The Netherlands is placing artificial intelligence at the centre of its international economic and security policy, with the Dutch government outlining a strategy aimed at promoting safer AI development while reducing strategic dependence on foreign technology providers.

The government says its International AI Strategy is designed to help the Netherlands work with international partners on the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence. The strategy was submitted to the Dutch House of Representatives by the ministers responsible for foreign affairs, foreign trade and digital economy.

AI becomes a strategic priority

The Dutch government says artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the geopolitical landscape and creating both opportunities and new risks.

Officials see AI as a potential tool for improving cybersecurity and defence innovation, but they also warn that increasingly concentrated control over digital infrastructure and AI technology could create economic and security vulnerabilities.

The Netherlands therefore wants to work more closely with European and like-minded countries to strengthen its position in the global AI ecosystem.

Reducing dependence on foreign technology

One of the strategy’s key objectives is to reduce Europe’s reliance on a limited number of non-European suppliers for critical AI infrastructure.

The Dutch government argues that excessive dependence could leave European economies vulnerable to geopolitical disruption or changes in global technology markets.

The strategy calls for stronger European AI infrastructure, greater research cooperation and deeper partnerships across the international technology sector.

New diplomatic focus on artificial intelligence

The Netherlands plans to increase its diplomatic expertise on AI and participate more actively in international discussions over AI regulation.

At the European level, Dutch officials intend to contribute to efforts aimed at creating effective and workable AI rules. Internationally, the government wants to establish partnerships with countries that share its emphasis on responsible technological development.

Tackling misuse and disinformation

The strategy also addresses the potential misuse of artificial intelligence.

Dutch officials warn that AI can make it easier for criminals and hostile governments to attack digital infrastructure and distribute disinformation on a large scale.

The government believes these risks cannot be handled by one country alone and require coordinated international action.

Opportunities for the Dutch economy

Alongside security concerns, the Netherlands sees AI as an opportunity to strengthen innovation, research and economic growth.

The government wants Dutch companies and researchers to benefit from international cooperation while maintaining the country’s position in advanced technology.

The strategy also complements the Netherlands’ efforts to strengthen cooperation in the semiconductor industry. In June, the Dutch government announced its participation in the Pax Silica alliance, which focuses on economic security and cooperation involving AI and semiconductor supply chains.

Netherlands seeks stronger global role

The new strategy signals that the Dutch government considers artificial intelligence not merely a technology issue but an increasingly important part of foreign policy, economic security and international cooperation.

By combining diplomacy, technological investment and partnerships with other countries, the Netherlands aims to help shape the global development of AI while protecting European interests and values.