Ten diplomats from India were hosted by the Clingendael Academy in May to participate in a one-week diplomatic training course. The training aimed to sharpen participants diplomatic skills as well as to deepen understanding of the Netherlands foreign policy in general, its priorities, as well as the Netherlands-India bilateral relationship.

The participants were welcomed on the first day with an opening speech by former Minister for Foreign Trade and Development cooperation, Mr. Tom de Bruijn. During the rest of the week, a range of experts discussed topics as diverse as Dutch horticulture, the role of technology in shaping geopolitics, and developments in international law. The programme included sessions on economic and technological cooperation between India and the EU, but also touched upon diplomatic skills such as intercultural communication and international negotiations. 

The course supported the diplomats in expanding their networks, by strengthening relations among their own colleagues and Dutch counterparts. The participants enjoyed working visits to the Peace Palace by having fruitful discussions at the Permanent Court of Arbitration and the International Court of Justice. They also had the opportunity to visit the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Port of Rotterdam to, among others, expand their knowledge on Dutch Foreign Policy and Dutch-India bilateral relations.  As part of the social programme, a trip to the fabulous Keukenhof tulip gardens was also included!

On the final day, the Indian embassy hosted the group to a reception as a celebration and to congratulate the participants in the completion of the training. We look back on a very successful training and look forward to sustaining the good relations with India and their Ministry of Foreign Affairs.