News Desk: Narendra Modi on Saturday lauded the deep and enduring relationship between India and the Netherlands while addressing members of the Indian community during an event in The Hague. Describing the enthusiastic reception as overwhelming, the Prime Minister said The Hague had “become a living symbol of Indian friendship.” Drawing a poetic comparison between the national symbols of the two countries, he said the Netherlands is known for tulips just as India is known for the lotus, adding that both flowers symbolize beauty and strength despite growing in different conditions.
PM Modi also spoke about global challenges, including the economic strain caused by conflicts in West Asia, warning that instability could reverse decades of global progress if not addressed quickly. He said India and the Netherlands are working together to build future-ready supply chains amid global uncertainty. Highlighting India’s rapid transformation, the Prime Minister said the country is making major strides in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, startups, infrastructure and healthcare. He noted that India now hosts the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem and operates the world’s largest government-funded health insurance scheme.
Also Read: Foundation Stone Laid for Gorakhpur International Cricket Stadium
The Prime Minister also highlighted the growing sports connection between the two countries, particularly in cricket. He praised the contribution of the Indian community to Dutch cricket and mentioned players such as Teja Nidamanuru, Vikramjit Singh and Aryan Dutt. Emphasising economic cooperation, PM Modi said the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement would further strengthen ties and make the Netherlands a key gateway for Indian businesses entering Europe. The Prime Minister also urged the Indian diaspora to invest in India and contribute to the country’s “Viksit Bharat” vision.
