The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is the channel through which the Dutch Government communicates with foreign governments and international organisations. It coordinates and carries out Dutch foreign policy. The Ministry has two halves: its headquarters in The Hague and its missions abroad (embassies, consulates, and permanent representations).

Who runs the Ministry?

The Ministry is headed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, who is responsible for Dutch foreign policy as well as policy regarding the Netherlands’ cooperation with Europe and is accountable to Parliament. His civil servants help him prepare and deliver that policy.

The Minister for Trade and Development Cooperation is responsible for policy on trade, development cooperation and foreign aid. The Ministry's most senior civil servant is the Secretary-General.