Dutch Royal Visit to Kenya: King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima’s Itinerary

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands will visit Kenya for four days, focusing on trade, security, climate action, and youth empowerment. They will sign MoUs, engage in community dialogues, and meet with key officials to bolster the longstanding relationship between the two countries.

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands are anticipated to arrive in Kenya on Monday for a four-day State visit, invited by President William Ruto. Accompanied by three ministers—Caspar Veldkamp (Foreign Affairs), Reinette Klever (Foreign Trade and Development), and Ruben Brekelmans (Defence)—the couple aims to strengthen the close ties shared between Kenya and the Netherlands, which have evolved over more than 60 years.

The agenda for the visit will address significant areas such as trade, security, climate action, and youth empowerment, fostering ongoing collaboration between the two nations. According to a program from the Royal House of Netherlands, high-level meetings will be held with President Ruto and Kenyan officials focusing on governance and economic development. Agreements, termed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), will be signed in sectors including tourism, trade, and agriculture.

On March 18, the King and Queen will be ceremoniously welcomed at State House by President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto, subsequently engaging in discussions with the president and his ministers followed by a media statement. Notably, they will participate in the signing of MoUs and lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior to honor those who fought for Kenya’s independence.

The royal couple will also engage in a dialogue with young Kenyans, discussing their aspirations for the country’s future along with challenges pertaining to human rights and governance. A tree-planting initiative will further reflect the Netherlands’ commitment to combating climate change, a collaboration that connects the countries’ conservation efforts.

Additionally, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will attend a Business Forum linking Dutch and Kenyan economic interests. Here, they will discuss partnerships encompassing innovation and sustainability in agriculture, healthcare, and logistics while also addressing education and youth employment impacts.

On March 19, their visit will include a tour of an inland container depot, crucial for transporting perishable goods, followed by an exploration of sustainable practices in the horticultural sector. The couple will participate in discussions focused on climate change impacts on water resources, showcasing various projects aimed at enhancing well-being and economic stability in the region.

On March 20, the King and Queen will visit the Supreme Court to meet with Chief Justice Martha Koome, emphasizing the judiciary’s role in promoting accessible justice. They will later tour the International Peace Support Training Centre to discuss defense cooperation and initiatives to counter violent extremism. The visit will conclude with a reception for the Dutch community in Kenya, allowing the royal couple to engage with expatriates.

The State Visit by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands to Kenya aims to reinforce the longstanding relationship between the two nations, focusing on trade, security, and climate action. Key events include high-level meetings, the signing of MoUs, and community engagement discussions, all intended to enhance collaboration and promote mutual interests. The visit underscores the commitment of both nations to address challenges and explore opportunities across various sectors, ultimately strengthening bilateral relations.

Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke