National Day Message
from
HE Ambassador Remco van Wingaarden.
The Embassy of the Netherlands
On 27 April, we celebrate King's Day, which marks the birthday of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander. In the Netherlands, King's Day is a day of unity, full of all kinds of strestivities, providing the Dutch people a sense of community. It is a privilege to share this celebration with our friends and partners here in Bangkok.
The relationship between the Netherlands and Thailand runs long and deep and is built on a rich history of cooperation and friendship. For over 420 years, we have been in good contact, strengthening ties across many areas. From our long-standing trade relations, which have contributed to the prosperity of both nations, to our political collaboration on global challenges, the Netherlands and Thailand have shown that partnership can be a force for good in this ever-changing world.
As such, our shared commitment to innovation has resulted in a growing number of Dutch organisations working alongside Thai counterparts to find solutions to challenges in water management, agriculture and urban development. The Netherlands is also the largest EU investor in Thailand and, likewise, the largest EU investment destination for Thailand. Wher it's through the exchange of knowledge or collaborative projects, our economic ties continue to flourish, and with the upcoming EU-Thailand Free Trade Agreement, we look forward to even more and accelerated progress in the years ahead.
Yet, as we celebrate, we must also acknowledge the turbulence that the world currently faces. From geopolitical tensions to economic challenges, it is clear that we live in an era of great uncertainty. The unjust and unprovoked Russian aggression in Ukraine, the volatile situation in the Middle East and the on-going civil war in Myanmar are but to name a few breaches of human rights and international legal order. In times like these, it is thus more important than ever that we continue to work together, strengthening alliances and finding common ground. As such, the Netherlands is proud to be hosting the NATO Summit this summer in the Hague. We are also very glad that the Netherlands and Thailand, in our shared comitment to peace and prosperity, are well-placed to navigate these challenging times together.
So, let us use this day not only to celebrate the bond we share, but also to renew our commitment to facing the future with resolve, optimism and a spirit of cooperation.
I wish a very happy King's Day to all who are celebrating!
