Visit to the Netherlands - Day 1
"From my perspective as a Canadian, the word “innovative” is among the very first that comes to mind when one thinks of the Netherlands," said His Excellency. "The very fact that a significant portion of this country lies below sea level—yet remains productive, habitable land thanks to your extensive network of dams, dykes and dunes—speaks to the remarkable ingenuity of the Dutch people, past and present."
Mon, 04/29/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0177-001
His Excellency participated in a discussion on innovation hosted by Mr. James Lambert, Ambassador of Canada to the Netherlands. This luncheon was attended by Dutch public policy specialists, business representatives, and thinkers who focus on innovation policy, and the relationship between innovation, academia and government.
Mon, 04/29/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0177-002
Their Excellencies visited the Official Residence of the Ambassador of Canada to the Netherlands in The Hague. Pictured here: Their Excellencies with the Mr. James Lambert, Ambassador of Canada to the Netherlands, along with his wife and daughter.
Mon, 04/29/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0177-004
Their Excellencies signed the guest book at the Official Residence of the Ambassador of Canada to the Netherlands.
Mon, 04/29/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0177-005
As this visit to the Netherlands coincides with the annual Dutch commemoration of the Second World War (May 4) and Liberation Day (May 5), Their Excellencies attended a reception to honour those who served in the Liberation as well as the Dutch volunteers who have been active in keeping the memory of our shared history alive. During the reception, Mr. Gerry van't Holt presented his Excellency with a book called "Information Center, Canadian War Cemetery in Holten" which features images of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery from 1949 until now. This cemetery is where 1393 Canadian soldiers, who lost their lives fighting for the Liberation of the Netherlands, are buried.
Mon, 04/29/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0178-0011
"To those volunteers who are here with us today: thank you for honouring their sacrifices," said His Excellency. "It means a great deal to our veterans, and to Canada. The people of this country know what a precious thing is our freedom. Let us honour it always by remembering and thanking our veterans, and by working together for a just and peaceful world."
Mon, 04/29/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0178-004
During the reception, His Excellency also received a gift, an orange tie, which represents the colors of the Netherlands.
Mon, 04/29/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0178-005