Charles Potomac nominated as US Ambassador to Netherlands focusing on trade and security

The U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations held a nomination hearing on May 1, 2025, for President Trump's nominee to be the U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The nominee expressed deep gratitude for the confidence placed in him by President Trump and Secretary Rubio, highlighting his family’s support and his entrepreneurial background.

In his opening remarks, the nominee emphasized his commitment to strengthening the historic relationship between the United States and the Netherlands. He shared his extensive experience in leading a global events company, where he significantly increased revenue and managed thousands of employees across multiple continents, including operations in the Netherlands.

The nominee outlined three key priorities if confirmed: enhancing trade relations, encouraging Dutch contributions to U.S. national security, and fostering cooperation on critical and emerging technologies. He noted that the U.S. enjoys a substantial trade surplus with the Netherlands, which supports over one million American jobs. He also acknowledged the Netherlands' strong defense capabilities and its commitment to NATO spending targets.

Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of collaboration in technology sectors, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, as vital for addressing global challenges posed by strategic competitors.

In closing, the nominee reiterated his dedication to serving the U.S. in a bipartisan manner, focusing on the well-being of American citizens in the Netherlands and working closely with both U.S. and Dutch officials to advance mutual interests. The hearing underscored the significance of the U.S.-Netherlands partnership, particularly in trade, security, and technology.