India & Netherlands desire an inclusive, open and secure Indian Ocean Region: Commander Royal Netherlands Navy

 Synopsis

The comments were made as Royal Netherlands Navy frigate HNLMS Evertsen as part of the British Carrier Strike Group (CSG) recently sailed into the Indian Ocean for exercises with the Indian Navy.

Agencies
The Evertsen as an Air DefenceFrigate has the ability to protect the air craft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth from aerial threats, so it is able to contribute in a significant way to the task group.
India and Netherlands both wish to see an Indian Ocean Region that is inclusive, open, secure and stable, enabling prosperity and economic growth, both regionally and globally, Vice Admiral R.P. (René) Tas, Commander Royal Netherlands Navy, has told ET amid unilateral attempt to change status quo in the region.

The comments were made as Royal Netherlands Navy frigate HNLMS Evertsen as part of the British Carrier Strike Group (CSG) recently sailed into the Indian Ocean for exercises with the Indian Navy.

“For the Royal Netherlands Navy the participation of HNLMS Evertsen in the UK Carrie Strike Group provides us all kinds of excellent opportunities. We’re able to operate and exercise with our British and American allies for a longer period of time, far away from home,” according to Vice Admiral Tas.

The Evertsen as an Air DefenceFrigate has the ability to protect the air craft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth from aerial threats, so it is able to contribute in a significant way to the task group.

“...it is great for the Royal Netherlands Navy to be active in this area. It brings us opportunities to exercise and tighten the ties with likeminded nations such as India. And with the presence of the UK Carrier Strike Group in this area, we give a clear statement that this area is crucial for the security and economic prosperity of the world,” according to the Vice Admiral.

The Netherlands and India have a historical relationship that dates back more than 400 years. “We have always had a strong trading connection. This trading connection has now matured into a mutually constructive relationship. We are two proud nations with strong economic and political ties, built upon a strong democratic foundation.”

“Our prosperity, economic development and the well-being of our citizens depend on open and protected ocean and sea routes, as they are critical to trade and access to natural resources,” pointed out the Vice Admiral.

“Protecting the open seas is one of the main objectives of our navies. Therefore I’m very happy that HNLMS Evertsen is able to exercise together with the Indian Navy here in the Indian Ocean. I see that both our nations wish to see an Indian Ocean Region that is inclusive, open, secure and stable, enabling prosperity and economic growth, both regionally and globally,” he said, adding, “Tackling any challenges is only possible if we work together, bilaterally and in larger multilateral alliances. I can’t foresee yet how that cooperation will develop in the near future, but I’m positive we can find each other in this.”

It may be recalled that Netherlands as part of its Indo-Pacific strategy has India as one of its principal partners.

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