Latest news with #LaurensWesthoff
Kuwait Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Dutch envoy ends tenure, hails Kuwait energy partnership
KUWAIT: As he prepares to conclude his five-year tenure, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Kuwait Laurens Westhoff shared his reflections on the evolving Dutch-Kuwaiti relationship, emphasizing strong political cooperation, energy partnerships and enduring hospitality. 'I arrived five years ago during the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the first things I realized was how effectively the Kuwaiti government managed the crisis,' he said. 'But for me as a diplomat, it came with challenges. I rely on face-to-face contact. And for the first year and a half, that wasn't possible.' Despite the early difficulties, the ambassador described his time in Kuwait as 'fantastic and fruitful,' highlighting decades of strong bilateral ties that were marked in 2024 with the celebration of 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. He explained: 'We've worked to enhance every aspect of our relationship, including political dialogue both here and in the Netherlands,' adding that one of the key achievements during his tenure was initiating a new area of collaboration focused on energy transition. 'We partnered with Kuwait University, KFAS, and KISR and connected them with Dutch experts to explore how a country so reliant on oil can diversify into solar and hydrogen energy. It was a meaningful step toward sustainable cooperation,' he said. The ambassador praised the Kuwaiti people's openness and warmth, describing it as one of the most memorable aspects of his experience. 'Everywhere you go, you are met with open arms,' he said. 'That genuine hospitality is something truly special and honestly, it spoils you. It's a unique trait that shows Kuwaitis' openness to dialogue and cooperation with others.' He noted the similarities between Kuwait and the Netherlands as smaller countries surrounded by powerful neighbors, which strengthens their shared emphasis on diplomacy and mutual understanding. 'We both know the value of dialogue and cooperation in maintaining regional and international relations. That common ground builds strong ties between us.' Ambassador Westhoff highlighted that the Netherlands is the largest European investor in Kuwait, with direct investments totaling approximately KD 488 million. 'Dutch companies are active in oil-related industries, logistics, IT, agribusiness, and infrastructure including Kuwait's airport project. We also hope to see more Dutch involvement in Kuwait's domestic investment plans.' In 2024, bilateral trade between the two nations reached €2.4 billion, with Dutch exports to Kuwait at €845 million, primarily in agricultural products, machinery, pharmaceuticals, and livestock. Imports, mainly crude oil, amounted to €1.6 billion. He noted that the Netherlands see interest from Kuwaiti families in sectors such as health and education, though student numbers remain modest due to language and system differences. On defense cooperation, the ambassador noted that the Kuwaiti Navy trains occasionally in the Netherlands, and there have been senior-level visits, including the Undersecretary of Defense visiting two years ago. In terms of cultural and people-to-people exchange, approximately 14,000 Kuwaiti visitors travel to the Netherlands annually, a number that remains stable. 'We know Kuwaitis enjoy our weather and appreciate what the Netherlands offers, from museums to heritage sites. It's a convenient and enriching travel destination,' he said. The ambassador emphasized the importance of continuing to capitalize on Kuwait's new economic vision. 'There's a lot of potential with Kuwait's current investment push. My successor will find fertile ground to strengthen Dutch-Kuwaiti business ties.' He also spoke warmly of Kuwaiti traditions, particularly the concept of the diwaniya. 'The diwaniya is a beautiful tradition. The open-door hospitality inspired me and my wife to consider introducing a version of it in our town in the Netherlands,' he said. The ambassador announced that his successor will arrive in early September. 'He's a career diplomat with experience in the region. He has Indian roots. Born in Suriname and raised in the Netherlands, he brings a diverse and international perspective. I'm confident he'll continue strengthening our bilateral ties.'
Arab Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait, Netherlands back dialogue for international stability
KUWAIT CITY, Aug 6: Dutch Ambassador to Kuwait Laurens Westhoff described his five-year diplomatic experience in the country as 'rich and full of opportunities.' Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Westhoff reflected on his tenure, which began during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. He revealed, 'I arrived in Kuwait at a difficult time -- during the COVID-19 pandemic. Direct communication is vital in diplomacy, and that was initially a challenge. However, I was impressed by the Kuwaiti government's efficiency in managing the health crisis.' Throughout his tenure, Westhoff worked towards strengthening the longstanding ties between the Netherlands and Kuwait. 'Over the past five years, I have sought to strengthen the relationship between our two countries, which dates back more than 60 years. In 2024, we celebrated the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Netherlands and Kuwait,' he added. He pointed out the emergence of new areas of bilateral cooperation, particularly in the energy transition sector. 'We launched an important initiative on transitioning from oil dependency to alternative energy sources, such as solar and hydrogen. This is in collaboration with Kuwait University, Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), and Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), along with Dutch experts,' he disclosed. He also expounded on the shared geopolitical realities of the two nations. 'Both the Netherlands and Kuwait are relatively small countries surrounded by larger neighbors — by Britain, Germany, and France; you by Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Iran. This compels us to rely on dialogue, diplomacy and mutual understanding to ensure stability and cooperation,' he stated. He confirmed that trade relations between the two countries have remained robust. He said 'in 2024, Dutch exports to Kuwait reached approximately €845 million, while imports – primarily crude oil – totaled around €1.6 billion through the Port of Rotterdam. This brings the overall volume of bilateral trade to roughly €2.4 billion. The Netherlands also holds a leading position among European countries in terms of direct investments in Kuwait. Dutch investments amount to KD488 million; mostly channeled through companies and investment funds in various sectors like oil, airport infrastructure, information technology, energy, and agriculture.' He praised the growing appreciation among Kuwaitis for the Netherlands as a travel destination. 'Around 14,000 Kuwaiti tourists visit the Netherlands annually. This year, the number reached 7,000 by mid-year alone. Despite our not-so-ideal weather, Kuwaitis seem to enjoy the cold and rain,' he said. He also highlighted the appeal of the Netherlands' compact size, cultural offerings, and ease of travel. 'Although our country is only twice the size of Kuwait, it offers a unique tourism experience— with world-class museums and artworks by Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Vermeer—all within short distances,' he elaborated. On education, Westhoff acknowledged the room for growth. He stated that the number of Kuwaiti students in the Netherlands is modest compared to countries like Canada, due to language and education system differences. 'Nevertheless, we are working hard to develop this aspect. Every Kuwaiti who studies in the Netherlands becomes a cultural ambassador for our bilateral relations,' he asserted. On defense ties, he revealed that training programs for the Kuwaiti naval forces occasionally take place in the Netherlands. There have also been high-level reciprocal visits, including a visit by Undersecretary of the Kuwaiti Ministry of Defense Sheikh Abdullah Al-Sabah two years ago. He added that the Dutch Foreign Minister is scheduled to meet with his Kuwaiti counterpart this October. On air travel between the two nations, Westhoff commented on KLM's service suspension. He explained that 'KLM's decision was not related to Kuwait, but rather due to operational challenges at Schiphol Airport. Meanwhile, Kuwait Airways continues to operate three weekly flights to Amsterdam, maintaining strong connectivity.' He also clarified the current visa processing issues. He said the recent changes in visa appointment procedures were introduced by VFS, not the embassy, indicating these adjustments aim to curb the selling of appointments by intermediaries and to ensure transparency. He then revealed that his successor, Veeresh Ramsukh, will assume duties in early September. 'He is a seasoned diplomat of Indian origin, born in Suriname and raised in the Netherlands. Like me, he does not speak Arabic, but that has not been a barrier; as Kuwaitis are proficient in English,' he asserted. In his closing remarks, Westhoff expressed heartfelt appreciation for Kuwait and its people. 'I will miss Kuwait deeply. This experience has enriched my life, and I hope I have contributed to strengthening the ties between our two countries. The Diwaniya is a wonderful idea—welcoming people spontaneously and without formality. My wife and I are even considering starting a similar tradition in our hometown in eastern Holland: opening our home at specific times to friends and neighbors, with coffee and food, just like in Kuwait.'
Arab Times
01-05-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait-Netherlands rely on diplomacy to safeguard interests: Westhoff
KUWAIT CITY, May 1: Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Kuwait Laurens Westhoff praised the close historical ties between his country and the State of Kuwait, indicating these ties extend to more than 60 years of diplomatic and economic cooperation based on shared values and interests. In his speech at the Dutch National Day celebration, which coincided with the birthday of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander; Westhoff stressed that Kuwait and the Netherlands are two relatively small countries surrounded by larger powers; hence, they rely on diplomacy, soft power and economic cooperation to protect their national interests and defend the international order based on laws and agreements. Assistant Foreign Minister for European Affairs Ambassador Sadiq Marafi and many diplomats were also present at the event. Westhoff continued to say that the two countries have stood together on many occasions in defense of the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-violation of internationally recognized borders. He called to mind the participation of the Royal Netherlands Navy in the international coalition to liberate Kuwait in 1990/1991. He affirmed that these values continue to form the solid foundation of bilateral relations despite the current decline in respect for the rules of the international system and multilateralism. He also reminisced on the celebrations in his country, where every city or village organizes popular events, disclosing that the King and his family participate annually in this occasion by visiting a different city. He pointed out that this affirms the royal family's connection to the people. He confirmed that these traditions have continued for more than 500 years; contributing to the building of a cohesive society characterized by creativity and innovation, particularly in agriculture, trade, and energy. He added that the Netherlands, like Kuwait, overlooks the sea and that the sea has been a bridge for trade and exploration for centuries. He said the economic relations between his country and the Gulf region date back to the 17th century, when the Netherlands began trading textiles and spices with pearl merchants in Basra and Bahrain. 'In the mid-18th century, the Netherlands became the most active European partner in the Gulf. Trade was not just about exchanging goods, but also a means of understanding other cultures and strengthening relations between peoples, something humanity needs today more than ever,' he asserted. He also called for the common defense of a global system that allows small countries to flourish and guarantees freedom and prosperity for their people. He expressed his deep appreciation to the leadership and people of Kuwait for their close friendship, while extending gratitude to Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Sheikh Jarrah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and all the staff of the ministry for their continued support for bilateral relations. He confirmed that much has been achieved between the two countries, but the future holds even more opportunities, especially in the areas of food security, climate change, trade, investment, and shared values.
