Time is manageable

He made the appointment for the meeting with  the Dutch minister in a timely manner, considering that both ministers have agenda's filled with appointments. He is used to work with mid-term planning such as weekplanners, monthly updates, quarterly reports and annual reviews. Surely, in political affairs there is much more unpredictability so the State Secretary might understand, but given his busy schedule, and upcoming events he will not be pleased and unable to reschedule this year.

Keep your promises

On top of that, he upholds the Dutch value of 'afspraak is afspraak' ('an agreement is an agreement') which can be changed only by providing a sound excuse. Some unexplained urgent matter is clearly not good enough. Jan believes that changing an appointment last minute is a sign of disorder and unprofessionalism, and honestly speaking, as disrespect to the foreign guest, who has travelled all the way across the Atlantic to meet.

Take your time

For Flora last minute changes are a part of daily reality. In multi-active cultures agenda's change all the time due to changing situations. This is not necessarily considered a nuisance because it also opens up opportunities. Perhaps one gets the chance to meet up with somebody who is important in getting things done. Most likely some family situation requires attention, or the person is being called by a more senior official or important relationship. Flexibility allows you to respond to urgent situations, and provide other solutions. In multi-active cultures planning is always short-term, and meetings oftentimes need to be confirmed the day before, to make sure it still holds. 'Manana' (tomorrow) should be seen as an indication that someone is willing to meet, not as an absolute point in time.