His Majesty King Willem Alexander of the Netherlands has said that he fears and regrets the British people’s decision to leave the European Union. The King’s comments come only a few weeks before he and Queen Maxima travel to the UK on an official state visit.
According to The Guardian, King Willem-Alexander said the Dutch government’s position remained one of regret that Brexit was happening, but he added that the country ultimately respected the choice of the British people.
The King and Queen of the Netherlands © RVD – Erwin Olaf
Even though the UK now are working the leave the EU, the Dutch monarch still believes in a strong economic tie between the two nations. His Majesty said that the trading partnership between the two countries would stay strong, with agreements becoming more bi-lateral as a result of the UK’s departure from the EU. Although His Majesty hoped for a strong economic bond between the nations he also said that he expected to see an impact on trade.
The King also indirectly criticized the British government by calming that he had yet to see any evidence of success in their attempts to go over the head of the EU negotiator to get a better deal from member states. King Willem-Alexander made his position on the Brexit clear when he addressed British journalists at Noordeinde Palace in The Hague. This was done ahead of the Dutch state visit to the UK later this month. Britain is the Netherlands’ second largest trading partner after Germany.
The Earl and Countess of Wessex. Photo: MICHAEL GARNETT VIA FLICKR CC
It has been confirmed that Their Majesties will pay a State Visit as the guests of Queen Elizabeth II from 23rd October to 24th October 2018. The King & Queen will stay at Buckingham Palace for the duration of their stay. The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall will greet Their Majesties on behalf of The Queen at the Dutch Ambassador’s Residence on the morning of Tuesday 23rd.
The Earl and Countess of Wessex are to play an integral role in the upcoming State Visit of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima. Edward and Sophie will act as hosts to the King and Queen for much of their second day in the UK.
