The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, on Saturday, said that the recent inauguration of the Nigerian-Dutch Business and Investment Forum, in the Hague, Netherlands by President Bola Tinubu will enhance economic ties between the two countries.

This is as he noted that the House would play its part in championing cooperation and friendship between Nigeria and the Netherlands.

Kalu who represents Bende Federal Constituency, Abia State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress added that the two countries can pursue common objectives and closer diplomatic goals to further achieve a prosperous, sustainable and peaceful future for their people.

A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, Mr Levinus Nwabughiogu quoted Mr Kalu as making the assertions while delivering his remarks at the occasion of the birthday of King Willem-Alexander of the Kingdom of Netherlands on Friday night in Abuja.

“On the occasion of the birthday of King Willem-Alexander of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, it is with great pleasure and honour that I stand before you today.

“On behalf of the House of Representatives and the people of Nigeria, I extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to His Majesty on this auspicious occasion.

“The Netherlands holds a special place in the hearts of Nigerians. Our countries share a long history of friendship and cooperation, rooted in mutual respect and admiration.

“Over the years, the Netherlands has been a steadfast partner in supporting Nigeria’s development efforts, particularly in areas such as trade, agriculture, water management, and renewable energy,” he said.

Describing the importance of the investment forum, Mr Kalu further said, “Just yesterday (Thursday), President Bola Tinubu inaugurated the Nigerian-Dutch Business and Investment Forum, in the Hague, Netherlands, a platform designed to unite leaders from both nations’ conglomerates and organizations, with a specific focus on promoting collaboration and partnerships in the fields of agriculture and water management. This has now set a new tone and foundation for stronger economic ties between both countries.

“Mr President’s administration is committed to enhancing and will continue to implement various reforms to create a business-friendly environment through measures such as cleaning up the foreign exchange market for transparent and seamless business transactions, removal of fuel subsidy, and allowing foreign companies to repatriate profits through the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“As we celebrate the birthday of His Majesty, King Willem-Alexander, let us reaffirm our commitment to deepening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Together, we can work towards a more prosperous, sustainable, and peaceful future for our people. Happy birthday to His Majesty King Willem-Alexander”.

Kalu also commended the Netherlands Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Wouter Plomp’s efforts to ensure that the economic relationship between both countries is sustained.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Ambassador Wouter Plomp for his tireless efforts in strengthening the diplomatic ties between our nations, his unflinching support for economic cooperation, and his dedication to promoting a spirit of friendship and understanding between our people. His exceptional leadership and vision have been instrumental in deepening our bilateral relations, and I wish to express my sincere appreciation for his outstanding service”, Kalu said.