The Netherlands will play in the women`s Olympic hockey finals for a fifth straight time at the Tokyo Games after booking an inspiring 5-1 triumph over 2016 Rio Olympic champions Britain on Wednesday. 
 
The Netherlands took the lead in the first half when Laurien Leurink outsmarted her opponent and her pass reached 21-year-old forward Felice Albers who scored by shooting the ball through the legs of British goalie Madeleine Hinch. 
 
The Netherlands, who won silver at the 2016 Rio Games after taking home the top prize twice in a row at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, doubled the score less than a minute later through a powerful shot by Marloes Keetels. 
 
The goals dealt a hard blow to the British side, who had not given away much against the Dutch gold medal favourites in the first 15 minutes of the match. 
 
Britain had beaten the Dutch side through a penalty shootout in the final of the 2016 Rio Games that got them the gold medal. In Tokyo, the gap between the two sides was too large for Britain to overcome. 
 
The Netherlands had already scored 21 goals before starting the semi-finals while conceding only two goals in their previous matches in the tournament. 
 
After the halftime break, the Netherlands extended its lead to 4-0 thanks to goals by Maria Verschoor and Albers. 
 
Britain came back a goal when Giselle Ansley flicked in a penalty corner, before Frederique Matla did the same for the Netherlands, settling the final score. 
 
The Netherlands will next play Argentina or India in the finals on Friday, while Britain will play for bronze.

The Netherlands will play in the women`s Olympic hockey finals for a fifth straight time at the Tokyo Games after booking an inspiring 5-1 triumph over 2016 Rio Olympic champions Britain on Wednesday.

The Netherlands will play in the women`s Olympic hockey finals for a fifth straight time at the Tokyo Games after booking an inspiring 5-1 triumph over 2016 Rio Olympic champions Britain on Wednesday. The Netherlands took the lead in the first half when Laurien Leurink outsmarted her opponent and her pass reached 21-year-old forward Felice Albers who scored by shooting the ball through the legs of British goalie Madeleine Hinch. The Netherlands, who won silver at the 2016 Rio Games after taking home the top prize twice in a row at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, doubled the score less than a minute later through a powerful shot by Marloes Keetels. The goals dealt a hard blow to the British side, who had not given away much against the Dutch gold medal favourites in the first 15 minutes of the match. Britain had beaten the Dutch side through a penalty shootout in the final of the 2016 Rio Games that got them the gold medal. In Tokyo, the gap between the two sides was too large for Britain to overcome. The Netherlands had already scored 21 goals before starting the semi-finals while conceding only two goals in their previous matches in the tournament. After the halftime break, the Netherlands extended its lead to 4-0 thanks to goals by Maria Verschoor and Albers. Britain came back a goal when Giselle Ansley flicked in a penalty corner, before Frederique Matla did the same for the Netherlands, settling the final score. The Netherlands will next play Argentina or India in the finals on Friday, while Britain will play for bronze.

Tokyo Olympics: Netherlands reaches women's Hockey finals with 5-1 win over Britain

Australia reached the semi-finals of the men's hockey tournament after beating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout in sizzling conditions at the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics, joining Germany who booked a quarter-final victory over Argentina.

A powerful performance by goalkeeper Andrew Charter, who kept a clean sheet in the shootouts - won 3-0 by Australia after the score was 2-2 at the end of regular playing time - helped the Kookaburras win the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-satish-kumar-crashes-out-after-losing-to-bakhodir-jalolov-in-mens-boxing-quarterfinals-402125" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Satish Kumar crashes out after losing to Bakhodir Jalolov in men's boxing quarterfinals</a>

"It's bloody amazing," said Charter. "To come out here and carry the burden for a bit, it's good for my confidence and it's good for the team defensively moving forward."

The Australians had pulled ahead twice in the game, thanks to two goals by Tom Wickham, only to see the hard-fighting Dutch side equalise through goals by Mink van der Weerden and Jeroen Hertzberger.

Dutch goalie Pirmin Blaak recognised Charter's role in the shootouts.

"Charter saved a few and it was hard to get pressure on the Aussies," he said.

"I think if you miss three (penalty shots) and they score three, they deserve to win."

The result meant the Dutch men's squad won't play the semi-finals of the Olympic hockey tournament for the first time since 1984.

<h2>GERMAN WIN</h2>

Australia will face Germany on Tuesday after the Germans secured an easy victory over Olympic champions Argentina.

Germany opened the score in the 19th minute when defender Lukas Windfeder shot a penalty corner low and hard at the left side of the goal, leaving Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi no chance to stop the ball.

Ten minutes into the second half, the German side added to their advantage after scoring through another penalty corner, which gave them little left to fear from the Argentineans.

"It's hot weather and hot-minded Argentina and we just want to keep it cool and play our German style and I think we did exactly that," said forward Christopher Ruhr.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-india-to-face-australia-in-the-womens-hockey-quarter-finals-402113" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: India to face Australia in the women's hockey quarter-finals</a>

The fourth quarter saw one goal from each side, including Windfeder's second, leaving the final score at 3-1.

Officials doubled the usual two-minute breaks between quarters to allow players to cool down from the heat at the main pitch of the Oi Hockey Stadium, which was sprayed with water during the half-time break to keep play fast and smooth.

The win gave Germany revenge on Argentina after being knocked out by them in the semi-finals of the 2016 Rio&nbsp;Olympics, when the Germans had to settle for bronze.

Australia reached the semi-finals of the men's hockey tournament after beating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout in sizzling conditions at the Tokyo Olympics, joining Germany who booked a quarter-final victory over Argentina.

Australia reached the semi-finals of the men's hockey tournament after beating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout in sizzling conditions at the Tokyo Olympics, joining Germany who booked a quarter-final victory over Argentina. A powerful performance by goalkeeper Andrew Charter, who kept a clean sheet in the shootouts - won 3-0 by Australia after the score was 2-2 at the end of regular playing time - helped the Kookaburras win the match. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Satish Kumar crashes out after losing to Bakhodir Jalolov in men's boxing quarterfinals "It's bloody amazing," said Charter. "To come out here and carry the burden for a bit, it's good for my confidence and it's good for the team defensively moving forward." The Australians had pulled ahead twice in the game, thanks to two goals by Tom Wickham, only to see the hard-fighting Dutch side equalise through goals by Mink van der Weerden and Jeroen Hertzberger. Dutch goalie Pirmin Blaak recognised Charter's role in the shootouts. "Charter saved a few and it was hard to get pressure on the Aussies," he said. "I think if you miss three (penalty shots) and they score three, they deserve to win." The result meant the Dutch men's squad won't play the semi-finals of the Olympic hockey tournament for the first time since 1984. GERMAN WIN Australia will face Germany on Tuesday after the Germans secured an easy victory over Olympic champions Argentina. Germany opened the score in the 19th minute when defender Lukas Windfeder shot a penalty corner low and hard at the left side of the goal, leaving Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi no chance to stop the ball. Ten minutes into the second half, the German side added to their advantage after scoring through another penalty corner, which gave them little left to fear from the Argentineans. "It's hot weather and hot-minded Argentina and we just want to keep it cool and play our German style and I think we did exactly that," said forward Christopher Ruhr. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: India to face Australia in the women's hockey quarter-finals The fourth quarter saw one goal from each side, including Windfeder's second, leaving the final score at 3-1. Officials doubled the usual two-minute breaks between quarters to allow players to cool down from the heat at the main pitch of the Oi Hockey Stadium, which was sprayed with water during the half-time break to keep play fast and smooth. The win gave Germany revenge on Argentina after being knocked out by them in the semi-finals of the 2016 Rio Olympics, when the Germans had to settle for bronze.

Tokyo 2020: Australia to face Germany in men's Hockey semis, Argentina, Netherlands bow out

Dutch police on Friday seized "the largest and most professional" crystal meth production factory ever discovered in the country.

According to authorities, the facility could create more than 100 kilos of synthetic pharmaceuticals each day, with a market worth of around $1.18 million.

The lab will be dismantled until the end of next week.&nbsp;

The lab was one of the "largest and most professional" locations ever uncovered in the Netherlands, according to the authorities.

It will be dismantled by the end of next week.

The facility was capable of generating more than 100 kilos (220 pounds) of synthetic medicines worth around €1 million ($1.18 million) in commercial quantities.&nbsp;

According to local media accounts, police discovered the lab in the early hours of Friday morning in the southeastern town of Nederweert.

The address was discovered using "encrypted chat communications," according to Dutch officials.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Dutch police on Friday seized "the largest and most professional" crystal meth production factory ever discovered in the country. According to authorities, the facility could create more than 100 kilos of synthetic pharmaceuticals each day, with a market worth of around $1.

Dutch police on Friday seized "the largest and most professional" crystal meth production factory ever discovered in the country. According to authorities, the facility could create more than 100 kilos of synthetic pharmaceuticals each day, with a market worth of around $1.18 million. The lab will be dismantled until the end of next week. The lab was one of the "largest and most professional" locations ever uncovered in the Netherlands, according to the authorities. It will be dismantled by the end of next week. The facility was capable of generating more than 100 kilos (220 pounds) of synthetic medicines worth around €1 million ($1.18 million) in commercial quantities. According to local media accounts, police discovered the lab in the early hours of Friday morning in the southeastern town of Nederweert. The address was discovered using "encrypted chat communications," according to Dutch officials. (With inputs from agencies)

Police bust Netherlands’ biggest meth lab that can produce 100kg drugs

Goraya, who now lives in exile in Netherlands, was allegedly kidnapped and tortured by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence Directorate in 2017, along with four other prominent activists critical of human rights abuses by the Pakistan Army.

Conspiracy to kill anti-Pak army blogger

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Saturday that storms and subsequent floods that have inundated Europe are "without doubt" the result of climate change. Germany and Belgium are the worst-hit countries but several towns on southern Netherlands have suffered damage due to floods as well.

No deaths have been reported in the Netherlands. Germany has not been so lucky and accounts for most of the 150+ deaths that have been recorded till now.

Rutte was visiting the Netherlands' southern province of Limburg on Friday (local time) when he held Global Warming responsible for the deadly floods. He said that was "without a doubt the case".

"I don't want to make hasty declarations," he said. "But something is really happening, let's be clear."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-fatal-flooding-in-western-germany-398443">In Pics | Fatal flooding in Western Germany</a> 
 
ANP news agency reported that more than one million Euros had been collected for a fund to help worst-hit areas in the Netherlands

To stop any future flood disasters, "the first thing to do, and fortunately we are doing it in the Netherlands, is to give space to rivers", Rutte said.

The Dutch reshaped the areas around rivers in the country after major flooding in 1993 and 1995 when 250,000 people and one million animals had to be evacuated.

More than two billion euros was invested to widen riverbanks. The project was completed in 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Saturday that storms and subsequent floods that have inundated Europe are "without doubt" the result of climate change. Germany and Belgium are the worst-hit countries but several towns on southern Netherlands have suffered damage due to floods as well.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Saturday that storms and subsequent floods that have inundated Europe are "without doubt" the result of climate change. Germany and Belgium are the worst-hit countries but several towns on southern Netherlands have suffered damage due to floods as well. No deaths have been reported in the Netherlands. Germany has not been so lucky and accounts for most of the 150+ deaths that have been recorded till now. Rutte was visiting the Netherlands' southern province of Limburg on Friday (local time) when he held Global Warming responsible for the deadly floods. He said that was "without a doubt the case". "I don't want to make hasty declarations," he said. "But something is really happening, let's be clear." In Pics | Fatal flooding in Western Germany ANP news agency reported that more than one million Euros had been collected for a fund to help worst-hit areas in the Netherlands To stop any future flood disasters, "the first thing to do, and fortunately we are doing it in the Netherlands, is to give space to rivers", Rutte said. The Dutch reshaped the areas around rivers in the country after major flooding in 1993 and 1995 when 250,000 people and one million animals had to be evacuated. More than two billion euros was invested to widen riverbanks. The project was completed in 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate Change responsible for Europe floods, says Dutch PM

Tomas Holes and Patrik Schick scored second-half goals to take the Czech Republic into the Euro 2020 quarter-finals as they took advantage of a red card for the Netherlands to upset their more fancied opponents and win 2-0 in Budapest on Sunday.

Holes powered home a 68th-minute opener after being set up by Tomas Kalas, as the Dutch watched on hopelessly in their own penalty area.

Schick made sure of the Czechs' surprise success with a close-range finish 10 minutes from full-time, his fourth goal of the tournament, in front of a capacity crowd that provided a deafening wall of noise for most of an absorbing last-16 contest.

"They were the favourites in this game, it is an unreal feeling to beat such a team 2-0," said goalscorer Holes.

"They were better with the ball, we struggled, but thanks to our team performance, we did not give them much space."

It was a calamitous outcome for the Dutch, who imploded after Matthijs de Ligt was sent off for a cynical handball 10 minutes into the second half, and they will now undergo some serious soul searching.

De Ligt was sent off after a VAR review by Russian referee Sergei Karasev after punching away the ball as he tumbled to the ground in a tussle with Schick.

"We lost the game actually because of any action by me. We were in control before that and I feel responsible," an emotional De Ligt told Dutch television.

MOMENT OF MADNESS

Before that pivotal moment, the Dutch had looked to get on top of their opponents with their overlapping runs and passing ability, but a moment of madness from their 21-year-old centre back swung the balance of the contest towards the Czechs, who needed no second invitation to grab the initiative.

The Czechs are now through to face a quarter-final clash with Denmark in Baku on Saturday, turning around their Euro 2020 fortunes having only reached the knockout phase after finishing third in their group.

The Dutch could have gone ahead before being reduced to 10 men, with fullbacks Denzel Dumfries and Patrick van Aanholt creating several chances with their overlapping runs.

Yet striker Memphis Depay looked out of sorts and Donyell Malen hesitated with several opportunities -- no more so than when sprinting through the Czech defence to go one on one with Tomas Vaclik, before having the ball snatched away from his feet as he tried to round the keeper.

There was an opportunity for the Czechs when stand-in captain Tomas Soucek glanced a difficult header wide in the 22nd minute and Antonin Barak blasted past the target from a tight angle 16 minutes later.

Once De Ligt was dismissed, the Czechs assumed control and the goal came as the Dutch defence was caught static by a set-piece that saw Kalas climb above the defence to head back for Holes to score, with veteran Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg caught in no man’s land.

The Dutch then sought to throw on some attacking artillery but quickly wilted in the searing heat as Schick made it 2-0 with Holes pulling the ball back for the striker to finish clinically.

"It was an off day, we didn't handle the pressure in midfield and couldn't create our own space," said Netherlands captain Giorgino Wijnaldum.

Tomas Holes and Patrik Schick scored second-half goals to take the Czech Republic into the Euro 2020 quarter-finals as they took advantage of a red card for the Netherlands to upset their more fancied opponents and win 2-0 in Budapest on Sunday.

Tomas Holes and Patrik Schick scored second-half goals to take the Czech Republic into the Euro 2020 quarter-finals as they took advantage of a red card for the Netherlands to upset their more fancied opponents and win 2-0 in Budapest on Sunday. Holes powered home a 68th-minute opener after being set up by Tomas Kalas, as the Dutch watched on hopelessly in their own penalty area. Schick made sure of the Czechs' surprise success with a close-range finish 10 minutes from full-time, his fourth goal of the tournament, in front of a capacity crowd that provided a deafening wall of noise for most of an absorbing last-16 contest. "They were the favourites in this game, it is an unreal feeling to beat such a team 2-0," said goalscorer Holes. "They were better with the ball, we struggled, but thanks to our team performance, we did not give them much space." It was a calamitous outcome for the Dutch, who imploded after Matthijs de Ligt was sent off for a cynical handball 10 minutes into the second half, and they will now undergo some serious soul searching. De Ligt was sent off after a VAR review by Russian referee Sergei Karasev after punching away the ball as he tumbled to the ground in a tussle with Schick. "We lost the game actually because of any action by me. We were in control before that and I feel responsible," an emotional De Ligt told Dutch television. MOMENT OF MADNESS Before that pivotal moment, the Dutch had looked to get on top of their opponents with their overlapping runs and passing ability, but a moment of madness from their 21-year-old centre back swung the balance of the contest towards the Czechs, who needed no second invitation to grab the initiative. The Czechs are now through to face a quarter-final clash with Denmark in Baku on Saturday, turning around their Euro 2020 fortunes having only reached the knockout phase after finishing third in their group. The Dutch could have gone ahead before being reduced to 10 men, with fullbacks Denzel Dumfries and Patrick van Aanholt creating several chances with their overlapping runs. Yet striker Memphis Depay looked out of sorts and Donyell Malen hesitated with several opportunities -- no more so than when sprinting through the Czech defence to go one on one with Tomas Vaclik, before having the ball snatched away from his feet as he tried to round the keeper. There was an opportunity for the Czechs when stand-in captain Tomas Soucek glanced a difficult header wide in the 22nd minute and Antonin Barak blasted past the target from a tight angle 16 minutes later. Once De Ligt was dismissed, the Czechs assumed control and the goal came as the Dutch defence was caught static by a set-piece that saw Kalas climb above the defence to head back for Holes to score, with veteran Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg caught in no man’s land. The Dutch then sought to throw on some attacking artillery but quickly wilted in the searing heat as Schick made it 2-0 with Holes pulling the ball back for the striker to finish clinically. "It was an off day, we didn't handle the pressure in midfield and couldn't create our own space," said Netherlands captain Giorgino Wijnaldum.

Football: Czech Republic cash in with surprise last-16 win over Netherlands

The Czech Prime Minister triggered a row after suggesting that Sweden & The Netherlands will become Muslim nations in the coming decades. Population experts say the PM is trying to scare people. Palki Sharma tells you why Andrej Babis is playing a dangerous game.

Gravitas: Will Sweden & The Netherlands become Muslim nations?

The Netherlands will be looking to make up for the lost time when they begin their European Championship campaign at home against Ukraine in Amsterdam on Sunday, hoping a sea of orange will spur them on to the perfect start.

It is a return to a major tournament for the first time since the Dutch finished third at the 2014 World Cup.

Missing out on the last Euros in France and then the 2018 World Cup in Russia were a major setback and re-establishing their reputation as a&nbsp;footballing force is top priority for coach Frank de Boer and his team.

The Netherlands will need a positive start after their build-up was marred by media disapproval of the more defensive tactics employed in warm-ups against Scotland and Georgia.

There are also few more critical fans than the Dutch, who demand not only success but also swagger from their team and are quick to voice their displeasure when this is not the case.

There will be 16,000 on hand at the Johan Cruyff Arena, sure to be clad in the team's distinctive colors, providing a lift for the home side and an intimidating presence for the visitors.

"The European Championship at home without fans is no championship. I'm looking forward to it enormously," said captain Georginio Wijnaldum.

"It also feels that we are at the end of a really tiresome period and we are at the beginning of a much brighter, nicer time."

Ukraine, whose pre-tournament preparations have been overshadowed by controversy over their kit, are a side capable of upsetting the odds but lack consistency.

In their three World Cup qualifiers in March, they held world champions France to a 1-1 draw in Paris, only to then drop points at home to the lowly likes of Finland and Kazakhstan.

There has, however, been marked improvement under coach Andriy Shevchenko, appointed after they lost all three group games at Euro 2016 in France.

"Hopefully there will be surprises at the tournament and we will certainly be looking to create them," warned battling midfielder Taras Stepanenko this week.

The Netherlands will be looking to make up for the lost time when they begin their European Championship campaign at home against Ukraine in Amsterdam on Sunday, hoping a sea of orange will spur them on to the perfect start.

The Netherlands will be looking to make up for the lost time when they begin their European Championship campaign at home against Ukraine in Amsterdam on Sunday, hoping a sea of orange will spur them on to the perfect start. It is a return to a major tournament for the first time since the Dutch finished third at the 2014 World Cup. Missing out on the last Euros in France and then the 2018 World Cup in Russia were a major setback and re-establishing their reputation as a footballing force is top priority for coach Frank de Boer and his team. The Netherlands will need a positive start after their build-up was marred by media disapproval of the more defensive tactics employed in warm-ups against Scotland and Georgia. There are also few more critical fans than the Dutch, who demand not only success but also swagger from their team and are quick to voice their displeasure when this is not the case. There will be 16,000 on hand at the Johan Cruyff Arena, sure to be clad in the team's distinctive colors, providing a lift for the home side and an intimidating presence for the visitors. "The European Championship at home without fans is no championship. I'm looking forward to it enormously," said captain Georginio Wijnaldum. "It also feels that we are at the end of a really tiresome period and we are at the beginning of a much brighter, nicer time." Ukraine, whose pre-tournament preparations have been overshadowed by controversy over their kit, are a side capable of upsetting the odds but lack consistency. In their three World Cup qualifiers in March, they held world champions France to a 1-1 draw in Paris, only to then drop points at home to the lowly likes of Finland and Kazakhstan. There has, however, been marked improvement under coach Andriy Shevchenko, appointed after they lost all three group games at Euro 2016 in France. "Hopefully there will be surprises at the tournament and we will certainly be looking to create them," warned battling midfielder Taras Stepanenko this week.

Football: Back again, Dutch seek to restore past reputation

Dutch researchers have trained bees, which have an unusually keen sense of smell, to detect COVID-19 infected samples, a finding they said could cut the waiting time for test results to seconds.

Dutch researchers train bees to detect coronavirus

Netherlands Ambassador Marten van den Berg has said that India is a ‘key player in the Indo-Pacific’, and sees New Delhi ‘as a key partner in addressing all the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region’. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Marten van den Berg also lauded India's role amid the Covid pandemic. He said, "Happy the way, India is presenting itself as a very important vaccine manufacturing country and taking big responsibility" and it has a "very positive impact on the world in addressing the covid pandemic crisis."&nbsp;

Netherlands Prime minister Mark Rutte and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meet on Friday. One of the key outcomes of the meet was that both countries announced a ‘strategic partnership on water’. The Netherlands is a world leader in water management and a collaboration with New Delhi aims to increase research and innovation in the sector.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Key outcomes of the virtual summit?&nbsp;

Marten van den Berg: Netherlands and India have a long-term relationship and both Prime Ministers know each other very well. So, it was a very open and productive meeting. The outcome was a strategic partnership on the water between Netherlands and India. We are active already in India on the topic of water, in terms of water management, dealing with floods and also water scarcity. We have a large programme in Chennai, we are doing a lot of research with India, and decided to bring it to a higher level, so as to have a strategic relationship on the water to address the challenges we both face in our countries over water.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: &nbsp;How do you see India-Netherlands engagement going forward?&nbsp;

Marten van den Berg: We will have more meetings at a political level. We have upgraded collaboration on the water. We are quite active in research and innovation so that we will strengthen our joint research programmes. We have collaboration with the department of science, department of biotechnology with India. strengthen collaboration on health, agriculture, water in terms of research, trade, investment. Also on the issue of space, the close relationship between the two countries. We see a lot of opportunities. Also on energy and climate. We are both partners in the international solar alliance. India is ambitious on renewables. A lot of opportunities on offshore wind, solar energy, a grid system. We decided to go next step to deal with the challenges of climate.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: The Netherlands has been a world leader in climate technology. Your PM has been famous for cycling around, and gifted cycle to PM Modi. How both countries are engaging on climate issues?&nbsp;

Marten van den Berg: It is a very important part because the climate challenge is a real global crisis and maybe one of the biggest crisis we face at the moment, maybe after Covid. What we have to do is fast track sustainable development in Netherlands and India. We are partnering in developing clean technologies, working on decarbonisation, also important, in the context of the international solar alliance, both countries work together in Africa to fast track in sustainable development, introduce clean technologies, fast track in phasing fossil fuels.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What is Netherlands' view on Indo-Pacific?&nbsp;

Marten van den Berg: Indo-Pacific region is a very important region. If you look at economic figures, it is of increasing importance in the world. So, on one hand, you see a lot of economic opportunities, you see some challenges, some concerns, so we are very much in favour of an open inclusive rules-based society. Two PMs discussed this topic in how we can strengthen the institutions, how we can strengthen the rule of law, how we can strengthen institutions for enforcing the rule of law. we doing that in terms of discussion. We are getting more collaboration on maritime security, sharing expertise, maybe also training, exercise together. We see India as a key player in the Indo-Pacific, we see India as a key partner in addressing all the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The Netherlands proposed Indo-Pacific strategies, guidelines on how we can address the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: How are both countries planning to increase cooperation on dealing with pandemic, vaccines?&nbsp;

Marten van den Berg: Covid is a huge concern to all of us. We work closely together, both countries working on health issues. Also on vaccine development, research and science. Serum Institute has a plant in the Netherlands. So, there is a close collaboration with Serum Institute, and we are happy the way India is presenting itself as a very important vaccine manufacturing country, taking big responsibility and have a very positive impact on the world in addressing the Covid pandemic crisis. We are looking forward to strengthening our collaboration on vaccine development and vaccine manufacturing.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: A personal question, if you can talk about the history of the place you are living in?&nbsp;

Marten van den Berg: The residence of the Netherlands envoy is the Jinnah house, and in this library, Gandhi, Jinnah and Nehru discussed independence and partition. So, historically, it is a very important place, a lot of important discussions took place and Nehru, Gandhi came here. It's a privilege to be ambassador to India and also living in this very historical place in India.&nbsp;

Netherlands Ambassador Marten van den Berg has said that India is a ‘key player in the Indo-Pacific’, and sees New Delhi ‘as a key partner in addressing all the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region’.

Netherlands Ambassador Marten van den Berg has said that India is a ‘key player in the Indo-Pacific’, and sees New Delhi ‘as a key partner in addressing all the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region’. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Marten van den Berg also lauded India's role amid the Covid pandemic. He said, "Happy the way, India is presenting itself as a very important vaccine manufacturing country and taking big responsibility" and it has a "very positive impact on the world in addressing the covid pandemic crisis." Netherlands Prime minister Mark Rutte and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meet on Friday. One of the key outcomes of the meet was that both countries announced a ‘strategic partnership on water’. The Netherlands is a world leader in water management and a collaboration with New Delhi aims to increase research and innovation in the sector. Sidhant Sibal: Key outcomes of the virtual summit? Marten van den Berg: Netherlands and India have a long-term relationship and both Prime Ministers know each other very well. So, it was a very open and productive meeting. The outcome was a strategic partnership on the water between Netherlands and India. We are active already in India on the topic of water, in terms of water management, dealing with floods and also water scarcity. We have a large programme in Chennai, we are doing a lot of research with India, and decided to bring it to a higher level, so as to have a strategic relationship on the water to address the challenges we both face in our countries over water. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Netherlands engagement going forward? Marten van den Berg: We will have more meetings at a political level. We have upgraded collaboration on the water. We are quite active in research and innovation so that we will strengthen our joint research programmes. We have collaboration with the department of science, department of biotechnology with India. strengthen collaboration on health, agriculture, water in terms of research, trade, investment. Also on the issue of space, the close relationship between the two countries. We see a lot of opportunities. Also on energy and climate. We are both partners in the international solar alliance. India is ambitious on renewables. A lot of opportunities on offshore wind, solar energy, a grid system. We decided to go next step to deal with the challenges of climate. Sidhant Sibal: The Netherlands has been a world leader in climate technology. Your PM has been famous for cycling around, and gifted cycle to PM Modi. How both countries are engaging on climate issues? Marten van den Berg: It is a very important part because the climate challenge is a real global crisis and maybe one of the biggest crisis we face at the moment, maybe after Covid. What we have to do is fast track sustainable development in Netherlands and India. We are partnering in developing clean technologies, working on decarbonisation, also important, in the context of the international solar alliance, both countries work together in Africa to fast track in sustainable development, introduce clean technologies, fast track in phasing fossil fuels. Sidhant Sibal: What is Netherlands' view on Indo-Pacific? Marten van den Berg: Indo-Pacific region is a very important region. If you look at economic figures, it is of increasing importance in the world. So, on one hand, you see a lot of economic opportunities, you see some challenges, some concerns, so we are very much in favour of an open inclusive rules-based society. Two PMs discussed this topic in how we can strengthen the institutions, how we can strengthen the rule of law, how we can strengthen institutions for enforcing the rule of law. we doing that in terms of discussion. We are getting more collaboration on maritime security, sharing expertise, maybe also training, exercise together. We see India as a key player in the Indo-Pacific, we see India as a key partner in addressing all the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The Netherlands proposed Indo-Pacific strategies, guidelines on how we can address the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. Sidhant Sibal: How are both countries planning to increase cooperation on dealing with pandemic, vaccines? Marten van den Berg: Covid is a huge concern to all of us. We work closely together, both countries working on health issues. Also on vaccine development, research and science. Serum Institute has a plant in the Netherlands. So, there is a close collaboration with Serum Institute, and we are happy the way India is presenting itself as a very important vaccine manufacturing country, taking big responsibility and have a very positive impact on the world in addressing the Covid pandemic crisis. We are looking forward to strengthening our collaboration on vaccine development and vaccine manufacturing. Sidhant Sibal: A personal question, if you can talk about the history of the place you are living in? Marten van den Berg: The residence of the Netherlands envoy is the Jinnah house, and in this library, Gandhi, Jinnah and Nehru discussed independence and partition. So, historically, it is a very important place, a lot of important discussions took place and Nehru, Gandhi came here. It's a privilege to be ambassador to India and also living in this very historical place in India.

India a key player in Indo-Pacific: Netherlands envoy Marten van den Berg

April 10 in history: RMS Titanic sets sail, Pakistan adopts third constitution and more

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be holding a virtual summit with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte today (Friday). During the summit the two leaders will discuss issues of bilateral cooperation and will look at new ways of strengthening the relationship.

Indian PM Modi to hold virtual summit with his Dutch counterpart Rutte

Top-ranked Belgium slammed eight goals against Belarus and the Netherlands crashed seven past Gibraltar but Portugal suffered a scare before beating Luxembourg as the World Cup qualifying matches continued on Tuesday.

There were also victories for Croatia, Serbia and Norway while Slovakia shocked Russia and Wales got their campaign up and running with a late winner against the Czech Republic.

Belgium had been held 1-1 by the Czechs at the weekend but claimed their second Group E win in emphatic fashion.

Coach Roberto Martinez gave chances to several of his fringe players and was rewarded with a rampant display as Hans Vanaken and Leandro Trossard scored twice while Michy Batshuayi, Jeremy Doku, Denis Praet and Christian Benteke were also on target.

Belgium top the group with seven points from three games, three points ahead of the Czech Republic who fell to a 1-0 defeat in Wales after Daniel James headed a late winner from a cross by Gareth Bale. The Welsh have three points.

Both sides ended with 10 men after Patrik Schick saw red for the Czechs just after halftime, while Connor Roberts was sent off for the hosts shortly before the winning goal.

The Netherlands could not quite match their neighbours Belgium but four goals in nine second-half minutes helped them demolish Gibraltar in Group G.

Only Steven Berghuis's goal separated the sides at halftime but Luuk de Jong, Memphis Depay, Georginio Wijnaldum and Donyell Malen all scored in quick succession before Donny van de Beek added a sixth and Depay got his second to give the Dutch their biggest away win since a 7-0 success over San Marino in 1993.

The Netherlands have six points, one behind Turkey who were surprisingly held to a 3-3 draw at home by Latvia.

Turkey had beaten the Dutch and Norway in superb fashion to lead the group but came unstuck as Davis Ikaunieks scored late on for Latvia to deny the hosts a third consecutive win.

RONALDO SCORES

Luxembourg, who stunned Ireland 1-0 at the weekend in Group A, looked to be on course for another sensational result when they took the lead against Portugal thanks to a goal by Portuguese-born Gerson Rodrigues on the half hour mark.

But Diogo Jota headed an equaliser in the second minute of added time at the end of the first half and Cristiano Ronaldo put his side ahead early in the second half.

Substitute Joao Palhinha sealed the win in the 80th minute as Portugal moved top of the section.

They are level on seven points from three games with Serbia for whom Aleksandar Mitrovic scored both goals in a 2-1 win away to Azerbaijan. He has already scored five goals in the campaign.

Croatia laboured to a 3-0 win at home to Malta with second-half substitutes Ivan Perisic, Luka Modric and Josip Brekalo scoring to put the 2018 World Cup runners-up top of Group H.

Croatia have six points from three games, ahead of Russia on goal difference after they lost 2-1 to Slovakia for whom Robert Mak struck the winner in the 74th minute.

In Group G, Norway earned a 1-0 win away to Montenegro with Alexander Sorloth scoring the first-half winner to move them to six points, level with Montenegro and the Netherlands.

World champions France, England, Spain, Germany and Italy are all in action in Wednesday's qualifiers.

Top-ranked Belgium slammed eight goals against Belarus and the Netherlands crashed seven past Gibraltar but Portugal suffered a scare before beating Luxembourg as the World Cup qualifying matches continued on Tuesday.

Top-ranked Belgium slammed eight goals against Belarus and the Netherlands crashed seven past Gibraltar but Portugal suffered a scare before beating Luxembourg as the World Cup qualifying matches continued on Tuesday. There were also victories for Croatia, Serbia and Norway while Slovakia shocked Russia and Wales got their campaign up and running with a late winner against the Czech Republic. Belgium had been held 1-1 by the Czechs at the weekend but claimed their second Group E win in emphatic fashion. Coach Roberto Martinez gave chances to several of his fringe players and was rewarded with a rampant display as Hans Vanaken and Leandro Trossard scored twice while Michy Batshuayi, Jeremy Doku, Denis Praet and Christian Benteke were also on target. Belgium top the group with seven points from three games, three points ahead of the Czech Republic who fell to a 1-0 defeat in Wales after Daniel James headed a late winner from a cross by Gareth Bale. The Welsh have three points. Both sides ended with 10 men after Patrik Schick saw red for the Czechs just after halftime, while Connor Roberts was sent off for the hosts shortly before the winning goal. The Netherlands could not quite match their neighbours Belgium but four goals in nine second-half minutes helped them demolish Gibraltar in Group G. Only Steven Berghuis's goal separated the sides at halftime but Luuk de Jong, Memphis Depay, Georginio Wijnaldum and Donyell Malen all scored in quick succession before Donny van de Beek added a sixth and Depay got his second to give the Dutch their biggest away win since a 7-0 success over San Marino in 1993. The Netherlands have six points, one behind Turkey who were surprisingly held to a 3-3 draw at home by Latvia. Turkey had beaten the Dutch and Norway in superb fashion to lead the group but came unstuck as Davis Ikaunieks scored late on for Latvia to deny the hosts a third consecutive win. RONALDO SCORES Luxembourg, who stunned Ireland 1-0 at the weekend in Group A, looked to be on course for another sensational result when they took the lead against Portugal thanks to a goal by Portuguese-born Gerson Rodrigues on the half hour mark. But Diogo Jota headed an equaliser in the second minute of added time at the end of the first half and Cristiano Ronaldo put his side ahead early in the second half. Substitute Joao Palhinha sealed the win in the 80th minute as Portugal moved top of the section. They are level on seven points from three games with Serbia for whom Aleksandar Mitrovic scored both goals in a 2-1 win away to Azerbaijan. He has already scored five goals in the campaign. Croatia laboured to a 3-0 win at home to Malta with second-half substitutes Ivan Perisic, Luka Modric and Josip Brekalo scoring to put the 2018 World Cup runners-up top of Group H. Croatia have six points from three games, ahead of Russia on goal difference after they lost 2-1 to Slovakia for whom Robert Mak struck the winner in the 74th minute. In Group G, Norway earned a 1-0 win away to Montenegro with Alexander Sorloth scoring the first-half winner to move them to six points, level with Montenegro and the Netherlands. World champions France, England, Spain, Germany and Italy are all in action in Wednesday's qualifiers.

World Cup Qualifiers: Belgium hit eight, seven for Dutch, Portugal survive scare

Talks on forming a new Dutch government were put on hold on Thursday when one of the chief negotiators unwittingly revealed a sensitive document to a news photographer while rushing out of parliament after learning she had tested positive for COVID-19.

Interior Minister Kajsa Ollongren, tasked with mapping out possibilities to form a coalition government following last week's national election, was photographed carrying documents as she walked to her car on Thursday morning.

Close-ups of the photo revealed information about the negotiation stance of various parties and on the possible future of Pieter Omtzigt, one of the most prominent parliament members of the Christian Democrats (CDA).

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/clashes-erupt-in-netherlands-over-coronavirus-restrictions-370482">Clashes erupt in Netherlands over coronavirus restrictions</a>

This sparked outrage among party leaders, who quickly tried to debunk the information as premature conclusions.

"Bizarre, this peek in the notes of Ollongren. Subjects which have not been discussed with me and are none of their business," Wopke Hoekstra, Finance minister and CDA leader, tweeted shortly after the photo was published.

Ollongren, a representative of the pro-European Union D66 party, and her fellow coalition explorer from Prime Minister Mark Rutte's party handed in their resignation a few hours after the photo appeared online.

It was not immediately clear when and how the government formation talks could resume.

Ollongren had left parliament in a hurry, after being notified of her positive coronavirus test.

She had held talks with the leaders of all parties in the Dutch parliament in the days before her test, including Rutte and the leader of her own party, Sigrid Kaag.

According to Dutch health regulations, Rutte and the other party leaders will have to take a COVID-19 test five days after their meeting with Ollongren to see whether they were infected.

Rutte tested negative for the coronavirus on Wednesday, his office said on Thursday, following an infection of one of his cabinet members late last week.

Rutte's conservative VVD party remains the largest in the Dutch parliament following the March 15-17 election, while D66 placed second.

Both parties are widely expected to form a new government together with up to three junior partners, in a process that could take months.

Talks on forming a new Dutch government were put on hold on Thursday when one of the chief negotiators unwittingly revealed a sensitive document to a news photographer while rushing out of parliament after learning she had tested positive for COVID-19.

Talks on forming a new Dutch government were put on hold on Thursday when one of the chief negotiators unwittingly revealed a sensitive document to a news photographer while rushing out of parliament after learning she had tested positive for COVID-19. Interior Minister Kajsa Ollongren, tasked with mapping out possibilities to form a coalition government following last week's national election, was photographed carrying documents as she walked to her car on Thursday morning. Close-ups of the photo revealed information about the negotiation stance of various parties and on the possible future of Pieter Omtzigt, one of the most prominent parliament members of the Christian Democrats (CDA). Also read | Clashes erupt in Netherlands over coronavirus restrictions This sparked outrage among party leaders, who quickly tried to debunk the information as premature conclusions. "Bizarre, this peek in the notes of Ollongren. Subjects which have not been discussed with me and are none of their business," Wopke Hoekstra, Finance minister and CDA leader, tweeted shortly after the photo was published. Ollongren, a representative of the pro-European Union D66 party, and her fellow coalition explorer from Prime Minister Mark Rutte's party handed in their resignation a few hours after the photo appeared online. It was not immediately clear when and how the government formation talks could resume. Ollongren had left parliament in a hurry, after being notified of her positive coronavirus test. She had held talks with the leaders of all parties in the Dutch parliament in the days before her test, including Rutte and the leader of her own party, Sigrid Kaag. According to Dutch health regulations, Rutte and the other party leaders will have to take a COVID-19 test five days after their meeting with Ollongren to see whether they were infected. Rutte tested negative for the coronavirus on Wednesday, his office said on Thursday, following an infection of one of his cabinet members late last week. Rutte's conservative VVD party remains the largest in the Dutch parliament following the March 15-17 election, while D66 placed second. Both parties are widely expected to form a new government together with up to three junior partners, in a process that could take months.

Dutch government formation talks on ice as document leaks

If you find it hard to cry, Dutch scientists have developed a technology that might help you bring tears.&nbsp;

Initially, the researchers were looking for the inner lining of the gut as it replaces itself every five days, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;

They took a tiny piece of gut tissue filled with stem cells and gave it proteins called growth factors to push cell growth, hoping the stem cells to quickly proliferate.

"But to our surprise, the stem cells created a mini-organ...it's small, but it has all the different cells in the gut that you need for digesting food, said the study author Hans Clevers, group leader at the Hubrecht Institute for developmental biology and stem cell research and at the Princess Máxima Center for pediatric oncology.

This happened in 2009 and since then, scientists have created mini versions, called organoids of the liver, bladder, pancreas, among others.&nbsp;

When they were successful in developing tear glands for mice, they tried to work on human tissue.&nbsp;

The tiny piece of the donated issue, suspended in a gel was given some elements for growth.&nbsp;

About a week after this, the researchers broke it up into small portions and fed it some more to produce many mini-glands.&nbsp;

"They looked like little balloons," said Clevers.

These glands are useful for humans in several ways.&nbsp;

They produce a thin layer of liquid, lubricating the surface of the eye, protecting it from irritants and infections, and providing nutrients.&nbsp;

These can also manufacture tears, either due to physical provocation or emotional event.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

If you find it hard to cry, Dutch scientists have developed a technology that might help you bring tears. Initially, the researchers were looking for the inner lining of the gut as it replaces itself every five days, reports The Guardian.

If you find it hard to cry, Dutch scientists have developed a technology that might help you bring tears. Initially, the researchers were looking for the inner lining of the gut as it replaces itself every five days, reports The Guardian. They took a tiny piece of gut tissue filled with stem cells and gave it proteins called growth factors to push cell growth, hoping the stem cells to quickly proliferate. "But to our surprise, the stem cells created a mini-organ...it's small, but it has all the different cells in the gut that you need for digesting food, said the study author Hans Clevers, group leader at the Hubrecht Institute for developmental biology and stem cell research and at the Princess Máxima Center for pediatric oncology. This happened in 2009 and since then, scientists have created mini versions, called organoids of the liver, bladder, pancreas, among others. When they were successful in developing tear glands for mice, they tried to work on human tissue. The tiny piece of the donated issue, suspended in a gel was given some elements for growth. About a week after this, the researchers broke it up into small portions and fed it some more to produce many mini-glands. "They looked like little balloons," said Clevers. These glands are useful for humans in several ways. They produce a thin layer of liquid, lubricating the surface of the eye, protecting it from irritants and infections, and providing nutrients. These can also manufacture tears, either due to physical provocation or emotional event.

Struggle to cry? Dutch scientists develop tear glands

Netherlands voters headed to the voting stations on the third and final day of the national election amid the pandemic. With the final votes cast the Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is expected to stay on at the office.

Netherlands Election: Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte set to win big

Anti-lockdown protests are taking place in the Netherlands, where it had turned violent after the clashes in Hauge. Authorities even used water cannons, batons over protesters.

Netherlands witnessed violent clashes ahead of elections

Using water cannon and horses, Dutch police on Sunday cleared anti-government protes in The Hague. The protest took place on the day before voting starts in national elections. Hundreds gathered in a park to demonstrate against Prime Minister Mark Rutte. Some of the protesters also criticised the coronavirus restrictions his government put in place.

Police arrested several people, Dutch media reported. Riot officers with a dog pinned one man to the ground before detaining him, an AFP photographer saw.

"Today it's mainly because we have elections next week and we don't want the same government again," Elsvis Vanheenst, 32, who is unemployed, told AFP.

"Because they are lying about everything and they are only working for themselves, and not for the people. So that's mainly why I'm here today."

Riot police with shields, batons and dogs moved in after some of the protesters refused to leave at the scheduled end of the protest, detaining a number of them.&nbsp;

Police on horseback then charged at the demonstrators, few of whom wore masks.

Police finally fired water cannon but many of the demonstrators sheltered underneath yellow umbrellas from the spray. The yellow umbrellas have been a feature at several anti-lockdown protests.

The Hague police later also confirmed a "warning shot" was fired and said the cause was being investigated.&nbsp;

Using water cannon and horses, Dutch police on Sunday cleared anti-government protes in The Hague. The protest took place on the day before voting starts in national elections.

Using water cannon and horses, Dutch police on Sunday cleared anti-government protes in The Hague. The protest took place on the day before voting starts in national elections. Hundreds gathered in a park to demonstrate against Prime Minister Mark Rutte. Some of the protesters also criticised the coronavirus restrictions his government put in place. Police arrested several people, Dutch media reported. Riot officers with a dog pinned one man to the ground before detaining him, an AFP photographer saw. "Today it's mainly because we have elections next week and we don't want the same government again," Elsvis Vanheenst, 32, who is unemployed, told AFP. "Because they are lying about everything and they are only working for themselves, and not for the people. So that's mainly why I'm here today." Riot police with shields, batons and dogs moved in after some of the protesters refused to leave at the scheduled end of the protest, detaining a number of them. Police on horseback then charged at the demonstrators, few of whom wore masks. Police finally fired water cannon but many of the demonstrators sheltered underneath yellow umbrellas from the spray. The yellow umbrellas have been a feature at several anti-lockdown protests. The Hague police later also confirmed a "warning shot" was fired and said the cause was being investigated.

Dutch police clear anti-government protest on election eve

Several dozen sex workers protested in front of the Dutch parliament on Tuesday (March 2) against a government decision to ease coronavirus restrictions for some professions but not sex work, normally legal in the Netherlands.

Discrimination, not COVID, keeps us closed- Dutch sex workers

An explosion on Wednesday rattled a coronavirus testing centre north of Amsterdam, shattering windows but causing no injuries in what police called an intentional attack.

An explosives team was on site in the town of Bovenkarspel, 55 km (35 miles) north of the capital, to examine the device, police in the province of North Holland said.

The metal remains of the explosive, about 10 cm by 10 cm (4 inches by 4 inches) in size, were later found in front of the building.

A security guard who was inside the testing centre at the time was not injured, national broadcaster NOS reported.

The incident comes shortly before national elections on March 17, widely seen as a referendum on the government's handling of the pandemic.

Another test location was burned down during several days of rioting in January sparked by the introduction of a night-time curfew from 9 pm to 4.30 am.

The region around Bovenkarspel, a rural town, is currently suffering one of the Netherlands' worst COVID-19 outbreaks, with 181 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, compared with around 27 per 100,000 nationally. At least one hospital has been forced to send patients to other provinces due to lack of space in its intensive care units.

(with inputs)

An explosion on Wednesday rattled a coronavirus testing centre north of Amsterdam, shattering windows but causing no injuries in what police called an intentional attack.

An explosion on Wednesday rattled a coronavirus testing centre north of Amsterdam, shattering windows but causing no injuries in what police called an intentional attack. An explosives team was on site in the town of Bovenkarspel, 55 km (35 miles) north of the capital, to examine the device, police in the province of North Holland said. The metal remains of the explosive, about 10 cm by 10 cm (4 inches by 4 inches) in size, were later found in front of the building. A security guard who was inside the testing centre at the time was not injured, national broadcaster NOS reported. The incident comes shortly before national elections on March 17, widely seen as a referendum on the government's handling of the pandemic. Another test location was burned down during several days of rioting in January sparked by the introduction of a night-time curfew from 9 pm to 4.30 am. The region around Bovenkarspel, a rural town, is currently suffering one of the Netherlands' worst COVID-19 outbreaks, with 181 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, compared with around 27 per 100,000 nationally. At least one hospital has been forced to send patients to other provinces due to lack of space in its intensive care units. (with inputs)

Explosion at Dutch Covid test centre appears intentional, police say

The Dutch government has postponed a trade mission to Qatar this month, citing concern over living conditions of migrant workers helping the tiny Gulf state to prepare for next year`s soccer World Cup. 
 
Britain`s Guardian newspaper last week reported that its calculations showed that at least 6,500 migrant workers who worked on the stadiums and other infrastructure for the World Cup have died in Qatar in the past 10 years. 
 
"This report has led to a broad discussion in Dutch society and in parliament," said Dutch foreign ministry spokesman Jeroen van Dommelen. 
 
"We have talked before with Qatar about the poor conditions for these workers, but these numbers give the discussion a new meaning. We want to hear Qatar`s response before we can think of a new date for the mission." 
 
The trade mission, which was to be held as a video conference due to coronavirus related travel restrictions, was scheduled for March 22 to April 1. 
 
Qatar had not responded yet to the Dutch government`s decision, Van Dommelen said. 
 
A majority of parties in Dutch parliament last week called on the government and King Willem-Alexander to stay away from the World Cup next year in protest against the treatment of migrant workers. 
 
Human rights group Amnesty International has repeatedly said the tournament organiser`s worker welfare standards were inadequate to prevent abuses and provide timely remedies. It has also accused soccer governing body FIFA of failing to take seriously alleged human rights abuses linked to the event. 
 
Qatar announced changes to its labour laws last August, raising the minimum wage by 25% to 1,000 riyals ($275) a month and scrapping a requirement for workers to obtain permission from their employers to change jobs. 
 
Dutch trade minister Sigrid Kaag, who is running as leader of the medium-sized centre-left D66 party in Dutch elections this month, last week said she wanted the Netherlands to boycott the World Cup, though foreign minister Stef Blok said he preferred to keep an open dialogue with Qatar. 
 
 
 
(Reporting by Bart Meijer; Editing by David Goodman) 
&nbsp;

The Dutch government has postponed a trade mission to Qatar this month, citing concern over living conditions of migrant workers helping the tiny Gulf state to prepare for next year`s soccer World Cup.

The Dutch government has postponed a trade mission to Qatar this month, citing concern over living conditions of migrant workers helping the tiny Gulf state to prepare for next year`s soccer World Cup. Britain`s Guardian newspaper last week reported that its calculations showed that at least 6,500 migrant workers who worked on the stadiums and other infrastructure for the World Cup have died in Qatar in the past 10 years. "This report has led to a broad discussion in Dutch society and in parliament," said Dutch foreign ministry spokesman Jeroen van Dommelen. "We have talked before with Qatar about the poor conditions for these workers, but these numbers give the discussion a new meaning. We want to hear Qatar`s response before we can think of a new date for the mission." The trade mission, which was to be held as a video conference due to coronavirus related travel restrictions, was scheduled for March 22 to April 1. Qatar had not responded yet to the Dutch government`s decision, Van Dommelen said. A majority of parties in Dutch parliament last week called on the government and King Willem-Alexander to stay away from the World Cup next year in protest against the treatment of migrant workers. Human rights group Amnesty International has repeatedly said the tournament organiser`s worker welfare standards were inadequate to prevent abuses and provide timely remedies. It has also accused soccer governing body FIFA of failing to take seriously alleged human rights abuses linked to the event. Qatar announced changes to its labour laws last August, raising the minimum wage by 25% to 1,000 riyals ($275) a month and scrapping a requirement for workers to obtain permission from their employers to change jobs. Dutch trade minister Sigrid Kaag, who is running as leader of the medium-sized centre-left D66 party in Dutch elections this month, last week said she wanted the Netherlands to boycott the World Cup, though foreign minister Stef Blok said he preferred to keep an open dialogue with Qatar. (Reporting by Bart Meijer; Editing by David Goodman)

Dutch postpone Qatar trade mission over World Cup worker concerns

The Dutch parliament passed a non-binding motion saying the treatment of the Uighur Muslim minority in China amounts to genocide, the first such move by a European country.

Motion: China's Uighurs facing genocide

The Netherlands remained gripped by snow and freezing temperatures Monday, shuttering several schools that were due to reopen after a seven-week closure and closing some coronavirus test and vaccination sites.

Snow had stopped falling after the country was hit by the first major snowstorm in a decade on Sunday, dubbed Storm Darcy, but the Netherlands remained under weather alerts.

Coronavirus test and vaccination locations in at least eight towns including Haarlem, Alphen aan den Rijn and Den Helder were staying shut because of the wintry conditions, the GGD public health service said.

Primary schools across the country that were closed in early December as part of the Netherlands' toughest coronavirus restrictions since the start of the pandemic were meanwhile allowed to reopen on Monday.

But dozens of schools in the capital Amsterdam, the port city of Rotterdam, Utrecht and other locations were staying shut, mainly because of transport difficulties for pupils and staff, public broadcaster NOS said.

Trains were slowly getting back to normal, but road traffic remained disrupted, with part of the A1 motorway from Apeldoor to Amersfoort closed due to snow and ice.

The Dutch infrastructure agency reported 450 accidents since the weekend.

The sub-zero conditions are set to grip the Netherlands into next week, with daytime temperatures of minus 6 degrees Celsius (21.2 Fahrenheit) and falling as low as minus 11 degrees Celsius at night.

The big freeze has raised hopes that the Netherlands' famed canals will ice over in some places by around Thursday, allowing people to go ice-skating, a national obsession.

Dutch media reported that many shops had already sold out of skates in anticipation of the first such chance to take to the ice since 2018.

If the icy conditions continue, it could raise pressure on authorities to allow a traditional 200-kilometre (125-mile) ice-skating marathon through 11 cities called the Elfstedentocht to be held for the first time since 1997.&nbsp;

Dutch authorities have so far ruled it out even if the conditions are right, because of the risk of coronavirus transmission if crowds gather to watch.

Storm Darcy, which also caused transport disruption in Germany, was now heading across the North Sea towards Britain.&nbsp;

The Netherlands remained gripped by snow and freezing temperatures Monday, shuttering several schools that were due to reopen after a seven-week closure and closing some coronavirus test and vaccination sites.

The Netherlands remained gripped by snow and freezing temperatures Monday, shuttering several schools that were due to reopen after a seven-week closure and closing some coronavirus test and vaccination sites. Snow had stopped falling after the country was hit by the first major snowstorm in a decade on Sunday, dubbed Storm Darcy, but the Netherlands remained under weather alerts. Coronavirus test and vaccination locations in at least eight towns including Haarlem, Alphen aan den Rijn and Den Helder were staying shut because of the wintry conditions, the GGD public health service said. Primary schools across the country that were closed in early December as part of the Netherlands' toughest coronavirus restrictions since the start of the pandemic were meanwhile allowed to reopen on Monday. But dozens of schools in the capital Amsterdam, the port city of Rotterdam, Utrecht and other locations were staying shut, mainly because of transport difficulties for pupils and staff, public broadcaster NOS said. Trains were slowly getting back to normal, but road traffic remained disrupted, with part of the A1 motorway from Apeldoor to Amersfoort closed due to snow and ice. The Dutch infrastructure agency reported 450 accidents since the weekend. The sub-zero conditions are set to grip the Netherlands into next week, with daytime temperatures of minus 6 degrees Celsius (21.2 Fahrenheit) and falling as low as minus 11 degrees Celsius at night. The big freeze has raised hopes that the Netherlands' famed canals will ice over in some places by around Thursday, allowing people to go ice-skating, a national obsession. Dutch media reported that many shops had already sold out of skates in anticipation of the first such chance to take to the ice since 2018. If the icy conditions continue, it could raise pressure on authorities to allow a traditional 200-kilometre (125-mile) ice-skating marathon through 11 cities called the Elfstedentocht to be held for the first time since 1997. Dutch authorities have so far ruled it out even if the conditions are right, because of the risk of coronavirus transmission if crowds gather to watch. Storm Darcy, which also caused transport disruption in Germany, was now heading across the North Sea towards Britain.

Dutch snow keeps some Covid sites, schools closed

Protesters in the Dutch town of Hilversum were seen running in the streets on Tuesday (January 26), as the Netherlands braced for a fourth consecutive night of coronavirus anti-lockdown protests.

Netherlands: Explosion seen as anti-lockdown protesters run from Dutch police

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