In a seamless transition of power, Hanke Bruins Slot has officially taken up her role as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Minister Liesje Schreinemacher, who temporarily held the position following Wopke Hoekstra’s departure, formally handed over the responsibilities in a ceremony held today in The Hague.
The appointment of Hanke Bruins Slot to the esteemed position was announced by the King’s Office, following Wopke Hoekstra’s departure on September 1st. This transition marks a significant moment in Dutch diplomacy as Hanke Bruins Slot steps into her new role, taking the helm of the country’s foreign affairs.
Hanke Bruins Slot, a member of the Christian Democratic Alliance (CDA), brings with her a wealth of experience and a remarkable career history. Prior to becoming Minister of Foreign Affairs, she served as the Minister of the Interior and Kingdom Relations in the fourth Rutte government, demonstrating her capacity to navigate complex governmental responsibilities.
But her journey to this high-profile position extends far beyond her recent political roles. Hanke Bruins Slot’s background includes a noteworthy stint as an artillery officer in the Royal Netherlands Army from 2007 to 2010. During her military service, she displayed dedication and leadership skills, ultimately being deployed to Afghanistan as the commander of a self-propelled howitzer platoon in 2008.
After her military service, Hanke Bruins Slot transitioned into the political arena, serving as a Member of the House of Representatives for nearly a decade, from 2010 to 2019. During this time, she took on various roles and responsibilities, becoming the party spokesperson on matters such as defense, internal governance, curative care, prevention, sport, and medical ethical issues. Her tenure in the House of Representatives showcased her commitment to serving her country in various capacities.
In 2019, Hanke Bruins Slot’s dedication to public service led her to the Utrecht provincial executive, where she continued to make an impact in the field of governance. Her diverse experience and comprehensive understanding of governmental operations make her a strong fit for the role of Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Taking to Twitter after officially assuming her role, Hanke Bruins Slot expressed her eagerness to collaborate with her international colleagues within the European Union, the United Nations, and NATO. Her commitment to fostering strong diplomatic ties and representing the interests of the Kingdom of the Netherlands on the global stage is evident in her words and actions.
As Minister Hanke Bruins Slot takes charge of Dutch foreign affairs, the international community watches with anticipation. Her background in the military, her extensive political career, and her previous role as Minister of the Interior and Kingdom Relations equip her well for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The Kingdom of the Netherlands welcomes Minister Hanke Bruins Slot to the ministry, and diplomatic circles worldwide look forward to engaging with her in the pursuit of peace, prosperity, and cooperation. As she assumes her role, she carries the hopes and expectations of her nation, ready to make her mark in the realm of international diplomacy.
Today, I officially started as Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands at @DutchMFA. Look forward to working closely together with @LSchreinemacher and with all my international colleagues in the EU, UN and NATO. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/QOvSDhyYBK
— Hanke Bruins Slot (@HankeBruinsSlot) September 5, 2023
