In today's world, Netherlands–Philippines relations has become a topic of interest for a wide spectrum of society, since it covers aspects that impact different areas of daily life. From its relevance in history to its influence today, Netherlands–Philippines relations has aroused the interest of various sectors, generating debates and reflections around its implications and consequences. In this article, we will explore different perspectives and approaches on Netherlands–Philippines relations, analyzing its importance in the current context and its relevance in different disciplines.
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The Netherlands–Philippines relations refers to the bilateral relations between the Netherlands and the Philippines.
Early relations between the Netherlands and the Philippines can be traced as early as the 17th century when a Dutch warship raided Spanish outpost in the Philippines, until the independence of the Netherlands was acknowledged in the mid-17th century. Underground trade between the Dutch East Indies and the Philippines was mostly tolerated until the formalization of economic trade in 1866, with the establishment of a Dutch honorary consulate in Manila, van Polanen Petel as the first honorary consul.[1]
The Philippines established its embassy in the Hague in May 1960, with the first Philippine ambassador presenting credentials to Queen Juliana.[2]
As of 2014, the Netherlands is the 3rd biggest investor in the Philippines and the 10th largest export partner of the Southeast Asian country.[2]
The Dutch Foreign Ministry stated in their website that the only irritant in the relations between the Netherlands and the Philippines is the presence of what they called the said Philippine Communist leadership in Utrecht.[3]