On the occasion of the 168th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship, Commerce, and Navigation between the Dominican Republic and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Ambassador of the Dominican Republic, H.E. Mr. Carlos de la Mota, hosted a festive reception at the historic Hotel Des Indes in The Hague. A Dominican Night highlighted more than a century and a half of lasting bilateral relations, celebrated by ambassadors, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Dutch government officials, business representatives, the Dominican diaspora, and friends of the country.
After the national anthems, Ambassador De la Mota delivered a warmly received address.
“It is a great honor for me to extend a warm welcome to this Dominican Night, an evening filled with our identity, culture, and hospitality,” said Ambassador De la Mota.
He invited guests to experience the richness of Dominican products, adding:
“During this evening, you will be able to appreciate and taste some of the emblematic products of the Dominican Republic, such as tobacco, coffee, rum, and chocolate, which represent the quality, dedication, and talent of our producers.”
A lively highlight of the evening was the performance of Rolf Sanchez, the popular Dutch singer of Dominican descent, who took the stage and quickly had guests dancing to his well-known rhythm blending Dutch lyrics with unmistakable Dominican flavor.
The ambassador also reflected on the strong human ties between both countries. The Netherlands is home to 18,000 Dominicans, making it the third European country with the largest Dominican community, in addition to more than 10,000 mixed Dominican–Dutch families.
“Every Dominican in the Netherlands carries a piece of the Caribbean in their heart, but also a deep gratitude towards this nation that has welcomed them with respect and opportunities,” he said. “This human and emotional reciprocity is the strongest foundation for any lasting relationship between peoples.”
A Dominican Night was a celebration of culture, cuisine, and music that also affirmed the cooperation and friendship uniting both nations, offering an opportunity to look ahead with optimism and explore new avenues for collaboration.
Ambassador De la Mota expressed his appreciation to the supporters of the event. Special thanks were extended to Barceló, Heineken, Chocolala, Café Santo Domingo (INDUBÁN), Diplomat Magazine, RIZEK (KahKow), Cacao Mae, Oliver & Oliver, Cortés, ECMA, Caricca, La Aurora Cigars, and DHL, as well as all companies and institutions whose enthusiasm helped showcase the best of the Dominican Republic in the Netherlands.
“¡Que viva la amistad entre República Dominicana y el Reino de los Países Bajos! Laten we het feest beginnen—¡Que comience la fiesta!”
