The artefacts have been in possession of Leiden University and are popularly known as Leiden copper plates.

• During the visit, two countries also elevated their relations to Strategic Partnership. 

About Leiden Copper Plates 

• Consists of 21 large and 3 small copper plates fastened with a bronze ring bearing the seal of Chola king Rajendra Chola I and another set carrying the seal of Kulottunga Chola I. 
• Language: Tamil and Sanskrit.
• These plates were brought to Netherlands in 1712 from Nagapattinam by Florentius Camper, a Dutch missionary, associated with Dutch East Indies Company.  
• Significance: Provide insights into Chola Empire’s administration, taxation, land reforms, irrigation systems, and trade practices.
  • Records grant of Anaimangalam village to Buddhist vihara built by Srivijaya rulers of Southeast Asia, signifying religious harmony and links with Southeast Asia.

About Copper Plate Inscriptions 

• Official records engraved on copper sheets and usually tied together with a ring bearing the royal seal.
• They usually recorded grants of land, lists of royal lineages carrying royal seal, religious grants, donations etc.
• Earliest known copperplate inscription is Sogaura Copperplate of Mauryan Era mentioning hunger relief efforts (praktrit language and Brahmi script).
• Majority of the copper plate inscriptions are concentrated in the southern states.