EAM S. Jaishankar to Visit Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany from May 19 to 24

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will travel to the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany from May 19 to 24, according to a statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday.

Key Meetings and Agenda

During the six-day visit, Jaishankar will hold meetings with the top leadership of each of the three countries. The discussions will focus on strengthening bilateral ties and exploring cooperation on various global and regional issues of mutual concern.

Strategic Visit to Germany

Jaishankar’s visit to Germany comes shortly after Friedrich Merz became the new Federal Chancellor earlier this month. Following Merz’s appointment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him and expressed hope for closer cooperation. PM Modi wrote on X, “Heartiest congratulations to @_FriedrichMerz on assuming office as the Federal Chancellor of Germany. I look forward to working together to further cement the India-Germany Strategic Partnership.”

Support After Pahalgam Attack

The Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany recently showed strong support for India following the terror attack in Pahalgam. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen condemned the attack and offered condolences. Her office posted on X, “Terrible news from Pahalgam. Denmark stands with India and strongly condemns all acts of terrorism. Our condolences to the victims of the attack and their families and loved ones.”

Former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also condemned the attack on tourists. He extended sympathy to the victims and wished a quick recovery for the injured. Dutch President Dick Schoof added, “The Netherlands stands shoulder to shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism, now and in the future.”

Strong and Growing Ties

India maintains close and friendly relations with all three countries. The MEA stated that India’s ties with Denmark are built on shared democratic values, historical connections, and a joint commitment to peace and stability. The “Green Strategic Partnership” has guided the recent progress in their relationship.

India’s relationship with the Netherlands has spanned more than 75 years. The two countries enjoy strong political, economic, and commercial cooperation. High-level visits have helped boost their wide-ranging partnership.

India and Germany share a strategic partnership that began over seventy years ago, soon after World War II. India was among the first nations to establish diplomatic relations with the Federal Republic of Germany.