NIDV congratulates new ministers of Cabinet Rutte IV
The NIDV congratulates the new Minister of Defense Kajsa Ollongren and State Secretary of Defense Christophe van der Maat on their swearing in by H.M. the King. “We look forward to working with the new cabinet to further strengthen the Dutch defense and security sector and contribute to our collective security,” said Ron Nulkes, NIDV Director.
As minister, Ollongren is responsible for general defense policy. Among other things, she deals with the future composition and equipment of the armed forces and deployment. International affairs such as NATO and EU policy also fall under her responsibilities. As State Secretary, Van der Maat will be responsible for the personnel, materiel and real estate dossiers.
The new coalition agreement offers opportunities for the ministers to do good work in the coming years. There will be substantial investments in the restoration and renewal of Defense. Strategic independence from Europe is on the map and the cabinet wants to join mutual recognition of export licenses. “The NIDV stands ready to support the newly appointed ministers in this regard where necessary.”
The NIDV is also looking forward to getting to know ministers Adriaansens and Schreinemacher of Economic Affairs and Climate Change and Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation respectively. From their departments, they deal with important conditions for the success and continued existence of the Dutch defense and security sector. By continuing to support innovation and providing access to foreign markets, the sector can compete at the highest international level and remain competitive.
Photo credits: Koninklijk Huis.