Niederlande Türkei - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. History: The Netherlands and Turkey have had diplomatic relations since the 17th century, when the Dutch Republic established trading posts in the Ottoman Empire. The modern relationship between the two countries has been shaped by their shared membership in NATO and the Council of Europe.
- 2. Economy: The Netherlands is one of Turkey's largest trading partners in Europe, with bilateral trade reaching nearly $8 billion in 2020. Dutch companies have a significant presence in Turkey, particularly in the sectors of agriculture, energy, and construction.
- 3. Tourism: Turkey is a popular destination for Dutch tourists, with over 1 million Dutch visitors traveling to the country each year. The Turkish government has made efforts to attract more Dutch tourists by promoting cultural exchange programs and offering visa-free travel for Dutch citizens.
- 4. Migration: The Netherlands has a large Turkish diaspora, with an estimated 400,000 people of Turkish descent living in the country. Many Turkish migrants came to the Netherlands in the 1960s and 1970s as guest workers, and their descendants have since become an integral part of Dutch society.
- 5. Political relations: The Netherlands and Turkey have had strained political relations in recent years, particularly following the 2017 diplomatic crisis sparked by the Dutch government's decision to bar Turkish government officials from campaigning in the Netherlands. The two countries have also clashed over issues such as human rights and the treatment of journalists.
- 6. Human rights: Both the Netherlands and Turkey are members of the Council of Europe and are committed to upholding human rights standards. However, there have been concerns raised by international organizations about the human rights situation in Turkey, particularly in relation to freedom of expression and the treatment of minority groups.
- 7. Cultural exchange: The Netherlands and Turkey have a long history of cultural exchange, with both countries sharing a rich heritage of art, music, and cuisine. Dutch-Turkish cultural organizations and festivals play an important role in promoting cultural understanding and cooperation between the two countries.
- 8. Education: The Netherlands is a popular destination for Turkish students seeking higher education opportunities abroad. Many Turkish students study at Dutch universities and contribute to the academic and cultural life of the country.
- 9. Security cooperation: The Netherlands and Turkey cooperate on security issues, particularly in the fight against terrorism and organized crime. Both countries are members of NATO and work together to address common security challenges in the region.
- 10. Future prospects: Despite the challenges in their relationship, the Netherlands and Turkey have a strong foundation for cooperation in areas such as trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. Both countries have expressed a commitment to improving their relations and finding common ground on key issues of mutual interest.