The Netherlands toasts its new King
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The Dutch community turns out to watch Queen Beatrix hand over the throne to King Willem-Alexander
April 30 was a memorable occasions for Dutch citizens all over the world, marking the day when the Kingdom of the Netherlands once again welcomed a king to the throne after 123 years of female monarchs.
Thirty-three years ago, on her birthday, the Queen Mother, Her Royal Highness Queen Juliana handed over the throne to her daughter. On April 30, the anniversary marking Queen Beatrix’s reign of 33 years, she handed over the throne to her eldest son, His Royal Highness the Prince of Orange Willem-Alexander.
In Thailand, more than 1,000 VIP guests including Dutch expats, Thai and international diplomats and members of parliament celebrated the orange day at the Royal Netherlands Embassy. The party was hosted by Dutch envoy Joan Boer and his spouse Wendelmoet Boer-Schippers.
From 5pm Bangkok time, a live broadcast “The Inauguration 2013” was screened at the Netherlands Residence. The party was decorated on the theme “Fairy Tale Garden Reception”.
About 15,000 Dutch live in Thailand and 300 Dutch companies do business across the country. In addition, the kingdom welcomes more than 200,000 tourists every year.
