Latest news with #DutchCulturalWeek
Observer
29-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman, Netherlands celebrate 400 years of maritime friendship
The Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of the Netherlands marked a significant chapter in their longstanding relations with the opening of the Dutch Cultural Week at Bait Al Zubair, celebrating over 400 years of maritime ties and cultural exchange. The event was inaugurated by Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali al Harthy, Under-Secretary of the Foreign Ministry for Political Affairs, in the presence of Omani dignitaries, artists, students and members of the Dutch community. Organised by the Embassy of the Netherlands in Oman, the week-long celebration underscores the deep-rooted relationship between the two nations, with exhibitions and performances highlighting the themes of culture, creativity and innovation. 'We are immensely happy to celebrate four centuries of bilateral maritime relations — two nations separated by seas, yet bound by a resilient friendship,' said Ambassador Stella Kloth of the Netherlands. 'Culture and art are powerful tools that foster dialogue, trust and mutual understanding — especially vital in times of global uncertainty.' The week-long celebration underscores the deep-rooted relationship between the two countries Dr Muna bint Hebras, General Manager of Bait Al Zubair Foundation, also commended the initiative for strengthening Oman–Dutch ties through cultural celebration. The launch featured a performance by the Wind Quintet of the National Youth Orchestra of the Netherlands, followed by 'Food for Thought', a thought-provoking photo exhibition by acclaimed visual storyteller Kadir van Lohuizen. The exhibit explores global food supply chains, drawing connections between nations including the Netherlands, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kenya, the US and China. Also part of the Dutch Cultural Week is the third edition of the 'Emotions of the Oceans' exhibition and competition, reinforcing maritime awareness through art. Key sponsors and partners supporting the event include Advario, Port of Rotterdam, Port of Sohar, Steinweg, Zubair Corporation, Boskalis, Oman Arab Bank, Sadolin Dulux, Witteveen+Bos and Shah Nagardas.
Observer
14-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman and Netherlands: Friends in diverse spectrum of areas
The relations between the Sultanate of Oman and the Netherlands are deep-rooted since time immemorial and are anchored in history, navigating towards the future over four centuries of Dutch-Omani history. Building on time-tested joint collaborations, the participation of Dutch companies specialised in water management and climate-resilient solutions made a substantial impact at the annual Water Week hosted by Oman last week, drawing considerable attention. 'The presence of Dutch companies underscored our countries' shared commitment to tackling today's most pressing global challenges in areas where both Oman and the Netherlands have long histories of innovation and stewardship,' said Stella Kloth, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the Sultanate of Oman. 'As a continuation of this dynamic exchange, I am proud to announce that during the week of April 28, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, in collaboration with the Bait Al Zubair Museum, will host a Dutch Cultural Week in Muscat. This celebration of art, music and shared heritage will include several events open to the public,' she added. As the Dutch soil is all set to welcome His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, both nations are also commemorating a remarkable milestone in their shared history. Four centuries ago, Dutch merchant vessels made their historic entry into the Sea of Oman, marking the beginning of contact between both peoples. This early connection laid the foundation for the arrival of the Dutch East India Company's ship Concordia in 1651, which signalled the start of official trade relations between the two nations. Today, four centuries later, the spirit of those first encounters continues to thrive. What began as maritime trade has evolved into a multifaceted partnership grounded in a shared commitment to international cooperation. This relationship is not just about the past — it is very much alive in the present. This relationship continues to thrive, particularly in the field of sustainable logistics, water management and the energy transition. Stella further said that among these series of events is 'Food for Thought', a thought-provoking photography exhibition by renowned Dutch visual storyteller Kadir van Lohuizen, whose work explores themes of sustainability, climate change and global food systems. In addition, one of the highlighted events is the art competition 'The Emotion of the Oceans', organised in cooperation with the Green Life Art Center, which invites children up to 16 years old to express their creativity and raise awareness about ocean conservation through art. 'These musical collaborations reflect the spirit of exchange that has always defined Dutch-Omani relations — not only at the diplomatic level, but among our people.' From the bilateral relations point of view, the state visit is more than a historic moment. For the peoples of both countries, it is a powerful reminder of the opportunities that emerge when two nations cooperate and use dialogue as their compass. The state visit is the highest expression of bilateral relations, and it reflects the deep mutual respect and shared commitment between the two nations. 'From trade and technology to art and culture, our partnership is as vibrant today as it was in the 17th century. As we honour our shared past and look ahead to a sustainable, innovative future, I warmly invite all in Oman to join us during the Dutch Cultural Week (April 28 – May 1) to experience firsthand the creativity, collaboration and connection that continue to define our friendship. Together, Oman and the Netherlands are charting forward — anchored in history, driven by innovation and united by a shared vision for peace and stability,' Stella added.
