16 May 2026
PM Modi set to talk semiconductors, free trade during Netherlands visit
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in the Netherlands for a two-day visit to deepen bilateral ties in trade, investment, defense and semiconductors.
“This visit to the Netherlands comes at a time when the free trade agreement between India and the European Union has given a significant boost to trade and investment ties,” Modi said on Twitter, posting pictures of his welcome in Amsterdam on Friday evening.
“It provides an opportunity to strengthen ties in semiconductors, water, clean energy and other sectors,” he said.
India has stepped up efforts to transform its global position as a buyer of technology to produce critical technology in collaboration with Western partners. The approach is part of New Delhi’s decision to diversify beyond China-centric supply chains following the disruptions seen during the COVID-19 pandemic and recent global conflicts.
India first started domestic chipmaking in 2021 under the “Make in India” initiative and has since expanded the strategy by approving several projects.
Modi has previously spoken about his ambitions to “make India a leader in the global semiconductor value chain”.
Apart from chips, Netherlands is also India’s largest export destination in Europe.
Modi’s visit to Europe comes at a time when New Delhi is pushing to finalize a free trade agreement with the European Union.
In response to a journalist’s question about the pending FTA agreement, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said, “It is a priority. We are working with the EU to reach an agreement on this as soon as possible. So we will do that, please be prepared for an immediate outcome.”
Modi’s two days in Netherlands
The Indian Prime Minister was welcomed by the Indian diaspora in Amsterdam, where he was welcomed with several traditional dance styles, including the Garba dance – typical of Modi’s home state.
In two days, Modi is expected to hold bilateral talks with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, meet King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and meet business leaders from the Netherlands.