Press Statement
John J. Sullivan
Deputy Secretary of State
Washington, DC
April 26, 2018
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate His Majesty King Willem-Alexander on his fifth celebration of Koningsdag, and extend my best wishes to the people of the Netherlands on this joyous occasion.
For more than two hundred and forty years, the United States has shared a long and fruitful relationship with the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Not only did the Dutch settle the territory of what is now New York City and stand among the first to recognize American independence, but they also hosted the first U.S. Embassy in The Hague. Our new Embassy, opened a bit more than a month ago, is a visible commitment of our dedication to our longest, unbroken, peaceful relationship with any nation in the world.
The Netherlands is a steadfast partner and the Dutch people are among our most trusted friends. Our joint commitment to democracy, security, and economic progress strengthens our alliance and deepens the bonds between our people. Through these shared interests, we address global challenges and create new opportunities that provide for a more stable and prosperous world.
I wish the happiest of King’s Days to all the people of the Netherlands, a key ally and friend of the United States, and a Happy 51st Birthday to King Willem-Alexander.
