The Netherlands say ties with Venezuela are good

The Government of the Netherlands Kingdom clarified that "there is understanding with Venezuela" and it is interested in keeping their relationship with the South American country.

The statement came following declarations by President Hugo Chávez and members of the Legislative Power rejecting the Netherlands Defense minister's comments against the Venezuelan ruler.

"Press reports have been published recently on the relation between the Netherlands Kingdom and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Some of these reports have unduly suggested that there may be tensions between the two states. For this reason, we find it important on behalf of the Netherlands Kingdom to correct such an impression," the Netherlands Embassy said in a communiqué.

"The Netherlands Kingdom has always sought open constructive ties. We are proud that because of the Caribbean regions (the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba) the Netherlands Kingdom can have a valuable centennial friendship with Venezuela. In a recent visit to the Netherlands Antilles, the Defense minister reiterated the great value we attach to our friendly relations."