Royal Palace of Amsterdam | May 2025
Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands welcomed ambassadors and heads of international organizations to the Annual Diplomatic Gala Dinner, traditionally held in the stately Citizens’ Hall of the Royal Palace of Amsterdam.
This long-standing tradition is a hallmark of the Dutch monarchy’s engagement with the diplomatic community, offering a moment of reflection, celebration, and renewed commitment to the values of peace, dialogue, and multilateral cooperation. In 2022, Dutch government representatives joined the ambassadors as special guests.
In 2023, the evening spotlighted scientists and researchers. Last year, it was dedicated to innovative entrepreneurs. This year, ambassadors were paired with leading figures from the world of art and culture—artists, musicians, writers, performers, architects, designers, heritage experts, and museum directors.
In his address, King Willem-Alexander warmly welcomed the international community and reflected on the richness of cultural exchange, affirming the Netherlands’ support for international engagement and cooperation.
“Relations with other countries and peoples near and far made a large contribution to the growth and prosperity of Amsterdam and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The international orientation of our open society and economy is one of the Netherlands’ biggest strengths. You represent the many countries we share ties with today. And we greatly value your presence.
The world we all live in is changing fast. Long-standing rules and agreements are under pressure. Increasingly, healthy competition is turning into bitter rivalry. And sadly, tensions and conflicts are disrupting the lives of millions of people.
Our hearts go out to the victims of violence in Ukraine, the Middle East, Sudan, and other troubled regions.
The future is unpredictable. In these turbulent times, the Netherlands is working to promote stability and security, prosperity and good governance. Everyone ¬– all around the world – wants the same basic things: a decent life for themselves and their loved ones. Food on the table. A strong economy. Security and healthcare. Effective governance. That’s the only way people can build successful lives in their own countries.
Everyone needs socioeconomic security and prospects for the future.” It is with that conviction that the Netherlands seeks cooperation with partners.” the King remarked
His Majesty spoke of Dutch reputation in the field of food production, water management, healthcare and sustainable energy. and addressed the international representatives “The unifying role you play as diplomats is crucial. And the significance of your work has only increased as global tensions have risen.”
This year’s Diplomatic Gala Dinner highlighted our shared humanity and the timeless ties forged through beauty, art, diplomacy, and cultural dialogue. In a world often divided by difference, the evening offered a compelling reminder of what unites us.
“Eendracht maakt macht — unity makes strength.”
Speaking on behalf of the Diplomatic Corps, H.E. Ms. Sahar Ghanem, Ambassador of Yemen and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, delivered a stirring address:
“Your hospitality reflects the importance you place on diplomacy and the vital role diplomats play in fostering international understanding and cooperation,” Ambassador Ghanem said, expressing collective gratitude to Their Majesties.
Reflecting on the symbolic grandeur of the Royal Palace, the ambassador shared with warmth and humor : “ I must admit that on more than one occasion, I secretly wished that royal receptions would be held in The Hague instead. But definitely not tonight!
She then turned to the deeper theme of the evening: the enduring power of art and culture as universal languages “Viewed through the lens of culture, our world resembles a vast mosaic. No two pieces are the same, yet each one complements the other, contributing to a stunning and harmonious whole,” praising the Netherlands as a living example of cultural blending and innovation. Drawing from history, she referenced the VOC-era import of Chinese porcelain, which evolved into the iconic Dutch Blue Delft, and the transformation of Turkish tulips into a national symbol.
Ambassador Ghanem shared a deeply touching personal story about her mother: “Would Johannes Vermeer have ever expected that a woman from a faraway country called Yemen would one day dream of visiting the Netherlands because of his masterpiece Girl with a Pearl Earring? Today, that woman’s daughter is standing before you as the ambassador of that far country to the very Netherlands her mother always longed to visit! ”
Addressing the impact of modern technology, Ambassador Ghanem acknowledged the opportunities digital platforms offer for global cultural exchange but also issued a gentle warning, quoting a viral social media post: “I want AI to do my laundry and dishes so that I can do art and writing—not for AI to do my art and writing so that I can do my laundry and dishes!”
The comment underscored the need to strike a balance between technological progress and the preservation of human creativity and imagination—a shared responsibility for diplomats, artists, policymakers, and innovators alike.
In closing her speech, Ambassador Ghanem addressed Queen Máxima directly with warm and gracious birthday wishes, “May your day be filled with cherished moments with those you hold dear, and may your distinguished grace and charm continue to shine year after year” and invited the assembled guests to raise their glasses:
“To peace, love, and prosperity—cheers.”
