NLTR400: 400 years of diplomatic relations between the Netherlands and Turkey

NLTR400: 400 years of diplomatic relations between the Netherlands and Turkey

In 1612, the Dutch envoy Cornelis Haga arrived in Istanbul and secured important rights and privileges for the young Dutch Republic from the Ottoman Sultan. These permitted Dutch nationals to travel, reside or trade throughout the Ottoman Empire. Since then, the Netherlands has maintained good relations with Turkey.

So this year, Turkey and the Netherlands will be celebrating 400 years of diplomatic relations. The government is looking forward to a memorable year.

Relations between the Netherlands and Turkey

Turkey is becoming an increasingly important trade partner for the Netherlands. The volume of trade between the two countries has tripled in the past ten years, and is projected to rise. Apart from economic ties, there are a growing number of cultural and social exchanges, and more and more Dutch tourists are taking holidays in the Turkish sun, or enjoying a city break in Istanbul. And of course, the two countries are united in a very special way, now that the Netherlands is home to some 400.000 people of Turkish origin.

Bilateral celebrations in 2012

There will be a wide range of activities and events in both the Netherlands and Turkey. The celebrations will look to the future, with the aim of boosting bilateral relations. The focus will be on economic diplomacy and people-to-people contact, spotlighting infrastructure, water and maritime affairs; the environment, energy and waste treatment; the automotive and agri-food industries; international law and security; the creative industry and culture sector; science, technology and education; social initiatives; talent development and sport.

In other words, there is every reason to celebrate this 400th anniversary together!