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In a symbolic move to mark the assumption of presidency of the European
Union by The Netherlands, the Dutch ambassador to Malaysia John Von Muhlen
will host a reception for the EU envoys on board the containership Houtman
when the vessel calls Port Klang on 20 July 2004.
The Houtman, one of the world's largest containerships belonging to P&O
Nedlloyd, which flies the Dutch flag, symbolically marks a territorial
domain of the Dutch and hence venue to announce the ascendancy of The
Netherlands as the new president of EU effective 20 July.
On occasion of the event, envoys from the 25 member union will visit
facilities at Port Klang, namely Northport and Westport where they will
receive briefing on the development of the Malaysia's gateway port.
"The visit by the EU Heads of Mission to Port Klang is intended to give an
indication of our interest in getting a better picture of the activities of
the Malaysian port, through which 50 per cent of Malaysia's trade is
channeled," said John Von Muhlen.
"In that context we are very interested to be informed about the present
set-up and future plans of Port Klang," he added.
The vessel, which is named after a famous Dutch navigator, Cornelis de
Houtman, was one of the first vessels of its size to call at Port Klang.
The managing director of P&O Nedlloyd Malaysia, Patrick Lim said the company
was delighted to offer the vessel as a venue to mark a major milestone in
the progress of EU of which The Netherlands is one of the oldest and
strongest members.
"We are honoured to play our part to offer the Dutch flag vessel to mark the
The Netherlands taking over the EU presidency," said Lim. |
