit culminated in the signing of a letter of intent in the field of security and defence, paving the way for more intensive collaboration. Furthermore, a crucial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked in the semiconductor and modern technologies sector. The Dutch leadership emphasized that the two nations are "very like-minded," both being democracies that believe in international rule of law and free trade. "Those countries need to stick together," the official stated, highlighting the foundational values strengthening the bond.
Economic Synergy: From FTA to Future Talent
On the economic front, the long-pending India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is seen as a key catalyst. While acknowledging the complexity of negotiating with 27 different EU member states, there is a strong belief that reaching a deal with India is in everyone's interest. Beyond trade, the Netherlands is emerging as a major hub for Indian talent. The country already hosts a significant number of Indian students, many of whom transition to work in high-tech Dutch companies like ASML. The growing Indian community is evident, with reports of around 10 cricket clubs now active around Eindhoven.
Semiconductors and Specific Sectors for Growth
Cooperation in semiconductors is a standout area with immediate potential. Dutch semiconductor giant NXP, a spin-off from Philips, already designs most of its high-end chips in India and provides over 3,000 high-end jobs in the country. The focus now is on investing more in joint Research & Development (R&D) and talent development. There is also a clear Indian interest in expanding into semiconductor production facilities, building on the existing strong foundation.
The partnership, historically strong in water management and agriculture and anchored by Dutch multinationals like Philips, is thus entering a new, more strategic phase. This is reinforced by a large and thriving Indian diaspora that feels at home in Dutch society.
A View on European Security and Hopes for Peace
Addressing the situation in Europe, the Dutch perspective on the Ukraine war is one of deep concern. The conflict, ongoing for almost four years, has come at an incredible cost for both Ukraine and Russia. The shared hope is for a swift ceasefire and a durable peace agreement. Europe is actively engaged in ongoing negotiations, led by the US, and hopes that Moscow will join Ukraine in reaching a deal to end the hostilities.
