The Hague, May 17 -- MEA Secretary West Sibi George, on Saturday, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Netherlands, strongly defended India's democratic system, diversity and minority after a journalist representing a Dutch newspaper raised concerns over press freedom and treatment of minorities.

The exchange took place, as the journalist questioned the absence of a joint press interaction and raised concerns about press freedom and minority rights, including those of Muslim and smaller communities.

Responding firmly, Sibi George said the concerns stemmed from a "lack of understanding", stressing India's civilisational depth and pluralism.

"Let me come to the other questions which we have received about press freedom and ...