King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands called Queen Elizabeth the “most fearless Bond Girl ever” referring to her appearance in the London 2012 Olympics opening ceremony.
During a Royal dinner held at The Buckingham Palace, both royals made speeches.
The King began: “In recent decades, you have seen your country, Europe and the world change enormously.
“The world looks to you as a trusted beacon in the midst of upheaval.
“Your ability to keep in touch with the times is striking. You even have an adventurous steak, as you showed six years ago at the opening of the Olympic Games.”
The Queen spoke about Brexit for the first time in her speech.
“I recall the state visit of your grandmother Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard in 1971, when I spoke of hope our nations’ close understanding and relationship would become increasingly important as a new configuration of Europe was emerging.
“As we look toward a new partnership with Europe, it is our shared values and commitment to each other that are our greatest assets, and demonstrate that even through change, our enduring alliance remains strong, and as innovators, traders and internationalists we look with confidence to the future.”
The King also spoke of his opinion of the issue. “At present, a lot of attention is focused on the technical side of Brexit. That’s understandable and necessary.
“But in the midst of all that complexity we should not lose side of the greater narrative that binds us.
“That greater narrative of freedom, openness and cooperation, of growth and a prosperity whose fruits are enjoyed by all.”
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