Interview with Mr. Javier Llorca-Vega

The founder of Diplomat Link, Mr. Akmal Nazir, recently interviewed the Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Ecuador to the Netherlands during the Embassy Festival. The interview explored Ecuador’s diplomatic engagement, trade relations, and perspectives on strengthening cooperation and people-to-people ties. Below is the full interview.

Q. How would you describe the current state of cultural and trade relations between Ecuador and the Netherlands?

Ans. Our trade with the Netherlands is experiencing healthy and continuous growth. We have a robust partnership that we, at the Embassy of Ecuador, are committed to strengthening further. Since Ecuador signed its trade agreement with the European Union, our commercial relations have flourished significantly. The Netherlands, in particular, plays a crucial role as an entry point for Ecuadorian goods into Europe, serving both the Dutch market and as a gateway for further distribution across the continent.

Ecuador and the Netherlands share notable similarities, and we seek to foster these ties through both trade and culture, as complementary areas of cooperation. One particularly relevant example is floriculture, especially the cultivation and trade of roses, which represent one of Ecuador’s major exports and an important area of connection between our two countries.

These connections extend beyond the flower sector to a wide range of products for which Ecuador is a leading global exporter, including shrimp, bananas, tuna, coffee, chocolate, and cocoa. Strengthening our partnership with the Netherlands therefore remains crucial to expanding trade, and creating new opportunities for both countries.

Q. With Ecuador known for its bananas, cocoa, shrimp, and other agricultural products, how do you view their expansion into European markets using Dutch logistics and distribution networks?

Ans. The Netherlands plays a pivotal role for Ecuador in trade and logistics. Joint efforts are ensuring excellent product traceability from Ecuador to Europe via the Netherlands. This guarantees that the products arrive in optimal condition, adhering to stringent phytosanitary and quality standards. As long as Ecuador maintains these high-quality canons and its farm to port traceability, trade between the two nations and Europe will continue to thrive.

Q. Regarding sustainable agriculture and renewable energy, how do you foresee future trade and investment relationships between the Netherlands and Ecuador?

Ans. Development cannot be discussed without addressing sustainability, which is ingrained in Ecuador’s productive sectors. We have always been closely connected to nature, meeting sustainability standards essential for exporting to demanding markets like the Netherlands and the EU. The production of bananas, shrimp, cocoa, and coffee adheres to sustainable practices, ensuring long-term success in these partnerships.

Q. In terms of Ecuadorian culture, what aspects would you like to introduce to Dutch audiences?

Ans. I am proud to be wearing one of Ecuador’s renowned handwoven toquilla straw hats, which is a great example of our cultural heritage. At the Embassy, we have the opportunity to personally meet and work with the growing Ecuadorian community in the Netherlands and therefore we constantly see our entrepreneurs bringing Ecuador to the Netherlands through crafts, fashion and culinary experiences. Interestingly, we see many families with ties to both countries, where the two cultures come together, creating a unique blend of traditions. Additionally, we see more and more Dutch citizens visiting Ecuador for tourism which furthers a vibrant cultural exchange.

Q. Looking ahead over the next five years, there are promising opportunities to strengthen cultural and trade relations between the Netherlands and Ecuador?

Ans. I would say that Ecuador is a hidden gem for the Netherlands in terms of investments, particularly evident in sectors like shrimp farming. Recently, an event in Utrecht showcased significant interest from European and Dutch investors in Ecuador. Several companies now see Ecuador as integral to their business strategies. One of the key prospects lies in sustainable investment, where Ecuador serves as an outstanding model. With a focus on sustainable and green capital investments, this aligns with both Ecuador’s governmental policies and enhances bilateral trade. This approach not only fosters Dutch companies’ success but also ensures continues growth in economic partnership between our nations.

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