Retiring Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb: You Can Still Always Call on Me
Rotterdam bid farewell to its beloved mayor, Ahmed Aboutaleb, in an emotional ceremony held at De Doelen on Thursday evening. After years of dedicated service to the city, the mayor, known for his unwavering commitment, received the prestigious honor of being appointed Commander in the Order of Oranje-Naussau. In his farewell speech, Aboutaleb assured Rotterdam’s residents that his commitment to the city would continue, albeit in a different capacity. You can still always call on me, he said, before playfully adding, But now it is as was written on the zoute drop that I received yesterday: Get lost!
A Legacy of Service and Dedication
Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb’s tenure has been marked by his dedication to Rotterdam’s growth and development. Recognizing his contributions, King’s Commissioner Wouter Kolff bestowed upon him the title of Commander in the Order of Oranje-Naussau, the third degree in the order. This distinction is a testament to Aboutaleb’s unwavering commitment to the city and its people. Additionally, the mayor received the Groot Anker award from the Port of Rotterdam Authority, highlighting his significant contributions to the port’s success. Aboutaleb joins a select group of only nine individuals who have been bestowed this honor in the past 20 years.
A Farewell Filled with Art and Culture
The farewell ceremony at De Doelen was a celebration of art and culture, reflecting Rotterdam’s vibrant spirit. The event, open only to invited guests, featured a rich program that showcased the city’s artistic and cultural diversity. Attendees were treated to performances and exhibitions that highlighted the city’s unique character and the contributions of its residents. It was a fitting tribute to a mayor who has been a champion of Rotterdam’s cultural richness throughout his tenure.
A Lasting Impact on Rotterdam
As Aboutaleb prepares to step down from his role as mayor on October 1, he leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and resilience. His commitment to Rotterdam’s growth and prosperity has been unwavering, and his impact on the city will be felt for years to come. Despite his departure, the mayor’s message to the residents of Rotterdam was one of reassurance: You can still always call on me. This statement is a testament to his enduring commitment to the city and its people, even in his retirement.
Looking to the Future
While Rotterdam says goodbye to its long-serving mayor, the city looks to the future with optimism. Aboutaleb’s departure marks the end of an era, but it also signals the beginning of a new chapter. The incoming mayor will have big shoes to fill, but they will inherit a city that is stronger, more resilient, and more united than ever before. As Aboutaleb takes off the mayoral chain, he leaves behind a Rotterdam that is ready to face the challenges of the future with confidence and determination.
Conclusion
Ahmed Aboutaleb’s farewell ceremony at De Doelen was a poignant celebration of his service to Rotterdam. As he steps down from his role as mayor, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the city and its people. With the words, You can still always call on me, Aboutaleb reassures Rotterdam’s residents that his connection to the city will continue, even in retirement. As Rotterdam looks to the future, it does so with the knowledge that its former mayor’s impact will be felt for generations to come.
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