Dutch ambassador touts new embassy project, marking 100 years of Dutch-Turkish relations

By Tugba Altun

Dutch Ambassador to Türkiye Joep Wijnands highlighted the significance of the new Dutch embassy building project in Ankara during a groundbreaking ceremony, which also marks a century of diplomatic relations between the Netherlands and Türkiye.

"Because this year, we are celebrating 100 years of friendship between the Netherlands and Turkey. So it is a very special moment to start building this, this embassy, which is also, in many ways, a project of cooperation,” Wijnands said. “This project symbolizes our collaboration, featuring both Dutch and Turkish contributions.”

The embassy will be designed by a Dutch architect and built by a Turkish company. According to Wijnands, the construction materials, including natural stone, will all come from Türkiye. The building’s interior will showcase a blend of Dutch and Turkish design elements.

Wijnands emphasized that the embassy will not only stand as a symbol of bilateral cooperation but also as a model of sustainability, calling it "a flagship project."

The embassy is set to be carbon neutral, reflecting a commitment to environmental protection. The construction is expected to be completed by early 2026, with the opening planned for later in the year.

Wijnands expressed enthusiasm for the project, thanking Turkish partners for their cooperation and envisioning similar sustainable projects in the future.

Wijnands said if the project meets the expectations, it could set a precedent for new embassy buildings around the globe.

*Writing by Seda Sevencan