Amsterdam: In a gesture of respect for His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and Queen Máxima hosted an official dinner at the Royal Palace.
Before the dinner commenced, His Majesty greeted the esteemed guests with a handshake.
Following this, His Majesty the Sultan addressed the attendees with a speech that included the following remarks:
“Your Majesties,
It is a profound privilege to be present in the Netherlands as we commemorate the lasting friendship between our two countries. I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation for your gracious hospitality and the significant contributions that have fortified our alliance over the years. This warm welcome exemplifies the deep-seated collaboration between our nations, which has thrived for centuries through maritime trade, exploration, and shared curiosity.
This visit underscores the historic connections between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Since the 17th century, early Dutch traders and explorers have built bridges of friendship, laying the groundwork for our current vibrant partnership. This legacy is exemplified by Suhar Port, a collaborative effort between Asyad Group and the Port of Rotterdam to manage and operate Suhar Port and its free zone. This port symbolizes our maritime heritage and our collective commitment to innovation, cooperation, and a forward-looking vision. It has evolved into a bustling center for global trade and investment, demonstrating the remarkable outcomes that can arise when nations unite with transparency and resolve.
Dutch expertise in clean energy and water management is acknowledged worldwide, and I am thankful for this visit, which has allowed us to discuss our partnership and early achievements, especially in green hydrogen production and innovative water solutions.
In addition to our economic collaboration, our two nations are enhancing their relationship through political discussions, academic exchanges, and cultural interactions. The bond between our peoples has never been stronger. As we continue to uphold our shared values of justice, multilateralism, and the rule of law, I am confident that our partnership will foster peace and stability in Europe and the Middle East.
Building on our collective successes in logistics, commerce, and energy, we must now broaden our cooperation to tackle urgent global issues, particularly in maintaining international law and ensuring security for all. In these endeavors, we should be thoughtful in our perspectives and courageous in our actions, acknowledging that our shared responsibility for creating a better future transcends our borders.
Your Majesties,
As we advance with this common vision, I would like to conclude by expressing my sincere gratitude for the lasting friendship between Oman and the Netherlands. I eagerly anticipate the honor of welcoming Your Majesties to Muscat soon and continuing our collaborative efforts in the coming months and years.
Thank you.
The King of the Netherlands, during his address, extended a warm welcome once again to His Majesty the Sultan and the official delegation accompanying him. He emphasized his nation's dedication to expanding partnership and investment opportunities between the two countries, aiming to enhance economic growth in both the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of the Netherlands across multiple sectors.
The dinner was graced by members of the official delegation with His Majesty the Sultan, along with several senior officials from the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
