Netherlands to close embassy in Harare

The Netherlands has announced plans to close its embassy in Harare as part of a broader restructuring of its diplomatic network.

The decision follows a letter by Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs Tom Berendsen to the Dutch House of Representatives outlining plans to realign the country's foreign missions in response to changing global dynamics.

The Dutch Government said the restructuring was intended to maximise its diplomatic and economic reach while adapting its overseas network to current priorities.

The Netherlands Embassy in Harare said the decision would not affect the country's appreciation of its longstanding relations with Zimbabwe and neighbouring countries.

"We recognise that this is significant news for our partners and friends in Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi, given the many strong relationships we have built over the years," the embassy said in a statement posted on social media.

"The decision is part of a broader restructuring of the Netherlands' diplomatic network and does not change our appreciation for the close ties or our commitment to working with the respective governments and other partners across the region."

The Harare embassy is among several Dutch diplomatic missions earmarked for closure.

Others include the embassy in Tripoli, Libya, the embassy in Bujumbura, Burundi, and the embassy in Yangon, Myanmar. The Netherlands also plans to close its consulate-general in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The Dutch Government said its interests in the affected countries would continue to be represented through embassies in neighbouring countries.

The restructuring is expected to reshape the Netherlands' diplomatic presence in several regions while maintaining engagement with governments, businesses and other partners through its remaining missions.