Kenya and the Netherlands are set to hold political consultations Wednesday at Serena Hotel in Nairobi.
The high-level meeting, aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties, will be chaired by Kenya’s Foreign & Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and his counterpart, Caspar Veldkamp, who is leading the Dutch delegation.
Further outcomes of the consultations are expected to be announced later, in the backdrop of a visit by Their Majesties, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, who are currently on a three-day State Visit to Kenya.
On Tuesday, the royal couple held bilateral talks with President William Ruto during their first engagement and addressed the media from State House.
The discussions culminated in the two countries signing three Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) and letters of intent on Trade, Agriculture, Tourism and water management.
Ruto described the Netherlands as one of Kenya’s most significant trading partners in Europe, a steadfast development ally, and a key collaborator in our economic transformation.
The talks focused on expanding strategic partnerships in horticulture, agriculture, and water management sectors.
The King and Queen are scheduled to visit an inland container depot (ICD), which is a major storage facility for dry export products.
Here is Wednesday’s itinerary
Wednesday 19 March
Morning
Logistics
The King and Queen will visit an inland container depot (ICD), which is a major storage facility for dry export products. The Netherlands is the region’s biggest export market for products such as flowers and avocados. This ICD and the Netherlands are jointly working to make logistical flows for perishables more sustainable, for example by transporting refrigerated goods by rail and ship. The transition from air to maritime freight is already becoming evident at this ICD.
Horticultural sector
King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will visit a Dutch horticultural business that is working on sustainable and responsible production. It is also investing in a healthier and more sustainable local ecosystem, and provides childcare and education for its employees’ children.
Afternoon
Climate carousel
In the afternoon the King and Queen will take part in a thematic session on climate change, which will focus on water, climate action and security in Kenya and the wider East African region. Civil society and defence organisations, knowledge institutions and government agencies will present their projects and innovations. Climate change is affecting the availability, distribution and quality of water resources in the region. This presents challenges in terms of human safety, security and wellbeing, economic stability and geopolitical relations.
Evening
Return hospitality
As a token of appreciation for Kenya’s hospitality, the King and Queen will host a cultural programme.
The Dutch Royal Couple jetted into the country Monday evening and were officially received by President Ruto Tuesday at State House, Nairobi.
This marks their first visit to Kenya, following an invitation from President William Ruto.
They are accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs Caspar Veldkamp, Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Reinette Klever, and Minister of Defence Ruben Brekelmans, who will also participate in various program events.
Christine Muchira
