ETB Group Thanks Ambassador Joep Wijnands for His Contribution to Türkiye
After a successful term as Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Türkiye, Ambassador Joep Wijnands is concluding his diplomatic mission. He will continue his diplomatic career as Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to China. For ETB Group, this is a fitting moment to reflect on the many valuable encounters and the positive relationship that has developed with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Türkiye over the past years.
ETB’s Unique Connection with the Netherlands
With more than 1,000 Dutch-speaking colleagues across multiple locations in Türkiye, ETB is one of the country’s largest Dutch-speaking employers. During one of his visits, Ambassador Joep Wijnands remarked that ETB is possibly one of the largest organisations in Türkiye with such a significant Dutch-speaking workforce. A remarkable observation that highlights ETB’s unique position within the Dutch-Turkish business community.
For many of our colleagues, the Netherlands represents much more than the market they serve every day. Many were born or raised there, completed their education in the Netherlands, lived there for many years, or have family and friends there. As a result, their connection with the Netherlands is not only professional but also deeply personal.
This connection is reflected throughout ETB every day. Our colleagues not only speak the Dutch language, but also have a thorough understanding of Dutch culture, customer expectations and the dynamics of the Dutch market. Combined with the strength, hospitality and professionalism of Türkiye, this unique blend has become one of the cornerstones of ETB’s success.
The Importance of the Embassy
Against this background, ETB greatly values its relationship with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Türkiye. The Embassy plays an important role in strengthening the ties between the Netherlands and Türkiye by connecting governments, businesses, educational institutions and social organisations.
For ETB, meetings with the Embassy are much more than official visits. They provide an opportunity to exchange knowledge and experiences, discuss current developments and strengthen the dialogue between our two countries. For an organisation with such strong ties to the Netherlands, these interactions are of great significance.
Memorable Encounters
Over the years, ETB has had the pleasure of meeting Ambassador Wijnands on numerous occasions, both during visits to our offices in Ankara and Istanbul and at various official events and business gatherings.
One particularly memorable occasion was his contribution to our business study tour, where he shared valuable insights into Dutch diplomacy, cooperation between the Netherlands and Türkiye, and the opportunities available to Dutch businesses operating internationally. We also look back with appreciation on the annual King’s Day receptions, the Aqua Challenge and the many other occasions where meaningful conversations and valuable exchanges took place.
More recently, Ambassador Wijnands joined our CEO, Naci Eroğlu, and COO, Pascal Matern, for a lunch meeting. Encounters like these reflect the positive relationship between the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and ETB and provide an opportunity for constructive dialogue on entrepreneurship, international cooperation and developments affecting both countries.
A Symbolic Farewell
As a token of our appreciation, ETB presented Ambassador Wijnands with a symbolic Turkish gift: the traditional Nazar Eye (Nazar Boncuğu). This well-known symbol represents protection, good fortune and prosperity, and serves as a lasting reminder of the many years he spent in Türkiye.
A Personal Message from Our CEO
“I have come to know Joep as an approachable and dedicated ambassador with a genuine interest in people and organisations. His visits to ETB and the many conversations we have shared have always been greatly appreciated. On behalf of ETB Group, I would like to thank him for his contribution to strengthening the relationship between the Netherlands and Türkiye. I wish him every success and happiness as he begins his new assignment as Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to China.”
— Naci Eroğlu, CEO ETB Group
Looking Ahead
On behalf of everyone at ETB, we would like to thank Ambassador Joep Wijnands for his commitment, his openness and the many valuable encounters we have shared over the years. We wish him every success in China.
At the same time, ETB looks forward to continuing its positive relationship with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Türkiye and to further strengthening the longstanding ties between the Netherlands and Türkiye.
