On September 20, 2011, Prinsjesdag took place at the Ridderzal (Hall of Knights) in Den Haag, Netherlands. All the major Dutch royals attended this important event including Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, H.R.H. The Prince of Oranje, and H.R.H. Princess Maxima of the Netherlands.
After arriving in the golden carriage to the Ridderzaal, Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands addressed members of the Dutch Senate as well as members of the House of Representatives. In her speech — written by the Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte — the queen spoke about tough economic times that will affect many in the Netherlands:
The year ahead will be a year of tough savings measures that will hit everybody. The economic and social uncertainties are putting our stamina to the test. The government is making an appeal to everyone to contribute to this — an appeal in this difficult period for everyone to build together a stronger society and a stronger economy in the best traditions of our country.
Remaining upbeat about the situation, Her Majesty Queen Beatrix went on to state, “Our starting position is positive. The government is looking forward to an involved and open exchange of views… We would like to work with you towards solutions which are widely accepted.”
There are lots of photos from the Prinsjesdag 2011 so please click the links below to view.
- Gallery One
- Gallery Two
- Gallery Three
- Gallery Four
- Gallery Five
- Gallery Six
- Video of the Queen\’s Speech
- Audio of the Queen\’s Speech (click where it says Koningin Beatrix lest de Troonrede voor)
- Video
- Video (24:26)
The Royal Correspondent 