Toespraak minister Koenders bij Defensieverkenningen

I am delighted to have this opportunity to talk to you today. At this important conference you are exploring the direction future defence policy should take. This morning, you discussed the theme ‘Interstate and institutional dynamics’, introduced by my colleague, Maxime Verhagen. You talked about shifts in global power relations, and the development of international organisations for peace and security. In my view, a logical starting point for a discussion about the future of the Dutch armed forces. How emerging powers like China and India are embedded in the international order will have a major influence on our children’s security and prosperity, as will preventing interstate conflict.