I welcome the Governor-General's appointment of Mr Mark Rutte AC, Prime Minister of the Netherlands, as an Honorary Companion of the Order of Australia.
The Governor-General, His Excellency General the Hon David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), invested Prime Minister Rutte at a ceremony at Admiralty House today.
This award recognises Mr Rutte's eminent service to Australia's relationship with the Netherlands, and his outstanding leadership in response to the downing of MH17.
Prime Minister Rutte's exceptional leadership to establish the MH17 Joint Investigation Team embodies the collective and unwavering commitment of our countries to stand firm on MH17 in defence of our shared values.
Our two countries continue to stand united and resolute in our commitment to pursuing accountability for this tragedy and to achieving justice for the 289 victims and their loved ones.
Prime Minister Rutte has also, over many years, nurtured the deep friendship between Australia and the Netherlands - a friendship that is built on shared values and cultural links, backed by strong trade and investment ties.
I thank Prime Minister Rutte for his enduring friendship with Australia and steadfast commitment to our bilateral relationship.
