THE HAGUE, NETHERLANDS — Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the exceptional warmth and energy of the Indian diaspora in the Netherlands on Saturday, remarking that the enthusiastic reception felt exactly like a festival back home in India. Speaking to a massive community gathering in The Hague during the second leg of his five-nation tour, Modi celebrated the community as a source of global pride that beautifully bridges both nations. He noted that the sheer love and excitement from the crowd momentarily made him forget he was in Europe, transforming the event into a vibrant celebration of shared heritage.
Addressing the gathering, Modi strongly lauded the profound impact the Indian community has made on Dutch society and the local economy. He conveyed the gratitude of 140 crore Indians to the people and government of the Netherlands for embracing the diaspora, while emphasizing that every citizen back home takes immense pride in their achievements abroad. The Prime Minister described the migration history of many families settled in the region as a powerful narrative of resilience, progress, and triumph over countless initial struggles.
A central theme of the Prime Minister’s address was the remarkable preservation of cultural roots across generations and shifting geographies. Modi commended the diaspora for seamlessly integrating into Dutch life and learning the language while fiercely protecting their ancestral traditions, family values, and languages. He specifically highlighted the popularity of local community radio stations that actively broadcast Indian music and culture, ensuring that the younger generations remain deeply connected to their roots.
The address also carried a deeply reflective tone as Modi pointed out the historical significance of the date. He recalled that exactly twelve years ago, on May 16, 2014, the landmark Lok Sabha election results were announced, ushering in a stable, full-majority government in India after decades of coalition politics. Reflecting on his subsequent twenty-five consecutive years in public office—spanning thirteen years as Chief Minister of Gujarat and twelve years as Prime Minister—he stated that the unwavering trust of millions of voters remains an emotional blessing and his greatest asset, driving his continuous journey of public service.
