Netherlands "strong country in unstable world," says Dutch King

Dutch King Willem-Alexander on Tuesday said the Netherlands has emerged from the financial crisis but faces security fears and global economic uncertainties.

He made the remarks in the Speech from the Throne -- written by the government -- on the traditional opening day of the parliamentary year.

"The financial and economic crisis is behind us," the King said, adding, "The risks and uncertainties for our open and internationally orientated economy are mainly from abroad."

"Prinsjesdag", or Prince's Day, held every year in The Hague on the third Tuesday of September, is a day of many traditions.

According to the tradition, King Willem-Alexander travelled from Noordeinde Palace to the house of parliament with his wife Queen Maxima, but this time he and his wife were not carried in the Golden Coach which is now under renovation, but in the Glass Coach.

Following the procession in the Glass Coach, the King read aloud the Speech in a joint session of the Dutch senate and house of representatives in the "Ridderzaal", or Hall of Knights.

With female politicians trying to outdo each other with extravagant hats and male MPs wearing their most formal dress, "Prinsjesdag" is a festive day, but also a day with a serious message.

"With everything that is going on worldwide, it is understandable that we worry as a society," the King said.

"The international threat of terrorism, instability on Europe's external borders, the refugee issue and the economic uncertainties in the global market are indeed real problems with a major impact on our daily life," he added.

With thousands of spectators watching the procession of the Glass Coach, the yearly event also meant a potential terrorist target and extra security measures were taken. Police officers were visible on the streets of The Hague and trucks and major sandbags blocked some roads in an effort to prevent any attack.

"We cannot and will not allow in any way that terrorists threaten our freedom, our security and our democratic values," the King said. "Cooperation in Europe in the fight against terrorism is crucial."

"The Netherlands is a strong country in an unstable world," the King said. "In the last few years we collectively achieved results which make that we can look forward with confidence. However, it is not wise to underestimate the difficulties and uncertainties the Netherlands is facing from abroad. But history taught us that steady progress is possible by working together for solutions, at home and with our international partners."

After delivering the speech, the King and the Queen boarded the Glass Coach again to move to the Palace for the traditional balcony scene.

Dutch Finance Minister Jeroen Dijsselbloem moved to the House of Representatives to present an overview of the costs of the plans. He did that after opening a ceremonial briefcase, with the "Miljoenennota", the national budget plan. For the last time Dijsselbloem will perform this ceremony on behalf of the current government of Prime Minister Mark Rutte. On March 15, 2017, new elections will be held.

(APD)