Netherlands ambassador admires Indian election process

Netherlands' ambassador to India Alphonsus Stoelinga today said here that he admired the election process in the country.
"While focusing on the result, we should not forget about the process of conducting the election. I admire the election process. It is also remarkable that Indians will be giving votes through EVM machines. In my country, we still use the piece of paper to cast our votes," Stoelinga said.
He was here to inaugurate Visa Facilitation Services centre of the Netherlands government.
Asked about BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi, Stoelinga refused to comment. "Modi is a PM candidate and we will accept the outcome of this election. I should not comment on the quality of any candidate," he said.

"India needs to focus on building infrastructure, such as roads, ports and railroads. There is also a need to build more educational institutes and schools at all levels," he said, adding that his country was willing to help India in several sectors including agriculture and sports.
"In the next ten years, India needs to double it's agricultural production. Holland can play a crucial role if India wants to move into that direction. We are one of the four partnering countries in the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015.

"Apart from agri business, our companies want to play a crucial role in sectors like sports, irrigation, ports, education and tourism," said Stoelinga.

He also noted that Gujaratis were enthusiastic globe-trotters.
"When it comes to travelling, share of Gujarati travellers is on the rise. Among the total number of international travellers from India, 30 to 40 per cent are from Gujarat... Holland is also becoming favourite for Indian students and businessmen. This VFS centre will surely help them and save their time too," he said.