The Ambassador speaks

On the occasion of the launch of this new magazine, we went to The Haque to meet Joanna Roper, who was appointed ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands in October 2020, and discuss with here the current situation in the UK and of course her current life in The Haque.

If people are planning to visit the UK – and haven’t done that for the last 10 years – what kind of country will they see?

Roper: “I am delighted to be part of this first edition of this new Great Britain magazine offering insight and inspiration for everyone who knows the UK and for those who want to know more about the country. You will find a modern, dynamic and welcoming destination that has a huge amount to offer, whether you visit for leisure or business.”

Ambassador Roper receives British veterans in her residence

Which aspects make the UK attractive to foreign visitors?

Roper: “The hugely diverse offer across all the four nations, England, Northern Ire land, Scotland, and Wales means there is something for every visitor. The UK is home to so much natural beauty from the Scottish Highlands to Cornish beaches; forests, lakes, rivers and parks. We are also very lucky to have such a range of cul tural experiences for people to take part in, from taking in royal experiences to mark the dawn of a new era under His Majesty King Charles III, uncovering Liverpool’s impressive musical legacy, enjoying new theatre in the West End or experiencing the wonderful Edinburgh Fringe. There is a lot to enjoy. And it is great that the Netherlands and the UK are so close geographically, and that routes by air, road, rail and sea bring Dutch visitors to the UK in no time. I’m delighted that the Dutch are in the top 10 countries in terms of number of visitors to the UK.”

Read the rest of the interview in our very first issue. Order here!