This theme was central to the king’s speech.
The first day of the royal New Year’s receptions took place yesterday. Willem-Alexander and Máxima received hundreds of guests at the Royal Palace Amsterdam to ring in the new year together. Traditionally, the king gave a speech.
Wars and famine
At the beginning of his speech, the king paid attention to the various problems facing the world. “The world around us is in turmoil. We feel strongly connected to the Ukrainian people who have been suffering from Russian aggression for almost two years now,” he said. “We also see the horror and despair in Israel and Gaza and the suffering that is affecting so many families there. And we hear cries for help from countries in Africa, where people are fleeing hunger and violence or the consequences of climate change.”
Willem-Alexander recognized how these events also have an impact on our personal lives, and he mentioned how many people feel involved and have been affected. He also encouraged those present: “Because no matter how uncontrollable the forces around us seem and how great the concerns in our own country are, we are certainly not defenseless. Together we can absorb shocks and reduce fear and uncertainty.”
Commitment
How exactly can we do that? According to Wim-Lex, connection is central. “2024 can be a good year if we cherish what connects us. If we continue to rely on our democratic legal order that offers protection and enables innovation in politics and governance.”
In this context, the king also mentions the liberation of the Netherlands, which started 80 years ago. He calls it ‘essential’ to continue to look in the mirror of the past and to uphold freedom, humanity and solidarity.
Recreational sports
Every year the king chooses a specific sector of society, which is put in the spotlight at the New Year’s reception. In previous years, for example, education, the police and home care were discussed. This year it was chosen for people working in recreational sports.
During his speech, the king also paid attention to this group of people: “You know how to ensure that everyone can participate. Old and young, with or without disabilities. You also know how crucial the people behind the scenes are: the trainers, the caregivers, the people who do the membership administration, manage the canteen, draw the lines on the field.”
Second day of New Year’s receptions
Politicians, administrators and people from Dutch society were welcome on the first day of the New Year’s receptions. Today, on day 2, Willem-Alexander and Màxima open the palace doors to members of the diplomatic corps and international organizations. That means speaking in English.
Source: Koninklijkhuis.nl | Image: Brunopress / NL Image
