President Kovind in Amsterdam; King of Netherlands hosts State banquet in honour

New Delhi, Apr 6 : President Ramnath Kovind is currently on his Netherlands visit with First Lady Savita Kovind, which is the first presidential trip to the Netherlands after 34 years. The President arrived in Amsterdam on Apr 4, followed with the King of Netherlands hosting the State banquent in honour of President Kovind, the next day.

 

 

 

 

In the ongoing Presidential visit to the Netherlands, on the invitation of King Williem - Alexander and Queen Maxima, President Kovind is scheduled to be engaged in discussions with the Royal couple and Netherlands' Prime Minister Mark Ruette. President Kovind officially initiated the visit by laying wreath at the Dam square, honouring the martyrs of World War II.

 

 

 

The State banquet hosted by the King and Queen, in honour of the President of India on Apr 5, took place at the Royal Palace. President Kovind in his speech during the state banquet thanked the King for the cordial welcome and warm hospitality. Further, explaining the significance of the visit President Kovind said, "This year marks the milestone in our bilateral journey as we are jointly celebrating the 75th anniversary of our diplomatic relations that reflects the depth of India - Netherlands partnership."

 

 

 

 

 

Saying that the country is honoured to host the Indian President, King Alexander further said, "As an economic power, India has a decisive role in global efforts to reach the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The eyes of the entire world are on India and they are full of expectation." About the significance of the visit the King said, "In 1947, Netherlands was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Independent India." During his speech the King also recalled his 2019 visit to India.

 

 

 

 

Referring to several environmental threats and climate change the King said, "The Netherlands has the technology to ensure that in times of drought, not a single drop of water is wasted. And we're proud we can share that with you. Obviously, it's just as important that we tackle the cause of climate change and transition together to renewable energy. That's an area we can learn a lot from you."