PM addresses the Indian Diaspora in the Netherlands

16 May, 2026

PM addresses the Indian Diaspora in the Netherlands

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi attended today an Indian community reception in The Hague. On arrival, he was accorded a warm and spirited welcome by a large gathering of the Indian diaspora and friends of India in the Netherlands.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi expressed appreciation for the enthusiastic and colourful reception. He praised the Indian diaspora for its contributions to the Dutch society and for serving as a living bridge of friendship between India and the Netherlands. He also recalled the deep and enduring historical ties of the Surinami-Hindustani community with India, and commended their efforts to preserve and celebrate their rich cultural heritage across generations. Prime Minister highlighted that the large number of Indian professionals in the technology sector and the growing number of Indian students in Dutch universities, particularly in innovation-driven fields, were adding strength to contemporary partnership between the two countries. He further noted that sports linkages, in particular Cricket and Hockey, were contributing to new vibrancy to the close people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Prime Minister underlined that bilateral cooperation with the Netherlands was steadily expanding, with technology and innovation emerging as key focus areas. He underscored the robust and growing trade and economic relationship between the two countries, noting that the Netherlands is among India's largest export destinations in Europe and one of its foremost investment partners. He added that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement would further unlock new opportunities for both sides.

Prime Minister highlighted the growth and progress happening in India with the objective to become a developed country - Viksit Bharat by 2047. He noted the scale and pace of the ongoing transformation in India through wide-ranging advancements across infrastructure, manufacturing, clean energy, and digital systems. He emphasized that India was confidently shaping its own future, while contributing to global growth and prosperity.

Prime Minister assured the community that the Government of India stood firmly behind every Indian living abroad and remained committed to their welfare. He called upon them to actively contribute to the Viksit Bharat journey by leveraging their experience in the Netherlands.

The Netherlands is home to the largest number of Indian origin people in mainland Europe, including around 200,000 members of the Surinami-Hindustani community. In this regard, he highlighted the liberalisation in OCI eligibility for the Surinami-Hindustani diaspora from 4th generation to 6th generation. The full address of Prime Minister may be seen here [Link].

Delighted to interact with the Indian community in The Hague. Their warmth, achievements and strong bond with India continue to make us proud. https://t.co/DVKQo1pKXw

- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2026

मानवता का इतिहास साक्षी है कि समय के साथ अनेक संस्कृतियां मिट गईं।

लेकिन भारत का diverse culture, आज भी अपने लोगों के दिलों में धड़कता है: PM @narendramodi

- PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 16, 2026

13 वर्ष मुख्यमंत्री के रूप में... 12 वर्ष प्रधानमंत्री का सेवाकाल... Democratic World में 25 वर्षों तक... करोड़ों-करोड़ वोटर्स का लगातार समर्थन... ये मेरे लिए बहुत ही बड़े सौभाग्य की बात है।

मेरे लिए ये सिर्फ एक आंकड़ा नहीं है... ये मेरी बहुत बड़ी पूंजी है: PM @narendramodi

- PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 16, 2026

जब भारत में Aspirations Unlimited हैं, तो Efforts भी Limitless हो रहे हैं: PM @narendramodi

- PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 16, 2026

भारत chip making में, semiconductor sector में भी बड़े कदम उठा रहा है।

अभी भारत में 12 semiconductor plants पर काम चल रहा है। इनमें से दो plants में production भी शुरु हो चुका है।

यानि अब chip भी, designed in India, made in India होगी: PM @narendramodi

- PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 16, 2026

भारत की aspiration driven journey, हमारी democracy को सशक्त कर रही है: PM @narendramodi

- PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 16, 2026

भारत... अपने हर citizen की democratic participation को value करता है।

और mother of democracy के रूप में, ये हम सभी के लिए बहुत गर्व की बात है: PM @narendramodi

- PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 16, 2026

The Indian community in the Netherlands serves as a vibrant bridge between our two nations. It is truly heartening to see how India's diverse culture continues to thrive in its hearts. pic.twitter.com/Q3tOsjhvWY

- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2026

The affection and blessings I have received from people across the country inspire me to work harder to fulfil their dreams. pic.twitter.com/czczzBhUA4

- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2026

Today, India's aspirations are unlimited and the scale of our efforts is equally immense! pic.twitter.com/mfgQZhPho8

- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2026

Today's India is powered by innovation and is witnessing an unprecedented transformation across every sector. pic.twitter.com/Zt3oIZmPWn

- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2026

Amidst the many global challenges of today, India and the Netherlands are working together to build future-ready supply chains. From energy security to water security, both countries are cooperating closely. pic.twitter.com/ftlseESm5b

- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2026

The tulip and the lotus remind us that whether roots lie in water or in the soil, with the right nourishment, they blossom. This is also the foundation of the partnership between India and the Netherlands. pic.twitter.com/o8Ghs6kT9S

- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2026

Deeply touched by the immense enthusiasm and affection of the Indian community at the community programme in The Hague. Their energy and connection with India are deeply special. pic.twitter.com/qGyHuUDtSc

- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2026