Dutch envoy outlines plans to deepen cooperation

Ambassador on sustainable solutions for water management

ISLAMABAD:

The Ambassador of the Netherlands to Pakistan Henny Fokel De Vries Friday highlighted the longstanding bilateral relationship between the two countries while calling for further boosting cooperation in trade, climate change, and cultural exchange.

In an exclusive interview, Ambassador De Vries discussed various areas of cooperation and outlined plans to deepen the partnership as the Netherlands and Pakistan celebrate 75 years of diplomatic ties.

The ambassador noted that Pakistan ranks as the sixth-largest non-European trade partner for the Netherlands, while the Netherlands ranks as the fifth-largest trading partner for Pakistan.

Recognising the strategic coastal location of the Netherlands as a gateway to Europe, Ambassador De Vries expressed her enthusiasm for further enhancing these trade ties.

Addressing the challenge of climate change and water management, Ambassador De Vries stressed the joint responsibility of developed countries, particularly European nations, to support countries like Pakistan. She highlighted the expertise of the Netherlands in water management and expressed the commitment to collaborate closely with Pakistan to find sustainable solutions.

It's worth noting that to commemorate 75 years of bilateral relations, various cultural initiatives and celebrations are taking place.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 24^th, 2023.