The primary language spoken in the Netherlands is Dutch. Dutch is a West Germanic language and serves as the official language of the country. It is also spoken in Belgium, parts of France, and Suriname, among other communities around the world. The language showcases a rich linguistic heritage, influenced by various historical and cultural interactions. In addition to Dutch, Frisian is recognized as an official language in Friesland, a northern province of the Netherlands. Multilingualism is common, with many Dutch speakers also proficient in English, German, and French, reflecting the country's global orientation.