External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is currently on a crucial trip to Europe. He will engage with the Netherlands, Germany, and Denmark. Discussions will focus on cross-border terrorism, particularly Pakistan's role. Trade and investments will ...
Jaishankar during a session with strategic experts, in Hague
External affairs minister S Jaishankar is on a significant mission to Europe, engaging three important partners-Netherlands, Germany, and Denmark-to sensitise them on Pakistan's role in cross-border terror and India's response to the Pahalgam terror attacks through Operation Sindoor.
Jaishankar landed in the Netherlands on Sunday-a country which gave a strong and firm response to the Pahalgam attacks. The minister will engage with his counterpart Caspar Veldkamp who has strong views against international terror. The Netherlands is also significant from the viewpoint of trade and is the hub of Indian investments in western Europe.
Besides cross-border terror, trade and investments amid India-EU negotiations on a free trade agreement will figure high on Jaishankar's discussion agenda with the Dutch leadership, it is learnt.
India is focusing on high-tech collaboration with the Dutch. Netherlands remains a critical entry point for Indian exports to Europe.
The Netherlands issued its guidelines on the Indo-Pacific in 2020 which identifies India as a key partner. There are over 300 Dutch companies currently in India.
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The Denmark leg of Jaishankar's visit is vital as the European nation-a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council has given strong support to India's cause in the Council.
Denmark and India launched the Green Strategic Partnership a few years ago, and the relationship has transformed in recent years. Denmark will hold EU Council Presidency in the second half of 2025 and is expected to give a definitive push for the proposed FTA with India.
This will be Jaishankar's first visit to Germany after the new government under Friedrich Merz assumed office. He will meet foreign minister Johan Wadephul, who belongs to the Christian Democratic Union political party, and has strong views on international terror resonating with that of India's.
