Netherlands is natural partner in economic development of India: PM Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met Dutch PM Mark Rutte.

Pic courtesy: @MEAIndia

Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday after his meeting with Dutch PM Mark Rutte at Catshuis said that Netherlands was a natural partner in the economic development of India.

"​Ties between India and Netherlands are very old. Our bilateral relations are very strong," he said, adding, "Netherlands is a natural partner in the economic development of India. Our trade and economic ties are increasing."

PM Modi also said, "Would like to thank for the warm welcome accorded to not just me, but our entire delegation. This visit was decided at a very short notice, would like to laud your leadership for the way it is organised."

At the same time he thanked Netherlands for helping India get membership of Missile Technology Control Regime last year.

On his part, Rutte said, "India is now a global economic power. We have plenty to offer to India. Bonds between Indian and Netherlands goes back to 1947 and these relations have become stronger over the years."

"Today India and Netherlands work together in many areas trade, environment, agriculture, logistics innovation, culture and science," the Dutch PM added.

PM Modi arrived in Netherlands today from US and was received at Schiphol Airport by Dutch Finance Minister Bert Koendersto for the last leg of his three-nation tour.

After arriving in Amsterdam, he had tweeted: "Landed in the Netherlands. This is a visit of immense importance, which will lead to cementing ties with a valued friend."

This year, the two countries are celebrating 70 years of the establishment of Indo-Dutch diplomatic relations.

In the US, PM Modi held talks with President Donald Trump during which the two leaders vowed to strengthen co- operation on terror. 

The two leaders underlined the close ties between their countries, with Trump saying India has a 'true friend' in the White House.

Trump said the friendship between the United States and India is built on shared values, "including our shared commitment to democracy".

PM Modi, on his part said he deeply appreciates Trump's strong commitment to the enhancement of bilateral relations.

"I am sure that under your leadership, our mutually beneficial strategic partnership will gain new strength, new positivity, and will reach new heights, and that your vast and successful experience in the business world will lend an aggressive and forward-looking agenda to our relations," he said.

The PM emphasised that he would like to thank Trump for his 'great leadership' in building US-India relations.

(With Agency inputs)