King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will visit Kenya for four days, focusing on trade, security, climate action, and youth empowerment. Their agenda includes high-level meetings, signing MoUs, a dialogue with young people, and a cultural program. This visit reinforces the strong ties between the Netherlands and Kenya, highlighting cooperation in various sectors, including economic development and environmental sustainability.
King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands are set to arrive in Kenya on Monday for a four-day State visit, following an invitation from President William Ruto. They will be accompanied by three ministers: Caspar Veldkamp (Foreign Affairs), Reinette Klever (Foreign Trade and Development), and Ruben Brekelmans (Defence). The Netherlands and Kenya have maintained a strong bilateral relationship for over six decades.
The visit will center on significant topics including trade, security, climate action, and youth empowerment. High-level meetings are scheduled with President Ruto and other officials with the aim of enhancing collaborative efforts in governance and economic development. Additionally, the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) is anticipated to bolster investments in tourism, trade, agriculture, and logistics.
On March 18, the royal couple will be welcomed at State House by President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto. A thorough official ceremony will precede a private meeting followed by a media briefing from the President and the King. Subsequently, the couple will participate in the signing of MoUs related to various sectors, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior.
The King and Queen will engage in a dialogue with young Kenyans, discussing pertinent issues such as human rights, good governance, and optimism for the country’s future. They are also scheduled to plant a tree to support President Ruto’s initiative to expand the country’s forest cover, emphasizing environmental conservation.
The Business Forum will also occur where both Monarchs will interact with over 50 businesses, NGOs, and knowledge institutions. Discussions will include the economic partnerships between the Netherlands and Kenya, particularly focusing on agriculture, logistics, healthcare, and education initiatives aimed at empowering the youth. A state banquet hosted by President Ruto will conclude the first day of events.
On March 19, the royal couple is expected to visit the inland container depot to observe efforts to enhance the sustainability of logistical flows in exporting products, particularly perishables. Their schedule also includes a visit to a Dutch horticultural business practicing sustainable production.
In the afternoon, they will attend a thematic session on climate change, welcoming insights from various organizations on projects aimed at addressing regional challenges. The evening will feature a cultural program hosted by the King and Queen as a gesture of thanks to Kenya.
The following day, the couple will visit the Supreme Court and engage with Chief Justice Martha Koome to emphasize the significance of an independent judiciary. Following this, they will tour the Judiciary Museum highlighting Kenya’s judicial history.
Later, their schedule includes visiting the International Peace Support Training Centre, examining future defense collaborations and initiatives to combat extremism. The final day will conclude with a reception for the Dutch community residing in Kenya, where the King and Queen will interact with Dutch nationals.
The upcoming State visit of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima to Kenya marks a significant continuation of the long-standing partnership between the Netherlands and Kenya, focusing on critical issues such as trade, climate action, and youth empowerment. Their engagement with local officials, community leaders, and the Dutch community signifies a commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and addressing mutual challenges. This visit not only highlights the rich bilateral relations but also aims to foster collaborative initiatives across various sectors.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
