INTERVIEW Korea, Netherlands to sign multiple deals in chip, energy, defense on Yoon's state visit: Dutch ambassador
As President Yoon Suk Yeol is on a state visit to the Netherlands this week, the first of its kind by a Korean president, Dutch Ambassador to Korea Peter van der Vliet said the historic trip demonstrates the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries.
Yoon flew to the Netherlands, Monday, on a four-day visit at the invitation of Dutch King Willem-Alexander.
“It's the first time that the president of the Republic of Korea visits the Netherlands for an official state visit,” the ambassador said during an interview with The Korea Times at the Embassy of the Netherlands in Seoul, Friday, three days ahead of Yoon's departure.
Dutch Ambassador to Korea Peter van der Vliet / Courtesy of Embassy of the Netherlands in Seoul
"It's a historic moment for us in the Netherlands. Last year, Prime Minister Mark Rutte and President Yoon Suk Yeol signed a strategic partnership agreement and this state visit is an illustration that builds on that agreement."
On the specific details of the state visit, the ambassador highlighted key events, including the official welcome ceremony, a visit to semiconductor company ASML and a state banquet hosted by the Dutch royal family.
According to the ambassador, the two nations will sign memoranda of understanding (MOUs) in the fields of renewable energy, nuclear energy and defense, along with strategic dialogues on political and economic security.
"This provides a very solid foundation and a roadmap for deepening and strengthening our relations in the years to come. It gives that moment that clarity," he added.
The interview delved into the diplomatic landscape, focusing on the role of the Netherlands in the Indo-Pacific region. The ambassador emphasized alignment in strategies between Korea and the European Union (EU), suggesting potential collaborations in promoting stability and addressing security challenges.
In terms of cultural and people-to-people exchanges, van der Vliet highlighted the popularity of Korean culture in the Netherlands, mentioning the increased interest in Korean studies at Leiden University, the oldest institution of higher education in the country.
“Worldwide K-culture is so popular. It's not only K-culture but K-drama, K-pop, K-food and K-cosmetics. This year for the first time more students at Leiden University registered for Korean studies than Japanese studies. That has never happened,” he said.
The ambassador also emphasized the strong economic ties between Korea and the Netherlands.
“The Netherlands is the largest investor from the EU in Korea and the second-largest exporter after Germany, so we are quite significant in that respect,” he added.
The ambassador pointed out that the agricultural sector, especially cutting-edge technologies like smart greenhouse technology, has become pivotal in fostering economic ties.
"Smart greenhouse technology is a prime example of our collaboration. The Netherlands' expertise in agriculture and Korea's innovation in technology have created a synergy that benefits both nations," the ambassador said.
"It's not just limited to agriculture; we see successful cooperation across various sectors. Korea has made substantial inroads into the Netherlands, with around 50 Korean companies establishing their presence, complete with European headquarters and sales offices."
The influx of Korean businesses into the Netherlands has strengthened economic ties and fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas.
"The Korean business presence in the Netherlands is not just about market access, it's about collaborative innovation. We're witnessing a cross-pollination of ideas that is driving growth in both directions," he said.
“Korean products, particularly those from industry giants like Samsung and LG, have made a lasting impression on the Dutch market. Samsung and LG are household names in the Netherlands, and the quality of Korean products is well-appreciated.”
Wrapping up the interview, the ambassador expressed enthusiasm about being in Korea and nurturing the robust bonds of friendship and partnership between the two nations. The ambassador arrived in Korea in August.