Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the Indian diaspora in The Hague during his visit to the Netherlands, highlighting the expanding partnership between India and the European nation across technology, trade, innovation, and people-to-people ties.
The Prime Minister received a warm welcome from members of the Indian community and friends of India gathered at the reception venue in The Hague.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi praised the Indian diaspora for its contribution to Dutch society and described the community as a “living bridge of friendship” between India and the Netherlands.
He also referred to the historical and cultural links shared by the Surinami-Hindustani community with India and appreciated their efforts in preserving Indian traditions and heritage across generations.
“The Indian diaspora in the Netherlands has strengthened the bonds between the two countries through its hard work, talent and cultural values,” the Prime Minister said.
Highlighting the role of Indian professionals and students in strengthening bilateral ties, PM Modi said the presence of Indian talent in the technology sector and the growing number of Indian students in Dutch universities were giving fresh momentum to the partnership.
He also noted that sports, especially cricket and hockey, were contributing to stronger people-to-people connections between the two nations.
The Prime Minister said cooperation between India and the Netherlands was steadily expanding, with technology and innovation emerging as key pillars of engagement.
Referring to economic relations, he said the Netherlands remains one of India’s major export destinations in Europe and an important investment partner.
“India and the Netherlands are witnessing robust growth in trade and economic cooperation. The India-European Union Free Trade Agreement will open new opportunities for both sides,” PM Modi said.
Speaking about India’s development journey, the Prime Minister underlined the country’s rapid progress in infrastructure, manufacturing, clean energy and digital systems as part of the vision of becoming a developed nation, or “Viksit Bharat”, by 2047.
“India is confidently shaping its future while contributing to global growth and prosperity,” he said.
PM Modi also assured the Indian community abroad that the Government of India remains committed to their welfare and support.
He urged members of the diaspora to actively contribute to the “Viksit Bharat” mission by sharing their knowledge, experience and expertise gained in the Netherlands.
The Netherlands is home to the largest Indian-origin community in mainland Europe, including nearly 200,000 members of the Surinami-Hindustani community.
During his address, the Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s decision to liberalise Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) eligibility for the Surinami-Hindustani diaspora from the fourth generation to the sixth generation.
