Governor Shapiro, ladies and gentlemen,
The Queen and I are delighted to be with you today. How wonderful to see you all here. Your presence underlines the strong personal ties between the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
This morning, together with Governor Shapiro, we took time to reflect on the long history of our friendship.
A key moment in that history was the ‘First Salute’ to the newly independent United States, 250 years ago. But our relations go back much further, to 1614, when the Dutch founded their first settlements here.
Throughout the centuries, our ties have always remained close. And that’s something we cherish. The Kingdom of the Netherlands is a reliable and committed friend. We believe in the long term. In partnerships and alliances you can build on.
That’s the underlying theme of our visit to you here in Pennsylvania – and to Washington, D.C. and Florida in the days ahead. Building on what works, and what has proved to be effective.
Clearly, our ties have proved their worth. Our partnership is close and productive, and benefits both you and us.
To give just one example: Dutch investments in Pennsylvania and the trade between us support 60,000 jobs in this state. This has a positive impact on the day-to-day lives of many families in Pennsylvania. Our economic partnership focuses largely on high-value technology that enhances resilience on both sides. That’s a real source of pride for us.
And our partnership goes beyond commerce. It’s great to see representatives from the realms of culture and science and from government agencies here today as well. We are united by creativity and innovation.
The Queen and I will shortly have the opportunity to get acquainted with some of you.
Unfortunately there won’t be time to speak to everyone. So I’d like to take this moment to wish you all every success in your endeavours. And above all, in connecting with each other. Let us cherish our partnership and expand it even further.
Thank you.