The Senate and House of Representatives of the States General welcomed the Dutch ambassadors on January 29 during the annual ambassadors conference. The event began with speeches by Senate President Jan Anthonie Bruijn and House Speaker Martin Bosma. They acknowledged the passing of ambassadors Jaap Jan Speelman and Dirk Jan Kop, offering condolences to attendees.
In his opening speech, Bruijn looked forward to the discussions between parliamentarians and ambassadors, highlighting geopolitical issues such as the war in Ukraine and the situation in Gaza. He referenced former President Jimmy Carters Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech, noting that while war can be necessary, it is always an evil.
Martin Bosma thanked the ambassadors for their efforts and time in informing parliamentarians about situations in various countries, noting the past years turbulence with conflicts in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, and a looming famine in Sudan.
He also mentioned his visit to South Korea, where discussions with the parliaments president gave him insight into the vital work of Dutch diplomats in maintaining and strengthening bilateral relations.
During the conference, ambassadors and parliament members discussed topics like European security, foreign interference, asylum and migration, the Middle East, climate change, and US relations in smaller groups.
The Netherlands maintains a global diplomatic network. Ambassadors, permanent representatives, and consuls-general work daily for Dutch interests abroad. Once a year, they return to the Netherlands to discuss developments, meet politicians, and strengthen ties with their home country. The States General host this conference to focus on political decision-making in the Netherlands in relation to embassy activities.