THE HAGUE, 22/12/00 - The year 2000 has not been an easy one for Queen Beatrix, partly because of the poor health of various members of the Royal Family, and for this and other reasons, her Christmas message this year will be based on the theme 'hope'. For the first time, the traditional speech will also be broadcast on television this year.

Public broadcasting organization NOS recorded the speech earlier this week. Among other things, there is implicit attention for those affected by the firework explosion in Enschede. Opponents of unprovoked violence will also recognize their contribution, the Government Information Service (RVD) stated.

The Christmas message will be sent out this year on 25 December between 1.00 p.m. and 1.10 p.m. on radio and television. It will also be broadcast via Radio Nederland World Service and can be seen in the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba via BVN.

After the Christmas message, part of the song 'Komt, verwondert u hier, mensen', sung by Princess Christina, will be played. The youngest sister of Queen Beatrix dedicated this song especially to her mother, Princess Juliana. Christina recently recorded a Christmas CD.