The Hague: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 16 said the warmth and enthusiasm shown by the Indian diaspora in the Netherlands made him feel as though “some festival is going on somewhere in India” as he addressed a large community programme in The Hague during the second leg of his five-nation diplomatic tour. “It’s always a delight to interact with the Indian diaspora. So much love and enthusiasm… to tell you the truth, for a while I even forgot that I’m in the Netherlands. It feels just like some festival is going on somewhere in India,” PM Modi said while addressing members of the Indian community.
The Prime Minister praised the contributions made by the Indian diaspora to Dutch society and economy, saying Indians across the world continue to make the country proud through their achievements and hard work.
“Every Indian takes pride in the contributions you are making to the society and economy of the Netherlands,” he said, while also extending gratitude to the people and government of the Netherlands on behalf of 140 crore Indians.
‘Stories of migration are stories of struggle and progress’
During the address, PM Modi reflected on the journeys of Indian families settled in the Netherlands and described their experiences as stories of resilience, sacrifice and progress achieved through years of struggle. “The stories of many families settled here are not just stories of migration. They are stories of progress amid countless struggles,” he said. The Prime Minister said the enduring strength of Indian cultural identity across generations was remarkable, especially considering how communities across the world often lose touch with their roots over time.
“In those times, no one could have imagined that even after crossing oceans, the identity of Indians would remain so vibrant. The history of humanity bears witness that many cultures have vanished over time, but India’s diverse culture still beats in the hearts of its people today,” he added.
Delighted to interact with the Indian community in The Hague. Their warmth, achievements and strong bond with India continue to make us proud. https://t.co/DVKQo1pKXw
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2026
PM Modi also highlighted how Indian-origin families in the Netherlands have preserved their traditions, languages and family values despite adapting to life in another country. “Generations have changed, countries have changed, environments have changed… but the family values have not changed, the sense of belonging has not changed,” he said. The Prime Minister praised the diaspora for preserving Indian languages alongside embracing Dutch society and culture. “Because you have not abandoned the language of your ancestors. You adopted the Dutch language, but you did not abandon the languages of your ancestors either,” he said. He also appreciated the role played by Indian community radio stations in the Netherlands in promoting Indian music and cultural traditions among Dutch families. “Our community radio stations are very popular here. Through them, Indian music and culture are reaching Dutch families as well,” PM Modi said.
PM recalls May 16, 2014, election mandate
Highlighting the significance of the date, PM Modi recalled that May 16 marked the anniversary of the 2014 Lok Sabha election results, which brought the BJP-led NDA government to power with a decisive majority. “Today is May 16, and this day is very special for another reason as well. Twelve years ago today, on May 16, 2014, something special happened,” he said. “On this very day in 2014, the results of the Lok Sabha elections were announced. After decades, it became certain that a stable and full majority government would be formed in India. That was one day, and this is today’s day,” the Prime Minister added.
Reflecting on his political journey and years in public office, PM Modi said his work had always been guided by service and public trust. “The faith of crores of Indians does not let me stop, nor does it let me tire,” he said. “I chose the path from ‘I’ to ‘we’. Then your happiness became my happiness, and your welfare became my duty,” he added. The Prime Minister also noted his long tenure in governance, referring to his years as Gujarat Chief Minister and Prime Minister. “13 years as Chief Minister… 12 years as Prime Minister… in the democratic world, for 25 years… the unwavering support of crores and crores of voters… this is a matter of immense good fortune for me,” he said.
‘Your blessing is my greatest asset’. PM Modi said the continued support he has received from people over the years was not merely political support, but an emotional bond built on trust and affection. “For me, this is not just a number… this is your blessing, which is my greatest asset,” he said.
The address highlighted the strong emotional connection between India and its diaspora while underlining themes of cultural continuity, identity and the growing relationship between India and the Netherlands. Prime Minister Modi is currently on a five-nation diplomatic tour from May 15 to 20. Before arriving in the Netherlands, he visited the United Arab Emirates during the first leg of the visit.
