Dutch tech giant ASML’s executive recalls company CEO meeting PM Modi for two hours, says “not always easy” to meet EU politicians
(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
A top executive at Dutch chipmaker ASML has slammed the European Union for making it tough for European companies to connect with key policymakers. Frank Heemskerk, ASML’s executive vice president for global public affairs, shared his frustrations at the Politico Competitive Europe summit in Brussels on Wednesday.
“It’s not always easy to get access to top EU leaders,” Heemskerk said. He pointed out the challenges in meeting figures like European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. In fact, he noted it’s often simpler to snag a sit-down with a senior White House official than with an EU commissioner—a point echoed by past ASML leaders.
Heemskerk highlighted a stark contrast with India. ASML CEO Christophe Fouquet recently enjoyed a full two-hour meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “After an hour and a half of listening, Modi said, ‘You’re too friendly—tell me what we can do better,'” Heemskerk recounted.
His advice to European leaders? “Political leaders should sit down with the companies investing money,” he urged, suggesting EU policymakers take a page from Modi’s playbook.
Heemskerk also touched on ASML’s fresh €1.3 billion partnership with French AI startup Mistral. This deal stands out as a win for Europe’s push toward technological sovereignty in semiconductors and AI. “Of course, it’s easier when it’s a European company—we understand each other better,” he said. The collaboration zeroes in on industrial AI applications, steering clear of geopolitical drama.
Semiconductors form the backbone of today’s gadgets, from smartphones and laptops to satellites and cars. They’re essential for powering modern electronics and driving innovation worldwide.
Meanwhile, India’s semiconductor drive is gaining speed. Last month, the country’s first batch of homegrown chips from a pilot production line made headlines when Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw presented them to PM Modi. This milestone ties into the India Semiconductor Mission, greenlit by the cabinet in December 2021 with a hefty Rs 76,000 crore budget.
The mission offers funding for chip fabrication, display manufacturing, and design projects. It aims to weave India deeper into global electronics supply chains and turn the nation into a powerhouse for semiconductor and display tech. Led by industry pros, it focuses on building a robust ecosystem to boost manufacturing and design.
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