Toespraak minister-president Mark Rutte tijdens het regeringsdiner in Hanoi
De toespraak is alleen beschikbaar in het Engels.
Prime Minister Phuc. Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
When I visited Vietnam for the first time in 2014, I was struck by its energy and its beauty. I was struck by your vibrant cities, the ambition of your people, the dynamism of your business community, the amazing beauty of nature and the overwhelming hospitality I encountered everywhere. That impression is shared by a growing number of Dutch businesspeople and tourists. Vietnam has it all, and it feels great to be back. Thank you so much for having us.*
Our countries share a history that goes back more than 400 years. And our relationship is only growing closer. In 2018 we celebrated 45 years of diplomatic relations.
Over the last decade we have forged strategic partnerships in the fields of water and climate adaptation, and agriculture and food security.
The Mekong Delta Plan is a striking illustration of the scope and significance of our collaboration.*
In the recent past, your country has made remarkable progress in securing peace and prosperity for the Vietnamese people. And I applaud the fact that Vietnam is now becoming a champion for peace and stability on the world stage as well. Only recently, this was clear to the whole world when you osted the peace summit between the leaders of the USA and North Korea.
Vietnam's candidacy for a seat on the UN Security Council is another key example. Like the Netherlands, Vietnam wants to be an active member of the international community, and this too creates a bond between us. A strong, rules-based multilateral world order benefits us all.
As you know, I have come to Vietnam with a business delegation of 70 companies and universities who are keen to build on past achievements.
They are active in the fields of logistics, agriculture, water and offshore wind technology. What they have in common is an interest in doing business in Vietnam, as well as a proven track record in achieving future growth in a sustainable way. Working together with partners in Vietnam helps us find smart and circular solutions for future problems that affect us all, like climate change, and energy and food security.*
Today 125 Dutch businesses are active in Vietnam, and the Netherlands is Vietnam's second-largest trading partner in the EU, right after Germany. Ultimately, our partnership relies on people-to-people contacts, and that's exactly why we're here.
To reconnect with old friends and partners. To meet new ones. And to further strengthen the bond between our nations.*
Prime Minister Phuc, the Netherlands is proud to call Vietnam our partner and friend. And we are committed to remaining a partner for peace, sustainable development and inclusive growth.
Let's raise our glasses to the friendship between Vietnam and the Netherlands. And to peace, prosperity and happiness for both our peoples.*
Thank you. Xin cam on.