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Ambassador of Luxembourg to the United States, Nicole Bintner-Bakshian said the Indian community is the “fastest-growing” expatriate population in Luxembourg, underscoring its growing contributions to the country’s economy and its expanding bilateral relationship with India.
Speaking to South Asian Herald on July 15 in Washington, D.C., Ambassador Bintner-Bakshian said, “We are very proud to have such a fast-growing Indian community in Luxembourg.”
She described the Indian community as a “highly educated, highly skilled workforce” that contributes across multiple sectors, including finance and technology.
Discussing India-Luxembourg relations, the Ambassador characterized the partnership as a “long historic relationship,” particularly in the industrial and financial sectors.
“It is probably one of our fastest-developing relationships in the world,” she said. “We are considerably increasing our diplomatic footprint in India to expand cooperation and explore new opportunities.”
Ambassador Bintner-Bakshian was participating in The Washington Diplomat’s Ambassador Insider Series at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in Washington, D.C. She was interviewed by international communications consultant and journalist, Adrienne Ross.
During the discussion, the ambassador described Luxembourg as a small country situated between France, Germany, and Belgium. Comparable in size to Rhode Island, Luxembourg has a population of nearly 700,000 and occupies a strategically important position at the crossroads of Western Europe.
She recalled that Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg, in his inaugural address, spoke about “building bridges” between people, generations, communities, and nations.
“I think that’s really what makes Luxembourg special. It is a very diverse country,” she said, noting that nearly 50 percent of the country’s residents are foreign nationals.
Highlighting Luxembourg’s openness, the ambassador said the country was declared a neutral state in the 19th century because of its geopolitical importance as a buffer between larger European powers. She said that role continues to shape Luxembourg’s place in the region.
Reflecting on the country’s history, Bintner-Bakshian said Luxembourg overcame significant economic hardship and developed a strong relationship with the United States. She noted that about one-third of Luxembourg’s population emigrated to the United States in search of better opportunities when the country was largely agrarian and economically disadvantaged.
She said Luxembourg’s fortunes changed after the discovery of iron ore, which fueled economic growth. The country later diversified its economy by expanding its industrial base and developing one of the world’s leading financial centers.
The Ambassador added that Luxembourg continues to produce high-quality steel, with steel beams manufactured in the country being used in some of the world’s iconic buildings.
She also emphasized the economic benefits of the Schengen Area, noting that the free movement of people across its 29 member countries has strengthened regional economic integration.
Victor Shiblie, president and publisher of The Washington Diplomat, delivered the welcome address. Among those in attendance were Ambassador Maguy Maccario Doyle of Monaco, Ambassador Lionel Delatour of Haiti, diplomats, members of the media, and public policy professionals.
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