India and the Netherlands have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in maritime heritage, bringing the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal in Gujarat closer to completion.
The MoU was exchanged during a meeting between India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel. It establishes a formal partnership between the NMHC, being developed under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and the National Maritime Museum in Amsterdam.
Under the agreement, the two institutions will collaborate on joint exhibitions, research initiatives and cultural exchange programmes. The partnership will also explore innovative approaches to enhance visitor experience, education and public outreach at the Lothal complex.
Planned as a world-class cultural destination, the NMHC at Lothal aims to showcase India’s maritime legacy spanning more than 4,500 years. Collaboration with the Amsterdam-based museum is expected to support global recognition of the project while promoting inclusive education and tourism.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal described the MoU as a major step in presenting India’s ancient maritime heritage to an international audience. He said the partnership aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of blending heritage with innovation to foster education, tourism and people-to-people engagement.
The agreement reflects a shared commitment by India and the Netherlands to preserve maritime heritage and deepen cultural ties. Both sides also noted the long-standing maritime links between the two countries and expressed interest in expanding cooperation across the wider maritime and shipping sectors.
