THE HAGUE, 31/08/06 - The Dutch embassies in Belarus and Saudi Arabia have won the VNO-NCW/Fenedex Embassy Prize. They are most appreciated by Dutch businesses for their provision of services in the economic arena.

The Ambassador in Kiev, Ron Keller, received the 'large posts' category prize, and the ambassador in Riyadh, Nicolaas Beets, was the winner in 'small posts.' Both received the prize yesterday during the 'Economic Day' of the four-day annual ambassadors' conference.

The VNO-NCW/Fenedex embassy prize was introduced in 1983 to draw more attention to the importance of the diplomatic posts' economic work. The prize is awarded based on a survey among members of employers' organisations VNO-NCW and Fenedex. A double prize was awarded for the fourth time this year: one for a large embassy and one for a small posting - with a maximum of three staff in the trade department.

This year's survey showed the Dutch diplomatic posts are used most for market information, information on projects and tenders, and information on legislation and regulations. Less often, Dutch businesses seek help to solve trade disputes.