Short New Year’s address by His Majesty the King at a reception for the Diplomatic Corps, Royal Palace Amsterdam

Ladies and gentlemen, a very warm welcome to you all.

Just over two weeks into the new year, and you will probably have already resumed work. Still, it’s important to see each other today and wish each other all the best for 2018.

We don’t yet know what this year has in store for us. No-one can predict the future. But one thing is certain: our actions count. History is also made by peoples’ ideals, plans and deeds. We all carry a certain amount of responsibility for the year 2018. For its disappointments, but also for its successes.

The more we bridge gaps by working together, the greater the positive force we can develop. I hope that 2018 will be a year of dialogue and collaboration that crosses boundaries. The Kingdom of the Netherlands will do everything it can to make this possible.

As a member of the UN Security Council, the Kingdom of the Netherlands wants to make an active contribution to international peace and security. Prevention of conflicts, well equipped peace missions and the promotion of justice and accountability are urgent priorities in this respect.

We look forward to working with you all, in Europe and around the world, as a partner for peace, justice and development. Your role as ambassadors and heads of international organisations is of vital importance in creating solutions together.

If we succeed in thinking in terms of shared interests and unite our efforts, then we can look forward to 2018 with confidence. We will be able to give the future a nudge in the right direction, for the well-being of all peoples.

I wish you all every success in fulfilling your important tasks. May I invite you to raise your glass. I hope that this year brings you and your loved ones peace, happiness and prosperity.