The king and queen of the Netherlands stopped by East Flatbush on Thursday as part of their tour of America.

Brooklyn Level Up welcomed King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima with performances from students. The royal couple were met by local business owners and leaders. Many say that royals visiting a massive community of people from various Caribbean islands was impactful.

“It promotes and shows a vibrant thriving Caribbean community here in Flatbush,” said Akel Williams, director of community and culture for local organization I Am Caribbean.

Aruba, Curacao, and Saint Maarten are three Caribbean islands that are under Dutch rule – and Flatbush residents from those islands say they were honored to have a visit from Dutch royalty.

The king and queen went to different businesses and organizations along Nostrand Avenue before ending at Lips Café to sit and discuss urban challenges like climate action, affordable housing and more.

The Dutch king and queen will head to the New York Historical Society on the Upper West Side to continue their stay in New York City.