King pushes Dutch-British shipbuilding and aviation ties in Liverpool

King Willem-Alexander made a working visit to Liverpool on Tuesday, with Dutch-British cooperation in defence, shipbuilding and aviation at its centre. He began at the Balaena Birkenhead shipyard, on the Wirral across the Mersey from the city.

The shipyard supplies parts for navy frigates and submarines. The king toured it and spoke to students training for technical jobs in shipbuilding. Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Minister Sjoerd Sjoerdsma accompanied him throughout.

On aviation, the king and Infrastructure and Water Management Minister Vincent Karremans saw demonstrations by British and Dutch research institutions, companies and government bodies at the Victoria Gallery and Museum. They included circular batteries as a sustainable alternative to fossil kerosene. The Netherlands and the UK were to sign a declaration to speed up a zero-emission air corridor between the two countries.

At a nearby university-linked laboratory, the party saw 3D printing of parts with a binder jet printer. The king printed something himself. Later he visited the British Music Experience and posed at the Beatles statue.

In a closing speech to British guests, the king said he was impressed by the drive, technical skill and craftsmanship he had seen. He hoped the cooperation would grow. "The Netherlands is happy to be your gateway to the European continent. A reliable partner you can count on," he said.

Of the city, he said: "Liverpool can be proud of what this city has given the world. And much good still lies ahead. May this day make a meaningful contribution to that future."