2024, September 24
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Ambassador of the Netherlands to Kazakhstan on the Color Orange and the History of the Kingdom
2024, September 24
Share this articleNico Schermers, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Kazakhstan, visited NU, where he delivered a guest lecture for students and faculty.
In his address, he discussed the Netherlands, significant historical moments, the embassy's work in Central Asia, and its priorities. He also shared interesting facts about his country, including an explanation of why Dutch sportsmen wear orange.
«The color orange is associated with the Netherlands due to the House of Orange, which played a vital role in our history. During holidays and sporting events, the Dutch wear orange clothing as a sign of patriotism,» noted the ambassador.
He also explained that carrots were originally white, and the orange carrots we know today are a result of selective breeding conducted in the Netherlands in honor of the king.
«I wear an orange tie almost every day. I started doing this when I was ambassador in Armenia. Over time, I noticed that ambassadors often gather together, and if you look at a photo, there are many similar faces. I wanted to stand out by wearing an orange tie as a symbol of representing the Netherlands. At my third reception in Kazakhstan, when I arrived late, someone approached me saying, “We were looking for the orange tie.” This means I have achieved my goal,» shared Nico Schermers.
Students asked the ambassador numerous questions, covering topics such as his career, human rights protection in the Netherlands, and visa acquisition.
In summary, Nico Schermers encouraged students to focus on their interests: «If you attend classes merely to enhance your resume, you will be an average student. However, if you study out of genuine interest, you will stand out and excel in what you do. Regarding a diplomatic career, it is not important what you study. I have colleagues who studied archaeology, astronomy, and medicine, and they too became diplomats,» the ambassador summarized.
