King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands will visit Kenya for four days, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations through trade, climate action, and security. Key activities include meetings with President Ruto, signing MoUs, youth engagement, and attending a business forum to bolster economic ties. They will also honor independence heroes and engage in cultural exchanges with the Dutch community.
King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands are set to begin a four-day State visit to Kenya, invited by President William Ruto. Accompanying them are three ministers from the Netherlands: Caspar Veldkamp (Foreign Affairs), Reinette Klever (Foreign Trade and Development), and Ruben Brekelmans (Defence). This visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties, which have existed for over 60 years, focusing on trade, security, climate action, and youth empowerment.
On the itinerary for Tuesday, March 18, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will be welcomed at State House by President Ruto and the First Lady, followed by meetings with cabinet ministers to discuss governance and economic collaboration. The day includes the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) focused on tourism and trade, aimed at enhancing economic partnerships between the nations.
The royal couple will also honor Kenya’s independence heroes by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior. They will engage with Kenyan youth to discuss their experiences and aspirations regarding governance and human rights. Additionally, in support of Kenya’s climate initiatives, they will participate in a tree-planting ceremony in Nairobi, emphasizing both nations’ commitments to environmental conservation.
Later, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will attend a Business Forum exploring economic relations between Kenya and the Netherlands. Over 50 organizations will promote sustainable agriculture and innovative partnerships in various sectors, including healthcare and digitalization.
On Wednesday, March 19, the royal couple will visit the inland container depot (ICD), majorly involved in export logistics, particularly for flowers and avocados. Their tour will include a Dutch horticultural business focused on sustainable practices while enhancing local well-being through childcare programs.
That afternoon, they will participate in discussions on climate change, emphasizing water security and regional stability. The evening will feature a cultural program hosted by the King and Queen in appreciation of Kenyan hospitality.
On Thursday, March 20, they will engage with Chief Justice Martha Koome at the Supreme Court, discussing the role of an independent judiciary in justice access. They will tour the Judiciary Museum to learn about Kenya’s judicial history.
The visit concludes with a visit to the International Peace Support Training Centre, where they will examine military training programs and initiatives against violent extremism. The final event will be a reception for the Dutch community, where they will interact with Dutch nationals residing in Kenya.
The State visit by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima aims to fortify the longstanding partnership between the Netherlands and Kenya through discussions on trade, climate action, security, and youth empowerment. Key engagements include signing MoUs, honoring Kenya’s independence heroes, and enhancing economic collaboration through business forums and visits to critical infrastructure. This visit underscores the commitment of both nations to mutually beneficial cooperation across various sectors.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
