Netherlands: Dutch State Visit to Indonesia toned down after fatal boat accident

NordenBladet – King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands had only just arrived for their State Visit to Indonesia when it became clear that a fatal boat accident had taken place.

The boat accident took place on 9 March on the river in the Sebangau National Park in the island of Kalimantan. The two boats involved in the accident belonged to Indonesian organisations, which were a part of the preparations for the State Visit. There were several fatalities and injuries. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima were due to visit the Sebangau National Park on Thursday.

The King and Queen are said to be shocked and grieving with the families of the victims. They have also sent their condolences to President Widodo of Indonesia. Out of respect for the families of the victims, the program of the State Visit will be toned down. Further details on what this will mean exactly will be announced later today.

The State Visit will last until 13 March and as per the press release, “The state visit affirms the close, wide-ranging relationship between the two countries and will be geared towards future cooperation,” and will include a programme that focuses on “the economy, nature conservation, culture, science and the many ties that exist between the peoples of Indonesia and the Netherlands, based in part on their shared history.”