PM Rutte: Return Netherlands to the Golden Age

Prime Minister Mark Rutte wants the Netherlands to return to the atmosphere of the Golden Age. According to him, there are many pillars on which the enterprising Netherlands can build on.

The VVD Prime Minister said this during the National Sail Debate in the Scheepvaartmuseum - the Maritime Museum - on Saturday, the Volkskrant reports.

"We as a nation are the best in managing the sea-level rise. We also have the best solutions to feed 7.9 or even 10 billion mouths, Rutte said. The Prime Minister spoke about the so-called circular, sustainable economy. "Let's make money on solving environmental problems." He also pointed to the aging population. "In that too the Netherlands has a whole sector that can address it best." Lastly the Prime Minister talked about the opportunities for economic growth of one to four percent, emphasizing the importance of trade missions. According to him, this is no longer a "party for the big companies". "Even small businesses have access to the international market."

During the debate, business leaders discussed new possibilities for the Netherlands. Eelco Hoekstra of Vopak, Jan Kees de Jager of KPN and Symen Jansma of Travelbird were among those who gave their views on the potential for a new Golden Age, according to NU. Economists and representatives from the education sector also participated in the debate.

VNO-NCW chairman Hans de Boer closed the debate. According to him, it is important that the Netherlands pronounce ambition again. He believes that more should be invested in innovation, research and growth. "From talking to doing", he said.