On 18 September 2025, a delegation from the Hague Centre for Strategic Studies (HCSS) –comprising Benedetta Girardi, Irina Patrahau, Michel Rademaker, and Karlijn Velthuis–joined the Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP) in co-organizing the ROK–NL Think Tank Dialogue on Industrial Open Strategic Autonomy in the Indo-Pacific, held at the Hotel President in Seoul. The event brought together policymakers, scholars, and researchers from both countries to discuss how the Netherlands and the Republic of Korea can jointly strengthen their technological and industrial resilience in an era of growing geopolitical complexity.
The dialogue focused on the concept of open strategic autonomy, examining how countries can maintain openness in trade and innovation while safeguarding critical capabilities and supply chains. Discussions explored evolving economic security strategies in Europe and Asia, highlighting opportunities for cooperation in areas such as science and technology policy, semiconductor and AI development, quantum technologies, and energy transition.
A recurring theme throughout the sessions was the need to ensure resilient, transparent, and diversified supply chains to support industrial competitiveness and technological leadership in the Indo-Pacific. Participants, among which Richard Ghiasy (Leiden University), Joris Vierhout (TNO), and Mayra van Houts (Quantum Delta NL), emphasised that secure access to advanced technologies and key materials will be essential for maintaining both economic growth and strategic stability in the region.
The dialogue underscored the shared commitment of the Netherlands and Korea to advancing innovation-driven cooperation, promoting a rules-based economic order, and enhancing strategic partnerships that contribute to sustainable prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
In addition to the main dialogue, HCSS representatives also held focused conversations with the Center for Economic Security and Foreign Affairs (CESFA) and The Korea Foundation. These exchanges explored strategies for deepening bilateral cooperation on AI, critical infrastructure, and industrial innovation, emphasizing knowledge sharing, joint research initiatives, and mechanisms for enhancing economic and technological resilience between the Netherlands and Korea.
These initiatives and conversation build on the work done at HCSS Europe in the Indo-Pacific Hub, of which Benedetta Girardi is Principal Researcher, and the Critical Minerals initiative chaired by Irina Patrahau as part of the economic security work at HCSS.
Related Content
