Relations between Türkiye and the Netherlands

The history of Türkiye-Netherlands diplomatic relations dates back to the 17th century. In 1612, the first Dutch Ambassador, Cornelis Haga, was appointed to Istanbul. With the establishment of diplomatic relations, activities of Dutch merchants in the Ottoman Empire increased, and the Dutch Ambassadors, in co-operation with the British Ambassadors, mediated peace negotiations after the wars with Austria and Russia (for example, the Treaty of Karlowitz in 1699 and the Treaty of Passarowitz in 1718). The first permanent representative of the Ottoman Empire was Yahya Karaca Pasha, who was appointed as the Ambassador to the Hague in 1859.

The first agreement signed between both countries after the proclamation of the Republic is the “Treaty of Friendship” in 1924. Another important agreement with the Netherlands is the "Türkiye - Netherlands Labor Force Agreement" signed in 1964. In 2024, the 100 th anniversary of the Friendship Treaty and the 60 th anniversary of the Labor Force Agreement with the Netherlands are commemorated. The 400 th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and the Netherlands was celebrated in 2012.

"Memorandum of Understanding on Strengthening the Relations between Türkiye - Netherlands and Establishment of Türkiye - Netherlands Conference" was signed in 2008. In this regard, Türkiye - Netherlands (Wittenburg) Conferences have been held in both countries alternately. The last (tenth) meeting of the Wittenburg Conference was held on 16 April 2024 hosted by the Netherlands. On the other hand, within the scope of the aforementioned Conference, Minister Fidan met with Minister Slot, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands on 19 April 2024 on the occasion of his visit to the Netherlands. During this visit, Minister Fidan was also received by Prime Minister Rutte.

Dutch Prime Minister Rutte paid an official visit to our country on March 22, 2022 upon the invitation of President Erdoğan. He also visited Istanbul on 26 April 2024 and came together with President Erdoğan.

There have been numerous meetings between the high level authorities of two countries in the recent period, especially at the margins of international meetings and conferences.

The number of the people of Turkish origin living in the Netherlands is around 500.000. The Turkish community constitutes one of the most important aspects of our relations with the Netherlands.