India and the Netherlands today exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, including the fight against terrorism. During the 13th India-Netherlands Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) held in New Delhi, the Indian side reiterated its firm policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. Both sides deliberated on ways to further strengthen their partnership in sectors such as critical technologies and innovation including AI, defence and security, as well as the priority areas of water, agriculture, and health. The two nations reiterated their desire to provide a strategic dimension to bilateral relations across diverse sectors.
During the meeting, both sides also welcomed the increasing interactions and exchanges at the highest political levels, which have provided continuous guidance and momentum to the bilateral relationship. Noting the continued importance of the Netherlands as a key economic partner for India in Europe, the two sides acknowledged the consistent growth in bilateral trade and investment. In this regard, they underscored the importance of concluding the India-EU Free Trade Agreement by end of this year, as directed by the leadership on the Indian and EU sides during the visit of EU College of Commissioners in February this year. Both sides also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest including fight against terrorism.
The two sides noted the continuing importance of people-to-people relations and cultural ties in strengthening the bilateral partnership. They welcomed the Indian community in the Netherlands as an important bridge between the two countries, contributing significantly to the local economy and fostering deeper cultural links.
The FOC provided an opportunity to review advancements in bilateral ties and discuss new areas of cooperation. Highlighting the importance of the mechanism, the two sides agreed to continue holding consultations at regular intervals and to schedule the next round of the FOC at a mutually convenient time in the Netherlands.
The Indian delegation was led by External Affairs Secretary (West) Sibi George, while the Dutch delegation was led by Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, Christiaan Rebergen.
India and the Netherlands share a strong bilateral relationship rooted in shared democratic values and multifaceted cooperation across diverse areas. The two countries have a Strategic Partnership on Water, covering extensive collaboration and knowledge sharing in flood management, clean water technologies, and other domains.
