On the morning of April 4th, Dutch Ambassador André Haspels visited Yangcheng. Mayor Zhang Mingkang welcomed Ambassador Haspels and his delegation, providing a brief overview of Yangcheng’s economic and social development. He highlighted the longstanding friendly exchanges between Yangcheng and the Netherlands, spanning from hydraulic expert Henricus Antonius van Thiel over 100 years ago to present-day tulip breeding expert Nico Kaaijk, underscoring the strong bond between the two sides.

Mayor Zhang expressed hope that Ambassador Haspels’ visit would further strengthen friendly exchanges, enhance traditional friendship, and promote Yangcheng’s development advantages, opportunities, and prospects. He encouraged increased Dutch investment in Yangcheng, fostering mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, ultimately positioning Yangcheng as a pivotal showcase for Sino-Dutch cooperation.

Ambassador Haspels acknowledged the geographical distance between the Netherlands and Yangcheng but emphasized the shared advantages and needs, particularly in the expansive cooperation space within green and low-carbon fields. He expressed eagerness to deepen economic, trade, and cultural ties with Yangcheng, expand cooperation into additional areas, and elevate friendly relations to new heights, envisioning a brighter future together.