Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday warned that the world could face a “tough decade” if ongoing global crises, including wars and the energy crisis, are not resolved quickly.
Addressing the Indian community in the Netherlands, the Prime Minister said the world is currently navigating multiple disruptions that threaten decades of economic and social progress.
‘Achievements Of Decades Could Be Wasted’
Speaking about the growing instability across the globe, PM Modi said the decade has become increasingly challenging due to the combined impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, wars, and the ongoing energy crisis linked to tensions in West Asia.
“The world is dealing with new challenges. First Corona, then war and today’s energy crisis. This decade is becoming full of challenges. If the situations are not changed rapidly, the achievements of the last multiple decades will be wasted and a huge section of the world’s population will drown in poverty,” PM Modi said.
His remarks come amid rising tensions in the Middle East and growing concerns over global oil supply disruptions and inflationary pressure.
India, Netherlands Working On Future-Ready Supply Chains
PM Modi highlighted that India and the Netherlands are strengthening cooperation to build resilient and future-ready supply chains capable of handling global disruptions.
According to the Prime Minister, stronger India-Europe economic ties and the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement could further deepen strategic cooperation.
“The Netherlands will become a natural gateway for Indian businesses to enter Europe, and our Indian community can serve as a trusted bridge in this journey,” he said.
PM Modi is also scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with Rob Jetten during the visit.
Energy Security Emerges As Key Concern
The Prime Minister’s comments come at a time when India is closely monitoring the impact of the West Asia conflict on crude oil supplies and shipping routes, particularly through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
India remains heavily dependent on imported crude oil and natural gas from the Middle East region. Rising geopolitical tensions have triggered concerns over fuel prices, inflation, and supply-chain disruptions globally.
Officials say the Indian government is focusing on:
- Securing LPG and fuel supplies
- Increasing domestic production
- Strengthening energy partnerships
- Reducing the impact on consumers
PM Modi Highlights India’s Growth Story
During the address, Narendra Modi also spoke about India’s rapid transformation in technology, startups, healthcare, and semiconductor development.
He said India is now home to the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem and that the country’s youth are driving innovation in artificial intelligence and semiconductors.
“India is dreaming big,” the Prime Minister said while highlighting the country’s expanding global economic role.
PM Modi’s Second Visit To Netherlands
This marks PM Modi’s second official visit to the Netherlands after his 2017 trip. The visit is being seen as strategically important for strengthening India-Netherlands relations in trade, technology, water management, logistics, and energy security.
