Dutch Royal Couple paying a state visit to Cyprus in March

The Dutch Royal Couple, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will be in Cyprus from 4-5 March for a two-day state visit at the invitation of President Nikos Christodoulides who visited the Netherlands last February.

A group of Cypriot journalists was received by the King on 10 February, at the working palace, Noordeinde, in the Hague. He sat down with them for a 20-minute chat, responded to questions and had a very warm discussion with them about his visit and his expectations. At the end of the visit he had a family photo with the journalists.

The visit at the beginning of March, is set to mark the beginning of a more enhanced cooperation between the two countries and this is reflected in the broad agenda of issues to be discussed during the Cyprus visit. This is the first visit by a Dutch royal couple since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus.

During the chat with the press, reference was made to the proximity of Cyprus with the Middle East and West Africa and the fact that it can play a role as a bridge with the EU.

Cyprus’ role in the evacuation of Dutch citizens from the area during consecutive crises was also highlighted and appreciated.

The King and his entourage will discuss issues related to education and students’ exchange, agriculture, archaeology and tourism. Approximately 700-800 Cypriot students enroll in Dutch universities each year.  Dutch archeologists occasionally visit Cyprus for excavations at excavations sites mostly in Paphos district. Leiden University experts are currently on the island for excavations at Palloures area in Chloraka.

King Willem-Alexander knew a great deal about Cyprus, showed interest on his visit and being a sailor himself was aware that Cyprus athlete Pavlos Kontides is an Olympic medalist in the laser category in sailing and spoke with the journalists about his medals in three Olympiads.

The King is also set to visit a potato crop in the Famagusta district during his visit to Cyprus.

(Source: CNA)