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EAM S. Jaishankar to Visit Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany from May 19 to 24

May 18, 2025, 2:43 pm

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will travel to the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany from May 19 to 24, according to a statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday.

Key Meetings and Agenda

During the six-day visit, Jaishankar will hold meetings with the top leadership of each of the three countries. The discussions will focus on strengthening bilateral ties and exploring cooperation on various global and regional issues of mutual concern.

Strategic Visit to Germany

Jaishankar’s visit to Germany comes shortly after Friedrich Merz became the new Federal Chancellor earlier this month. Following Merz’s appointment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him and expressed hope for closer cooperation. PM Modi wrote on X, “Heartiest congratulations to @_FriedrichMerz on assuming office as the Federal Chancellor of Germany. I look forward to working together to further cement the India-Germany Strategic Partnership.”

Support After Pahalgam Attack

The Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany recently showed strong support for India following the terror attack in Pahalgam. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen condemned the attack and offered condolences. Her office posted on X, “Terrible news from Pahalgam. Denmark stands with India and strongly condemns all acts of terrorism. Our condolences to the victims of the attack and their families and loved ones.”

Former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also condemned the attack on tourists. He extended sympathy to the victims and wished a quick recovery for the injured. Dutch President Dick Schoof added, “The Netherlands stands shoulder to shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism, now and in the future.”

Strong and Growing Ties

India maintains close and friendly relations with all three countries. The MEA stated that India’s ties with Denmark are built on shared democratic values, historical connections, and a joint commitment to peace and stability. The “Green Strategic Partnership” has guided the recent progress in their relationship.

India’s relationship with the Netherlands has spanned more than 75 years. The two countries enjoy strong political, economic, and commercial cooperation. High-level visits have helped boost their wide-ranging partnership.

India and Germany share a strategic partnership that began over seventy years ago, soon after World War II. India was among the first nations to establish diplomatic relations with the Federal Republic of Germany.

PM Modi Cancels Visits to Croatia, Norway, Netherlands: Source

May 7, 2025, 12:24 pm

In a startling diplomatic turnaround, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cancelled his scheduled tours of Croatia, Norway, and the Netherlands in a signal to reset India’s foreign engagement against a backdrop of escalating security and strategic imperatives.

Although precipitate, this move seems influenced by mounting anxieties at home and shifting tides in world affairs.

Although there has been no official announcement spelling out the exact reasons, sources in the government indicate that the decision is in response to increased regional security threats and the aftermath of the latest Pahalgam terror strike.

The Prime Minister Modi will likely give priority to internal security analysis and strategic military coordination in the weeks ahead.

This is a developing story…!!!

Dutch Police Arrest Three Over Stolen Romanian Artefacts In Explosive Heist

January 30, 2025, 3:23 am

Dutch Police have arrested the three men who had stolen the ancient Romanian artefacts from the Drents Museum in Assen, after a four-day investigation after breaking into the museum by using explosives on Saturday.

Among the treasures pilfered were the 2,500-year-old golden Helmet of Cotofenesti and three gold bracelets dating to about 50 BC, on loan from Romania’s National History Museum in Bucharest. The outrage has resulted in the dismissal of the museum’s director.

The suspects are being detained in strict conditions and questioned over their involvement, said the Dutch police. Authorities do not rule out further arrests while the artefacts remain unrecovered.

The burglary led to an extensive investigation into the heist, and earlier on Wednesday, the Dutch police released an image of another suspect connected to the case. The arrests were carried out in Heerhugowaard, some 50 kilometers north of Amsterdam.

Drents Museum officials have welcomed the arrest but hoped that the pieces were recovered in good condition since this is an item of importance for the museum both culturally and historically, not just for Romania.

Art detective Arthur Brand quoted as saying, “Given how fast they were caught, there is a very good chance that the artifacts are undamaged.”.

This is the latest in a string of high-profile arts thefts. Last November 2024, artworks from Andy Warhol were stolen from a gallery in Oisterwijk and in 2020, a painting of Van Gogh was taken from another Dutch museum.

Explosive Heist: 2,450-Year-Old Golden Helmet Stolen From Netherlands Museum

January 28, 2025, 10:38 pm

Four of the rarest artefacts were stolen, including the 2,450-year-old golden helmet, from the Drents Museum in Assen, Netherlands. The theft was committed in hours of January 25. The items come from Romania’s National History Museum in Bucharest and were part of an exhibition describing the Dacians, an ancient community that existed in what is now considered Romania before it was conquered by the Romans.

Among the stolen pieces was the Cotofenesti helmet, which is a 450 BCE piece of solid gold head gear. The helmet had been discovered in 1929 by a child but was used to play with it, then later to chicken water. The helmet includes intricate designs and has two big eyes, various mythological beings, and an aristocrat who is holding a dagger. This is believed to be the headdress of an unknown Dacian king or noble. The helmet holds outstanding cultural value. It has been documented historically and even reproduced for a 1960s Romanian film.

Drents Museum director, Harry Tupan, expressed horror over the incidents: “It’s a dark day for the Drents Museum and the National History Museum of Romania.” The major incident has never hit the museum premises before, whose age is almost 170 years.

Footage filmed by the surveillance camera captures a glimpse of three robbers clad under their hoods, who tried opening the door at the museum to explode. According to officials, thieves are suspected to have used explosives in breaking into the museum. The Dutch police have tied the heist with a car fire which occurred a few kilometers from the museum and are collaborated with Interpol in the case. To Sunday, more than 50 tips had been received, but none of the suspects had been identified. Romanian officials say the stolen artefacts value is “incalculable”.

Dutch WWII Nazi Collaboration Archive Opens, Exposing Hidden Histories And Family Fears

December 31, 2024, 4:44 pm

For 80 years, the personal histories of Dutch collaborators with the Nazis have been locked away in filing cabinets in The Hague. But this week, that history is set to be revealed. Starting Thursday, the central archives of the special jurisdiction courts, established to bring wartime collaborators to justice after the Netherlands was liberated, will be opened to the public.

Previously, the CABR archive was only open to researchers, family members, and anyone directly connected. Now, all visitors will have the opportunity to access the CABR archive. For the very first time, between January and March 2025, researchers, and descendants, of course, will be granted digital access to a quarter of the 425,000 persons database on site at the national archive in The Hague.

While many in the Netherlands believe this is a crucial step toward reckoning with the country’s wartime past, including its economic and bureaucratic collaboration with the Nazis, others feel uneasy about the opening. One such person is 74-year-old Connie, whose family history is part of the archive. “I don’t know what could come out of it eventually, if people Google our surname,” she said.

Three quarters of the Jewish population in the Netherlands, above 102,000 people, were killed during the Holocaust. There was collaboration among the Dutch authorities and citizens. The country is just currently facing this historical darkness, and the recent developments are a national Holocaust Museum and a public apology.

Johannes Houwink ten Cate, emeritus professor of Holocaust studies at Amsterdam University, said that although the feelings of relatives of collaborators are understandable, revealing this information is an important step. The archive, which includes personal documents like diaries, medical records, and court judgments, was initially planned to be released online but has been delayed due to privacy concerns raised by the Dutch Data Protection Authority.

Though some worry about the impact of exposing these files, experts argue that understanding this history is essential for moving forward.

Netherlands: Christians For Israel Center In Nijkerk Attacked Amid Escalating Tensions

November 26, 2024, 12:12 am

The Christians for Israel Center in Nijkerk, Netherlands, was targeted in an attack on Monday morning, escalating tensions ahead of a pro-Israel rally set to take place in Amsterdam.

“We are especially disheartened because this was carried out by other Christians. It’s difficult to comprehend that they don’t see the biblical truth that God is bringing His people back to their land,” said Frank van Oordt, Executive Director of Christians for Israel the Netherlands.

The attack involved protesters from Extinction Rebellion, Justice Now, and Christian Collective, a group claiming to support Palestinians. They stormed the building, defaced it with graffiti, and created a hostile atmosphere for staff.

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Graffiti sprayed on the building accused Christians in Israel of “supporting genocide,” being “child murderers,” and being “complicit in events in Gaza.” The incident disrupted operations and left staff members shaken.

Although police arrived 20 minutes after the attack was reported, it took them nearly three hours to disperse the protesters and restore order. While no injuries were reported, the incident highlights a growing pattern of hostility; the same building was vandalized over the summer, allegedly by members of the same groups.

Christians for Israel underscored their broader mission, which includes contributions to Palestinian aid and fostering cooperation between Arab and Jewish communities in Israel.

“For many years, we’ve donated hundreds of thousands of Euros to organizations that provide assistance to Palestinians. These accusations of complicity in genocide completely ignore the facts,” a spokesperson for the organization stated.

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The attack occurred just days before Christians for Israel’s planned rally in Amsterdam on Thursday to express solidarity with the Jewish community.

The rally has faced criticism from pro-Palestinian groups. Christians for Israel noted that attempts to engage these critics constructively have been unsuccessful.

“We’ve invited them to discuss their concerns, but they’ve refused to engage constructively. Instead, they resort to vandalism and spreading misinformation,” the spokesperson added.

Despite the incident, Christians for Israel reaffirmed their commitment to their mission.

“We will not be deterred by these actions,” van Oordt stated. “This attack only strengthens our resolve to stand up for Israel and ensure that Christians in the Netherlands and around the world understand the biblical truth of Israel’s restoration.”

Approximately 30,000 Jews live in the Netherlands.

Monday’s attack comes amid a surge in antisemitism across Europe. Earlier this month, on November 7, rioters attacked Israelis and local Jews in Amsterdam following a soccer match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax.

Videos on social media showed rioters carrying Palestinian flags and shouting “Free Palestine” while assaulting Israeli fans. Ten Israelis were injured during the unrest. In response, Israel’s national airline, El Al, received rabbinic authorization to evacuate Israelis during the Sabbath.

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Did The Netherlands Sell Paracetamol-Infused Ice Cream? Here’s What We Know

November 16, 2024, 3:40 pm

Imagine if your favorite ice cream could also help you relieve a headache or fever. This bizarre concept made waves online months ago, with some posts suggesting that paracetamol-infused ice cream was being sold in the Netherlands, blending the joy of dessert with the benefits of medicine. But was this the perfect combination of guilty pleasure and healing, or just a wild rumor?

A Facebook post that went viral claimed, “Ice cream containing paracetamol (500 mg) was invented in the Netherlands. If you have a headache, instead of going to the drugstore, grab a bowl of ice cream.” Originally published in 2018, this post was shared over 66,000 times, making the idea of medicinal ice cream a hot topic.

The image that sparked this viral claim was later reviewed by fact-checkers, who traced it back to a Dutch patisserie called Maddy, located in Nagelkerke. The ice cream was initially created as a fun, experimental exhibit for a fair in Holland in 2016. It was never intended for sale, and the flavor was not meant for mass production. Health concerns led to the ice cream being removed from display.

Es krim yang dibutuhkan banyak orang saat pandemi ?

In Holland, they invented ice cream with paracetamol (500mg). When you’ve a headache, you don’t need to go to a pharmacy, instead just take a bowl of ice cream ??.

(Source: FB Dr Sohail Khan) pic.twitter.com/nap5JGV7ib

— Iim Fahima Jachja (@iimfahima) September 30, 2021

While some reports suggested that the ice cream was a “hangover cure,” the official story is that it did not meet health regulations, as paracetamol needs careful dosage control. Despite some speculating it was an elaborate April Fool’s prank, there’s no evidence that anyone has actually tried this paracetamol-infused ice cream.

So, while the concept may sound tempting, it seems you shouldn’t plan your trip to the Netherlands around this strange dessert anytime soon.

Netherlands PM Dick Schoof Condemns ‘Terribly Antisemitic’ Attack On Israeli Fans In Amsterdam

November 8, 2024, 9:44 pm

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof expressed outrage over an antisemitic attack on Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam. Speaking at the European Union leaders’ meeting in Budapest, Schoof said, “It’s a terrible anti-Semitic attack. We will not tolerate it.” He pledged that those responsible would face prosecution.

Incident After UEFA Europa League Match

The incident unfolded following a match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax in the UEFA Europa League. Pro-Palestinian groups allegedly targeted dozens of Israeli fans, resulting in violent clashes. Eyewitnesses reported aggressive chases and anti-Israel slogans in the streets.

Police Response and Arrests

Dutch police arrested 62 individuals in connection with the violence, which left at least five people hospitalized. Authorities revealed that the unrest began a day before the match, with confrontations on both sides, including property damage and flag burnings.

Netanyahu’s Response

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu deployed medical and rescue teams to Amsterdam and held talks with Schoof, thanking him for his strong stance against antisemitism.

Rising Antisemitism in the Netherlands

Local media report a surge in antisemitic incidents since the outbreak of the Gaza war on October 7. Schoof assured the public that the situation in Amsterdam is now under control.

Canada, Australia, Germany, And Netherlands Sue Taliban At ICJ For Gender Discrimination

September 26, 2024, 6:09 pm

Historic Legal Action

In a landmark development, Canada, Australia, Germany, and the Netherlands are taking the Taliban to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over allegations of gender discrimination. Announced during the UN General Assembly, this marks the first instance of a nation suing another for gender discrimination at the ICJ. The case is grounded in the convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1979, which Afghanistan ratified in 2003 before the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021.

Focus on Women’s Rights

The Taliban will have six months to respond before the ICJ holds a hearing and may propose provisional measures. Advocates believe that even if the Taliban disregards the court’s authority, a ruling could deter other nations from normalizing relations with them. Recent Taliban laws further restrict women’s freedoms, igniting protests and highlighting ongoing violations of women’s rights in Afghanistan. Female foreign ministers from the involved countries expressed a willingness to negotiate with the Taliban to address these concerns.

Bell Pepper Dal And Padima Chutney? Indian Food At Dutch Office Is Nightmarish

July 26, 2024, 4:08 pm

An Indian employee in the Netherlands recently shared a heartwarming but amusing attempt at Indian cuisine from his office in a viral Instagram Reel. Anuvind Kanwal posted a video highlighting the ‘questionable’ dishes served to employees under the guise of Indian food. “The Indian food at my office in the Netherlands is a bit questionable,” he commented.

The video features a spread that includes ‘Bell Pepper Dal’ and ‘Padima Chutney’, along with bite-sized naans and green beans. The padima chutney, which appears to be a misspelling of pudina or mint chutney, actually contains celery, according to the information cards displayed with the dishes.

Kanwal works for the Dutch company Miro, which describes itself on LinkedIn as a “visual workspace for innovation that enables distributed teams of any size to dream, design, and build the future together.”

On Instagram, he remarked: “The ‘Indian food’ served today at my office in the Netherlands seems a bit questionable to say the least.”

Kanwal added with a laughing emoji, “I sure don’t want to know what ‘Padima Chutney’ is made of.”

The video has garnered nearly 1 million views and a flood of amused comments. Many praised Miro for their efforts to diversify their offerings and cater to Indian tastes, while others questioned the extent of research into the Indian spread.

Here are a bunch of social media reactions:

“Dude, I bet Europeans feel the same way about the Indian ‘continental’ cuisine. I think it’s a great thing that they are trying to be more inclusive and adventurous with their taste buds,” one Instagram user wrote.

“The fact that they’re making an effort is appreciable in itself,” another agreed.

“Be grateful they are at least trying to accommodate you,” a third user commented.

One Instagram user said: “The food literally offended the Indian foodie inside me.”

“Padima chutney wins this buffet,” another joked with a laughing emoji.

Netherlands Vlogger Finds Rs 117 Hotel Room In Pakistan; Reaction Goes Viral

July 19, 2024, 5:30 pm

Dutch content creator Tom, known on Instagram as @traveltomtom, recently ventured to Pakistan and booked a hotel room for just Rs 117 (approximately $1.40 USD). A seasoned traveler with a portfolio of 159 countries since 2012, Tom’s latest escapade in Peshawar has garnered significant attention online.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Adventure Traveler & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

Tom’s astonishment was evident in his video, which has already racked up over 700,000 views. “I couldn’t believe it when I saw the room,” he shared, detailing how the budget accommodation exceeded his expectations. Located in the bustling heart of Peshawar, the room featured two beds and a small TV, providing a level of comfort Tom hadn’t anticipated. Despite initial reservations as he climbed the stairs to the room, he was pleasantly surprised upon entering.

The video has sparked a wave of reactions, with viewers expressing both disbelief and curiosity about Pakistan. While some comments reflected skepticism and common stereotypes about the country, Tom’s positive experience has provided a refreshing contrast, highlighting the potential for affordable and comfortable travel in Pakistan.

Ukraine To Receive First Batch Of F-16 Fighter Jets From Denmark And Netherlands

July 11, 2024, 3:31 pm

After a prolonged wait, Ukraine will finally receive the much-anticipated F-16 fighter jets, as the first batch of US-built planes are being transferred from Denmark and the Netherlands. These jets will soon be flying over Ukrainian skies this summer.

At the NATO 75th anniversary summit in Washington, US President Joe Biden confirmed the transfer, stating, “We can and will defend every inch of NATO territory and we’ll do it together.” He noted that Denmark and the Netherlands had begun sending F-16 jets to Ukraine, fulfilling a key promise made last year to Kyiv, which has struggled to achieve air parity with Russia.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the significance of the transfer, stating it “concentrates Vladimir Putin’s mind on the fact that he will not outlast Ukraine, he will not outlast us.”

In a social media post, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the US, Denmark, and the Netherlands for helping “to strengthen the Ukrainian air force with F-16s.”

The F-16 fighter jets, equipped with a 20 mm cannon and capable of carrying bombs, rockets, and missiles, have long been on Ukraine’s wish list since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war. Following extensive negotiations, Kyiv will soon see these planes in action.

While the exact number of aircraft en-route to Kyiv is not yet known, a statement by the leaders of the US, Denmark, and the Netherlands indicated a commitment to donating additional jets. Officials have informed the Washington Post that Ukraine is expected to eventually field 60 F-16s.

The need for these planes became increasingly apparent after a Russian attack on a hospital resulted in the deaths of 37 children. Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store highlighted this, telling the Washington Post, “If you don’t have air control, you’re extremely vulnerable. And you have seen in recent weeks or months it is starting to change now the vulnerability of Ukraine of not having planes and not having sufficient air defense. When you see the brutality of the recent round of attacks from Russia … that is badly needed.”

The transfer of F-16s marks a significant milestone in bolstering Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and addressing the ongoing challenges posed by the conflict with Russia.

Mark Rutte’s Unique Farewell Video Goes Viral as Netherlands PM Steps Down

July 6, 2024, 6:27 pm

In a surprising turn in Dutch politics, Prime Minister Mark Rutte bid a distinctive farewell to his office staff, riding a bicycle as they cheered him on, a moment captured in a viral video on social media.

After a remarkable 14-year tenure, Rutte handed over leadership to Dick Schoof, the former intelligence chief, who assumed office in a ceremony overseen by King Willem-Alexander.

Schoof’s appointment marks a departure from traditional politics, as he takes leadership without party ties, in a move unrelated to recent electoral activities.

Meanwhile, Rutte transitions to the role of NATO secretary-general, a pivotal position in safeguarding member nations across Europe and North America.

This shift coincides with the inauguration of the Netherlands’ first far-right government, led by Geert Wilders’ party, following a groundbreaking election that reshaped the country’s political landscape.

Dick Schoof, in his address to parliament, pledged to prioritize the new government’s goal of reducing immigration, reflecting a significant moment of continuity and change in Dutch leadership and policy direction.

In last year’s elections, Geert Wilders’ anti-immigration party secured the most seats, prompting a 223-day effort to form a coalition government involving four parties. Opposition within the coalition prevented Wilders from assuming the prime minister’s role.

T20 World Cup 2024: Netherlands Captain Scott Edwards Opts to Field Against Bangladesh

June 13, 2024, 8:57 pm

Netherlands captain Scott Edwards won the toss and elected to field against Bangladesh in their Group D match of the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2024 at the Arnos Vale Ground on Thursday. With South Africa securing one Super Eight slot in Group D, Bangladesh and the Netherlands are the two leading challengers for the remaining spot. Both have one win and one loss, with net run rate serving as the only present differentiator. Bangladesh opened their campaign with a two-wicket victory over Sri Lanka before falling to South Africa despite being in a good position. The Netherlands overcame Nepal in their tournament opener before falling to South Africa.

At the time of the toss, Netherlands captain Scott Edwards stated, “We are gonna have a bowl first. Not too many international games have been played here recently. Our boys are looking forward to it, we have been playing some good cricket. Aryan Dutt is in for Teja Nidamanuru.” Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto said, “I don’t mind batting first. Looks a good wicket. With the new ball, we have to be careful. Rishad is very exciting, luckily we have got a leggie. Hope he continues his form. No changes, same XI.”

The playing XI for Netherlands includes Michael Levitt, Max ODowd, Vikramjit Singh, Sybrand Engelbrecht, Scott Edwards (w/c), Bas de Leede, Logan van Beek, Tim Pringle, Aryan Dutt, Paul van Meekeren, and Vivian Kingma.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s playing XI consists of Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Litton Das (w), Shakib Al Hasan, Towhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, and Mustafizur Rahman.

Netherlands Initiates Four-Day EU Elections Across 27 Nations

June 6, 2024, 2:35 pm

The Netherlands has kicked off four days of European Union elections across 27 nations, initiating a crucial democratic exercise that is expected to showcase the rise of hard-right parties, as reported by The Washington Post.

Voting has begun in the Netherlands, marking the start of four days of voting in European Union parliamentary elections across the 27 member states.

Estonia has already commenced its voting period, which spans six days starting from Monday. However, the Netherlands stands out as the only EU country to begin its single-day vote so early.

Ireland will follow suit on Friday, with the rest of the EU nations participating over the weekend. The results of the elections will be announced on Sunday night, culminating in a Europe-wide revelation after all member states have completed voting, as reported by The Washington Post.

The Dutch voting process comes six months after Geert Wilders’ far-right Party for Freedom made significant strides in the Dutch national parliament, sending shockwaves across Europe. Current polling suggests that Wilders will continue to capitalize on this momentum, potentially setting a trend for the broader European political landscape.

In the aftermath of the previous EU elections five years ago, populist, far-right, and extremist parties have gained prominence in several EU nations. They now either lead governments in three EU countries or are part of governing coalitions in others, indicating a surge in public support across the continent.

The EU elections represent the world’s second-largest democratic exercise, trailing only behind India’s elections in terms of scale. With almost 400 million voters across the EU, the electorate will select 720 members of the European Parliament, spanning from the Arctic circle to the borders of Africa and Asia. The outcome of these elections will shape policies on global issues ranging from climate change and defense to migration and international relations with major players like China and the United States.

Since the last European elections in 2019, geopolitical dynamics have shifted significantly. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has brought conflict to the fringe of the EU, underscoring the importance of the union’s role in maintaining peace and stability in the region. Ukraine, aspiring to join the EU, further underscores the geopolitical complexities at play.

Despite being a founding member, the Netherlands has witnessed growing dissatisfaction with EU policies among its populace. Research from the Clingendael think tank indicates that while the majority of Dutch citizens believe in remaining within the bloc, there is also a prevalent sentiment for greater self-sufficiency.

As voters across the EU are anticipated to shift towards the right, the Christian Democrat-dominated European People’s Party, led by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, remains the largest bloc in the EU legislature. It is poised to play a pivotal role in forming coalitions once the election results are tallied, according to The Washington Post.
In the Netherlands, Wilders’ PVV stands to potentially expand its domestic success into the European arena, possibly surpassing the combined strength of the Labour Party and Green Left. In the 2019 Dutch EU Parliament election, Labour secured 19 per cent of the vote, earning six seats, while the Greens claimed 11 per cent and three seats.

In contrast, Wilders’ party only managed to secure 3.5 per cent of the vote with no seats. However, with the backing of the Farmer Citizen Movement, Wilders has garnered support, particularly from farmers protesting against what they perceive as stifling EU regulations.
While Wilders has previously advocated for a Dutch exit from the EU, his party’s manifesto for the current election cycle does not explicitly mention a “Nexit.” Instead, it calls for reform from within the EU, aligning with the approach of other hard-right parties across the bloc.

The allocation of MEPs across member states varies based on population size, ranging from six seats for smaller nations like Malta, Luxembourg, and Cyprus to 96 seats for Germany. Following the departure of the United Kingdom from the EU in 2020, the number of MEPs decreased from 751 to 705, with some seats reallocated to other member states.
MEPs play a crucial role in shaping EU legislation, covering a wide array of areas such as climate, banking, agriculture, fisheries, security, and justice. Additionally, they hold sway over the EU budget, which is integral to implementing European policies, including aid provisions to countries like Ukraine.

Following the election, MEPs will convene to elect their president during the first plenary session scheduled from July 16-19. Subsequently, likely in September, they will nominate the president of the European Commission, based on a proposal put forth by member states. In the 2019 elections, Ursula von der Leyen secured a narrow victory to become the first woman to lead the European Commission, The Washington Post reported.

Spain to go against Sweden in FIFA Women’s World Cup semifinals

August 12, 2023, 12:19 pm

Spain stepped into the semifinals of the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup after an outstanding strike from Salma Paralluelo in the extra time led them to a 2-1 win over the Netherlands in Wellington.

The first half went goalless. In the second half, a push by Irene Paredes on Lineth Beerensteyn was denied, which led to the Dutch gaining a penalty after a review using video technology.

A penalty conversion from Mariona Caldente helped Spain get a lead in the 81st minute.
However, the Dutch made a comeback when Van der Gragt broke free on Victoria Pelova’s pass to smash the ball past the Spanish goalie, making it 1-1 in the 91st minute. 20 minutes later, Paralluelo’s strike helped Spain get a late victory.

Later that day, Sweden set up their semifinal clash with Spain in the World Cup after defeating a determined Japanese side by 2-1. Amanda Ilestedt presented Sweden with the advantage in the 31st minute, with the ball falling to her feet during a scramble near the goal, and she fired a shot from close range.

Japan looked like they were making their comeback in the game, but Fuka Nagano brushing the ball with her arm inside the box in the second half handed Sweden a penalty, which Filippa Angeldahl converted in the 51st minute.

Riko Ueki made a chance for Japan, but her shot confused the bar. Honoka Hayashi helped to get a nice finish by sweeping home in the 87th minute, but the goal came too late.

1 killed, 30 injured in Netherlands after Train derailed

April 4, 2023, 1:47 pm

According to the Dutch emergency services, at least one person was killed and more than 30 others were injured after a train derailed in the Netherlands on Tuesday after colliding with construction equipment on the track.

Some of the injured were receiving immediate care, while others were being transported to a hospital, according to emergency services. A double-decker intercity train collided with construction equipment on the rails at Voorschoten, about eight kilometres (five miles) north of The Hague, around 3:30 a.m. (0130 GMT), according to TRT world.

The rescue teams arrived at the accident scene in Voorschoten, a village near The Hague, early Tuesday to evacuate the victims, according to the emergency services.

Furthermore, according to TRT World, Netherlands Railways (NS) tweeted that the tragic accident caused trains between Leiden and several areas of The Hague to be cancelled.

According to a fire department spokeswoman who spoke to Dutch radio, 19 people were taken to hospitals. Other people were receiving immediate care, according to emergency services. Further investigation is underway.

France beats the Netherlands 4-0 at home in Euro Qualifiers

March 25, 2023, 4:18 pm

France began their Euro 2024 Group B qualifying campaign with a 4-0 home triumph over the Netherlands, with Kylian Mbappe scoring two goals. Mbappe, who took over as captain after goalie Hugo Lloris retired in January, set up Antoine Griezmann for the opener before scoring the third, after Dayot Upamecano had increased the lead in the first half.

The outcome was a slap in the face for Ronald Koeman, who was in charge of his first encounter since taking over from Louis van Gaal, despite the fact that the Oranje had advanced to the World Cup quarterfinals in Qatar. France leads Group B, followed by Greece, which defeated Gibraltar 3-0 away. On Monday, Didier Deschamps’ team will face Ireland in Dublin, while the Netherlands will host Gibraltar.

After 22 minutes, Mbappe made it 3-0 by rolling in from close range after being passed through by Aurelien Tchouameni. The Netherlands attacked briefly on the break, but Memphis Depay’s shot was just wide. France came near again nine minutes before the interval, when Ibrahima Konate’s header was pushed away by Jasper Cillessen.

With Upamecano and Konate marshalling the French central defense, the Dutch had an early chance in the second half with a Depay free kick, but that was as near as they got. Randal Kolo Muani, who started as a lone forward in France’s 4-3-3 formation, also put up a good performance before being replaced by Olivier Giroud in the 76th minute. Mbappe then rubbed salt in the wounds of the Dutch with a powerful cross-shot for the fourth goal and 38th in 67 appearances.

INDIA WOMEN’S HOCKEY LOSES 1-3 TO WORLD NUMBER ONE SIDE NETHERLANDS

January 25, 2023, 2:43 pm

After a strong outing against home team South Africa in a four-match series which the Indian Women’s Team Hockey Team won 3-0, the team led by Savita lost 1-3 to World Number 1 Netherlands in a hard-fought match here on Monday.

India is scheduled to play three matches against the Netherlands as part of their tour of South Africa. Riding on good form, the Indian side got off to a strong, attacking start with young sensation Beauty Dungdung scoring a brilliant field goal in the 24th minute of the match.

While the 1-0 lead gave India a head start, the lead did not last long enough with the Netherlands scoring an equaliser in the 29th minute. It was a PC converted by Felice Albers. While both teams played on par with each other in the third quarter, no goals were scored but the Netherlands went into top gear in the final quarter scoring two important goals to end the match with 3-1 on board. It was Yibby Janssen and Freeke Moes who scored in Netherlands’ victory.

First Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion G20 summit to start in Kolkata

January 9, 2023, 12:47 pm

The first G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) meeting under G20 India Presidency is scheduled to be held from 9th January to 11th January 2023 in Kolkata. The city has been decked up for the event. Tight security has been ensured for the delegates.

As per officials, principles of digital financial inclusion, remittance costs and SME finance availability will be the key focus of the summit. The meeting will open with a Symposium on “Unlocking the potentials of Digital Public Infrastructure for advancing financial inclusion and productivity gains”. This will also involve a “Digital innovations for Financial Inclusion” exhibition. A domestic outreach programme on digital financial literacy involving over 1,800 students from various schools is also part of the programme.

The inaugural session will be addressed by Queen Máxima of the Netherlands. GPFI member countries, guest countries and international organisations invited by India, will take part in the meeting. Twelve international speakers including senior officials from the World Bank, the Monetary Authority of Singapore, France and Estonia will attend this G20 meeting.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee may also attend the meeting on Monday, a Union Finance Ministry official said. She is likely to promote West Bengal as an ideal destination for investments.