New Delhi, December 18, 2025 — Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh met with the Foreign Minister of the Netherlands, David Van Weel, in New Delhi today to reinforce the expanding defense partnership between the two nations. Central to the meeting was the exchange of a Letter of Intent on Defence Cooperation, signed by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and the Ambassador of the Netherlands to India, Marisa Gerards. This landmark agreement underscores a shared commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, positioning defense collaboration as a primary pillar of the India-Netherlands Strategic Partnership.
The discussions focused on establishing a robust Defence Industrial Roadmap designed to fast-track the co-development and co-production of advanced military hardware. Both ministers emphasized the importance of connecting defense industries to collaborate on niche technologies and high-end platforms. This initiative aims to move beyond traditional buyer-seller dynamics, focusing instead on long-term technological synergy and joint manufacturing that benefits both Indian and Dutch defense ecosystems.
Beyond industrial cooperation, Rajnath Singh highlighted the deep-rooted cultural connections between the two countries, noting that the vibrant Indian diaspora in the Netherlands acts as a “living bridge” that strengthens bilateral bonds. By integrating military-to-military engagement with cutting-edge innovation, India and the Netherlands are paving the way for enhanced maritime security and regional stability. This meeting marks a significant step forward in securing mutual strategic interests through shared expertise and a commitment to a rules-based international order.
