In the presence of Liesje Schreinemacher, the Netherlands’ Minister of Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, the Indian Defence Ministry’s Goa Shipyard Limited signed a MoU with Damen Shipyards to collaborate in the field of e-Tugs.

According to Goa Shipyard Limited, the MoU opens up new opportunities for delivering advanced, dependable, and environmentally friendly solutions to Indian ports.

The Damen Group, headquartered in Gorinchem, Netherlands, is a conglomerate company involved in defence, shipbuilding, and engineering. It operates globally with 54 companies, encompassing shipyards and service hubs across various regions.

Netherlands Minister Schreinemacher referred to India as a "significant geopolitical player" for the Netherlands. She commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efforts in elevating India's status as a "crucial geopolitical player."

In an interview with ANI, Schreinemacher highlighted the "very good economic partnership" between India and the Netherlands. She observed that the economic ties between the two countries amount to about 20 billion euros and expressed her belief that this figure can only increase in the future.

When questioned about PM Modi's efforts for India, the Netherlands Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation remarked, "You see that India is becoming a significant geopolitical player, and I think that's also because of the way your prime minister has acted and has placed India on the map. So, in that sense, you can say that he has played a significant role."

Schreinemacher emphasised India's significance in the Indo-Pacific, describing it as a major geopolitical and economic player for the Netherlands. She underscored the importance of India's role in regional stability and security, stating that cooperation with India is essential in these areas.

Schreinemacher also highlighted her visit's purpose, aiming to strengthen cooperation in maritime security and enhance economic relations further. She acknowledged the existing good economic relations between the two countries but stressed the potential for further improvement.

Image source: ANI