Welcoming the Year of the Snake with the Dutch Community

On Friday, February 14th, the Dutch Consulate General in Shanghai, in partnership with the Nederlandse Vereniging Shanghai (NVS) and the Benelux Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai, hosted a vibrant New Year’s reception to mark the start of the Year of the Snake. Held at the residence of Consul General Marjo Crompvoets, the evening brought together the Dutch community in Shanghai for an occasion filled with celebration, networking, and reflections on the year ahead.

Consul General Marjo Crompvoets opened the event with a warm welcome, sharing her reflections on the new year and the importance of continuing to grow and strengthen the Dutch community in Shanghai. Dave van Hooren, Chairman of NVS, highlighted the community’s recent achievements and upcoming events, including the eagerly awaited Dutch King’s Day. Karel Eloot, Chairman of the Benelux Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Benelux countries and China, particularly through initiatives like the Intern2China program.

The Year of the Snake symbolizes wisdom, resilience, and adaptability—qualities that resonate deeply with the Dutch community in Shanghai, which continues to grow and thrive through cooperation and innovation. This year presents an opportunity to reflect on past successes and look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Guests enjoyed excellent networking opportunities, along with a selection of delicious canapés and refreshing beers, generously provided by our member AB InBev. The reception was a chance for the Dutch community to reconnect, exchange ideas, and look ahead to the promising opportunities of the year to come.