Ron Keller, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Photo provided to?chinadaily.com.cn.

A prosperous year of the Monkey!

Dear readers of the China Daily, as newly arrived Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands it is my pleasure to wish all of you a happy, healthy and harmonious year. I am convinced the new year will show once more that the friendship between our two countries is flourishing.

The absolute highlight in our bilateral relations last year, was the state visit of Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima to China. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima cherish fond memories of the warm welcome China's high officials and people had prepared for them. This year, it is the wish of the Dutch diplomatic network in China to build on the high spirit of the Royal visit, and deepen our open and pragmatic partnership with the People's Republic of China.

In the first six months of 2016, the Netherlands will hold the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Together with the EU delegation and the EU Member States we are convinced that we can make 2016, the year of the Monkey, a successful EU – China year. We will foster the development of a solid and future proof EU – China relationship. That is the core message the Netherlands wants to convey during its Presidency. In more general terms, the Dutch EU Presidency will focus on economic growth, creating jobs, ensuring a strong euro, promoting affordable energy and protecting the climate.

Throughout history, a strong international orientation has been a distinct feature of the Netherlands. In the spirit of that enthusiasm to reach out to countries and cultures close to home and far away, we attach high importance to close cooperation with the people of China. Sino-Dutch joint scientific research is on the rise, cultural cooperation, the exchange of students and tourists are flourishing.To bring the Netherlands closer to China, in 2016 we will organize ‘Dutch Days' events in various Chinese cities to enable the Chinese people to get a closer look at the rich Dutch culture.

With great ambition we are looking forward to the year of the Monkey. I wish you all a happy, healthy and prosperous year. Gong Xi Fa Cai, Ji Xiang Ru Yi!

Mr. Ron Keller

Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands