Offices
Political-Economic Section
The Political-Economic Section is responsible for the conduct of bilateral relations with the Dutch Government on political and economic policy matters. The Section also works with the Dutch Government on the full range of transatlantic issues. In addition, the Section ensures that U.S. Department of State and other U.S. government agencies are aware of significant political and economic developments, including domestic developments in the Netherlands. Another responsibility is to coordinate U.S. and Dutch positions with respect to multilateral fora.
The Section maintains official contact with Dutch government departments, members of parliament, political parties, as well as interested non-governmental organizations and businesses. These contacts are used to advocate policy consistent with U.S. interests, assess the degree of support for U.S. policies, and maximize cooperation with the Dutch Government in areas of mutual concern.
Some of the specific issues handled by the Political-Economic Section include:
• Bilateral and multilateral trade policy
• Technology, including biotechnology, IT, and telecommunications
• Transportation, including civil aviation
• Environmental policy, including climate change
• Counter-terrorism initiatives
• International development and aid
• Energy security and infrastructure
• Financial and economic policy
• International security Issues, including NATO and non-proliferation
• Multilateral concerns, including UN and EU affairs
• Human Rights