Narendra Modi Arrives in Netherlands to Strengthen Strategic Partnership in Semiconductors, Trade, and Clean Energy

Upon his arrival in Amsterdam on Friday evening, Modi shared images of his reception on the social media platform X, noting that the visit coincides with growing momentum in India–European Union trade and investment relations. He emphasized that the engagement presents a key opportunity to further strengthen collaboration in advanced technology sectors, including semiconductors, water management systems, and clean energy initiatives.

India has intensified efforts to reposition itself from a technology-importing economy to a technology-producing hub in partnership with Western nations. This strategic shift is driven by New Delhi’s objective to diversify supply chains away from China-centric dependencies, a process accelerated by disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent global geopolitical tensions.

The country first initiated domestic semiconductor manufacturing in 2021 under the “Make in India” framework and has since expanded its ambitions through the approval of multiple projects in the sector. Modi has previously articulated his vision of establishing India as a leading force in the global semiconductor value chain.

Beyond the semiconductor sector, the Netherlands remains India’s largest export destination in Europe, underscoring the depth of commercial ties between the two nations. Discussions during the visit are also aligned with India’s ongoing push to finalize a Free Trade Agreement with the European Union. A foreign ministry spokesperson described the agreement as a priority, stating that negotiations are being actively pursued for early completion.

During his visit, the Prime Minister was welcomed by members of the Indian diaspora in Amsterdam, where cultural performances were organized, including traditional dance forms such as Garba from his home state. Over the two-day programme, Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, meet King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, and engage with leading business representatives.

The visit highlights India’s accelerating engagement with Europe and its strategic push to position itself as a key global hub in advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.