The Hague, June 24 (QNA) - HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, and HH Consort of the HH Amir Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al-Thani, attended an official luncheon banquet hosted by HM King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and HM Queen Maxima in Their Highnesses' honor at Noordeinde Palace in The Hague today.
Before the luncheon, HH the Amir delivered a speech expressing his deep gratitude and appreciation to HM the King for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to him, HH Sheikha Jawaher, and the accompanying delegation. His Highness also appreciated the heartfelt sentiments of friendship and goodwill conveyed by His Majesty's speech, reaffirming his commitment to strengthening the ties that bind the two countries for the benefit of their peoples.
Regarding the bilateral relations, His Highness noted that the agreements signed today would further enhance the relations between the two nations, especially in the fields of gas, investment, and the economy.
In closing, His Highness extended his best wishes for continued health, happiness, and success to Their Majesties and prosperity to the friendly Dutch people.
At the beginning of the luncheon, HM King Willem-Alexander delivered a speech welcoming HH the Amir, HH Sheikha Jawaher and the accompanying delegation, expressing the Kingdom of the Netherlands' warm welcome of the visit and his personal delight at it.
Upon their arrival, HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and HH Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al-Thani were accorded official reception ceremony. Leading the welcoming party were HM King Willem-Alexander and HM Queen Maxima.
The ceremony included the playing of the Qatari and Dutch national anthems, followed by HH the Amir inspecting the royal guard of honor.
The luncheon and reception were attended by HE Chief of the Amiri Diwan Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani; HE Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi; HE Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al-Thani; and HE Minister of State for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater; along with Their Excellencies members of the accompanying official delegation.
From the Dutch side, the attendees included HE Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte; HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Climate and Energy Rob Jetten; HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Social Affairs and Employment Karien van Gennip; and HE Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Liesje Schreinemacher; along with several senior officials. (QNA)