Dutch Ambassador Fredrik Lammert Keurhorst receives Dominican Republic’s Order of Merit

Santo Domingo.- Foreign Minister Víctor “Ito” Bisonó presented the Order of Merit of Duarte, Sánchez and Mella, Grand Cross Silver Plaque, to Dutch Ambassador Fredrik Lammert Keurhorst, recognizing his contributions to relations between the Dominican Republic and the Netherlands after four years of diplomatic service in the country.

The distinction was granted by President Luis Abinader through Decree No. 532-26, honoring the ambassador’s work during his tenure and his role in strengthening bilateral cooperation.

During the ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bisonó highlighted the longstanding friendship between the two countries and the growth of their economic relationship. Bilateral trade reached US$841 million in 2025, including US$479 million in Dominican exports, making the Netherlands the Dominican Republic’s 10th-largest trading partner, according to the minister.

Upon receiving the decoration, Keurhorst thanked President Abinader and recalled initiatives developed during his tenure in areas including urban mobility, environmental protection, human rights, gender equality, connectivity, trade and investment.

The ambassador described the Dominican Republic as a dynamic and open country that has made significant economic progress and strengthened its international position.

The ceremony was attended by senior Foreign Ministry officials, representatives of the Dutch Embassy, members of the Diplomatic Corps and international organizations, as well as other government officials and special guests.