Indonesia–Netherlands relations
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Indonesia–Netherlands relations refers to relations between Indonesia and the Netherlands. Indonesia and the Netherlands share a special relationship, embedded in their shared history of colonial interactions for centuries. The relationship began during the spice trade as the Netherlands established VOC trading post in what is now Indonesia, before colonising it as the Dutch East Indies until the mid 20th century. Indonesia was the largest former Dutch colony. In the early 21st century, the Dutch government has committed to boosting its relationship with Indonesia, noting that economic, political, and interpersonal contacts should be further strengthened.
In 1603, the Dutch East India Company commenced operations in Indonesia where it fought battles to expand its domain. Though Indonesian history featured other European colonial regimes, it was the Dutch who solidified their hold on the country. After the Company's bankruptcy in 1800, the Dutch state took control of the archipelago in 1826. Following this the Dutch state also fought against the natives and then enforced a period of forced labour and indentured servitude until 1870 when, in 1901, they adopted the "Dutch Ethical Policy and Indonesian National Revival," which included a somewhat increased investment in indigenous education and modest political reforms. Only in the 20th century, however, was Dutch rule enhanced to what would become Indonesia. Following Japanese occupation during World War II, the Netherlands tried to re-establish their rule, amid a bitter armed and diplomatic struggle that ended in December 1949. International pressure then forced the Dutch to formally recognise Indonesian independence. In 1956, the socialist government of Indonesia cut off all diplomatic ties with the Netherlands, ties that were restored only in 1968 by the new right-wing government.
In 1970, Indonesian President Suharto paid an official visit to the Netherlands, which was reciprocated by Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands royal visit to Indonesia in 1971.Queen Beatrix and Prince Claus also paid a royal visit to Indonesia in 1995.
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