Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has praised the Indian diaspora for its peaceful conduct and contribution to host countries, saying Indians are welcomed abroad because they do not generally engage in vandalism or disrupt public life. His remarks came during an interaction with members of the Indian community in Berlin, Germany, amid protests in several European countries.

Goyal said the Indian community had earned respect for its law-abiding behaviour, family-oriented lives and contribution to society.

“They know that the Indian people and the Indian community are peace-loving. They live with their families; they care for their families,” he said.

He added that Indians were welcomed in several countries because they were not known for vandalism or creating public disturbances. Referring to protests in other parts of Europe, he said, “They know you don't indulge in vandalism. They know you don't go on the streets and create a disturbance to society, like we are seeing in other parts of Europe.”

Protests over the cost of living, wages and public services have taken place across countries including France, Spain and Italy. While many demonstrations have been peaceful, some have resulted in clashes and property damage.

Goyal urges diaspora to support Indian students

During his interaction in Berlin, Goyal encouraged established members of the Indian diaspora to help Indian students arriving in Germany, particularly those from financially weaker backgrounds.

He said support from the existing community could help newcomers adjust to a different country and navigate the challenges of studying and living abroad. He also praised Indian workers for their sincerity and hard work, highlighting their contribution to people-to-people ties and economic relations between India and Germany.

Goyal's Germany visit included meetings with government officials, business leaders and research institutions to explore cooperation in trade, investment, advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.

Port of Rotterdam visit focuses on maritime cooperation

Separately, during his four-day official visit to the Netherlands from October 24 to 27, Goyal visited the Port of Rotterdam, one of Europe's major maritime gateways. He toured the facility aboard a port vessel alongside its chief executive officer, Boudewijn Siemons.

The discussions focused on port modernisation, logistics efficiency, supply chain connectivity and opportunities to expand trade and investment between India and the Netherlands.

Goyal said India could draw on Rotterdam's expertise in cargo handling, digital systems, terminal operations and sustainable maritime infrastructure as the country modernises its ports under its long-term maritime development plans.

He also highlighted opportunities for cooperation in green hydrogen, carbon management and other clean-energy technologies, alongside efforts to improve cargo clearance and reduce vessel turnaround times.

India aims to expand port capacity by 2047

In an interview with ANI, Goyal said India planned to substantially increase its port capacity to accommodate economic growth and expanding international trade.

“Despite doubling our port capacity over the past decade, India still needs more capacity. By 2047, we expect port capacity to double twice over the next two decades to support GDP growth and international trade,” he said.

The minister also emphasised the importance of carbon capture and green energy in developing more sustainable maritime infrastructure and creating opportunities for green-energy trade.

The visit comes as India seeks to improve logistics efficiency, strengthen maritime connectivity and attract foreign investment. Cooperation with the Port of Rotterdam could help India explore international expertise in port management and sustainable shipping as it pursues these objectives.

Why Goyal's European visit matters

Goyal's remarks in Berlin and his visit to Rotterdam highlight two aspects of India's engagement with Europe: the role of the Indian diaspora in bilateral relations and the economic importance of maritime infrastructure.

1. The Indian diaspora and bilateral relations

Indian communities abroad contribute to cultural exchanges, professional networks and economic links between India and host countries. Goyal's appeal for established diaspora members to support Indian students also reflects the practical role community networks can play in helping newcomers settle abroad.

His comparison between Indian communities and protesters elsewhere in Europe was a political observation. Demonstrations across Europe vary in their causes and conduct, and incidents of vandalism should not be taken as representative of every protest or protester.

2. Port infrastructure and trade competitiveness

Efficient ports are essential for reducing delays and logistics costs in international trade. Learning from established maritime hubs such as Rotterdam could support India's efforts to improve cargo handling, terminal operations and supply chain management.

3. Green energy and maritime development

Cooperation in green hydrogen, carbon capture and sustainable port operations could help India develop cleaner industrial and maritime infrastructure. The practical benefits will depend on investment, technology adoption and the implementation of specific projects.

4. India-EU trade prospects

Stronger maritime links could support trade between India and European markets. Improved logistics would be particularly relevant to efforts to expand commercial ties and advance negotiations over an India-EU free trade agreement. However, the benefits would depend on the agreement's final terms, implementation and the wider business environment.