Political and Economic Relations between Türkiye and the Netherlands, 1923-1938 AD: A Historical Study

Abstract

The Netherlands was not a major party to the Lausanne Conference (1922–1923), but participated as an observer. The Netherlands was keen to protect its commercial interests with Turkey, particularly those related to maritime trade and Dutch companies operating in the Mediterranean. Following the Treaty of Lausanne, signed by Turkey and the Allies on July 24, 1923, the Netherlands recognized the new Turkish Republic headed by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Following the founding of the Turkish Republic, Turkey began rebuilding its international relations on a new, modern basis. The Netherlands was one of the first European countries to establish formal diplomatic relations with Turkey. Political relations during this period were characterized by mutual respect and non-interference, with continuous diplomatic exchanges. In 1925, Baron van Heeckeren van Rengers, the Dutch envoy, made an official visit to Ankara. This visit was important for consolidating political relations, as he met with senior Turkish officials, including Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. The visit aimed to open direct channels of communication and strengthen cooperation between the two countries. Economic relations also witnessed significant development during this period. The most significant step was the signing of the Turkish-Dutch trade agreement in 1926, which regulated trade relations between the two countries and encouraged free trade. The agreement included provisions related to customs duties, trade rights, investor protection, and facilitating the activities of Dutch companies in Turkey. Permanent diplomatic missions were established: the Dutch Embassy in Ankara and the Turkish Consulate in The Hague. Some major Dutch companies, such as shipping and agricultural companies, participated in trade and investment projects with Turkey. The Netherlands also participated, through its trade organizations, in some economic fairs in Turkey.