The Hague, January 25, 2025 – The Europe Today: Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Dutch leaders on Wednesday and Thursday in The Hague, where both sides emphasized their shared commitment to promoting an open world economy and strengthening cooperation across various sectors, particularly in green development.
Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, engaged in separate meetings with Dutch King Willem-Alexander, Prime Minister Dick Schoof, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Climate and Green Growth Sophie Hermans during his two-day visit.
In his discussions, Ding highlighted the strategic partnership between China and the Netherlands, which has been steadily advancing under the leadership of both countries. He noted that this collaboration has yielded fruitful outcomes, benefiting both nations and their people.
China, Ding stated, is committed to enhancing communication and mutual trust with the Netherlands, aiming to further develop bilateral relations and help both countries achieve their respective development goals.
Ding also stressed the importance of an open world economy, with both China and the Netherlands being key beneficiaries and supporters of this model. He reiterated China’s dedication to high-quality development through high-standard opening-up and welcomed Dutch companies to expand their cooperation with China.
Furthermore, Ding called on the Netherlands to continue fostering a fair, equitable, and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises. He emphasized the need to safeguard common interests, ensure stable and unimpeded global industrial and supply chains, and capitalize on the complementary advantages and shared opportunities between the two nations.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the European Union (EU), and Ding expressed China’s willingness to strengthen dialogue with the EU and deepen cooperation. He also expressed hope that the Netherlands would play a constructive role in promoting the sound and stable development of China-EU relations.
Dutch King Willem-Alexander expressed appreciation for the mutual trust and friendship between the two countries, underscoring the Dutch commitment to deepening cooperation with China for continued progress in their bilateral relations. He emphasized that, amid current geopolitical tensions, countries should communicate openly, seek consensus, and collaborate to address global challenges.
Prime Minister Dick Schoof acknowledged China’s remarkable development achievements and expressed the Netherlands’ admiration for China as a stable partner. He highlighted the Dutch desire to strengthen dialogue with China, enhance mutual understanding, and expand practical cooperation in areas such as water management, green development, and healthcare. Schoof also emphasized the importance of safeguarding free trade and promoting open cooperation.
Deputy Prime Minister Sophie Hermans congratulated China on its environmental achievements and its contributions to the Paris Agreement. She expressed the Dutch interest in advancing cooperation with China on clean energy, green transition, circular economy, and climate adaptation.
The meetings underscored the strong foundation for China-Netherlands relations, with both sides committed to enhancing their partnership, particularly in green development and global cooperation.
