The Netherlands seek to deepen its strategic partnership with India, said the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Caspar Veldkamp, in Wion in an exclusive interview. He highlighted the main areas of collaboration, including semiconductors, critical minerals and Indo-Pacific security, while highlighting his country’s commitment to finalize a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen industrial, technological and research cooperation.
Veldkamp highlighted the growing role of India in the world’s world industry and the expertise of the Netherlands in the production of advanced lithography machines-mainly for the manufacture of high precision fleas. “India has aimed to become a world center for semiconductors, and the Netherlands, with its advanced technology, are well placed to support this ambition,” he told Wion. Beyond industry, he highlighted the importance of collaboration between universities and research institutions to stimulate innovation and technological progress.
Addressing geopolitical challenges, Veldkamp shared its point of view on India’s position on war in Ukraine. Explaining exclusively to Wion, he recognized the balanced approach of India – carrying out links with Russia while providing humanitarian support to Ukraine – while reiterating the firm position of Europe. “Russia war is a direct threat to European security. In a world of uncertainty, India and the EU must be together as reliable and predictable partners,” he noted.
The push of the Netherlands for a more in-depth commitment with India aligns with the negotiations underway for the Indian-EU (ALE) free trade agreement, a crucial step towards stronger economic integration. While recognizing the strategic and assertive approach to India negotiations, Veldkamp has remained optimistic, telling Wion that the two parties must work together to overcome the challenges.
This exclusive conversation underlines the role of Wion as the first world press platform that shapes diplomatic discourse. By facilitating the high impact discussions that influence international policy, Wion continues to highlight the growing influence of India on the world scene. Veldkamp’s remarks, delivered in an in-depth exchange with Wion, signal a new phase in Indian-Dutch relations, paving the way for a stronger collaboration in technology, trade and strategic security.
Publication views: 60
About The Author
