Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Dutch counterpart Rob Jetten met in The Hague, emphasizing the importance of people-to-people connections and the significant role of the Indian diaspora in the Netherlands. They decided to enhance the India-Netherlands relationship to a Strategic Partnership through specific, time-bound initiatives and joint action plans.
Both countries have adopted the Roadmap of India-Netherlands Strategic Partnership for the next five years (2026-2030). The Netherlands hosts the largest Indian-origin population in mainland Europe, including approximately 200,000 members of the Surinami-Hindustani community. Prime Minister Modi extended Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card eligibility for the Surinami-Hindustani diaspora from the fourth to the sixth generation, a move well-received by the community.
In a social media post, Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the Indian diaspora as a vital link in the India-Netherlands partnership. He also attended an Indian community reception in The Hague before meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Jetten, where he was warmly welcomed by a large gathering of the Indian diaspora and friends of India in the Netherlands.
Expressing gratitude for the enthusiastic reception, Prime Minister Modi praised the Indian diaspora for its contributions to Dutch society and its role as a bridge between India and the Netherlands. He highlighted the historical ties of the Surinami-Hindustani community with India and their efforts to preserve their cultural heritage. Modi also noted the significant presence of Indian professionals in the technology sector and students in Dutch universities, emphasizing the strengthening partnership between the two nations.
