The new Ambassador of the Netherlands to Bangladesh, Mr. Joris Van Bommel, presented his credentials to President Md. Shahabuddin on Monday (18 August 2025). The formalities for Ambassador Van Bommel, who arrived in Dhaka just a week ago, were completed at Bangabhaban.
After presenting his credentials, President Shahabuddin and Ambassador Van Bommel highlighted the excellent relations and strong partnership between Bangladesh and the Netherlands. In particular, water management, agriculture, maritime and shipping sectors, and the ready-made garment industry were mentioned as key areas of cooperation between the two countries.

The long-standing training and scholarship programs, the successful “Orange Corner” program to support young entrepreneurs, the development of democracy and human rights, and the strengthening of civil society also came up for discussion. At the time, the Ambassador praised the government’s outstanding efforts for the more than one million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh and also mentioned the Dutch support in this sector.
The President and the Ambassador also exchanged views on the possibilities of further expanding trade relations between the two countries. At one point in the discussion, Ambassador Van Bommel conveyed the greetings of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands to Bangladesh.