Middle East

Photo of Syrian president, Queen Máxima and Prime Minister Jetten highlights new Dutch approach to Syria

Syrian President Ahmed Hussein al-Sharaa, Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and Queen Máxima.

One photograph from a diplomatic reception in New York may reveal more about the future of Dutch-Syrian relations than months of carefully worded government statements. Standing side-by-side are Syrian President Ahmed Hussein al-Sharaa, Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and Queen Máxima. Just a few years ago, such an image would have been politically unthinkable. Today, it offers perhaps the clearest visual signal yet that The Hague is steadily re-engaging with Damascus.

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Dutch Prime Minister Jetten will attend the G20 summit in Miami even if Russian President Vladimir Putin is present

For years, Western leaders have largely avoided direct encounters with Vladimir Putin, seeking to isolate the Russian president after his full-scale invasion of Ukraine. But if Putin accepts an American invitation to the G20 summit in Miami this December, Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten is prepared to be in

The Netherlands and Australia launch strategic partnership on security, trade and Ukraine

As Europe looks increasingly toward the Indo-Pacific and Western allies seek to strengthen ties amid growing geopolitical tensions, the Netherlands and Australia have agreed to elevate their relationship to a formal strategic partnership. But beyond the diplomatic language, the agreement offers a detailed roadmap for cooperation on defence, critical

Dutch Foreign Minister Berendsen: EU blocking statute may be used to shield ICC from Trump sanctions

The Dutch government is preparing for the possibility of a new escalation in Washington’s campaign against the International Criminal Court, but Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen insists the European Union’s powerful 'blocking statute' remains a weapon of last resort. As pressure on the Hague-based court grows

Behind the scenes: diplomats frustrated with last-minute EU deal on Russian sanctions

Last-minute compromise preserved sanctions on 3,000 Russia-linked individuals and entities, but behind the scenes diplomats warn the price paid could weaken the EU's sanctions regime for years to come. Exclusive reporting and analysis from The Hague. First month €2.50 Start reading

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Dutch Prime Minister Jetten will attend the G20 summit in Miami even if Russian President Vladimir Putin is present

The Netherlands and Australia launch strategic partnership on security, trade and Ukraine

Dutch Foreign Minister Berendsen: EU blocking statute may be used to shield ICC from Trump sanctions

Behind the scenes: diplomats frustrated with last-minute EU deal on Russian sanctions