India’s historical ties with the Netherlands can be leveraged for better trade and investment between the two countries in several sectors, according to Venu Rajamani, India’s Ambassador-designate to the Netherlands.
Speaking to the media on a visit to his home town before assuming office on June 10, Mr. Rajamani said India could make use of the Dutch expertise in water management, agro processing and urban planning, while utilising the business-friendly ecosystem in the Netherlands for investments in the IT sector.
Tourism and health care, he said, were other potential areas of cooperation.
“While India is a major producer of milk and fruits and vegetables, about 40% of the produce goes waste because of poor packaging and the absence of cold-chain facilities. This is one sector where the Dutch expertise can be harnessed through better cooperation between universities, research institutes, and the private sector. Science and technology and innovation are other areas where the two countries can join hands for a win-win situation.”
Investment
Initiatives like Digital India, Make in India, Swachch Bharat, and the Smart City programme also stood to benefit from Dutch investment, he added.
Mr. Rajamani said the Dutch experience in constructing coastal defence systems like dykes offered lessons for Kerala and other coastal States in India.
The two countries could also join hands for the development of ports, inland waterways, and maritime facilities.
People-friendly
Mr. Rajamani who completed five years as Press Secretary to President Paranab Mukherjee said the period had witnessed the democratisation of the Rashtrapathi Bhavan in New Delhi.
The official residence of the President was opened to the public two days a week and an in-residence programme launched for students, teachers, and innovators.
Good relations
“The President took the initiative to open a world-class museum and launch a movement to strengthen innovation. His tenure was marked by good relations with both the UPA and NDA governments,” he added.
