On the last day of the carnival a traditional marching band competition takes place in Maastricht. Deafening drumming played by musicians in costumes awakes the city.
Mikheil Saakashvili, president of Georgia, praises reforms in his country since he came to power in 2004. On a lecture for students of the Maastricht University he says, "Radical reform transformed us from failed state to regional leader".
Dmitry Muratov, the editor-in-chief of a Russian independent Novaya Gazeta and a recipient of 2012's Charlemange Award, discussed press freedom at a debate in Maastricht. Journalists of his paper face harassment and several have been killed.
Thousands of supporters came to Valkenburg to cheer for the cyclists competing at the World Championships. Dutch, Belgian and Norwegian fans were the most numerous and lined-up the 16,1-km track between Maastricht and Valkenburg.
Maastricht and a few other Dutch cities became the first to implement new anti-drug laws. The rules, that will come into force nationwide from January 1, 2013, prohibit foreigners from buying marijuana, and introduce obligatory client registration.
Queen's Day is celebrated on April 30 in the Netherlands. National holiday marks the birthday of the previous Queen Juliana. It is the only day in a year when a permit is not required to sell on the streets, creating large open-air markets.
VIPs and dignitaries arrived for the Queens annual New Year celebration reception at the Royal Palace on the Dam, Amsterdam, Netherlands. 11th January 2011
Haarlem, The Netherlands: this year the Dutch can vote for their 28th cabinet. Although the economic crisis is the main issue, coffeeshop owners are involved as well. They are fighting to keep their business open.
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