Diplomat Magazine Netherlands

SWITZERLAND’S EUROPEAN POLICY

Swiss State Secretary Roberto Balzaretti

EVEN OUR LONGEST, UNBROKEN, PEACEFUL RELATIONSHIP CAN BE IMPROVED

H.E. Mr. Peter Hoekstra, USA Ambassador

KOSOVO, FACING THE CHALLENGES OF A NEW COUNTRY

H.E. Mr. Hashim Thaçi, President of the Republic of Kosovo

by and for diplomats - the first diplomatic magazine in The Netherlands’ history diplomatmagazine.nl

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DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE By diplomats for Diplomats Year 5, No 1, June 2018 ISSN: 2468-3469

HEADS OF DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS, FOUNDERS OF DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE IN JUNE 2013 H.E. Carlos Jose Arguello, Ambassador of Nicaragua, Dean of the Diplomatic corps H.E. Roberto Canzadilla, Ambassador of Bolivia, vice-Dean of the Diplomatic corps H.E. James Lambert, Ambassador of Canada H.E. Huynh Minh Chinh, Ambassador of Vietnam H.E. Martin Valentino, Ambassador of Malta H.E. Yasumasa Nagamine, Ambassador of Japan Dr. Eugenio Matos, Chargé d’affaires a.i. Embassy of Dominican Republic

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JUNIOR EDITOR Eugene Matos De Lara, University of Ottawa

JUNIOR PUBLISHER Duke Michael of Mecklenburg, University of Leiden

PHOTOGRAPHERS Kim Vermaat Robert Huiberts Roy Strik

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Photo on the cover: H.E. Mr. Hashim Thaci, President of the Republic of Kosovo.

Photography by Frank Jansen.

GRAPHIC DESIGN Studio Kliek PRINTING Gianotten Printed Media Stichting Diplomat Magazine is a non-profit Dutch foundation. It is the first diplomatic magazine in the Netherlands’ history, published by and for diplomats in collaboration with experts in international relations and diplomacy, the academia and dedicated volunteers from the Netherlands and overseas.

A broader selection of articles and contributions can be found in our free online version at: www.diplomatmagazine.nl The editors do their best to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine. However, mistakes and omissions are, regrettably, possible.

No rights may therefore be derived from the material published. All rights reserved. Nothing in this edition may be reproduced, stored in an automated database, or made public, in any form or by any means, whether electronic, mechanical, by photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of the publisher.

DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE Zuid-Hollandlaan 7 2596 AL The Hague, the Netherlands

THE THERMOMETER OF THE WORLD Diplomat Magazine, the first diplomatic magazine in the Netherlands, is head-quartered in the international city of peace and justice, The Hague. Recently, dubbed “the thermometer of the world.” Indeed, the city is like a microcosm of international affairs, what happens worldwide in terms of politics is somehow always reflected here in The Hague, where diplomats, official delegations, foreign affairs ministers, and presidents from all over the world meet and discuss, thus making this city incredibly lively,

By Dr. Mayelinne De Lara. important, and intriguing.

Photography by Luis Ariel Gomez.

T

he activities organized by the magazine keep diplomats busy and always exposed to Dutch and international media, thus enhancing their opportunities to promote their countries from a political, cultural, and economic perspective. At the same time, these events reinforce the communication channels among them facilitating the conditions to meet with each other and grow solid interpersonal relationships Recently, Diplomat Magazine has produced a special issue on Viet Nam, celebrating 45 years of diplomatic relations between Viet Nam and the Netherlands.

This issue’s cover is dedicated to H.E. Hashim Thaci, President of Kosovo, who recently came to the Clingendael Institute for the 10th anniversary of his country to talk about reconciliation, not only for Kosovo, but also for the entire region. His visit to The Hague came just a few days before the departure of the brilliant, skilled, and hard working Ambassador of Kosovo to the Netherlands, Dr. Vjosa Dobruna. In this period, we also bade farewell to the Ambassadors of Armenia, H.E. Ms. Dziunik Aghajanian, and Macedonia, H.E. Mr. Igor Popov, who both received a Ceremony of Merit organized by Diplomat Magazine.

This issue also features other keynote contributions: the Premier of the Free State of Saxony, Michael Kretschmer, talks about innovation; Swiss State Secretary Roberto Balzaretti discusses about Switzerland’s European policy; and H.R.H. Princess Basmah bin Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud analyzes the value of diplomacy to solve the actual crisis in Syria. Furthermore, ambassadors from USA, Japan, India, Poland, Tunisia, Bulgaria, Lebanon, Tanzania, Brazil, Slovakia, Mongolia, Ecuador, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Guatemala and Palestine expose their views.

www.diplomatmagazine.nl publisher@diplomatmagazine.nl DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE #8

The Promenade Food Festival, our gastronomic series promoting the best of the international cuisine, has been a real success, featured at AD Haagsche Courant, Food & Beverage, and many media around the world.

Over the past months, the Embassies of Peru, Ecuador, Cuba, Pakistan, Tunisia, Georgia and Israel, in collaboration with Crowne Plaza Promenade and Diplomat Magazine, have shared their excellent culinary traditions with the diplomatic community and general public of The Hague. The Embassies of Viet Nam, Indonesia, Mexico, Uzbekistan, Italy, and Hungary will follow.

In this period Diplomat Magazine has also met with several Ambassadors at the historical Hotel Des Indes, and discussed about recent projects of different Embassies. Moreover, Diplomat Magazine Junior Team members, in collaboration with students of Leiden University, have visited several Embassies in The Hague, talking with diplomats and Ambassadors about current political and economic relevant issues.

We really cannot thank enough the collaborators of Diplomat Magazine for their unconditional support and hard work. All of this is possible just because of their efforts.

Dr Mayelinne De Lara .

Publisher publisher@diplomatmagazine.nl For all the very latest diplomatic news, views, photos, events and more, just go to: diplomatmagazine.nl

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51 MAIN ARTICLES Mr. Hashim Thaci, President of the Republic of Kosovo Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, President of the Republic of Mauritius

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DIPLOMAT VIP H.E. Mr. Michael Kretschmer, Premier of the Free State of Saxony Swiss State Secretary Roberto Balzaretti Lucia Puttrich, Minister of European and Federal Affairs and Representative of the State of Hessen at the Federal Government Fiona Hyslop, Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs HRH Princess Basmah bint Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Founder and CEO of GURA Zeid bin Ra’ad Al Hussein, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights at Lund University

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DIPLOMAT Ambassadorial USA H.E. Mr. Peter Hoekstra JAPAN H.E. Hiroshi Inomata INDIA H.E. Mr. Venu Rajamony POLAND H.E. Mr. Marcin Czepelak LEBANON H.E. Abdel Sattar Issar BULGARIA H.E. Rumen Alexandrov

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TUNISIA H.E. Mr. Elyes Ghariani BRAZIL H.E. Regina Maria Cordeiro Dunlop TANZANIA H.E. Ms Irene Florence M. Kasyanju SLOVAKIA H.E. Roman Buzek ECUADOR H.E. Fernando Bucheli MONGOLIA H.E. Mr. Od Och UZBEKISTAN H.E. Mr. Dilyor Khakimov GEORGIA H.E. Ms. Natalie Sabanadze

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DIPLOMAT POUCH Mayor Peter Feldmann Dr. Mimoza Ahmetaj Barend ter Haar H.E. Judge Nawaf Salam (by Marwan Hani Osseiran) Sunday Oyinloye Dr. Huub Ruël Karel Frielink

Ceremony of merit meet the ambassador DIPLOMATIC SPOUSES DIPLOMAT TOURISM & CULTURE DIPLOMAT MEET & GREET DIPLOMAT students DIPLOMATic dinners

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Hashim Thaci’s biography, New State, Modern Stateman, written by Roger Boyes and Suzy Jagger.

diplomatmagazine dialogue and the agreement is the only way forward. For two years I have been committed to contribute to the truth and to reconciliation, and have in correlation with this created a commission of truth and reconciliation.

The second challenge for Kosovo is financial. We have growth but we need to create more jobs.

We need to focus on new economy and new opportunities. It is not easy and we still need to do more structural reforms. A key factor here is investments in education in order to secure a blooming economy and a good foundation for the generations to come.

Kosovo is however a success story. Have no doubt about it. If one compares it to other to other post-war and post conflict situations; namely Rwanda, Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, and Libya,these countries have sadly suffered infinitely more tragicoutcomesin terms of human lives and material losses.

The World Bank recently issued an encouraging reporton economic growth,and mentioned Kosovo as one of the front runners in the Balkans. Projected growth for 2018 is almost 5 percent, the same goes for2019. Last year, we signed new investment deals worth over 1 billion Euros which we hope will assist us in reaching our goals, especially in the energy sector.

KOSOVO FACING THE CHALLENGES OF A NEW COUNTRY

By Mr. Hashim Thaci, President of the Republic of Kosovo.

Photography: Frank Jansen.

The Hague is a special place in the modern history of Kosovo. It is a place where dictator Milosevic died in jail, where he was sent after the Kosovo war. I firmly believe peace and justice are two fundamental issues for every society, in particular for those in transition. The Hague is also a place where Kosovo independence was confirmed as legal at International Court of Justice. After this Advisory Opinion in 2010, the political dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia finally commenced.

The dialogue led to a historic agreement in Brussels, exactly five years ago, following more than a hundred years of conflict. This was the first agreement and hopefully not the last, asa final agreement between Kosovo and Serbia confirming normalization and to start the reconciliation process between the two states and two peoples is long awaited.

The Hague is of course also the place where a part of the Kosovo justice system is now based. Kosovo has always proven itself ready to cooperate with International justice. We are proud of our struggle for freedom and have nothing to hide or to be afraid of when coming face to face with the truth. No one from Kosovo ever tried to escape or hide from the justice - unlike other countries in the region.

We are celebrating 10 years of independence this year. Only ten years ago, we were declared the youngest republic in Europe, and we can look back with pride on the achievements we have made. Given our starting position,it has been an immense challenge, and we have naturally had our ups and downs.

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Like all countries in the region, we certainly have our share of problems, that of corruption in particular.However, according to Transparency International, Kosovo has made significant improvements in this area during 2016 and 2017. According to Freedom House, Kosovo is the only country in the region that saw democratic standards improve consecutively during the last 5 years. We have also had incidents with radical extremism, but have dealt with these effectively thanks to a strong performance by the Kosovo police force and Kosovo intelligence.

The third and final challenge relates to Kosovo’s integration into NATO and the EU. This is why we work on the fulfillment of the democratic criteria in politics, economy and legislation today. A tight-knit relationship with the EU and NATO both is and will remain important for our country, as well as our surrounding ones in the time to come.

Kosovo and its neighbours are ultimately European nations and remain an issue to be put on the agenda not only for ourselves, but for the entirety of Europe, and its membership is not an issue of technical nature, but a strategic one.

In conclusion, Kosovo looks fondly at the future in International affairs.

Not only have we come far in recent years, breaking barriers and fighting misconceptions as well as making important progress in several sectors, but also aspire to further mend the bond between ourselves and other nations in the years to come, inviting to communicate and in hopes of reaching goals that have been long-awaited. Ultimately, reconciliation should not and cannot come for Kosovo and by Kosovo alone, this outcome requires cooperation by the entire region as a whole.

Unfortunately, Kosovo still has issues of perception in some circles; both the far right and the far left appear to have a dislike for our country. The far left because they consider us to be a product of EU and American imperialism, and the far right because they think we are a product of Muslim expansion.

Simultaneously, these groups seem to ignore the fact that Albanians have always presented a very European, tolerant, and secular society.

Kosovo is the only European location where Jews before and during the Second World War were able to find refuge.

Therefore, I argue that both the far left and right interpretations are not correct.

As previously mentioned, Kosovo is a success, but still faces many challenges, much like all Western Balkan countries. I would like to point out three most important ones: First, completing the dialogue with Serbia, wherein I am open to find solutions. Reaching a solution is feasible, but time is scarce. Both Kosovo and Serbia wish to be part of EU and we are both aware we need to recognize each other for this to happen.The EU will not accept our two countries if these issues remain present. A legally binding agreement is required. I know that it will be extremely difficult for both sides, and above all for Kosovo. I am however convinced that the

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Has there been a Mauritian economic miracle between 1968 and 2018?

By Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, President of the Republic of Mauritius. Copyright photo State House, Mauritius.

Mauritius is celebrating 50 years of its independence from the British in 2018. Prior to its independence in 1968, after almost 150 years of British rule - and a little less than 100 years of French rule, leading academics had predicted a future full of gloom and doom for Mauritius. The country with a per capita income of just over 200 US, had in fact, all the characteristics of a typical colonial economy: monocrop, rapid population growth, adverse terms of trade, and vulnerable to ethnic tensions.

Rather than a “Miracle”, the economic development of Mauritius is primarily, the result of strategic thinking and planning, elaboration of effective policies, human and institutional capacity building, a governance structure that inspires all segments of the population whilst providing a safety net for the poor and vulnerable members of society through free healthcare and free education for all.

The country also focused on cooperation between the government, employers, and employees and decided not to waste too much money on military spending, unlike other small countries.

“With no natural resources, our people remains our only asset.”

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With an educated population, Mauritians could engage in high level social cohesion, welfare, economic growth and help address inequality. With no natural resources, our people remains our only asset. Education for all has been crucial for social unity in a country where religious, ethnic, and political differences could have easily become a source of potential conflict, Free education has proved to be the best social enabler and the bedrock on which the country started its economic journey. In the early 1980’s, whilst unemployment was very high, those initially working in the sugarcane fields

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could, through basic schooling, work in the newly created Export Processing Zones where textile and light industries was being set up.

This helped boost the economy and absorb unemployment.

In subsequent decades, the economy diversified further into the services industry.

The University of Mauritius created as a developmental university in the 1960’s, started providing training for the emerging industries.

The economy opened further when ICT was increasingly being adopted. We have one of the highest penetrations for telephony and ICT in Africa. Connectivity and improved infrastructure also improved through public and private partnership and dialogue.

With a GDP growth of around 4% and an unemployment rate of around 7% and an ageing population, the Republic of Mauritius is rethinking her growth and future. We see our economy in three colours: white, green and blue.

We have explored the ‘white economy’ through the services industry, now adding almost 15 points to the economy. We are now poised to explore the green economy through our unique biodiversity, renewable energies

etc.; the blue economy through our oceans. We want to go further and develop the knowledge economy that will straddle all three.

However, to succeed, we must rethink our human capital, invest in our institutions and infrastructures to respond more swiftly to the challenges of the 21st century and beyond.

Rather than a “Miracle”, the economic development of Mauritius is primarily, the result of strategic thinking and planning.

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New NATO Headquarters For 50 years, NATO has called Brussels home. During that time,NATO helped bring the Cold War to a peaceful end, we put a stop to wars in the Balkans and worked to ensure Afghanistan never again becomes a safe haven for international terrorists.Our Brussels headquarters is also where, after the terrorist attacks against the United States on 9/11, the Alliance took the historic decision to enact Article 5 of our founding Washington Treaty, which states that an attack on one is an attack on us all.

Proud as we are of our history, NATO is a forward looking Alliance and the time had come to move from what was supposed to be a ‘temporary’ building to our new, state-ofthe-art headquarters. I knew it was time to movewhen I narrowly avoided electrocution during last year’s winter storms when rainwater poured down the walls and onto my printer!

The new NATO Headquarters, like the Alliance itself, is fit for the challenges of the 21st century. When seen from above, the long wings of the building resemble the interlaced fingers of two hands. This image represents the friendship and solidarity of our Allies andthe strength of the transatlantic bond.

The new headquarters is also designed to withstandthe most modern of challenges, not least cyber-attacks. NATO is constantly bombarded with cyber-attacks but it has the systems and the people in place to maintain effective operations and command and control whatever happens.

The building itself meets the highest levels of environmental sustainability. It uses geothermal energy from deep beneath the earth to heat and cool the building. It is designed to maximise natural light, while its great sloping roofs collect rain water for plumbing and to water the plants.

Today, the countries of the NATO Alliance face many challenges,including from Russian aggression, terrorismand hybrid warfare. NATO is adapting to face these challenges, becoming faster and more nimble, strengthening our military forces and our political will. The new Headquarters reflects these changes.

Throughout our history, all Allieshave beenbased within the same building. The same is true now. This is rare among large international organisations. With so many democratic nations, each with their own histories and culture, it is inevitable that we do not always agree. But by being co-located, able to meet daily, to bump into each other in the corridor, at lunch or while getting a coffee, NATO has anesprit de corps unmatched in the international community. This significantly contributes to the unity and cohesion of the NATO Alliance.

The new NATO headquarters is not only a spectacular building, it is also a place where we can get things done and ensure the safety of the almost one billion citizens who depend on us for their security.

A Millennium of Innovation

By H.E. Mr. Michael Kretschmer, Premier of the Free State of Saxony.

Photography: Pawel Sosnowski.

Germany is the economic powerhouse of Europe and one of its engines is Saxony. Situated between Berlin and Prague, Frankfurt and Cracow, the Free State of Saxony looks back upon more than ten centuries of a rich and diverse history. It is a history of pioneering spirits, daring entrepreneurship and great achievement. Once a country full of woods and wilderness, Saxony at the beginning of the 21st century is an innovation leader among European regions.

Having been elected to the office of Saxon Prime Minister in December last, it makes me proud to bear responsibility for a country whose track record spans more than a millennium. We are fond of our tradition of innovation, which brought the world inventions like the European porcelain and groundwood paper.

“The new NATO Headquarters, like the Alliance itself, is fit for the challenges of the 21st century.”

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The Honorable Rose Gottemoeller, Deputy Secretary General of NATO

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And we continue in that tradition. Our growth is driven by a constant stream of innovations, created in Saxony’s universities, advanced research institutions and smart companies.

Saxony has established lines of research in advanced technologies ranging from energy technologies like fuel cells and biofuels, new materials like carbon concrete or highperformance ceramics, to smart textiles, cancer treatments or medical appliances. The Saxon government helps them on their way to the markets with grants and investor pitches.

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With industries across the board going digital, Silicon Saxony, Europe’s biggest cluster in semiconductor R&D and manufacturing, is a vital asset. The Smart Systems Hub in Dresden, our capital city, undertakes a massive public-private R&D effort to merge hardware, software and connectivity solutions into Industry 4.0 applications for advanced manufacturing.

After more than a century of car manufacturing in Saxony, cars with internal combustion engine get company from e-cars. BMW started assembly of its pioneering i3 batteryelectric vehicle at its Leipzig plant in 2013.

Volkswagen assembles the e-Golf in Dresden and is currently upgrading its Zwickau plant for the exclusive assembly of electric vehicles, starting in 2020.

Technological progress needs inspiration – and our unique cultural landscape provides it.

Gems like the Staatskapelle and the European Center of Contemporary Art in Dresden, the Gewandhaus orchestra and Wave Gothic Festival in Leipzig, or the industrial heritage and modern arts collection in Chemnitz cater to creative minds.

Successful growth is to a great extent depending on external demand. Nearly 40 percent of industry sales go to customers from abroad. Our number one trade partner is, unsurprisingly, China. But would you have guessed that trade with the Visegrád group of states, namely Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary, totals as much as trade with France and the UK combined?

Having been part of the Eastern bloc during the Cold War, we share a common history and transformation experience. And we share a vision of our future, namely, becoming one of the most prosperous and innovative regions in the EU. Saxony fosters strong relations with its partners in Central and Eastern Europe, especially with our direct neighbors Poland and Czech Republic. We co-operate on a broad range of issues, from local government and law enforcement via cross-border road and rail infrastructure to environmental protection, R&D efforts or joint NGO activities.

Saxony actively manages relations with about 30 regions and countries of the world, among them the United States, China, Russia, Korea, India, AbuDhabi, Qatar, Austria, Belgium and Italy. The centerpiece of our foreign relations is economic co-operation. Take, for example, our aerospace industry. ST Aerospace from Singapore has a major stake in our leading aerospace enterprise, the Airbus subsidiary Elbe Flugzeugwerke Dresden. The specialist in lightweight construction, Cotesa at Mittweida, has recently forged a co-operation with Boeing. And from Europe’s most sophisticated airfreight hub at Leipzig, heavy duty Antonov freighter planes start for their long-range airlift operations.

This said, it is clear that the Saxon government supports open markets, free trade and FDI just as much as we support innovation and technology. It’s just traditional – for more than a millennium now. And it’s an invitation to explore the boundless possibilities in Saxony.

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Switzerland’s Europ ean Policy

By Swiss State Secretary Roberto Balzaretti.

Photography: Béatrice Deneves, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.

Switzerland shares borders with four EU member countries. My country has strong language, cultural and demographic affinitieswith the EU. And the European Union is Switzerland’s most important political and economic partner.

Almost 1.4 million citizens from an EU or an EFTA (European Free Trade Association) country live in Switzerland. That is about 17% of our estimated population of 8.4 million. In addition, about 320,000 people from neighbouring EU countries commute to Switzerland every day.

Our country is a linchpin of the North-South communication and transportation axis. As a matter of fact, with its infrastructure projects, Switzerland has historically facilitated and enhanced the transport connections between Northern and Southern Europe. The most recent example is the Gotthard railway tunnel through the Alps, which was opened for traffic in December last year. It is 57 km long, which makes it the longest tunnel in the world.

Our close relationship is also reflected by our trade and economic relations. Switzerland is the EU‘s third largest trading partner (after the US and China). The volume of trade in goods between Switzerland and the EU amounts to more than double of the EU’s total trade with Japan. 72% of Swiss imports stem from the EU and 55% of our exports go to the European Union.

Essentially, our vision regarding the EU is twofold. Firstly, we aim to keep our relations with the European Union stable and predictable. And secondly, we have a strong interest in a successful and thriving EU. Our relations are based on a series of bilateral sectoral agreements which allow for a strong cooperation in different fields of interest.

These agreements form the backbone of what we call “bilateral path”.

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Bilateral agreements with the EU include in particular trade in goods, the free movement of persons, which enables workers and investors to come to Switzerland, as well as the access to public procurement markets.In addition, the air and land transport agreements between Switzerland and the EU provide excellent connections for the transport of both goods and people. Another important element is Switzerland’s association to the Schengen area. This allows for smooth cross-border travel and increased police cooperation.

Additional benefits of our close relations with the EU include cooperation in areas such as research, education, environment and culture.

This bilateral (or sectoral) approach enables Switzerland and the EU to shape tailor-made, beneficial policies in areas of mutual interest.

Itis a real success story for both sides.

Switzerland is the country outside the EU which has concluded the largest amount of agreements with Brussels. Our bilateral path enjoys large support in Switzerland and was endorsed by the Swiss electorate on various occasions. The bilateral agreements with

the EU have a tangible impact: they enable Switzerland to put to good use its economic strengths. They contribute to increasing the competitiveness of the Swiss economy and the attractiveness of our country as an investment destination.

Switzerland and the EU are striving to set out an institutional mechanism ensuring that the bilateral agreements on market access are applied even more consistently and efficiently in the future. It is indeed in both sides’ interests to find a way to allow for a rapid adjustment to developments in the EU law and the efficient settlement of disputes. This would provide for legal homogeneity and legal certainty.

Negotiations on this institutional framework started in May 2014 and are well under way.

The regulation of the institutional issues would consolidate existing bilateral agreements in the area of reciprocal market access and build the basis for the further development of our economic relations. In this endeavour, the challenge lies in finding an appropriate balance between a mutual non-discriminatory market access and respect of sovereignty.

Another current challenge for Swiss European policy lies in the decision of the United Kingdom’s (UK) electorate to leave the EU. Relations between Switzerland and the UK are close, comprehensive and multifaceted.

The UK is Switzerland’s fifth most important export market, whereas Switzerland is UK’s biggest export market with whom the EU has a free-trade agreement. Since relations between Switzerland and the UK are to a large extent based on the bilateral agreements between Switzerland and the EU, there is a common interest to avoid gaps in market access, should such agreements no longer be applicable to the UK. The Swiss government has set a strategy called “Mind the gap”, which aims at guaranteeing the existing rights and obligations between Switzerland and the UK for the period after the UK exit from the EU and to extend relations in areas of common interest. Therefore, Switzerland and the UK are exploring a new legal framework for the period after Brexit.

Stable, predictable and close relations with the EU remain a priority for Switzerland. The Swiss government is determined to ensure the continuation and consolidation of the bilateral path in the long term. Our relations with the EU are a long-term, solid venture.

We will remain one of the EU’s closest and reliable partners. It is this mix of enhanced cooperation with the EU on the one hand, and independent national policies on the other that has allowed Switzerland to be one of the world’s most innovative and competitive countries.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg meets with Leiden University students

By Guido Lanfranchi. Photography: NATO.

On ThursdayApril19th, NATO Secretary General delivered a speech at Leiden University in The Hague. He exposed NATO’s history, relevance, and adaptability, before answering a number of questions from the audience.

During his recent visit to The Hague, NATO Secretary General Mr. Jens Stoltenberg carved out some time on his agenda to talk with Leiden University’s students. When he arrived, the auditorium was packed with students and high-level guests. Among them, Mr. Carel Stolker, Rector Magnificus of Leiden University, H.E. Mrs. Mirsada Čolaković, Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to The Netherlands, and Mr. Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, former NATO SecGen and moderator of the event.

Mr. de Hoop Scheffer, who occupied Stoltenberg’s current position from 2004 to 2009, introduced the event and its main theme: “Adapting NATO to a changing world.”

Mr. Stoltenberg started off praising NATO’s success not only in winning the Cold War without bloodlessly, but also in being able to adapt to an ever changing international environment.

In outlining NATO’s history since its foundation in 1949, NATO’s current boss highlighted three turning points in which NATO adaptability was put into test. The first watershed was the end of the Cold War in 1989, when NATO lost its primary enemy, the Soviet Union, and reconfigured itself by expanding its reach beyond its own territory. Then, in 2011 the 9/11 attacks came, and NATO triggered for the first and only time in its history the well-known Article 5, prompting the collective defense response in Afghanistan.

The third turning point was 2014, Mr. Stoltenberg’s first year as NATO’s SecGen. In the wake of Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the rise of ISIS in the Middle East, NATO underwent another big shift in nature, trying to address traditional collective defense issues in Europe and adding an effort to stabilize its neighborhoods. While approaching the end of his speech, Mr. Stoltenberg explicitly highlighted NATO’s defensive nature, which translates into NATO’s policy of “being strong, but without provoking” the counterpart. And, according to the Secretary General, being strong also means being flexible: in an increasingly dangerous world, NATO needs to be able to adapt in order to grant security to the citizens of all its allies.

After a warm round of applause for Mr. Stoltenberg, Mr. de Hoop Scheffer took the floor to moderate a Q&A session. The topics included: the dispute between Turkey and Greece, NATO’s nuclear deterrence, EU defense, political developments in the US, the relation between Finland and NATO, the 2% military spending requirement, the situation in the Artcic, and the Skripal case.

After the event, Mr. Stoltenberg remained in Schouwburgstraat Campus’ reception hall, talking with the students and taking pictures with them. When he left the building, many remained at length in the campus discussing several of the themes that were touched during the event. Who knows whether some of them might in the future be in a position similar to Mr. Stoltenberg’s?

“The challenge lies in finding an appropriate balance between a mutual non-discriminatory market access and respect of sovereignty”

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diplomatVIP namely, Emilia-Romagna, Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Wielkopolska, since we believe that regions play a vital role in the development of the European Union. In this regard, the federal structure of Germany plays a significant role.

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Citizens from Hessen are closely related to their home, which stands out for its distinctive dialect and traditional dishes. Dishes such as ‘Handkäs’, ‘Grüne Soße’ and ‘Ebbelwoi’ are specialities that make the cuisine from Hessen remarkable. At the same time, we are dedicated Europeans and stand for a community based on similar norms and values. After two world wars, this community has provided the European continent with the longest phase of peace, freedom and wealth in its lengthy and ever-changing history. Neighbours and Enemies have turned into partners and friends. This united Europe can be regarded as a benchmark for several other regions in the world.

In a rapidly changing world we, as Europeans, have to face these upcoming tasks. I am convinced that most of these tasks, such as the flow of migrants, can only be solved with partners outside of Europe. At the same time, I am also convinced that we will be able to do so. As the Minister for the Federal and European Affairs of Hessen, I will provide my help in this.

On the other hand, The European Union currently faces several challenges, of which the withdrawal of Great Britain from the European Union is just one. Never before, in the history of the union, has another country decided to leave. Brexit will have significant effects on Hessen due to the international connections in economy and science within the federal state. Nevertheless, we also view this change as an opportunity to establish something new. The government of Hessen is working on providing this.

ker Bouffier, h, Ursula Bouffier, wife of Vol From left to right: Lucia Puttric ker Bouffier. ncellor Angela Merkel and Vol Prime Minister of Hesse, Cha atskanzlei.

Photography by Hessische Sta

Hessen fulfilling its European role Hessen is a federal state, which is located in the middle of Europe and at the same time, deeply rooted to Europe. Through the airport in Frankfurt, one of most significant air traffic hubs of the world, and a large number of transnational companies, Hessen is globally oriented unlike any other German federal state. Our universities in Hessen and research institutes have an excellent international reputation and have a wide-reaching international (contact) network. The control centre of the European Space Agency (ESA), located in Darmstadt, makes us Europe’s doorstep into space. Finally, Frankfurt is also one of the most important financial centres on the European peninsula and hosts, in addition to the European Central Bank, several other financial institutions. The skyline of Frankfurt resembles that of an American metropolis, therefore the city has received the nickname of ‘Mainhattan’.

Keeping this in mind, it becomes self-evident that the state government of Hessen has a strong interest to have our position in Europe voiced and understood. This is my responsibility, which I enjoy fulfilling on a European level in Brussels and on a national level in Berlin. With a combination of federal and European affairs, important decisions are made significantly faster. A lot of decisions, which are being made in Brussels, have to be further translated into the national law.

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The Federal Council, as the representative of the federal states, play a crucial role in these affairs.

Both representatives are an important showcase of Hessen in Brussels and Berlin.

Delegates, representatives of companies and several other politically interested people enjoy coming to Hessen in order to network with us and each other. In Brussels, we are working close with several other regions,

Malbec World Day 2018

By Lucia Puttrich, Minister of European and Federal Affairs and Representative of the State of Hessen at the Federal Government.

Photography: the Ministry of European & Federal Affairs of Hessen.

By Michael Bonté. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

The 8th edition of Malbec wine celebration once again kicked off at the ‘Gauchos restaurant’ llocated on a lovely lake at Weissenbruchlaan in Rotterdam.

Dionysus, the God of Wine looked favourably upon us as the weather turned out fine.

The Embassy of Argentina had invited wine connoisseurs to participate in a Malbec wine tasting. A whopping 18 wine importers showcased their Malbec wines. The guests were certainly in for a treat as about 100 wines were presented for tasting. From the North of Argentina wines with a balanced structure and a good ageing potential. From the famous Mendoza region come wines with lighter tannins and from the South of Argentina, which has more rain and more extreme temperatures, comes more complex and fruity wines.

As tradition dictated a short Malbec master class was presented by Fransbert Schermer. Who educated the guests in an amusing way about one of Argentina’s great exports.

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Ambassador H.E. Mr. Hector Horatio Salvador said: “In a country where the winemaking tradition is as deeply rooted in its culture as tango, football and asado.” he also remarked that: “Wine is a vehicle for culture. “ and with those words he presented us with a couple who performed a tango dance.

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As the sun was out all the guests moved to the lake side lawns of the restaurant to enjoy 100 wines served with an lovely empanada and 2 different freshly grilled meat dishes from the food truck grill.

Among the participants were the Ambassador from Peru H.E. Mr. Carlos Herrera and his spouse Veronique Miclea and the publisher of Diplomat Magazine Dr. Mayelinne De Lara.

As the sun faded and the bottles were almost empty it was time to head homewards. Yet another excellent event and the invitees already looking forward to the 2019 edition.

Pictures: (middle) H.E. Mr. Hector Horacio Salvador, Ambassador of the Republic of Argentina in the Netherlands. (bottom) The Ambassador of Brazil, H.E. Regina Dunlop with Alejandro Mitri, First Secretary of the Embassy of Argentina and his spouse.

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Scottish foreign policy an overview

Fiona Hyslop was born in Ayrshire in 1964. She graduated from Glasgow University with an MA (Hons) in Economic History and Sociology.

She completed a post graduate Diploma in Industrial Administration at the Scottish College of Textiles, before moving to Edinburgh to join the financial services company Standard Life where she held various positions in sales and marketing, latterly as Brand Development Manager.

By Fiona Hyslop, Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs. Photography: Scottish Government.

Elected in the first session of the Scottish Parliament in 1999 she has been returned as the Constituency MSP for Linlithgow since 2011.

Ms Hyslop, everyone is acquainted to the UK’s Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, The Rt Hon Boris Johnson yet few are aware that through devolution Scotland is entitled to a degree of external (i.e. foreign) policy, which you embody since 2011. What is briefly your role as Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and xternal Affairs?

To which degree is Scotland able to conduct a policy on external affairs, and which are the ongoing priorities.

My role is simply to promote Scotland where it is, and where she wants to be. Through devolution and normally through the Commonwealth Secretariat, we can engage with foreign governments, and in fact do, but in practice we accomplish much more. For example, in globally significant issues such as climate change, Scotland has exemplary legislation. From anywhere in the world, we have the most powerful wind turbine near Aberdeen, which is due to power up to 70% of the city’s energy needs, and we hope to expand this success to other cities.

We have world leading universities in Scotland, four in total before even the English counterparts such as Oxford were founded.

Our research is likewise remarkable, and Germany is our main partner in the latter field in connection to our universities.

Our reach is global; we have Scottish offices in Beijing, in Washington D.C., Dublin, London, and now also in Berlin. This is an important statement from the Scottish Government to highlight the importance of Germany as our partner in Europe.

While we do not engage in defence policy, we have so much work to do promoting exports, trade, environmental protection and education.

Scotland’s Government is represented in London, Dublin, Brussels, Beijing and Washington DC. Now also inBerlin.

Why Berlin, why Germany? Will the office liaise also for other countries?

Germany is number one vis-à-vis our university partnerships, number two concerning tourism and as trading market.

This summer is particularly important, for Glasgow and Berlin are co-hosting the European Championships. People will be attending physically as well as watching all over Europe. What better example of European cooperation between Scotland and Germany?

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She was appointed as Cabinet Secretary of Education and Lifelong Learning in 2007 and was responsible for abolishing backend university tuition fees. She has had responsibility for culture and external affairs since 2009 and is currently the Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs.

The Berlin’s office’s location allows us to combine increasing government contacts as well as the promotion of tourism, trade and research. In terms of historical connections, the links go back very far. For example, William Wallace in the XIII century wrote a letter encouraging ties with the Hanseatic League, chiefly cities in the German Empire.

We also wish to use our Berlin hub to reach out to Central Europe in particular. People may not be aware than almost half of EU nationals living in Scotland hail from Poland.

Our Polish connections are very important for us as well. The Baltic States might also be included because of our Nordic-Baltic Strategy.

As you are likely aware when Scottish philosopher David Hume visited the then Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation, he wrote that “should Germany be united, it would make the greatest country” in Europe. The Hanoverians once inherited the British throne through their Stuart consanguinity, and their descendants are still at the helm of the UK. Are you planning to build upon the historical bands between Germany and Scotland?

young people, hence the very first European Championships hosted jointly by Glasgow and Berlin is so important to us.

Culture will play a role during the event.

For instance, the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and the University of Arts in Berlin will host a concert together, and there will be a plethora of opportunities for youngsters to convene. We want relations based on building a common future.

The Commonwealth of Nations Summit 2018 was just held at London 19-20 April.

What role plays Scotland within this free association of 53 sovereign states? What do you say to those who deem it as the prime alternative to EU membership?

For the Scottish Government remaining in the EU is the preferred choice, unfortunately some of the other parts of the United Kingdom voted to leave the Union, and that goes against our wishes. We shall endeavour to maintain the best ties with the EU, ideally within the Common Market.

On the other side, many Scots left Scotland generations ago to all parts of what is today the Commonwealth. Hence you shall find many Canadian, New Zealanders or Australians, for example, with Scottish descents who maintain their ties with Scotland, and this encourages our contact with other countries.

Scotland also has a significant development aid budget, where we work with countries of the Commonwealth such as Malawi. In fact, our development aid has had a huge impact for the country, and the President of Malawi, Peter Mutharika recently paid a visit to Scotland to reinforce our connections. This is a practical example of our active diplomacy but also of the people-to-people contacts which are paramount for our external affairs.

Dr. Qu Xing at UNESCO Paris, April 2018: UNESCO’s Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, announced the nomination of HE Ambassador Dr Qu Xing (PRC, 61 years old) as Deputy Director General of the international body.

Dr Qu is a former president of the Institute of International Studies of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs between 2009 and 2014.

He was recently head of mission of the PRC to the Kingdom of Belgium since 2014.

Consul-General of China paid courtesy visit to Dean of the Consular Corps of Curaçao 28 February 2018, Curaçao – The Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Willemstad, His Excellency Mr. Weixin Zhang, together with Vice-Consul, Dr. Li Sun, paid a courtesy visit to the Dean of the Consular Corps of Curaçao, Mr. Karel Frielink.

During the meeting the development and future of both China and Curaçao were discussed. The courtesy call also provided the opportunity for both sides to share and exchange views on issues of mutual interest.

I am focusing on the future, and naturally understanding each other, which comes from fathoming the past. We would like to ensure that our connections have a focus on

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Too big to fail?

The global conversion of threat to opportunity

By HRH Princess Basmah bint Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Founder and CEO of GURA (Global United Centre for Research and Analysis). Photography: Office of HRH Princess Basmah bint Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

For some time now, we have been finding new ways to push ourselves closer to the brink, somehow reassured mistakenly by the belief that we – which is to say our system of nation states – are too big to fail.

But we are livingin a disquieting time when failureis much more likely than we think – and this starts with diplomatic failure, a process that is well and truly underway.

There’s hardly a passage of time in living memory which compares with today in terms of the range and spread of conflicts, the array of politically and militarily opposed powers, and the weak and inexperienced leaderships at their helms.

Strong and ethically-driven leaders compromise and engage in diplomacy; weak leaders isolate themselves or say ‘no’ under the illusion that outright refusal is a characteristic of strength.

Nowhere more can we see this in action than in Syria. Here in particular is a theatre hosting a tragedy whose human costs are already scarcely calculable. But beyond this, Syria is being used as a venue to play out the great political game which pits proxy against proxy while their puppet masters get ever more used to playing with a free hand, emboldening their next move.

But we find ourselvesin this position because powers are choosing to play a game in this way.

Pushing one another to the edge is anestablished tactic to determine quite how far one side is prepared to go or is actually capable of going to try and gain an advantage.But we might well soon find out much more than we wanted to know.

More widely than just in Syria, we are looking at the conversion of opportunity to war, not peace. It seems that if advice is wanted, leaderships consult their generals more than their ambassadors.So,the question is: are we facing a decisive turning point in history, a moment where we choose a path from which we can’t return without catastrophe?

But the real worry is whether diplomacy can ever play a constructive and calming role again. Today, we watch conflict as if it was just another drama on Netflix. We can turn if off at the end, de-sensitised to what was going on.

We have failed diplomacy, and now diplomacy is failing us. There are more threats than possibilities. We respond to challenges with sanctions, not openings. Our aging institutions are not sufficient for the kinds of tasks we need them to fulfil. Are our political systems too big to fail? No – they are fallible like the rest of us, only as strong as the leaderships and structures which drive them.

The UN Security Council is the fundamental mechanism for decision-making within our foremost diplomatic institution, the United Nations, and if it cannot find agreement on

“We must give each and every community their fundamental human rights: security, freedom, education and equality.”

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the most pressing issues of our time, then this merely contributes to the instability.

The Permanent Five – the United States, Great Britain, France, Russia and China – are clearly split down the middle, and each of them can veto a Security Council resolution at will.

While the first three clubbed together in April to conduct missile strikes on targets in Syria they say were responsible forchemical weapons attacks on Syrian citizens, the last two are currently almost as diametrically opposed to the other members as they could be.

Besides: as much as each of those nations wields diplomatic influence as a member of the P5, each is also a formidable manufacturer and seller of arms. How reassured can we be in their diplomatic credentials when selling arms is fundamental to all their economies?

Beyond this, it is a basic observation that the P5 isn’t democratic in the first place. The ability to vetoa resolution in the hands of five nations is hardly the will of the world’s moral majority. In fact, the concentration of power in to the hands of the few exacerbates so many pressing issues in the world today.

The centralized elites continue to speak for the masses, denying them their true voice and masking a discontent at the way in which marginalized peripheral communities struggle. There are great imbalances in terms of the economics, politics, education, and equality between people.

Ultimately, the fundamental gap in credibility between the stated intentions and actions of those leading us is the crucial point at which we will see diplomacy fail with catastrophic

WORLD BEE DAY The Republic of Slovenia, on the initiative of the Slovenian Beekeepers’ Association, initiated procedures in the Food and Agriculture Organizationof the United Nations(FAO)in 2015 to declare the World Bee Day. On 20 December 2017, the United Nations General Assembly in New York unanimously adopted a resolution proclaiming 20 May as the World Bee Day. The resolution was adopted with co-sponsorship of 115 countries from all regions of the world.

The World Bee Day was celebrated for the first time on 20 May 2018 and on this occasion, an International Ministerial Conference was held in Slovenia with participation of the FAO Director-General, the EU Commissioner for the Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries,and the African Union Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agricultureamong others. The goal of the observation of theWorld Bee Day is to raise awareness about the importance of bees and other pollinators for agriculture, the environment and the mankind.

As part of the awareness-raising campaign, Slovenia designed an interactive exhibition entitled The Bee World. The pavilion was first presented to the public at the headquarters of the FAO in September 2016 and subsequently on other locations, including the Berlin’s International Green Week and the United Nations in New York in December 2017.

Slovenia also launched the so-called honey breakfast in 2006, when Slovenian beekeepers offered children in kindergartens and schools honey for breakfast, and has since been held in many European and other countries.

Every third spoonful of food depends on pollination. An international study estimates that the annual global food production that depends on pollination is worth between USD 235 and USD 577 billion. Bees also have a positive effect on the entire ecosystem, help preserve natural biodiversity and are good biological indicators of environmental conditions.

Furthermore, Slovenia was among the first countries to join the initiative by the Netherlands and sign the Declaration on the Coalition of the Willing on Pollinators at the Conference of the Parties on Biodiversity in Mexico in December 2016.

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consequences. In other words, we will fail, if that’s the course we set for ourselves.

Sadly, this seems more likely than ever before.

The upheavals in the world in this decade have been too deep and gouging. We must accept the world will not look again like it used to.

There is no going back, but at least we can forge a path leading away from the current heading through dialogue.

We must give each and every community their fundamental human rights: security, freedom, education and equality. I’ve packaged it all in something called the Fourth Way Law, which can be used as a handrail. Without this, we will see what the failure of our political systems looks like.

diplomatICEVENTS Slovenia is a nation of beekeepers –with five beekeepers per 1,000 inhabitants, it stands in the front ranks globally – and beekeeping has always been an important agricultural activity with a long tradition. Slovenian beekeepers are known worldwide for their professionalism, advanced beekeeping technologies, unique Slovenian historical features, such as painted beehive front panels, apiaries and traditional beehives, and the famous Carniola bee, which is an indigenous Slovenian subspecies of honey bee and the second most widespread subspecies in the world.

The pioneer of modern beekeeping, Anton Janša (1734-1773), whose birthdate is 20 May, he was the first teacher of modern beekeeping in the world and was appointed by the Empress Maria Theresa as a permanent teacher at the new beekeeping school in Vienna. Today, Slovenia intends to establish an international beekeeping school where beekeepers from all over the world will be educated, thereby spreading the knowledge of bees and beekeeping also in developing countries. Slovenia is the first country in the EU to have introduced legal protection for its honey bee.

Join us at the Slovenian Pavilion at the Embassy Festival in The Hague on 1 September 2018, where you will learn more about Slovenia and get a taste of Slovenian honey products.

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Global Challenges to Human Rights Today A Summary of the Anna Lindh Lecture

By Zeid bin Ra’ad Al Hussein, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights at Lund University. Photography: OHCHR.

When I arrived in the United Kingdom 30 years ago to pursue my postgraduate studies, we – the foreign students were made to first register at the local police station. It meant queuing up under a sign which read: foreign aliens here.

Welcome to the United Kingdom – aliens.

not universal, but Western, and liberal; while we, the human rights community, are also considered arrogant because we make too many assumptions about our legitimacy.

Self-appointed angels, we are called by some.

I am here to tell you this: there are no aliens.

In human rights terms, the only qualification of relevance, the only issue that matters to the law, is being human. Whatever the other descriptions lighting up the many identities we hold – whether we speak of gender, nationality, belief, ethnicity, sexual orientation or any other characteristic, they cannot disqualify us from the species we all belong to – or from the rights we all hold.

In the second draft of the Universal Declaration, prepared by René Cassin, the opening phrase of the preamble is cast in the starkest of terms: “That ignorance and contempt of human rights have been among the principal causes of the sufferings of humanity.” Like so many of his generation, Cassin was wounded in battle in 1914 and endured life-long injuries as a result. He was far from being some ivory-tower thinker.

After the traumas of yet another war and the Holocaust, when he penned the word “sufferings” into the preamble, for him these sufferings were very real.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was written almost 70 years ago to improve the world; the critics say, the current global fragility of the human rights agenda tells the story. Ultimately, the indictment continues, the Declaration has been too marginal to make a difference. The philosophical foundations that underpin it, they say, are

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the two international covenants and seven subsequent international human rights treaties – from the prohibition of torture to the rights of persons with disabilities – were drafted, agreed to and signed by governments, and ratified by acts of parliament, before entering into force as binding law for those

“Even if Russia, China and Egypt can be extremely critical, sometimes utterly dismissive, of human rights, they are still invested in the system.”

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states that acceded to them. All countries are party to at least one human rights treaty. And the treaties lay out the international standard for all states. Governments were not coerced by the UN, or the human rights community, into creating this system.

As to whether rights are universal or whether the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is still relevant? In our minds, these are settled by the involvement on the part of all states with the international human rights institutions, centred in Geneva. All of them are peer-reviewed, all file reports, and almost all take the floor on a whole host of human rights related topics. Even if Russia, China and Egypt can be extremely critical, sometimes utterly dismissive, of human rights, they are still invested in the system. None of the 193 states has withdrawn.

On 10 December 2017, we kicked off a year-long campaign of celebration of the Universal Declaration, leading up to its 70th anniversary in 2018. It is a campaign of defiance. We are equal, all of us, in our rights and our dignity.

Nowruz at OPCW

By Youri Moes. Photography: the Embassy of Iran in The Hague.

Nowruz, the new year of the Persian people is celebrated every year on the 21st of March, and sees families coming together around a traditional meal. The Persian people have done this for almost 3000 years and their traditions and celebrations are still extraordinary events.

During Nowruz families eat dishes like Sabzeh, Samanu, Seer, Seeb and Somāq. All of these dishes have meaning, being metaphors for rebirth, vitality and light overcoming darkness. These dishes and their meanings go back thousands of years. These traditions are so impactful and meaningful to so many people, that Nowruz was placed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible

The Year of the Dog Chinese New Year in The Hague

Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009, and the United Nations made the 21st of March as International Nowruz Day. This year in the headquarters of the OPCW, ambassadors from countries with large Persian populations celebrated a Nowruz feast together.

H.E. Dr Alireza Jahangiri, ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran made a speech discussing the meaning of the celebration, and the role it has in the modern world. Dr. Jahangiri went on to say, “(Nowruz) promotes values of peace and solidarity between generations and within families as well as reconciliation and neighborliness, thus contributing to cultural diversity and friendship among peoples and different communities.”

The historic Societeit de Witte in The Hague was once again the venue for an entertaining evening of music, food and networking. Guests were welcomed by Ms. Shirley Lamb, Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the EU, who highlighted the close relationship between Hong Kong and the Netherlands and looked ahead to some of the many economic opportunities that the new year will bring. These include an increased level of participation by Hong Kong in China’s Belt and Road Initiative and several major regional development projects involving Dutch and other overseas companies.

By Joe Ray. Photography: Robert Huiberts.

Mid-February is always a lively period in the Dutch social calendar, as the country’s large expatriate community marks the passage of Chinese New Year and looks ahead to what the coming twelve months may bring. A highlight for many in The Hague is the annual celebration hosted by the Hong Kong Netherlands Chamber of Commerce together with the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Brussels.

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Ms. Shirley Lamb, Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the EU with Mr Hans Poulis, Chair of the Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association, and Mr George Ammerlaan, Chair of the Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in the Netherlands.

The spirit of neighborliness was obviously alive and well, with ambassadors from India H.E. Mr. Venu Rajamoni, from Kazakhstan, H.E. Mr. Magzhan Ilyassov and Afghanistan H.E. Dr. Homayoon Azizi all being present to celebrate the feast.

Together with his international colleagues Dr. Jahangiri went on to say, “Nowruz is an ancient celebration that predates today’s borders and divisions. It is a reminder that national boundaries and other superficial differences are not as important as our common humanity. Nowruz is a perfect example of unity in diversity.”

We can only hope that our common humanity carries through to the next Nowruz.

Ms Lamb noted that Hong Kong’s focus on technology has led to the publication of the first Smart City Blueprint – an outline for the future which promotes high-tech innovation as a means of creating a cleaner, safer, more efficient and more prosperous city. The audience was then addressed by Mr Hans Poulis, Chair of the Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association, and Mr George Ammerlaan, Chair of the Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in the Netherlands.

Both praised the strong business ties between Hong Kong and the Netherlands and remarked on some of the key trends in the already strong bilateral relationship. After toasting the forthcoming Year of the Dog, guests were treated to a remarkable marimba performance by Fiona Foo Pui-yee, one of the world’s leading marimba soloists.

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USA EVEN OUR LONGEST, UNBROKEN, PEACEFUL RELATIONSHIP CAN BE IMPROVED

By H.E. Mr. Peter Hoekstra. Photography: Jos van Leeuwen.

The U.S.-Dutch economic relationship is one of our deepest and most important trade and investment partnerships. The Netherlands is among Europe’s most dynamic and highly competitive economies, with strong historical trade and investment links to the United States. The Netherlands is historically the third largest foreign investor in the United States, supporting over 740,000 American jobs, and is the United States’ eighth largest goods export market, worth 40.4 billion dollars.

The United States and the Netherlands have a long history of friendship and cooperation. This began before John Adams was accepted as the official representative from the United States to the Netherlands in 1782 and even before the Dutch became the first nation to recognize our new nation with the First Salute in November of 1776.

Our joint journey started when Henry Hudson sailed to North America and the Dutch settled in those new lands.

Our relationship with the Dutch is the longest, unbroken, peaceful relationship that the United States has with any nation in the world. The Dutch have long been one of the United States’ most like-minded allies, both globally and within the EU. We have a special relationship and I want to continue to move that forward by advocating the policies of our administration; expanding the lines of communication between the Netherlands and the United States; and finding common ground to work together for the benefit of both nations. As Ambassador, my goal is to take an already strong bond and make it stronger.

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Here in the Netherlands, over 2,700 U.S. companies – nearly a quarter of all foreign-owned companies in this country – directly employ a quarter of a million Dutch workers.

The coming years will continue to present changes, challenges, and opportunities.

Changes are coming in the European Union and with the Netherlands’ energy transition.

We also face security and defense challenges, including worrisome activity by Russia.

As Secretary of State Mike Pompeo again reiterated in his recent remarks at NATO headquarters, the United States has made it clear that NATO should not return to business as usual with Russia until Moscow shows a clear change in its actions and complies with international law. President Trump has also made it clear that the United States, the Netherlands, and all our NATO allies need to ensure that fighting terrorism is a top priority for the Alliance.We should work with our partners in North Africa and the Middle East to address conditions and activities that enable terrorism, such as the trafficking of weapons, irregular migration, and regional instability.

NATO’s expertise can help strengthen the resilience of partner countries and regional organizations fighting terrorism.

Security is not free. Our collective defense demands fair and equitable sharing of the security burden. We are depending on the Netherlands and other European nations to make the case to their own taxpayers why it is critical to fulfill their obligations on defense spending.

During the Wales Summit in 2014, the Netherlands and every other NATO Ally agreed to spend 2 percent of gross domestic product on defense by 2024, with 20 percent of that share devoted to funding major equipment. It is now up to each ally to make good on that promise by presenting a credible plan.

We also face challenges to fair trade. We want to work with the Netherlands to promote fairer trade policies worldwide, particularly in regard to countries such as China. China often fails to respect intellectual property, forces technology transfer, provides subsidies to its companies that give unfair advantages, and dumps commodities on world markets which directly or indirectly harm U.S. and European industry. We want to encourage like-minded

countries to stand with us in taking concrete action against unfair trade practices – whether it is dumping, subsidies, intellectual property theft, or forced technology transfer.

American and Dutch companies are natural partners, especially in innovative industries and the knowledge-based economy. Together we can make greater strides through cooperating in the fields of science, technology, and entrepreneurship. In April, my friend the Governor of the State of Michigan was here to sign an agreement with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy to strengthen innovation in the automotive sector.

The United States and the Netherlands have always shared a close bond. This is in part thanks to our shared history, starting with New Amsterdam and our connections with the Pilgrims through Leiden. It extends to our shared history during our revolution, when the Dutch provided financial and moral support to our new nation, and then in World War II, when Americans came here as liberators. It follows through to the Marshall Plan years, when the United States provided aid to help rebuild a nation devastated by war.

Today we look to our shared cultural ties. We are both nations that believe in rule of law, human rights, and freedom and we continue to work together on these issues.

The Netherlands will always hold a special place in my heart and it is an honor to have the opportunity to strengthen relations between the country of my birth and the country that I call home. I believe that together with the men and women of the U.S. Mission to the Netherlands, we can use my time here to make this already robust relationshipeven stronger.

H.M. KING ABDULLAH II TO THE STUDENTS:

help shape the better future you all truly deserve

By Guido Lanfranchi. Photography: the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

On Tuesday March 20th, H.M. King Abdullah II of Jordan delivered a speech to the students of World Class The Hague. At the Theater Diligentia, the audience have enjoyed also the presence of H.M Queen Rania, H.M. King WillemAlexander of the Netherlands and H.M. Queen Máxima.

The Hague, City of Peace and Justice, recently hosted H.M. King Abdullah II of Jordan and his wife H.M. Queen Rania, during their visit to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. In spite of his busy schedule, H.M. King Abdullah decided to dedicate some time to “one of the most satisfying parts” of his work: talking with students. Thanks to the precious job of the Municipality of The Hague, on Tuesday some hundreds of students attend H.M. King Abdullah’s speech.

Mr. Mark Singleton, former diplomat at the Dutch Foreign Ministry, warmly welcomed the audience, made of not only students, but also of diplomats and a number of citizens of The Hague. Shortly after, the keynote guests entered the theater: H.M. King Abdullah of Jordan with H.M. Queen Rania, and H.M. King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and H.M. Queen Máxima, walked in a crowded theater that promptly stood up at their presence. Ms. Pauline Krikke, Mayor of The Hague, praised the special relationship between Jordan and the Netherlands, before giving the floor to H.M. King Abdullah.

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In his engaging speech, H.M. the King decided to focus on “the deeply urgent need to help the world’s people live together in mutual respect.” His Majesty stressed the importance of understanding that “humanity is one,” and he pointed out that our values should inform out thoughts, our actions, and our lives. He then praised the students for their efforts to understand our complex world, and urged them to continue to do so. He also encouraged the students to pursue the way of dialogue, of love, and of inclusion, in order to “take the world in a better direction, and help shape the better future you all truly deserve.”

After the speech, some students from the International Institute of Social Studies, The Haagse Hogeschool, and Leiden University had thus the possibility to ask questions to His Majesty. The discussion dealt with a variety of topics, such as the conflict in Syria, the growth of the Jordanian ICT sector, the Jordanian security model in countering extremism, and the measures to counter hate-speech and violence.

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diplomatICevents Text and pictures by Roy Strik.

japan CONNECTING PAST AND NOW, JAPAN AND THE NETHERLANDS

The Department of Cultural Affairs, Press and Information of the Embassy of Japan in the Netherlands hosted a lecture and demonstration of “Wagashi”-making.

Much of Japanese art, culture, and cuisine draws on the principles of aesthetic beauty and the passing of the seasons. “Wagashi” too has a strong seasonal character. Each season brings its own delights, techniques and flavours.

The island Dejima has changed the geological shape and function with city expansion. In 1922, Dejima was registered as a national historic site and full-fledged restoration projects started in 1996.

On 24 November 2017, the restoration process reached a significant milestone for the JapanNetherlands relationship. The Omotemon (Main gate) Bridge, which had formed the sole connection between mainland Nagasaki and the island of Dejima, was restored at the exact location where the original bridge had been until around 1890.It was unveiled in the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Laurentien from the Netherlands and Their Imperial Highnesses Prince and Princess Akishino. As Princess Laurentien aptly phrased it in her speech: “The completion of the Omotemon Bridge has made the bond between Nagasaki and the Netherlands even stronger.” As a matter of fact, on that very same day, the city of Nagasaki and the city of Leiden had a sister-city affiliation ceremony.

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In a period where Japan was all but closed off to the outside world, the Netherlands was the only ‘Western’ country that was allowed to conduct trade with Japan. For over two hundred years, from 1641 to 1859, the Dutch were granted a permanent presence on Dejima that measured no more than 120 by 75 meters (390 by 250 feet). This trading post was de facto one of the only windows Japan had on the rest of the world, and as such, it was paramount to the Japanese in terms of ‘Western’ science, knowledge, culture and lifestyle.

Over several decades, the Dutch introduced a great variety of scientific knowledge to Japan: ‘Western’ medicine, chemistry, electricity, microscopes, hot air balloons and clocks, to name a few, which ushered in a new era of science. In addition, Japanese artists freely experimented with the styles of perspective that were common in the art that the Dutch imported. Indeed, for the Japanese, the interaction with the Dutch offered new views on the world, which were instrumental to the rise of Japan as a modern nation.

In turn, the Dutch greatly benefited from the trading relationship as well. They imported Imari ware, famous Japanese porcelain, which became one of the major influences on the famous Dutch Delftware ceramics. The German-born doctor Von Siebold was posted on Dejima from 1823 to 1829 as the trading post’s physician and when he returned to the Netherlands and settled in Leiden, he brought back many cultural objects from Japan, as well as samples of Japanese flora and fauna. As a result, many of the plant species he collected in Japan adorn Dutch and European gardens now adays,among which varieties of Japanese maple trees, hostas, and various species of hydrangeas and azaleas.

In time “Wagashi” became an indispensable part of the tea ceremony and as such, spread not only among the high social classes but among the common people as well.

Wagashi demonstration Japan Embassy

By H.E. Hiroshi Inomata, Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Photography: Courtesy of the Embassy of Japan in The Hague.

When I assumed my post as Ambassador of Japan in the Netherlands about two years ago, I was of course familiar with the shared history of our countries which has been over 400 years relationship, but living here has truly made me realise how deeply entwined the connection between Japan and the Netherlands is. In February 2017, I had a chance to visit the place that was the key to the beginnings of this relationship: Dejima, a once fan-shaped artificial island, which as a served trading post from 17th to 19thcentury, in the bay of Nagasaki in the south of Japan.

The style of “Wagashi” we see today, was developed between the 17th and 19th century.

European countries (like Holland and Portugal) had introduced sugar to Japan which had a profound effect on the manufacture of “Wagashi”.

The Japanese prints, including Ukiyoe, and decorative art objects that found their way to Europe would later inspire painters like Van Gogh and the cultural phenomenon of Japonism that existed in the European arts.

When in 1854 Japan signed the Treaty of Peace and Amity with the United States, Japan’s policy of national seclusion came to an end, and with it the unique position of the Dutch on Dejima.

The historical Dutch trading post of Dejima might be a thing of the past, but the Netherlands remains a top-ranking investment partner for Japan within Europe and even on a global scale. This year we were also proud to introduce two new Honorary ConsulGenerals: Mr. Ter Avest for Amsterdam and Mr. Briët for Rotterdam. With their assistance, and the enthusiasm of the various Japan-related organisations located here, I am confident that the Netherlands and Japan will further deepen their relationship in the future.

The reconstruction of Dejima is scheduled to be completed in 2050. Meanwhile, in the botanical gardens in Leiden, several plants can still be found that Von Siebold planted himself and that, just like the friendship between Japan and the Netherlands, have continued to flourish to this day.

Mr. Takanori Murata, a “Wagashi” craftsman currently working in Paris, showed how the traditional ingredients of “Wagashi” (bean paste - from various beans - and sugar) and a large variety of utensils are used to create beautiful shapes and forms.

Mr. Tomohiko Murakami, a master carpenter from Hokkaido and representative of the Gen Company told us a little about the design of Wagashi tools and equipment.

Tea and “Wagashi” was served.

After the demonstration the guests were invited to try their own hand at making “Wagashi”.

Opening ceremony exhibition Establishment of Czechoslovakia 1918

By Roy Lie Atjam. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

The Embassy of the Czech Republic in The Hague hosted a reception on the occasion of the launching of the exhibition “Establishment of Czechoslovakia 1918”. The Czech Embassy (in close cooperation with the Czech Centre and the CzechTourism) in The Hague is organizing many events that highlight the anniversary, including the ‘exhibition “Establishment of Czechoslovakia 1918”.

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In 2018, the citizens of the Czech and Slovak Republics will mark a date that invites them to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of their common independent state – the Czechoslovak Republic.

In her welcome remarks H.E.Ms. Ambassador Jana Reinišová of the Czech Republic gave details of how the establishment came about in 1918. She relates: “Today’s exhibition offers a thematic overview of events in Czechoslovakia in the global context of 20th century history.

The exhibition also introduces the milestones of this chaotic and insecure period through the stories of political protagonists. Masaryk and Beneš together with Štefánik were a key figure during the foundation of the new Republic.

Finally, the exhibition also includes the peaks of Czechoslovak science and culture. It all began in 1918, when both nations’ shared desire for a sovereign state became a reality.”

Another important milestone that is a reliable source of pride for Czechs and Slovaks is the so-called Prague Spring of 1968 when, seeking liberation and escape from dictatorship, the movement was forcibly ended by the invasion and occupation of the Warsaw Pact troops.

And last, but not least, it is 1993, when Czechoslovakia was, in a cultured and peaceful way, divided into two new sovereign states within an integrating Europe. It was a peaceful divorce appreciated by the entire civilized world.

The history continues, but the Czechs and Slovaks are still close. In the best sense of the word, they can be proud of their time side by side and boldly commemorate the stormy, joyful and event.

Picture left: H.E. Ms. Jana Reinišová, Ambassador of Czech Republic and H.E. Roman Buzek, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic in the Netherlands.

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india 2017: A SPECIAL YEAR FOR INDIA–NETHERLANDS RELATIONS

Since 2014, India has seen a strong and stable government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiate a number of radical measures to reform the economy, accelerate growth and empower women and children. The Government has adopted a Goods and Services Tax which has unified our 1.3 billion people into one market for the first time. Improving the ease of doing business is one of the top priorities of the Government.

corrections of a speech by Martin Luther King Jr and Nelson Mandela’s Robben Island Bible which were on display as part of the exhibition. We were also honoured to have as guests of honour at the reception Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior and the Kingdom Relations of the Netherlands Ms Kajsa Ollongren, Mayor Jan van Zanen of Utrecht and former Ministers Bert Koenders and Edith Schippers.

By H.E. Mr. Venu Rajamony, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Photography: (left picture) StudioArash-91 & courtesy of the Embassy of India in The Hague.

2018 promises to be an equally good year for India – Netherlands relations. Prime Minister Modi met Queen Maxima on the margins of the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 23, 2018. On January 26 2018, the Embassy of India successfully hosted India’s 69th Republic Day celebrations at De Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam amidst a wonderful exhibition “We have a dream – Gandhi, King and Mandela.” It was the first time India’s Republic Day reception was being held in Amsterdam. The historic venue of De Nieuwe Kerk, on the Dam Square where Dutch Royal investiture ceremonies and the Royal weddings are held was specially chosen for the purpose. Guests had the opportunity to view first hand a bicycle and Charkha(spinning wheel) used by Mahatma Gandhi, handwritten

India’s Republic Day marks that day in 1950 when the people of India adopted, enacted and gave to ourselves the Constitution of India.

And, the Indian Constitution fully enshrines the ideals that Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela stood for, struggled for and for whose achievement they dedicated their lives. Through strenuous efforts over the last seven decades, India has firmly established within our country, the Rule of Law, a Parliament that reflects the enormous diversity and variety of opinion in our country, a fiercely independent judiciary, a free press and a vibrant civil society.

The year 2017 marked 70 years of diplomatic relations between India and the Netherlands.The Netherlands was one of the first countries to recognize independent India in 1947.

Since then the Netherlands has been a fellow traveller encouraging us along the path of development.

2017 was a special year for India - Netherlands relations also because Foreign Minister Bert Koenders visited India in May and Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Netherlands in June 2017. Investments from the Netherlands into India went up around US$ 2 billion in just six months of last year.

Investments since 2015 has been US$ 8 billion. The Netherlands is the fourth largest investor in India. At the same time, our economic relations are a two way street. Just as around 200 Dutch companies operate in India, Netherlands is also home to around 200 Indian companies. There is steady increase in the number of Indian business and citizens relocating to this country even as Dutch business and industry show greater interest in India.

Last year, Tata Steel, the largest Indian company in the Netherlands, announced its merger with Germany’s Thyssen Group. The Headquarters of the merged company will remain in the Netherlands. TCS, India’s biggest IT firm completed 25 years of operations in the Netherlands. One of our major producers and exporters of Basmati rice, LT Foods opened an ultra-modern rice milling plant in Rotterdam.

Similarly, Synthite, the world’s largest supplier of spice oils and oleoresins opened operations in the Food Valley, Wageningen.

India has shown the world that democracy and rapid economic growth can go hand in hand. According to the World Bank and the IMF, India is the fastest growing large economy in the world, growing at a rate of 7.4 to 7.8% this year and expected to continue to grow at this rate for the rest of this decade.

Despite its size, scale and diversity, India has attained an average of 6.6% growth for nearly three decades under a democratic system, with full protection for human rights. India is today the third largest economy in the world in purchasing power parity terms with GDP of US$ 7.2 trillion.

Join International Yoga Day Celebrations at Museumplein, Amsterdam on June 17, 2018 The International Yoga Day will be celebrated on the Museumplein of Amsterdam from 12 noon on June 17with a mass yoga demonstration and a wellness fair involving food, music and dance. I invite the Diplomat magazine and all its readers, especially my friends and colleagues from the diplomatic community to join withtheir families and make the event a big success.

As India grows and integrates more and more with the world, we see the people of Netherlands as our close friends and partners.

ACP meets Michaëlle Jean in Paris 20 December 2017, Paris, IOF: Secretary General of La Francophonie, HE Michaëlle Jean, accompanied by the IOF Administrator General, HE Adama Ouane and her Cabinet Director, HE Jean-Louis Atangana, and other advisers in the fields of economy, programme development and strategy received in audience the Secretary General of the ACP Group of States (Africa, Caribbean and South Pacific countries), HE Dr Patrick Gomes as well as the President of the ACP Committee of Ambassadors, HE Amadou Diop, Permanent Representative of Senegal to the EU and Head of Mission to the Benelux countries with seat in Brusses.

The get-together was organised by the OIF Permanent Representative to the EU, HE Ambassador Stéphane López.

The top level meeting aimed at signing a cooperation agreement between the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) and the ACP Group of states in promoting peace, the right to education, culture, the fight against climate change, promotion of the French language and linguistic diversity as well as the development of economic and entrepreneurial schemes in ACP countries members of OIF. Thirty four states are members simultaneously of OIF and the ACP Group of States Secretariat based in Brussels, Belgium.

diplomatICevents

Both organisations are joining forces through the renewed agreement before future EU-African Union Summit, wherein Dr Patrick Gomes as well as Secretary General Michaëlle Jean normally partake. A dossier of urgent relevance for both organisations is the resurgence of slavery in Libya, afflicting mostly people of Sub-Saharan African descent.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

www.francophonie.org/ accord-cooperation-OIF-ACP-48335.html

Amadou Diop, Michâlle Jean, Adama Ouane, Dr. Patrick Gomes and Stephane Lopez. Picture: IOF

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POLAND FROM THE PAST TO THE FUTU RE:

President of France Visits OPCW

POLAND ON 100 ANNIVER SARY OF REGAINING ITS INDEPEND ENCE

By H.E. Mr. Marcin Czepelak, Ambassador of Poland to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Photography: Courtesy of the Embassy of Poland in The Hague.

There is a painting hanging from the wall in the reception lounge of the Polish Embassy in the Hague. The painting (author unknown) is dated at 1597 and shows the Binnenhof and Lange Viverberg from de Plaats in the Hague. Among others we can see a figure of Paweł Działyński, most likely first Polish envoy to the Union of Utrecht, which will later turn into the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Poland and the Netherlands had a very good relations then. Initially they were based on trade since Poland was a “garner of Europe”, later deepened with similar attitude towards governance system, shared humanistic values and cultural and social development.

It is worth mentioning that at this time Polish kings were elected by the nobles and they had to follow laws and parliamentary statutes. It was also the age of peace between different religions. At the time when Europe was torn apart by religious wars, Poland was also regarded as a safe haven for all persecuted for religious grounds (in 1573 Sejm adopted a law that guaranteed freedom of confession). Moreover, the privilege “neminemcaptivabimus nisi iurevictum” forbid to jail anyone without a court’s order.

All the above explains why Poland was known as a “Republic of Nobles” and was considered as an example state by the most brilliant minds of Europe like Erasmus of Rotterdam, who wrote that “In Polonialexest rex”.

Sadly, the “golden age” (parallel to the famous Dutch one) did not last forever. XVII and XVIII century brought wars, chaos, economic and political collapse with the partitions carried out by our neighbouring powers: Austria, Prussia and Russia reigned by the absolutistic monarchs. Shortly before Polish Sejm adopted - as the last act of political independence – the Constitution of 3 May 1791 that was the second document of that kind in the world (after the USA) and first in Europe.

It took us 123 years, three uprisings (1830-1831, 1846, 1863) and the Great War (1914-1918) to regain our independence in 1918. Still, it was a great challenge to unite a country that had been divided by three different states.

Although it is hard to imagine, in Poland three civil codes were in force: German and Austrian civil codes and – last but not least – also the code civile (called in Poland ‘the Code of Napoleon’). As a lawyer I particularly admire the commitment to unify the Polish legal system. But there was much more to be done. Accordingly, there were three different political system institutions, three different monetary systems and two different railway track sizes. Yet, the II Republic was reborn as a modern state, strong socially, economically and politically.

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Unfortunately, history again turned against us with the imminent II World War. On 1 September 1939 Poland was invaded by the Nazi Germany and on 17 September 1939 by the Soviet Russia. Despite the initial defeat, Polish soldiers continued their fight against Hitler’s armies on all fronts. In this context I would like to recall the struggle of Polish soldiers during the II World War who fought for “your and our freedom” in the Netherlands. It is important for us to remember that the city of Breda and large parts of The Netherlands were liberated

by Polish troops under the command of General Maczek.

The defeat of Nazi Germany did not mean the return of freedom to Poland, since after 1945 Poland fell under the rule of Stalin’s Russia. The red terror crushed the remaining resistance and established the communist regime in Poland. Despite all odds, new generations carried on the struggle of their fathers for freedom that lead to the creation of Solidarity movement and peaceful, democratic transformation in 1989. New governments commenced political and economic reforms which reintroduced market economy and democratic principles to Poland. The end of this process was joining of Poland to NATO in 1999 and EU in 2004.

We, Polish, are very proud about that.

As it was 100 year ago, we are now looking with hope into future. As it was in 1918, also nowadays we are facing numerous challenges in Europe and around the globe, of political, economic and security nature. The historical comparisons are of course not always valid.

The end of First World War in 1918 brought Poland independence, sovereignty and a perspective of hope and optimism so brutally crushed twenty years later by two totalitarian regimes: Nazi Germany and Soviet Union.

In the XXI century we are far from such a gloomy scenario. The world has changed and the situation is different. Nevertheless, the challenges of an uncertain future for our societies cannot be easily resolved. The

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overall aim of Europe, free and at peace is still to be achieved.. and remaining threats to international peace and security have to be adressed. Yet another “frozen conflict” is on- going at Poland’s eastern neighbor.

“Brexit” seems to have seriously shaken the foundations of the EU. And the discussion on how to preserve the transatlantic links between the US and Europe is getting the biggest attention since the end of the Cold War. In a nutshell, we see history in the making.

Looking back at Poland’s last 100 years I must say without a doubt that the last years have been its best. Polish “Round Table talks” and first free elections on 4 June 1989 elections triggered the domino effect of democratic transformation in Central and Eastern Europe and fall of the Berlin Wall, that ended the Cold War. Almost three decades of political and economic developments in Poland resulted in a well-functioning state of 2018 based upon principles of democracy, free market economy, human rights and rule of law. We play an active role in shaping the future of the European Union and NATO. We take seriously the security on a global scale in the United Nations Security Council context. Poland has proven that it is not a security consumer any longer but a contributor to peace regionally and globally. Cumulated experiences of the past along with dynamism and the potential of the Polish national spirit have finally had a unique opportunity to flourish, providing creative solutions in politics, economy, science, technology and sport.

I am honored to be a part of this process as the Polish Ambassador to the Netherlands, a post which I took up just a couple of months ago in September 2017. The Hague as such puts emphasis on elements that are very dear to the Polish hearts, be it dialogue, cooperation, free trade, international law and justice or last but not least security.

These values are also my commitment for day to day work.

The Hague, Netherlands — 22 March 2018 — The President of the French Republic, H.E. Mr Emmanuel Macron, visited the Headquarters of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in The Hague.

President Macron met with the DirectorGeneral of the OPCW, Ambassador Ahmet Üzümcü, who briefed him on the achievements and challenges in the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), including OPCW’s activities in the Syrian Arab Republic, as well as on current challenges and future priorities of the Organisation. The Director-General thanked France for its continued support to the Organisation.

President Macron stated: “The OPCW holds an essential place and plays a fundamental role in our fight against the use of chemical weapons. France will strongly and clearly always support the OPCW’s work so that these unacceptable actions stop and so that impunity does not exist. You can count on our resolute commitment.”

President Macron was accompanied by the Permanent Representative to the OPCW and Ambassador of France to the Netherlands, H.E. Mr Philippe Lalliot; the Diplomatic Advisor to the President of the French Republic, Mr Philippe Etienne; and other members of the delegation.

The Director-General of the OPCW, Ambassador Ahmet Özåmcå and The President of the French Republic, H.E. Mr Emmanuel Macron.

Photography: OPCW.

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lebanon

LE PAYS DES CĂˆDRES

By H.E. Abdel Sattar Issa, Ambassador of Lebanon to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

I present my warmest greetings to the readers of Diplomat Magazine.

I have the honour to be, since the 21st of February the new Ambassador of Lebanon to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

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Kickstart your language learning with an intensive summer course!

Winter is well and truly behind us here in The Hague. The days are getting longer and you’ve suddenly got more free time on your hands. What better time to try something new? Why not use that extra time to start learning a language or build on the skills that you already have, and make some new friends along the way of course?

Taking an intensive language course is a great way to see big improvements in a short time. At Kickstart School, we offer a range of intensive Dutch and English summer courses during July and August to help you improve or maintain your language skills. The daily format means that not only are you learning something new every day, but you get into the habit of actually using the language regularly. While an intensive course might seem daunting at first, so many of our students say how much more comfortable and confident they feel expressing themselves after just a few days.

Intensive Dutch Courses are available for beginner to intermediate-level learners. The Starterpack and Stepping Stone Courses are planned one after the other, with daily lessons every morning for one or two weeks. This format allows our students to complete one or more courses in a shorter timeframe, and the frequency of the lessons means that you are continuously reinforcing what you’ve learnt. What a great way to start your Dutch language learning journey? And our students seem to agree... “I found this course had an intense pace but this was expected. It seems like a good way to get started with learning and speaking Dutch and being less afraid to try.�

Colin, Stepping Stone I student, Summer 2017

advertorial

The impressions, I have had of the Netherlands in these past few weeks, are of a beautiful country. The nature is well preserved, and the efficient sustainable development can be seen everywhere in the Dutch landscapes.

The cities I have visited till now, privately or officially are all elegant, full of cultural and historical sites. These two elements, a beautiful nature and a rich heritage, when mixed with the friendliness and open minded spirit of the Dutch people, give the formula that makes the Kingdom of the Netherlands one of the big tourist destinations in the world.

Lebanon “Le pays des Cèdresâ€? has this magic formula too. It is a small country. It’s surface is 10.452 Km, smaller than the Kingdom of

the Netherlands by almost 4 times. The same applies regarding its population (4,6 millions).

But Lebanon is a very rich and diverse country.

The natural landscape is composed of a varied coastline, where sandy and rocky shores give the opportunity for multiple water sports all year long. A second feature of the natural landscape in Lebanon is its mountains that culminate at the height of 3,088m. This makes my country one of the rare ski destinations in the Middle East with ski seasons that can last till the end of April. This fact means that tourists can enjoy snow skiing and the pristine waters of the Mediterranean in the same time.

Lebanon is also rich in its historical and cultural heritage. It has some historical sites dating back to 7000BC. The Phoenicians, the Greeks, the Romans, the Arabs, the Ottomans, all passed, ruled and left their mark in these ancient lands. This explains why a small country like Lebanon has five sites on the UNESCO World heritage list: Anjar, Baalbeck, Byblos, Ouadi Quadisha, Tyre.

If the visitor does not have enough time to visit all the famous historical sites spread all around Lebanon, a half day spent at the National Museum in Beirut, would surely give

him a condensed preview of the rich history of the country. As for the lovers of cultural and artistic vibes, Beirut would give them a treat with its numerous galleries, theatres and music halls.

The third element of the magic formula, the friendliness of the Lebanese people is as famous as their exquisite cuisine, all over the world. Composed of eighteen religious confessions, they are tolerant and open to all cultures of the world, and master in addition to Arabic, the French and English languages.

This explains why Europeans find it easy to live and communicate in Lebanon.

I encourage the readers of Diplomat Magazines to visit my beautiful country. To help me in convincing them to do this trip, I present some pictures of Lebanon, cause as we say a picture is worth a thousand words.

Enjoy!

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT THE MINISTRY OF TOURISM OF LEBANON: www.mot.gov.lb

Kickstart also offers intensive English summer courses for pre-intermediate to advanced learners to enhance their English in a fun and engaging manner. Focusing on conversational skills, vocabulary, grammar, and communicative activities, these courses run every morning from Monday to Thursday for two weeks. These courses are offered at Pre-Intermediate to Intermediate, and Upper-Intermediate to Advanced levels for adults and now also for teens. Additionally, this summer we will be offering an intensive IELTS preparation programme to teach you all the tips and tricks you need to master your upcoming IELTS exam in an accelerated format.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN IMPROVING YOUR LANGUAGE SKILLS THIS SUMMER?

Don’t hesitate to get in touch, sign up for a course (or two) and let Kickstart take you f urther this summer! To find out more information, visit our website: www.kickstartschool.nl, call us on 070-3607860, email us at info@kickstartschool.nl, or visit us at Laan Copes van Cattenburch 86, Den Haag.

DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE #8

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BULGARIA

MAIN PRIORITIES AND CHALL ENGES OF THE BULGARIAN PRESIDENCY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION

By H.E. Rumen Alexandrov, Ambassador of Bulgaria in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

Taking over the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU is both a privilege challenge and responsibility for us. Bulgaria joined the EU 11 years ago and today it has the chance to shape the EU’s policies in key areas.

FOR US, THE PRESIDENCY IS ALSO A CHANCE TO SHOW OUR PARTNERS A DIFFERENT SIDE OF BULGARIA.

WHAT ARE OUR STRATEGIC GOALS? WE WILL WORK FOR A STABLE AND SECURE EUROPE OF SOLIDARITY.

• a country in which the cohesion funds are bringing about visible change and contributing to year-on-year economic growth of 4%.

• Stable Europe because our citizens expect that the European Union takes care of their prosperity and well-being.

• a country which is protecting the EU’s external border as responsibly as any Schengen area member, without in fact being part of Schengen.

• a country whose currency is governed under the same rules as the euro, whose macroeconomic indicators are impeccable even though it is not part of the Eurozone.

• a country where different religions and ethnicities live together in peace.

In the Bulgarian capital, Sofia, a church, a mosque and a synagogue lie less than 500 metres apart.

I hope that over the next six months many people across Europe will get to know more of these multiple faces of Bulgaria – the good student, the strong economic performer, the model for ethnic tolerance.

We approach the EU Presidency with full awareness that our citizens expect from us effective solutions to concrete problems. After the crises that Europe has faced in recent years it is time to be pragmatic and resultoriented in order to re-gain the confidence of our citizens. The time until the end of the current term of the European Parliament and the European Commission is running short and we need to move fast. That is why the program of our Presidency is ambitious, while remaining realistic.

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• Secure Europe because the migration crisis and the terrorist attacks in the recent years showed how vulnerable we are.

• Solidarity because the main challenges we face can only be resolved by common actions.

TO ACHIEVE OUR GOALS, WE WORK IN FOUR MAIN STRANDS: 1. ECONOMIC GROWTH, SOCIAL COHESION AND YOUTH

In order to boost economic growth, the Bulgarian Presidency will work towards strengthening the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU). We will promote open and inclusive discussion on the EMU architecture.

In the area of the Banking Union we will focus our efforts on risk reduction measures.

“We are putting great emphasis on stable EU finances” We are putting great emphasis on stable EU finances and we will contribute to the discussions on the new Multiannual Financial Framework of the EU (MFF). Bulgaria will endeavour for an honest and open political debate on the future of the Cohesion Policy and maintaining its important role in the budget of the European Union post 2020.

The Cohesion policy has a clear added value as it fosters growth and jobs and has a direct benefit to the citizens.

Next, we believe that young people are key to the development of the European economy and society therefore the level of European investment in education and research is to be increased. We will put an emphasis on the mid-term review of the Erasmus + programme as well as on finalizing the legislative work on the European Solidarity Corps.

2. SECURITY AND STABILITY FOR A STRONGER AND UNITED EUROPE

3. EUROPEAN PERSPECTIVE OF THE WESTERN BALKANS

There is a window of opportunity for concrete progress on the EU path of the Western Balkans’ countries in 2018 and we hope that the countries from the region will take advantage of it. As Presidency of the Council we will fully respect the principles of individual and merit-based assessment, and the fulfillment of the established criteria.

For the security of the Union as a whole it is crucial to complete the reform of the Common European Asylum System, based on the principles of responsibility and genuine solidarity. The Bulgarian Presidency will work for more coordinated European measures in the field of Return policy.

We hope that during the Bulgarian Presidency new negotiation chapters with Serbia and Montenegro could be opened, progress could be made in view of opening negotiations with FYROM and Albania, and the European perspective of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo could be further consolidated.

Another important task for our presidency is to improve the interoperability of the EU information systems and databases.

The EU will continue to encourage the implementation of ambitious reforms which are indispensable for the European integration of the countries in the region. We see huge potential in bringing the region closer to the Union by building missing energy, digital and transport infrastructure. A key initiative which we already started to promote is the gradual decrease of roaming prices.

In Justice area we will focus our efforts on the institutionalization of the European Public Prosecutor‘s Office as well as on the Cross-border access to electronic evidence.

Within the priority for a stronger and more secure European Union we will work towards regional cooperation, energy connectivity, protection of critical energy infrastructure and ensuring the security of gas supply through diversification of sources and routes within the framework of a stable Energy Union.

On 17 May 2018 Bulgaria will host an EU-Western Balkans Summit, which is to send a positive message to all the 6 countries in the region on their European integration.

“...it is crucial to complete the reform of the Common European Asylum System”

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4. DIGITAL ECONOMY AND SKILLS OF THE FUTURE

The Digital Single Market is a source of growth and competitiveness and greater share of online service users and the rapid penetration of information and communication technologies across all sectors of economy is needed.

Our efforts are aimed at providing clear, transparent and balanced transport legislation, that takes into account the national specificities of the EU Member State’s transport sector, with focus on advancing the legislative proposals from the so-called “Road Package”; We share the need for Fair and efficient taxation of corporate profits and preventing tax evasion.

As regards the social dimension of the European Union the focus of the Presidency will be on 4 major topics: “The Future of Work” in the digital and shared economy; European Social Fund (ESF) support in the post 2020 programming period; the concept of early childhood development; and people with disabilities as members of society with equal rights.

By way of concluding just let me mention that the motto of the Bulgarian Presidency is “United we stand strong“.

The motto reflects our historical experience the same words are inscribed at the entrance of our National Assembly and are at the core of our democracy. Our national history has taught us that the more united, the stronger we are.

We believe that this experience of ours is relevant for the EU in this particular moment of time. “Unity” and “integrity” are essential to respond to the common challenges and deliver for our citizens.

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diplomatICEVENTS

Ambassador Mbuende celebrates

TUNISIA

28th Independence Day

CREATING NEW PERSPECTIVES

at Radboud University

“We are here together to celebrate the future, not the past”. With these words Namibian Ambassador Prof. Dr. Kaire Mbuende concluded his inspiring speech during an exclusive celebratory dinner to commemorate the 28th Independence Day of Namibia.

By H.E. Mr. Elyes Ghariani, Ambassador of Tunisia to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Photography: Courtesy by the Embassy of Tunisia in The Hague.

Since 2011, Tunisia is going through radically transformative moment of its History.The Jasmine revolution has resulted in huge changes and led to the irreversible move towards the implementation of a fully-fledged secular democratic system in the country.

Over the last years, Tunisiahave faced a multitude of political challenges and disparities but hopefully, succeeded inovercoming these difficulties thanks to the positive commitment of all the constituency of the Tunisian Society in engaging in franc talks and dialogue and finding compromise and common ground agreement for the best interest of our nation.

Pursuant to this process of dialogue and compromise, we succeeded, in January 2014, in adopting a new constitutionfollowed by both legislative and presidential elections.

Nevertheless, and beyond the achievements reached in the fields of democracy, Human Rights and freedom of expression, Tunisia is nowadays facing greater challenges in terms of economic growth and social development:a challenge that all constituents of the Tunisian society are willing to meet to make of Tunisia a real success story.

Subsequently and in order to allow our economy to recover its vigor and accelerate the pace of reforms, the successive Governments achieved commendable progress on this path with the adoption of new bills for restructuring the banking system, for encouraging transparent and competitive functioning of market practices, for the impulse of investments and for setting a transparent, reliable and modern tax and customs structure.

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Moreover, more bills related to the economic activity are currently under consideration by the Assembly of the Representatives of the People.

Further to the advantages afforded by the investment code and the subsequent decisions in favor of national and international investors, Prime Minister Youssef Chahed announced on Wednesday January 17th, 2018, the launch of a government program to better the investment climate in Tunisia. The program is based on two main pillars: The revision of the system of authorizations required (from the beginning of February 2018, a definitive list of authorizations required for the creation of a project will be ready) and of administrative procedures capable of reducing bureaucracy.

These measures will also affect logistics and more specifically all the commercial ports.

Further, it will allow better handling and customs clearance times by simplifying several procedures which recalls and bolsters the objective of the National Export Council which consists in doubling the Tunisian exports by 2020.

It is worth reminding in this respect the solid baselines and comparative advantages that are worth taking into consideration when intending to invest and work with Tunisia.

In fact, Tunisia enjoys a unique geostrategic position making it a natural gateway to Europe, the MENA region and sub-Saharan African countries. Tunisia is also dotted with numerous factors of success which characterize its hopeful future and make room for optimism, especially its relatively sound economic foundation, its ethnic and cultural harmony and unity in addition to the level of the national elite and the abundance of skilled human resources.

Undeniably, being among the most competitive economies in Africa and the Arab world, the Tunisian economy offers businesses an environment of highquality. The education level of the active population, the sound macroeconomic management and the quality of public institutions are particularly favorable to business competitiveness.

TO STATE A FEW, TUNISIA IS RANKED 1ST IN NORTH AFRICA IN TERMS OF: • Talent Competitiveness “Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2017, INSEAD” • Entrepreneurship Ecosystem | “Global Entrepreneurship Index 2017, GEDI” The “Bloomberg Innovation Index 2018‘’ names also Tunisia as the most innovative country in Africa.

BESIDES, TUNISIA IS WORLDLY COMPETITIVE IN SOME SPECIFIC SECTORS. IN FACT, TUNISIA RANKS: • 1st worldwide exporter of dates • 2nd African producer of car components • 2nd exporter of organic produce in Africa • 3rd worldwide producer of olive oil for the 2015-2016 harvest season

This support was indeed witnessed during the International Conference on Investment, Tunisia 2020, organized in Tunis in November 2016, when40 official delegations and 1500 economic partners from 70 countries attended to show support to Tunisia.

As a follow-up to the Tunisia 2020, the “Tunisia Investment Forum 2017” gathered, in November 09th 2017, about 1,500 international investors, entrepreneurs and project promoters in order to stress out the fact that Tunisia is and will remain an attractive economic destination with high competitiveness capabilities.

Still, The Netherlands and our allies and neighbors of the European Union are called upon to play a major role in gathering support, a role they have always fulfilled with a strong will, and which we hope will pick up momentum and play out in the indicated direction.

We are confident that, in light of the political support shown repeatedly by Dutch high officials to my country, the business community in this vibrant and dynamic economy would have their say in further strengthening the partnership and cooperation ties existing between the two countries on the basis of a win-win principle.

The dinner took place at Faculty Club Huize Heyendael, a historic country house on the campus of Radboud University in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. A very special location for a very special reason because the “future” Ambassador Mbuende referred to, was all about one of the most challenging scientific projects Radboud University is currently working on in close collaboration with the University of Namibia in Windhoek: the hunt for the first-ever picture of a black hole.

A select group of 30 invitees, including a delegation from the Namibian Embassy in Brussels, was briefed about this scientific project for which a radiotelescope needs to be installed on the Gamsberg Plateau in Namibia. Both during the dinner and a preceding workshop, the guests were asked to participate in a discussion which focussed on the project’s scope for social and scientific impact investments and finding supplementary means to support this research.

Leading scientist Prof. Dr. Heino Falcke gave a update of the project and brief presentations were given about the historical relations between Namibia and the Netherlands, the investment climate in Namibia and the importance of scientific collaboration between these two countries.

AMBASSADOR KAIRE MBUENDE:

“Scientific cooperation can make a significant contribution to the development of human capital that is required to transform the economy of Namibia. The successful implementation of the project will put Namibia on the map as the centre of a major scientific breakthrough. This will have a positive impact on the educational system in the country. It will also attract tourism.”

VICE PRESIDENT RADBOUD UNIVERSITY MS. WILMA DE KONING:

“Our scientific cooperation, is in full swing. Two years aago, the University of Namibia and Radboud University signed a Memorandum of Understanding, followed by subsequent visits and exchange. And we are not there yet: the project at hand - reaching for the stars, so to speak - is very ambitious. But we believe in it.”

Concluding an animated discussion, attendants agreed that enormous potential spin-off is to be found in both the Netherlands and Namibia e.g. in scientific and socio-economic development.

Namibian Ambassador Prof. Dr. Kaire Mbuende with guests.

Photography: the Embassy of Namibia.

Since 2011, we have opened on new horizons and we are proceeding with strong resolve and steadfastness on this irreversible path relying in the first place on our own capacities and fully committed to achieve the process that we subscribed to, with the support of the international community.

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BRAZIL INVESTMENT AND TRADE PROMOTION INITIATIVE IN THE NEHERLANDS

By H.E. Regina Maria Cordeiro Dunlop, Ambassador of the Federative Republic of Brazil of the Netherlands. Photography: Maira Ximenes and the Embassy of Brazil.

The economic relations between Brazil and The Netherlands, which date back to the XVI century, are nowadays stronger than ever, due to significant flows of bilateral investments and trade, and the presence of important companies of Brazil in The Netherlands, and Dutch companies in Brazil.

Ever since I arrived at The Hague as Ambassador of Brazil, in February 2017, I have been trying to foster these economic ties even further. Besides receiving relevant business delegations and governmental missions in the fields of transportation, agribusiness, innovation and tourism, the Embassy works on a daily basis to promote better knowledge between Brazilian and Dutch business communities.

In this regard, the Brazil National Day (BND) is the most important investment and trade promotion initiative organized by the Embassy. Twice a year, the BND brings together an average of 300 participants, mainly executives from Dutch businesses that invest (or plan to invest) in Brazil, CEOs of Brazilian companies established in The Netherlands, governmental authorities, opinion makers, Brazilian entrepreneurs, as well as business delegations from different States of Brazil.

Throughout its 14 editions, organized since 2011, always in association with a Dutch municipality, the BND has served as a platform for exchange in many sectors in different regions of The Netherlands.Its most recent editions were dedicated to renewable energy and biofuels (Rio Grande do Sul and Rotterdam, March 2018), agriculture and agribusiness (Santa Catarina and Utrecht, November 2017) andport cooperation and tourism (Ceará and The Hague, March 2017).

Besides building bridges between private companies, the BND has also been attracting significant governmental presence. Organized in cooperation with Municipality of The Hague in March 2017, the 12th BNDhad, as its guest of honor, the Governor of the Brazilian state of Ceará, Camilo Santana, who came to The Netherlands accompanied by a delegation of 40 governmental officials and businessmen.

The event was also attended by representatives from the WestHolland Foreign Investment Agency and from the Municipality of The Hague. The contacts held in the occasionled to significant developments, such as the signature of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Port of Rotterdam and the port of Pecém, as well as the opening of a new KLM flight to Brazil, a direct service to the city of Fortaleza beginning May 2018.

In November 2017, the BND was held jointly with the Municipality of Utrecht and Rabobank.As keynote speakers, the Vice-Minister of Agriculture of Brazil, Eumar Novacki, and the President of the Federation of Industries of the State of Santa Catarina (FIESC), who informed about the Brazilian agribusiness sector as well as the prospects and opportunities of doing business in the Southern region of Brazil. The audience also heard presentations from the Mayor of Utrecht, Jan van Zanen, from the Director General of the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture and from a representative of Rabobank Manage Board.

from Shell and Petrobras, secretaries from the state of Rio Grande do Sul and a business delegation led by Federation of Industries of the State of Rio Grande do Sul (FIERGS) discussed opportunities in the sector of renewable energies, with emphasis on bioenergy.

growth and development, the positive results of BND also show us, more than ever, that pursuing business opportunities in Brazil is mutually beneficial.

Through initiatives like the BND, the Embassy of Brazil in The Hague facilitates business and investment opportunities for Brazilian and Dutch entrepreneurs. As Brazil ushers in a new period of economic

The most recent edition of the BND, in cooperation with the Municipality of Rotterdam, took place in March 2018.

Officers from the Brazilian Ministry of Mines and Energy andfrom the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, the CEO of the Port of Rotterdam, representatives

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slovakia

Tanzania

WELCOMES YOU TO THE ROOF OF AFRICA!

By H.E. Ms Irene Florence M. Kasyanju, Ambassador of the United Republic of Tanzania to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Photography: Ms. Nkundwe Pamela Kasyanju.

Looking for a lifetime adventure?

Or simply itching to scratch off yet another item from your bucket list, why not stand on top of the world’s tallest freestanding mountain? Home to 3 volcanic cones; Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira, Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro(“Kili”)is the ultimate challenge in Africa. Large enough to satisfy one’squest for a little solitude and time reconnecting with nature, Kili effortlessly attracts over 40,000 people a year, from all over the world.

As one of Tanzania’s many illustrious National Parks, Kili contributes immensely to the country’s travel and tourism sector, and GDP. According to the Tanzanian Ministry of Tourism and Natural Resources, due to the success of the country’s National Parks, Tanzania is forecasted to generate at least $11.9 billion in 2027. In 2016, the monumental attraction was recorded to have generated a whopping $78 million from entrance fees alone. Additionally, Kilihas managed to provide continuous work for more than 30,000 porters, guides, chefsand transport assistants, willing to make the challenging journey up with the climbers.

While it is only compulsory to work with the local guides who are familiar with the terrain, most trekkers commonly decide to scale with a team, making their climb as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Unlike some of the world’s other summits, Kili is considered relatively easy to trek, depending on the route and amount of time taken to scale it. Climbers are advised to slowly venture up in no less than 5 to 7 days, in order to give them enough time to acclimate to the mountain’s altitude levels, which tend to be the most challenging part of the trek. Adventurous Dutchman Wim Hof along with 25 other thrill seekers defied all odds, reaching Uhuru (Kili) peak in just 48 hours back in 2014. This achievement, considered impossible by many, including the Dutch Mountaineering and Climbing Federation, was mystifying given that Hof ’s group included men and women aged 29-65.

To top of their incredible triumph, it was reported that about 11 of them reached the -20ºC summit in nothing but shorts. Kili presents astonishing extremes of weather. It has an equatorial climate due to its location, but arctic conditions as well, resulting from its high altitude. January to February, or August to September is the best timeto climb.

Your trek would begin in “the Cultivated Zone,” about 2,600ft – 6,000ft up, consisting

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mostly of farmland and small villages, and where most of the guides, porters and chefs reside. Expect frequent rainfall as you travel through this zone, crucialfor the mountain’s production of coffee, bananas, avocado and other fruits. You would then come to one of the most beautiful areas; “the Forest or Rainforest Zone.” With its mild temperatures and occasional rainfall, this second zone covers a majority of the mountain with lush beautiful flora and an assorted yet elusive amount of faunaat 6,000ft – 9,000ft. Depending on your route through this zone, you would typically come across animals such as monkeys, baboons, leopards, mongooses, rhinoceroses, giraffes and buffaloes. Moving further along your trail would bring you into “the Heather and Moorland Zone,” at approximately 9,000ft – 13,000ft. This zone is renowned for both its spectacular view and unpredictable climate.

Here, you can expect less rain, more winds and giant heathers, wild grasses that get taller as you go, rocky trails and temperatures that run up to 40ºC during the day and fall to as low as 0ºC at night. The erratic nature of this zone may be much for most travelers to deal with, but it’s beautiful blue skies, as well as breathtaking views of both the rainforest below and Kili’s summit above, make the zone more than tolerable. Getting you closer to the glaciers on the cone of Kibo, the deep gorges and barren landscapes of “the Highland Desert Zone” come next. Finally, comes the treasured “Arctic Zone” beginning at 16,000ft and ending at Uhuru Peak; 19,340ft. So many emotions are sure to hit you here, including the awe of your unbelievable surroundings and sense of accomplishment as you stand on top of the “Roof of Africa.”

THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC 25 YEARS AFTER

By H.E. Roman Buzek, Ambassador of Slovakia in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Photography: Courtesy of the Embassy of Slovakia in The Hague.

On the 1st of January 2018 it has been already 25 years since amicable, wellnegotiated and smooth dissolution of the Czech and Slovak Federative Republic brought into existence two successor democratic states: the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic.

Many doubted whether the separation of two countries was going to be successful. Many feared the separation would bring yet another bloody conflict in the heart of Europe. But these fears proved groundless as the split was truly peaceful and friendly.

Just like two siblings who grew up together under one roof and then decided to set up their own houses, two countries remain remarkably close in spite of their independent domiciles. Since 1993 Slovakia and the Czech Republic represent an unparalleled example of good neighbourly relations and friendship based on the same values and principles.

The Slovak Republic at age of 25 is a stable and prosperous country. Still young, but ambitious, it is a reliable and trustworthy member of the international community who takes its share of responsibility for maintaining international peace and prosperity, be it as a growing donor of international assistance or as an active participant in various peacekeeping operations. Holding its first ever Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2016,

Slovakia proved its established position in the international community. Miroslav Lajčák, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic, is currently presiding over the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly. From July 2018, once again Slovakia will chair the Visegrad 4 Group.

Furthermore, Slovakia is now preparing for its presidency of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe in 2019.

Throughout the years the Kingdom of the Netherlands has been one of the partners that provided Slovakia with instrumental support and assistance in various fields of socio-economic development and in joining both the European Union and NATO 14 years ago. The current relationship between the two countries is based on the same European values and perspectives for the common future in the European Union.

The Netherlands has been and still is one of the most prominent foreign investors in Slovakia. The cooperation develops very well in all fields.

The state visit of Her Majesty Queen Beatrix to Slovakia in 2007 reciprocated by the visit of President of the Slovak Republic Ivan Gašparovič to the Netherlands in 2012 proved the excellent relations between the two countries as well as potential for their further development. The two countries currently enjoy vibrant and growing cooperation in all fields: politics, trade and business; education and research; and culture.

During its 25 years of independence Slovakia has undergone series of challenging economic reforms to become a successful and prosperous country joining the single European currency in 2009. The automotive industry is the backbone of the country´s economy with over 1 million cars produced last year. Land Rover / Jaguar is expected to start its production in Nitra later this year joining already existing production facilities of Volkswagen in Bratislava, Peugeot/Citroen in Trnava and Kia in Žilina.

Another perspective branch with huge development potential is mountain tourism which might be particularly interesting for foreign tourists – both in summer and winter time. Slovakia located in the very heart of Europe offers lots of other recreational possibilities, including well-developed spa network providing relief with various illnesses; many opportunities for relaxing, enjoying the nature or historical architecture and last but not least tasting traditional Slovak cuisine and various local wine and beer production.

Young and modern, Slovakia at its age of 25 is full of confidence and visions for the years to come.

On the picture: Spis Castle.

Wim Hof would agree that when it comes to trekking one the world’s fabled Seven Summits, it isall about great mental preparation and determination. The Embassy of Tanzania cordially welcomes you to join thousands travelling with KLM flight daily to explore this natural wonder and discover itsincredible wildlife, vegetation and history.

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MONGOLIA BLUE SKY AND ORANGE COUNTRIES’ FRIENDSHIP

Ecuador COMMITTED TO THE DEFENSE OF HUMAN RIGHTS

By H.E. Mr. Od Och, Ambassador of Mongolia. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

By H.E. Fernando Bucheli, Consul General of the Republic of Ecuador.

Photography: Courtesy of the Consulate General of the Ecuador in The Hague.

For several decades there has been a debate in the international area, about the measures that States should adopt to regulate the immense economic power of large transnational corporations, in the face of possible violations of workers’ human rights.

Up to the present date there is no legal instrument to regulate such relations. Several efforts have been made for the adoption of voluntary codes of corporate responsibility, OECD and United Nations guidelines, but none with universal scope.

The Human Rights Council of the United Nations, during its 26th session in July 2014 in Geneva, decided to establish an open-ended intergovernmental working group on transnational corporations and other business enterprises with respect to human rights,.

The mandate of this working group shall be to elaborate an international legally binding instrument to regulate, in international human rights law, the activities of transnational corporations and other business enterprises.

Ecuador leads the working group since its first session, and it has been working to propose a draft for the aforementioned instrument. The document was constructed in cooperation with different actors in more than 200 bilateral and multilateral intersession meetings both in Geneva and in other countries. The States, workers associations, companies, academics and experts, as well as more than 1,000 nongovernmental organizations have participated

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in several debates. So far three meetings of the working group have been held, while the fourth is scheduled for next October 2018.

2018, Minister Espinosa presented her report in Geneva on the work done by the working group in its third working session.

The purpose of this draft-document is to give elements to create an international legally binding framework that aims to guarantee the respect, promotion and protection of human rights against violations or abuses resulting from the activities of transnational corporations (TNCs) and other business enterprises (OBEs), in order to ensure civil, administrative and criminal liability regarding human rights violations or abuses.

On 14 March 2018, the Permanent Representative of Ecuador to the UN in Geneva-Switzerland, Ambassador Luis Gallegos, explained the progress on this project to the Commission of Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Dutch Parliament. He also held a meeting in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, in order to explain details of the process of construction of the legally binding instrument.

The future Convention should include mechanisms to guarantee the access to justice and effective remedy for such human rights violations or abuses committed by TNCs and OBEs, including remediation and guarantees of non-repetition, as well as the strengthening of international cooperation between all relevant actors and obligations to prevent such adverse human rights impacts.

For Ecuador, respect for human rights is a State policy and is one of the priorities of its foreign policy. In this regard, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility of Ecuador, H.E. María Fernanda Espinosa, visited The Hague on November 2017 and, among other activities, maintains talks with the Secretary General of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, Mr. Hugo Siblesz, to explain the results of the meetings carried out by the working groups and to discuss the proposal of the Court related to designation of arbiters and mediators in disputes of business related to human rights. Additionally, on March 8,

Ecuador believes that it is important to encourage foreign investment as a way to contribute to the development of countries.

However, such investment must be in compliance with the rights of workers and the environment.

I feel myself privileged to address the audience of your esteemed magazine-the very first diplomatic magazine in the Netherland’s history, launched “By diplomats for diplomats”. It is honour for me to convey the heartfelt greetings of the Mongolian people to the great people of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. I had a chance to present my Letters of Credence to His Majesty King WillemAlexander of the Netherlands who graced me with this opportunity. The Mongolians feel special respect to the Dutch people for their great achievements.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is one of our important partners. This year marks the 46th anniversary of diplomatic relations between our two countries.

We appreciate enormously the invaluable development assistance provided by the Government of the Netherlands. We are grateful for the reintroduction of Przewalski horses – Mongolian wild horses, which were in danger of total extinction not only in Mongolia but also in the world, to the Hustai National Park of Mongolia. It has become a flagship of our cooperation.

Ecuador will intensify the work in order to involve more countries, companies, workers and societies in this important matter. The international community should strengthen the support to the work that the intergovernmental working group is carrying out. It is important to remark that, by now, there is no international mechanism that protects the human rights of workers who face abuses from some companies. The moment is now.

The Government of the Netherlands strongly supported Mongolia to become a member of the EBRD. Today, the Netherlands and Mongolia belong to the same constituency at the EBRD. The Netherlands is the second largest investor in Mongolia. We see all opportunities to complement each other. Agriculture and renewable energy are the most promising sectors of our cooperation.

The Netherlands is supporting economic development in Mongolia, which is eligible for a large number of programmes, conducted by the Netherland’s Enterprise Agency (RVO), the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries (CBI), the Netherlands Senior Experts programme (PUM) and the Netherlands Development Bank (FMO). Mongolia’s first ever wind farm was inaugurated in 2013 thanks to the partial investment of the FMO. Mongolia has established the Partnership Cooperation Agreement with the EU. The Netherlands was the first EU member state who ratified the Agreement.

Mongolia and the Netherlands enjoy close cooperation in the field of education, culture and tourism. A large number of Mongolian students studied in the Netherlands

thanks to a grant awarded by the Netherlands Fellowship Programme. The University of Groningen is conducting the Chair for East Asian Studies with a focus on Mongolia.

Clingendael diplomatic training has been one of the highlights of our relations, since it has notable contribution to the capacity building of Mongolia and preparing Europe oriented diplomats since 1994. I was myself the first Mongolian diplomat to study in this Alma Mater.

Recent years, the number of Dutch tourists travelling to Mongolia is increasing significantly as Mongolia is a unique and relatively unexplored travel destination that offers a great combination of beautiful natural features, a wide variety of untouched landscapes, nomadic way of life and culture.

In 2006, Crown Prince Willem-Alexander and Crown Princess Maxima paid an official visit to Mongolia at the invitation of the Government of Mongolia on the occasion of the 800th anniversary of Mongolian statehood.

In 2016, His Excellency Mr. Mark Rutte, Prime Minister of the Netherlands visited Mongolia to participate in the 11th ASEM Summit in Ulaanbaatar. His Excellency Mr. Gerrit Zalm, former Finance Minister of the Netherlands visited Mongolia in 1998 and 2002. From Mongolian side, official visits were paid to the Netherlands at the level of the President, Prime Minister and Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry.

Mongolia and the Netherlands enjoy the successful development of our bilateral cooperation on international arena. Both countries are working closely towards promoting peace and human rights all over the world.

I wish all success to the Kingdom of the Netherlands to its noble contribution to the world progress.

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diplomatICEVENTS

ISRAEL “Beyond Duty” Stories of righteous diplomats

By Guido Lanfranchi. Photography: Marian van Noort.

from left to right: Mr. Roger van Oordt (director Christians for Israel), Chief rabbi Binyomin Jacobs, Mayor Pauline Krikke of The Hague, MP Cees van der Staaij (SGP), and Leo Harskamp (Manager Security Leiden University).

from left to right: the Australian Ambassador, the Ambassador of Estonia, the Swedish Ambassador, Mayor Krikke, Ambassador Shir-On of Israel, MP Cees van der Staaij, the DCM of the Russian Federation, Peter van der Vliet of the Foreign Ministry, Leo Harskamp of Leiden University, and the Ambassador of Hungary.

The City Hall of The Hague hosted the exhibition “Beyond Duty,” in which the government of Israel paid tribute to the brave diplomats who helped Jewish families escaping the Nazi persecution. Speakers were; H.E. Aviv Shir-On, Ambassador of Israel to the Netherlands, the Mayor of The Hague, Ms. Pauline Krikke and the Director for Multilateral Organisations and Human Rights Department, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Peter van der Vliet.

When rules are unjust, is obedience a virtue?

When innocent people are persecuted in front of your eyes, can you just stand by and look? During the times of the Holocaust, many people were faced with these questions.

However, only some managed to take a firm stance in defense of the oppressed and, often in violation of the law, help Jewish families to escape the Nazi persecution.

More than 70 years after the end of the Holocaust, the Jewish people are still aware of the significance of these people’s actions, and they are still eager to express their gratitude. In this spirit, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the organization Yad Vashem, has organized the exhibition “Beyond Duty,” paying tribute to the “righteous diplomats” who, in spite of personal risks, used their role in order to help prosecuted Jews.

The exposition has been held in Jerusalem, as well as in 70 Israeli missions all around the world. In The Hague, the Israeli Embassy to the Netherlands, in collaboration with the Municipality, set up the “Beyond Duty” exhibition in the City Town Hall, in the very center of The Hague, during the first three weeks of March.

During the inaugural ceremony, H.E. Mr. Aviv Shir-On, Ambassador of Israel to the Netherlands, remembered that, in spite of the Nazi oppression, “throughout Europe there were those who refused to stand aside and watch.” The Ambassador talked about the “remarkable story of government officials,” “courageous diplomats who have done what was obvious to them but still stood out from the non-action of many others.”

H.E. Aviv Shir-On, Ambassador of Israel.

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Mr. Shir-On praised the role played by the Dutch people, highlighting the outstanding number of 5,500 Dutch citizens recognized as “Righteous” by Yad Vashem. Among them, he mentioned the story of “Jan Zwartendijk,

the Dutch consul is Kovno, Lithuania, who together with his Japanese colleague Sugihara saved thousands of persecuted Jews from Lithuania and other parts of the Soviet Union.”

The state of Israel does not give away any decorations or certificates of honor apart from the medal of the ‘Righteous among the Nations’ to non-Jews who saved Jews during the Shoah, the Holocaust.

Despite the fact that the Dutch Jewish community was the one who suffered the most in Europe, more than 80 percent of the Dutch Jews were murdered, the Netherlands is the country with the second largest number of the Righteous who were honored, after Poland.

Last year the embassy of Israel organized 34 ceremonies all around the Netherlands in which 60 medals and certificates were handed out posthumously to people, issued by Yad Vashem in Jerusalem. More than 5,500 Dutch citizens were already recognized as Righteous

by Yad Vashem.

“Beyond Duty” has told to its visitors the stories of outstanding people from all over the world: Captain Francis Foley from the United Kingdom, Per Anger and Roaul Wallenbergfrom Sweden, Vladimír Vochoč from Czechoslovakia, Georg Ferdinand Duckwitz from Germany, Sebastián De Romero Radigales from Spain. In spite of their different backgrounds and different situations, all these people found the courage to help people who were being unjustly persecuted.

uzbekistan

H.E. Mr. Dilyor Khakimov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan.

Photograpby the the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Brussels.

diplomatAMBASSADORIAL

FAMILY VALUES

By H.E. Mr. Dilyor Khakimov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the EU and the Benelux countries.

Photography: Mayelinne De Lara (picture below).

Uzbekistan is the most populous country in Central Asia, a region that lies at the heart of the Eurasian continent. Uzbek people have a rich history, culture, art, and literature. Among the array of values that characterize the Uzbek society, family definitely plays a major role. The people believe that a strong family is the basis of a strong society, and therefore they assign to it a great value when making their choices, both in the personal and the political sphere.

For instance, Uzbekistan declared the Preservation of the Family Institute as one of its priorities, and the government has invested a lot of money and efforts to create favorable conditions for mothers to care about their families. In order to do so, a number of state programs have been recently implemented in the country, focusing for instance on the improvement of medical services for the population, and specifically for women and children.

In addition, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has lately directed his efforts at improving the system of preschool education, thus positively impacting the lives of the 2.45 million Uzbek children in preschool age.

Moreover,it is planned that in 2017-2021 the country will implement a special state program for construction and reconstruction of kindergartens. Вy 2018 alone, the plan envisages an investment of about $100 million for reconstruction of 427 kindergartens.

The state is also taking care of women in need of social protection and psychological support. For instance, the State Women’s Committee, chaired by the government’s Deputy Prime Minister, who is in charge

Now, more than 70 years after these events, we can only look back with admiration to these people, thank them for their actions, and maybe learn from them how to build a more just world.

of women’s affairs, has been a focal agency to coordinate nationwide programs in this regard. Besides, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been championing further enhancement of state’s efforts to protect women’s rights, and to provide them with additional opportunities for realizing their potential.

For instance, the latest Presidential decree mandated the establishment of “Oila” (Family) Scientific and Practical Research Center under the Cabinet of Ministers. The aim of this newly established think-tank is to identify and address a range of problems affecting women, and to provide support to families on the ground.

Specifically, in 2017 the Center provided family and marriage-related consultations to over 5 million families, thus preventing 22,000 divorces, employing 36,000 women, and allocating preferential loans to 14,500 people.

As for the employment, Uzbek women make up 45.5% of the country’s whole workforce, and 34% of the whole number of private company managers. Besides, women hold an array of relevant positions in Uzbek society:

500 of them are doctors of sciences and academicians, 15 are Heroes of Uzbekistan, 17 are senators, and 16 are members of the Lower house of the Parliament.

The government and the people of Uzbekistan believe that, in times of globalization and mutual penetration of cultures, the preservation of national cultural and moral values is an important matter. And, in this process, the family is a major pillar. To this end, the country is currently drafting a Concept of Strengthening the Family Institute: this institute will identify the main priorities for all stakeholders in the process of making the family a primary cell of society, in order to preserve the traditions of the Uzbek people.

Despite being different countries in different parts of the world, Uzbekistan and the Netherlands are somewhat similar in terms of protecting and empowering women. On the one hand, the Dutch are well known for their values of freedom, protection, and tolerance. On the other hand, Uzbekistan can be proud of its accomplishments in this regard, especially among fellow Central Asian countries and in the Islamic world at large.

To closely observe Uzbekistan’s achievements and explore opportunities for cooperation, Diplomat Magazine is currently planning a visit to Uzbekistan in July this year. Women ambassadors accredited in the Netherlands and a number of women leaders from business and industry would be invited to this trip.

In light of vast transformations which are now underway in Uzbekistan, interaction between women leaders from various countries might well lead to a broader dialogue on the very important issues, such as preservation and strengthening of family values. Diplomat Magazine is proud to facilitate this process, and to be part of this interesting and relevant initiative.

DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE #8

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diplomatAMBASSADORIAL

diplomatAMBASSADORIAL

GEORGIA WHY GEORGIA SHOULD BE ON YOUR MIND; AMBASSADOR NATALIE SABANADZE’ S GEORGIA HIGHLIGHTS

By H.E. Ms. Natalie Sabanadze, Ambassador of Georgia to the EU. Photography: Courtesy of the Embassy of Georgia to the EU.

Uzbekistan is the most populous country in Central Asia, a region that lies at the heart of the Eurasian continent. Uzbek people have a rich history, culture, art, and literature. Among the array of values that characterize the Uzbek society, family definitely plays a major role. The people believe that a strong family is the basis of a strong society, and therefore they assign to it a great value when making their choices, both in the personal and the political sphere.

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For instance, Uzbekistan declared the Preservation of the Family Institute as one of its priorities, and the government has invested a lot of money and efforts to create favorable conditions for mothers to care about their families. In order to do so, a number of state programs have been recently implemented in the country, focusing for instance on the improvement of medical services for the population, and specifically for women and children.

In addition, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has lately directed his efforts at improving the system of preschool education, thus positively impacting the lives of the 2.45 million Uzbek children in preschool age.

Moreover,it is planned that in 2017-2021 the country will implement a special state program for construction and reconstruction of kindergartens. Вy 2018 alone, the plan envisages an investment of about $100 million for reconstruction of 427 kindergartens.

The state is also taking care of women in need of social protection and psychological support. For instance, the State Women’s Committee, chaired by the government’s Deputy Prime Minister, who is in charge of women’s affairs, has been a focal agency to coordinate nationwide programs in this regard. Besides, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been championing further enhancement of state’s efforts to protect women’s rights, and to provide them with additional opportunities for realizing their potential.

For instance, the latest Presidential decree mandated the establishment of “Oila” (Family) Scientific and Practical Research Center under the Cabinet of Ministers. The aim of this newly established think-tank is to identify and address a range of problems affecting women, and to provide support to families on the ground.

Specifically, in 2017 the Center provided family and marriage-related consultations to over 5 million families, thus preventing 22,000 divorces, employing 36,000 women, and allocating preferential loans to 14,500 people.

As for the employment, Uzbek women make up 45.5% of the country’s whole workforce, and 34% of the whole number of private company managers. Besides, women hold an array of relevant positions in Uzbek society: 500 of them are doctors of sciences and academicians, 15 are Heroes of Uzbekistan, 17 are senators, and 16 are members of the Lower house of the Parliament.

The government and the people of Uzbekistan believe that, in times of globalization and mutual penetration of cultures, the preservation of national cultural and moral values is an important matter. And, in this process, the family is a major pillar. To this end, the country is currently drafting a Concept of Strengthening the Family Institute: this institute will identify the main priorities for all stakeholders in the process of making the family a primary cell of society, in order to preserve the traditions of the Uzbek people.

Despite being different countries in different parts of the world, Uzbekistan and the Netherlands are somewhat similar in terms of protecting and empowering women. On the one hand, the Dutch are well known for their values of freedom, protection, and tolerance.

On the other hand, Uzbekistan can be proud of its accomplishments in this regard, especially among fellow Central Asian countries and in the Islamic world at large.

To closely observe Uzbekistan’s achievements and explore opportunities for cooperation, Diplomat Magazine is currently planning a visit to Uzbekistan in July this year. Women ambassadors accredited in the Netherlands and a number of women leaders from business and industry would be invited to this trip.

In light of vast transformations which are now underway in Uzbekistan, interaction between women leaders from various countries might well lead to a broader dialogue on the very important issues, such as preservation and strengthening of family values. Diplomat Magazine is proud to facilitate this process, and to be part of this interesting and relevant initiative.

DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE #8

45

diplomaticmagazine

H.E. Mr. Igor Popov, Ambassador of Macedonia.

Ambassador of Macedonia Igor Popov Bids The Hague Farewell

ceremony of merit for the Ambassador of armEnia Dziunik Aghajanian

By Roy Lie Atjam. Photography: Roy Strik.

H.E. Vusi Bruce Koloane Ambassador of South Africa presenting the Certificate of Merit to the Ambassador of Armenia

By Roy Lie Atjam. Photography: Roy Strik.

H.E. Ms. Dziunik Aghajanian Ambassador of Armenia to the Netherlands took leave of fellow Ambassadors at a Ceremony of Merits, hosted by Diplomat Magazine and Diplomatic Card at the Crowne Plaza Promenade, The Hague, on 19th March 2018.

Dziunik Aghajanian is a career diplomat who has served her beloved Armenia in various national and international capacities.

She represented Armenia as Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the International institutions in The Hague. Credit is due to Dziunik Aghajanianis.

H.E. Vusi Bruce Koloane Ambassador of South Africa hailed DziunikAghajanian for her stellar contributions. He further thanked her for the excellent cooperation over the past years, most notably at the OPCW. In her acceptance speech, Ambassador Aghajanian expressed her gratitude for the support she received from the Netherlands and the international community.

diplomaticmagazine

Ambassador Dziunik Aghajanian was presented with a Certificate of Merit in recognition for her contribution in strengthening the bilateral and multilateral relations between Armenia the Netherlands and international institutions.

We wish Ambassador Aghajanian all the best in her new assignment as Head of Mission in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Ceremony of Merit is sponsored by Diplomatic Card.

As a gesture of goodwill and for the purpose of cultural diplomacy, Ambassador Alvarez Nuñez’s staff presented guests takeaway bags filled with “holiday dreams” to be shared with armchair travellers at home. The bags included a copy of “Auténtica Cuba”, the country’s latest travel brochure promoting the country as a year round holiday destination.

Cuba, the largest island in the Caribbean, offers a temperate climate and a variety of travel experiences for everyone to discover and enjoy.

“Auténtica Cuba” is an invitation to explore the island’s 300 km of fine sandy beaches, 5,000 km of coastline, warm tranquil waters, coral reefs, historic cities and nine UNESCO cultural and natural world heritage sites.

With major airline carriers offering daily nonstop flights from Amsterdam to Havana, Cuba has never been closer. The great explorer Christopher Columbus, according to “Auténtica Cuba,” described the island’s natural splendour as, “the most beautiful land that human eyes have seen.” After enjoying the ambassador’s warm introduction to “authentic Cuba,” many guests are likely to plan their own “meet and greet” with the Cuba for an island holiday in the near future!

The Crowne Plaza Hotel in The Hague reached maximum capacity on Thursday April 12, 2018 for a Ceremony of Merits honouring H.E. Mr. Igor Popov, Ambassador of Macedonia. The ceremony was lead by H.E. Mr. Joseph Cole Ambassador of Malta and H.E. Mrs. Adia Sakiqi Ambassador of Albania. Both thanked and praised Popov for his professionalism, intelligence and sense of humor.

Further, Ambassador Cole likened the career of an Ambassador to that of a train. “You hub on it and move from station to station.” Ambassador Cole remarked that Ambassador Popov and him presented Credentials to the King of the Netherlands on the same day and from there their friendship started.

“I’m leaving today with a wealth of knowledge I will always treasure. Working in The Hague has been a fantastic learning experience. I’ve learned how to take directions, criticism, and compliments. These are three things I wasn’t so great at taking before.”

Subsequently, Ambassador Popov was presented with a Certificate of Merit and his wife, Maja Popov, received a bouquet of flowers in Macedonia’s national colors. In his acceptance speech, Popov thanked those who contributed to making his four-year stay in The Hague successful. He expressed gratitude to His Majesty the King and the Queen of the Netherlands, the Eerste and Tweede Kamers, the Prime Minister cabinet and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Next, he thanked all of his “the wonderful colleagues,” especially those at the RVO, and the municipalities of The Hague and Wassenaar, “were we spent an unforgettable four years…” Popov above all, praised the “...Macedonians citizens of the Netherlands. They are the true Ambassadors.” He concluded his expressions of gratitude by applauding his wife Maja, who gave up her career in order to enable him to become Macedonia’s representative to the USA and Europe.

Notable in Popov’s speech was the quotation of the poem “Do not gentle into that good night” by Dylan Thomas, a poem cherished by his deceased father Mr. Grozdan Popov. A reception with a monumental cake featuring Macedonia’s national symbols created by Marta Orban, concluded the farewell ceremony.

Head of Missions attending the ceremony

Ambassador Popov dedicated part of his speech to Diplomat Magazine, by saying: “I would like to thank Diplomat Magazine on this great honour and my dear friend Mayelinne De Lara on her tireless enthusiasm in creating a magazine that is also a home to us, that provides confirmation and great lasting memories, documenting in the best way our work and interaction in the City of Justice.”

Dr. Mayelinne De Lara and H.E. Igor Popov

Among the ambassadors from left to right we can see in the picture the ambassadors of Mexico, Italy, Cameroon, Bangladesh, Philippines, India, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Venezuela, Morocco, Indonesia, Viet Nam, Israel, South Africa, Romania, Tunisia, Ghana, Algeria, Panama, Holy Sea, Ecuador, Portugal and Bulgaria.

Left: H.E. Adia Sakiqi, Ambassador of Albania H.E. Joseph Cole, Ambassador of Malta during his speech.

Right: Maja Popova and Igor Popov

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for more pictures see: diplomatmagazine.nl

for more pictures see: diplomatmagazine.nl

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Ambassadors attending the ceremony

H.E. Andrea Gustovic-Ercegovac, Ambassador of Croatia

ceremony of merit for the Ambassador of kosovo H.E. Dr. Vjosa Dobruna

By Roy Lie Atjam. Photography: Roy Strik.

The ceremony took place at the Crown Plaza Hotel The Hague on 20 April 2018. After being highly praised by H.E. Mrs. Andrea Gustovic –Ercegovac, Ambassador of Croatia, H.E. Mr. Willys Delvalle, Ambassador of Panama showered more accolades on his colleague and friend Vjosa.

In her farewell speech Ambassador Andrea Gustovic-Ercegovac noted: “The Hague, not only the centre of power of the Netherlands, but also being one of the centers of the world diplomacy is a place where only the best are sent to serve!

So it is no wonder that Vjosa was sent to this very important centre to promote her country and to uphold the values she has built throughout her life!

Prior to joining diplomatic service, Dr. Dobruna had a dedicated career as a practicing pediatrician, a human rights advocate and a campaigner, as well as active contributor to the causes that matter, mainly dedicated to human rights and freedoms.

I would like to express admiration for the work and the achievements of your mandate and gratitude for the cooperation, both personal and official.

Ambassador Willys Delvalle, mentioned that Dr Vjosa Dobruna is a true professional of diplomacy with quite a trajectory, an incredible advocate of human rights. “After presenting her Letters of Credence to HM King Willem Alexander in 2013, we have witnessed her excellent diplomatic skills. She has done an incredible job in The Hague, putting Kosovo on the map for many people.

Ambassador Dobruna is one of those professionals who compliment all her knowledge, experience and her high-level education with a very special human quality.

Several awards have been bestowed upon her, such as Edward Barsky Award for courageous physician(USA) and Medalio dell Oro(Italy).

Dr. Dobruna is a persistent and committed woman since we believe this is a farewell we will only give her an “Hasta Luego” In her acceptance remarks Dr. Vjosa Dobruna stated: “I have enjoyed so much working and living in The Hague, I even learned to treasure the weather of The Hague. It was really my privilege to serve my country in such an admirable country like The Kingdom of the Netherlands. I will always be grateful for the hospitality and friendship.

As I’m going to conclude my term as Kosovo Ambassador after 4 years and 7 months, and I am happy to note that Kosovo relationship with Netherlands is good, and it is important to maintain and further increase that cooperation.

My country is not in the news for war and conflict, but it is for successes in different fields of life. I had spoken to many, many students in different universities and spoke to lots of media about the achievements in my country during this years, and about how much more needs to be done in the future.

Only if we can convince EU to come up with common policy regarding my country and the region!. It is not only we join Europe tomorrow, but support the region in integration so we can change our countries.

As Ambassador, I was lucky to have been involved in several important visits in the past years including two presidential visits.

In December 2013, President of the Republic, Ms. Atifete Jahjaga visited Netherlands and was received in audience with His Majesty King Willem Alexander, PM Mark Rutte and Ankie Broekers-Knol, President of the Senate and Speaker of Tweede Kamer, Anouchka van Miltenburg.

During the first visit of then President Jahjaga, the first cooperation with Diplomatic magazine started. Thank you Diplomat Magazine, you have been a true friend and I am going to be always grateful.

I will not forget my friends here.”

From left to right (first row) Mr. Robert Bosch, former Dutch Ambassador to Kosovo, H.E. Ms. Andrea Gustović-Ercegovac, Ambassador of Croatia and H.E. Mrs Heidemaria Gürer, Ambassador of Austria.

(Second row) H.E. Mrs. Katri Viinikka, Ambassador of Finland and H.E. Mrs Ngo Thi Hoa, Ambassador of Viet Nam.

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for more pictures see: diplomatmagazine.nl

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meettheambassador

meettheambassador

Palestinian priorities MEETING THE CHIEF OF PALESTINIAN MISSION: H.E. MS. RAWAN SULAIMAN

Developing Guatemala

WITH PASSION AND DETERMINATION

Photography: Kim Vermaat.

A career diplomat, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and experienced lawyer who has acted as legal advisor of her country and other Latin American countries in a number of trade disputes before the World Trade Organization is now the Ambassador of Guatemala to the Netherlands, H.E. Marithza Ruiz de Vielman.

“The Netherlands is the gateway to Europe.

Our products are shipped to the Netherlands to be distributed in this country and throughout Europe. Guatemala produces high quality fresh fruits and vegetables, and we would like to take advantage of new technologies that are available in the Netherlands to expand commercial relations with Dutch companies in other areas.”

Ambassador Ruiz de Vielman feels the decision taken some time ago by the Dutch government to close down their Embassy in her country “fails to promote the conditions required to meet the challenges that Guatemala faces after signing the peace accords in December of 1996 to put an end to an internal armed conflict that lasted over 36 years. Re-opening the embassy in Guatemala

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would send a positive message, and show that the Kingdom of the Netherlands is willing to walk with us the road to development and prosperity.”

Guatemala is a multiethnic, multicultural, multilingual society “whose people take great pride in their Maya heritage, acknowledged as great mathematicians and astrologers, who built important urban centers in northern Guatemala.” said Ambassador Ruiz de Vielman.

The ambassador of Guatemala to the Netherlands is also accredited before the International Court of Justice, and as she declared during this interview, “the case that Guatemala may bring against Belize before the ICJ regarding her country’s territorial, insular and maritime rights is a professional challenge and a personal privilege for someone who like herself has been working on the issue for most of her professional life. Because efforts to find an amicable solution to the dispute failed, Belize and Guatemala signed a special agreement to submit Guatemala’s claims to the ICJ. They further agreed that separate referenda, i.e. consultation or popular vote, must be convened in both countries prior to submitting the case to the ICJ. Guatemala held a referendum on April 15th, and 96% of the votes cast approved the decision to submit the

case to the ICJ. For its part, Belize announced that its own referendum will be held on the 10th of April 2019.”

Ambassador Ruiz de Vielman added a final thought on the Belize issue saying she would like to be remembered in her country for her commitment and dedication to the case during more than two decades, particularly during her tenure as Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala In closing, she explained the broad and complex agenda she is pursuing to strengthen the ties between Guatemala and the Netherlands, such as water management projects, protection of the environment, gender rights, the rights of women and children, promoting non-violence, and most of all, ensuring market access and investment opportunities for Dutch and Guatemalan entities To have H.E. Marithza Ruiz de Vielman posted here just confirms the famous phrase:

“We send our best to The Hague.”

The last year and a half in The Hague served as an important milestone in the career of H.E. Ms. Sulaiman, who began her function as Desk Officer for the Netherlands in the early 80’s.

The Netherlands have been very supportive towards Palestine in different fields, related to water management, the rule of law, justice, human rights, state building capabilities.

Moreover, the government has created several programs, such as the Dutch-Palestinian cooperation forum and the Netherlands’ food security program in Palestine, and it has contributed to the UN Relief and Work Agency’s work for Palestinian refugees and to the reconstruction of Gaza.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte has been asking on several occasions the solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict; and still continuously receiving delegations for political consultations.

Stressing the importance of the economic sector, the Chief of Mission in The Hague said: “The economic sector is important for us, and also the exchange of knowledge and technology.” With the support of civil society organizations, the private sector, and the Palestinian Investment Agency, the Palestinian Mission is actively considering projects on water management, solar energy, IT, infrastructure improvement, and the develpment of import-export capabilities.

DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE #8

“We need to work on the economy to improve the quality of life of our people, and we are organizing a business trip before the end of the year, in order to promote the commercial exchanges between us and the Netherlands. It is true that the occupation prevents us from accessing our natural resources, and that we don’t control our borders: this is a fact.

However, we are resilient people, and we are going ahead, with the help of the international community.”

Last year, was the 50th anniversary of the 1967 War, in which Palestinians suffered the Occupation of a vast amount of their land, including the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza. “Our nation continues to suffer from the world’s longest sustained military occupation in contemporary history,” the Chief of Mission said.

“On May 15th, 2018, Palestinians commemorated 70 years of what is known as the ‘Nakba,’ which means catastrophe, or disaster. This day marks the foced expulsion of our people from our homeland by the actions of Israeli forces and Zionist militias in 1948. It marks loss, dispossession, and injustice suffered by the Palestinian people, and this injustice still continues today. The Nakba commemorates the period in which approximately 800.000 Palestinians, at the time two-thirds of the population, became homeless and stateless refugees.”

“I am a refugee myself,” H.E. Ms. Sulaiman said. “My late father was expelled from Jaffa during the Nakba and he was never allowed to return. In fact, in order to achieve peace with the Israelis, the Palestinians gave up the claim to 78% of our historic homeland, and recognized Israel. We have endorsed the two-state solution for the past 30 years, but this solution is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve as time passes.”

We still believe in the path we have chosen to claim our rights and achieve peace, that is the path of international law, even though we realise it is long and often frustrating.

Hotel del Indes is an emblematic historic hotel in The Hague, symbol of Dutch beauty, tradition and class, charm and character, elegance and grandeur with more than 132 years of credentials: www.hoteldesindes.nl

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meettheambassador

Victory in Iraq is a Victory for Everyone INTRODUCING H.E. DR. HISHAM AL-ALAWI, THE NEW AMBASSADOR OF IRAQ TO THE NETHERLANDS Just a few weeks after the presentation of his diplomatic credentials, H.E. Dr. Al-Alawi is already fully active in representing Iraq in The Netherlands. The Ambassador opened the conversation with an update of the current situation in Iraq. Concerning security issues, he stressed that “no single village or town is now under the control of Daesh,” and that this “victory in Iraq against Daesh is a victory for everyone,” and not only for the Iraqi people. H.E. Dr. Al-Alawi also mentioned the stabilization and reconstruction efforts, which have been estimated to amount to US$ 100 billion. In doing so, the Ambassador welcomed the help pledged by the international community during the recent Kuwait International Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq, which took place in February 2018.

By Guido Lanfranchi. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

However, H.E. Dr. Al-Alawi stressed, in order to effectively tackle the root causes of terrorism, Iraq and the region need not only security and reconstruction efforts, but also a broad, comprehensive socio-economic strategy.

Its strategy consists of five main points, namely: enhancing regional cooperation; strengthening people to people relations; looking after the youth; promoting sustainable development in the region; providing the right environment for minimizing the need for foreign intervention.

Re-shifting the focus more specifically on Iraq, H.E. Dr. Al-Alawi also described the Iraqi government’s efforts to recover from the 2014 economic crisis, reducing state expenditure and starting a process of diversification of the Iraqi economy.

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In order to break its dependency from oil revenues, the government has been trying to promote developments in other sectors, such as agriculture, industry, tourism, and in general it has been creating favourable conditions for the growth of the private sector.

In particular, the Ambassador stressed Iraq’s potential as an attractive site for tourists, for both religious and historical purposes, and he repeatedly emphasized his optimism regarding the country’s future.

DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE #8

Finally, the Ambassador stressed the importance of The Netherlands as a relevant player at the European and at the global level, especially in specific fields such as water management and counter-terrorism policies. In these two areas, the Ambassador praised the positive role played by two institutions based in The Netherlands, namely, the Institute for Water Education and the International Center for CounterTerrorism, both very active in advising the policies of government worldwide.

As for economic issues, Dr. Al-Alawi also praised the good economic relationship between Iraq and The Netherlands, symbolized by the annual US$ 2 billion of trade between the two countries, and by the activity of Dutch private companies such as Shell and Philips. Concerning political matters, the Ambassador stressed the increasingly close relationship between Iraq and The Netherlands, highlighted by the high number of high-level meetings between the officials of the two countries.

For instance, in July H.E. Ms. Sigrid Kaag, Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, is expected to visit Iraq, hopefully paving the way for a later visit by the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Stephanus Blok.

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meettheambassador

diplomatICEVENTS HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CURRENT SITUATION OF SECURITY AND ECONOMY IN AFGHANISTAN?

The security situation in Afghanistan is not good right now unfortunately. The root of the problem lies outside of Afghanistan in the neighbouring countries. For a long time, terrorist groups have been supported and trained by neighbouring countries and sent to Afghanistan to serve their own purpose.

We are optimistic to overcome the current situation and stand against any kind of terrorism.

We have lots of opportunities for economic growth. Afghanistan connects Central Asia with South Asia. Central Asian countries are rich in natural materials and energy.

Afghanistan serves as a transit way to carry raw materials and energy to South Asia. Through this regional cooperation project, Afghanistan can improve its economy. However, these activities and projects are dependent of the security situation.

Vision for Afghanistan

WHAT IS YOUR VISION WITH REGARD TO PEACE, STABILITY AND ULTIMATELY, GROWTH IN AFGHANISTAN?

By Sheila Turabaz. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

His Excellency Dr. Mohammad Homayoon Azizi is the new Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to the Netherlands, succeeding H.E. Dr. Obaidullah Obaid. H.E. Dr. Azizi started his career as a medical doctor in 2005.

He also entered into local politics that same year as a member of the Herat Provincial Council in western Afghanistan and later as chairman. In 2010 he was appointed Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, and Provincial Governor of Kandahar in south-central Afghanistan in 2015, while ultimately entering the diplomatic world in his first foreign mission as ambassador to the Netherlands.

Dr. Azizi has presented his letter of credentials to His Majesty King Willem-Alexander on 25 October 2017. In his first interview for Diplomat Magazine, H.E. Dr. Azizi explains what his projects are as ambassador and gives us insight in to the current situation in Afghanistan.

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SINCE YOU FIRST PRESENTED YOUR LETTER OF CREDENTIALS IN OCTOBER 2017 UNTIL NOW, HOW HAS THE EXPERIENCE OF BEING AN AMBASSADOR BEEN?

Being an ambassador of my country is a good opportunity to share my experiences and the reality of Afghanistan with my international colleagues here. As an ambassador, I can explain to the host country authorities in Netherlands what our (Afghanistan’s) needs are and explain to the political parties and civil society of the Netherlands in which fields we could cooperate and the importance of the Netherlands’ engagement in Afghanistan. It is also a good opportunity for me to explain what is currently going on in Afghanistan by focusing on the achievements that have been made but also looking at the challenges Afghanistan is currently facing. If we look at Afghanistan as a whole one should realize that we have made tremendous progress in various fields since the fall of the Taliban in 2001 which is not comparable with the situation before 2001. We are currently in a conflict situation and not in a post-conflict situation. Our nation has paid a lot in this regard; our national forces do not only defend Afghanistan and its people but also fight for democracy, equity, freedom and justice, which we share with all humans.

HOW DO YOU ASSESS THE BILATERAL RELATIONS BETWEEN AFGHANISTAN AND THE NETHERLANDS?

In 1965, Afghanistan and the Netherlands entered official diplomatic relations. Our bilateral relationship has intensified due to the Netherlands’ engagement in rebuilding Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. Currently, we maintain good relations with the Dutch authorities; this also includes the consular section of our embassy that has good relations with the Ministry of Justice and Security of the Netherlands.

HOW DO YOU INTEND TO STIMULATE TRADE RELATIONS BETWEEN THE TWO COUNTRIES?

When I arrived here in the Netherlands, I started to research the possibilities. The requirements of products to be exported from Afghanistan to the Netherlands, consists of very high standards. Unfortunately, Afghan products cannot meet these European standards. We are now focusing on exporting materials, which do not have to meet such high standards, such as raw material as well as exploring other possibilities.

I consider the security situation in Afghanistan to be multidimensional. To achieve peace we need a comprehensive approach. Peace and stability and ultimately growth can only be achieved by an honest cooperation and commitments on the regional as well as on the international level.

WHAT WILL BE ON THE EMBASSY’S AGENDA FOR 2018?

The first thing on our agenda is to manage our trade mission in the Netherlands.

Secondly, we are working with the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs to establish a sister organization of the Institute for Water Management to train Afghan civil servants as part of capacity building. Third on our agenda is meeting with the Nederlandse Vrouwenraad–an umbrella organization for Dutch women’ s rights – in order to gain new insights with regards to improving the position of women in Afghanistan. Lastly, we intend to set up a political agreement with the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs to define our relations in different sectors.

DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE #8

Russia 2018 Diplomats Day Celebration

By Roy Lie Atjam. Photography: the Embassy of Russia in The Hague.

The Russian Federation knows a unique holiday, Russia might be the only country in the world with such a professional holiday “Diplomats Day” celebrated on February 10.

Diplomats Day is considered to be the day of the foundation of the first Foreign Policy Department of Russia «Posolsky Prikaz» (Ambassadorial Board) in 1549.

H.E. Alexander Shulgin, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, flung open the doors of his residence to celebrate the 2018 Diplomats Day with scores of Diplomats and other invitees in a context of joy.

After words of welcome Ambassador Shulgin went on to unveil a bust in honor of Fjodor Martens, a diplomat and jurist in service of the Russian Empire who made tremendous contributions to international law.

Further the Russian artist Bazjenova, put on a impressive performance of song and dance. Ambassador Shulgin continue with his speech by relating: “…. looking back at the history of Russian diplomacy we recollect Peter the Great, who himself was a far-sighted and skillful diplomat.”

“One of the highest-ranking Peter the Great’s diplomats, Count Andrey Artamonovich Matveev, became the first permanent envoy of Russia to the States General. Being a bright diplomat he could maintain strong ties with the local cultural circles. Some of the painting masterpieces purchased by him on the orders the Czar can be viewed nowadays the Hermitage Amsterdam. If you happen to visit the exhibition «Dutch Masters» in that museum you will also see a

portrait of a daughter of the Ambassador by a famous Dutch painter Godfried Schalcken.”

“Speaking about diplomats and diplomacy here, in the Netherlands I cannot but to mention yet another Russian talented diplomat and lawyer, international arbitrator and historian – Fyodor Fyodorovich Martens. He made a significant contribution to the science of international law. The triumph of Martens as a jurist is associated with the organization and conduct of the First World Peace Conference in The Hague in 1899. And today I am honored to present to you a sculpture of Fyodor Martens by the famous Russian sculptor Alexander Taratinov. The work of art will be transported to Moscow and become a part of the museum of diplomatic service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”

“The distinguished diplomats mentioned here laid a solid basis for the development of friendly relations between Russia and the Netherlands. Thanks to their historical achievements we look at the future of our relationship with optimism.”

“I am confident that existing imperfections in our relations will be overcome, and time-tested bilateral ties will help foster our cooperation for the benefit of our peoples, and for the sake of peace and security in Europe and around the world.”

H.E. Alexander Shulgin, the Ambassador of Russia and Russian artist Bazjenova.

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Fabulous Flavours from the Land of Milk and Honey

OPENNESS FROM TRADITION.

THE CONSULAR WORK OF THE CITY OF FRANKFURT AM MAIN

By Mayor Peter Feldmann, Lord Mayor of Frankfurt am Main. Photography: Stadt Frankfurt Felix Wachendoerfer.

Representations of foreign states reside in capital cities? Usually, but not always! Frankfurt is certainly not the seat of the provincial government, but nevertheless the majority of the 108 consulates in the State of Hessen are located in the economic and logistical centre of the state.

The Hessian Consular Corps therefore enjoys a special privilege, as it is cared for equally by the Hessian state government as well as the municipal authorities of the City of Frankfurt am Main.

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By John Dunkelgrün. Photography: Robert Huiberts.

Israel is a small country surrounded almost completely by entities that are sworn to its destruction. One would think that this would result in an insular mentality, a shutting itself off from a hostile world.

That couldn’t be further from the truth.

Israel has taken in immigrants from all over the world and absorbed many cultures into its own strong identity.

Nowhere is this more clear than in its cuisine. From the very beginning the early immigrants from Eastern Europe mixed their foods with local foods from the Eastern Mediterranean. Then came Yemenites and Jews expelled from North Africa following the establishment of the State of Israel. Israel then was a poor country, but rich in good local produce, produce that is a staple of its cuisine to this very day as evidenced by its great and thriving food markets. Spices like zatar, humus and tejina, pita breads became as ubiquitous as challah and gefilte fish.

On the pictures: 1 H.E. Mr. Dimitrios Chronopoulos, Ambassador of Greece, H.E. Andrea Gustovic-Ercegovac, Ambassador of Croatia, H.E. Aviv Shir-On Ambassador of Israel, Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, Diplomat Magazine’s Publisher, H.E. Regina Cordeiro-Dunlop, Ambassador of Brazil and Mr. Ronaldo Dunlop.

2 H.E. Alexander Shulgin, Ambassadorof Russia with the Ambassador of Israel, H.E. Aviv Shir-On. 3 Chef and author Jonathan Borowitz, from Israel Food Channel, chef Sido de Brabander, from Crowne Plaza and Head-chef Amid Aaronsohn.

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2 By today its cooking has been spiced up by foods from a host of African countries, the America’s and Asia. Young Israelis are inveterate travellers and they have brought tastes and recipes from literally all over the planet. This experience along with a growing economy resulted over the years in a unique Israeli cuisine with a bevy of chefs that are enjoying international renown. In recent years Israeli food has become fashionable as far away as New York and London. Some chefs, like Ottolenghi and his partner Sami Tamimi have become celebrities and household names all over the world.

Why is this? As Ambassador Aviv Shir-On explains, Israeli chefs, coming from a myriad of cultures openend themselves to the world, travelled widely, taught and learned. They are not political, working with fellow chefs from everywhere and in the start-up country that Israel has become, there are many start-up initiatives in cooking as well. Partnering with Palestinian chefs, cooks from Mali, Asia and almost anywhere you care to name, Israeli chefs are in a very real sense cooking for peace.

For example, a renowned Israeli chef Ram Shmueli cooked at a food festival in Vienna together with the chef of the American Colony Hotel in East Jerusalem, Mohammad al Jawi.

It is lucky for The Netherlands that Mr. Patrick Aarsman, General Manager of the Promenade Crown Plaza Hotel included Israel in its series of international food festivals. He was lucky to get chefs like Jonathan Borowitz and Amid Aaronsohn to work alongside his own chef Side de Brabander to prepare a magnificent spread of exquisite flavours. Your correspondent is not a professional food writer, but to put it succinctly, they made ordinary sounding dishes truly spectacular. Baby pita breads with lamb and a tahine sauce, beefsteak tartare and a spicy tomato fish stew among others were real taste sensations.

3 Jonathan Borowitz considers it amazing that a country of just 70 years old with immigrants from so many countries has developed a real and recognisable Israeli cuisine. He attributes it to the terroir, the people and the histories. Jewish holidays like the Shabat and Passover were celebrated with different dishes everywhere and they have come together in Israel. Thus food has become a way of communication. We are now the third generation, he said, we cook from our memories but with modern, international, adaptations. He worked for fifteen years for different Ministries, but the work didn’t touch him and he didn’t touch people with it. “I hope I can now touch you with my food. Food is a language, food makes people come together, maybe food will bring finally peace”.

The opening evening of the festival was a great success, there were over one hundred people among which almost thirty ambassadors. They enjoyed the food, the cordiality that enjoying good food together can bring and, last but not least, the excellent wines.

It is a sad thing that thinking about Israel has become overshadowed by thinking about the conflict, a conflict of two peoples living on the same land. Perhaps, by sharing the produce of the land, each others foods, learning cooking techniques and above all eating together may bring the peace for which so many millions are hungering.

The Hessian State Chancellery and the Frankfurt Department of Communications and City Marketing are working closely together to this end. In this way, inaugural receptions are hosted for new consular officials in both Wiesbaden as well as in Frankfurt. Here it is the Lord Mayor’s honour to regularly welcome the new members of the Hessian Consular Corps for their inaugural visit in the historical Römer City Hall. The imperial hall offers a celebratory atmosphere with the paintings of 52 majesties of the Holy Roman Empire, the majority of which had been elected in Frankfurt.

But the role of the City of Frankfurt as a host does not stop there. The summer reception for the Hessian Consular Corps takes place regularly, which the City of Frankfurt traditionally hosts. The same applies for the “Autumn Seasonal Meeting of the Consular Corps”. Here the state government and the municipal authorities hand out the invites. As a result, the host role is based on reciprocity.

When the consular authorities send out invites for the national holidays of their own countries or other important occasions, the hosts in Frankfurt gladly become guests themselves.

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But also Heads of State and Government from other states come to Frankfurt regularly. In June 2015 H.M. Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom honoured Frankfurt am Main during her state visit. Before the banquet in the historical imperial hall she showed great interest in the Paulskirche in Frankfurt, the meeting place of the first German parliament in 1848.

The Frankfurt International Book Trade-Fair is another occasion event where international heads of state and government officials can be expected to participate within the framework of the annual Guest of Honour-Country.

As a result, Their Majesties King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of the Belgians, were welcomed in 2016 and most recently the President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron in 2017.

The tasks of a good host are incumbent upon the offices in the Department of Communications and City Marketing, which is subordinate to the Lord Mayor. Here the Protocol Office organizes the municipal receptions and the International Affairs Office is available to the Hessian Consular Corps as a central contact for practical support. This

includes e.g. finding the right nursery or school places, function rooms, support with traffic and property matters and also basic questions on diplomacy.

The staff at the Department of Communications and City Marketing gladly assists the members of the Consulate Corps from all continents with guidance and resources. Their interlocutors praise the open atmosphere in Frankfurt, where peaceful cohabitation works. No wonder, as in Frankfurt we have been understanding exchange as an opportunity for as long as we can remember. In our home also live people from 177 nations, who master approximately 200 languages. Without this openness, Frankfurt’s tradition that reaches back to the middle ages as an international exhibition and trade city would be unthinkable. As an advantage there is also the quality of life in a green city, surrounded by several low mountain ranges. In addition, there is the position as the junction of important road and rail links, as well as the international airport.

All of the important international airlines serve the hub. This also sustainably influences the work of the consular agencies in our city.

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KOSOVO CELEBRATED THE 10TH AN NIVERSARY OF ITS INDEPENDENCE Ora, Dua Lipa, Era Istrefi are already shining in the musical world. Our artists such as Sisley Xhafaand Petrit Halilaj are making the history of art throughout the world.

By Dr. Mimoza Ahmetaj, Former Kosovar Minister of EU Integration & MP who signed the Declaration of Independence. Photography: Courtesy of the author.

February 17th marked the 10th Anniversary of Kosovo’s independence with Kosovo being the youngest country in Europe and with the youngest population.

Although it is a time for celebration, we should spend few moments to look back at the path we went through, the achievements and the challenges and obstacles we have gone through and think what we aim to achieve in the future.

Ten years ago, on a cold freezing day of February 17 2008, the world woke up with another state on the global map. After many years of struggle, devotion, and dedication from many people, although from different background and different walks of life, they were united in a simple truth: the right for life, liberty, and happiness for generations to come. We have learned that nothing is more precious than independence and freedom.

It took us a long path to get to the destination but finally, the democracy has prevailed, the right to live and breath free, the dream and the will of Kosovo’s people, whenever they’re living,came true. In the freezing day of February in the country covered by the thin layer of snow, the elected people of this nation in coordinated with the most advanced democratic countries throughout the world have gathered together to declare and sign the highest act of the nation-Independence.

Hundreds and thousands of people from all around the world, whose destinies were linked in some sort of way with Kosovo during their lifetime, flooded Kosovo to see the rise of

the country, to witness the birth of the state in the beginning of XXI century. It was a privilege to witness that moment of our lives but it was more than an honor to be among those representing the nation and being able to sign on their behalf the Declaration of Independence. The existence of Kosovo was sealed and the bright future of our country was paved. Kosovo was not alone in this path.

There were nations from the most advanced global democracies that stood side by side with us in that long run of the statehood the same as they are with us today in a process of the state building.

They were moments of disbelief and distrust that the country will not be able to exist and survive but we managed to show to the world that the will of the people and their commitment, the hard work of our institutions and dedication are the best guarantees that we will stay firm toward fulfilment of our ambitions and the creation of the state who is provider of stability in the region and who has a perspective for the better future. This is the state that belongs to its citizen no matter of their religion or national background.

Over the years, the world has changed, the core democratic values have been challenged, but despite that, Kosovo’s people continue to believe and will never abandon the values which are the core, the essence of liberal democracy and are the ruling model for our country.

Throughout all these years, Kosovo has achieved many successes and marked its short history in the global scene. Beside investments in education, rule of law, reforms in public administration, fight against terrorism, crime and corruption and the rise in the economy of the country, Kosovo has signed the first Stabilisation and Association Agreement with EU, the process that paved the way toward EU integration process and sealed our future to the EU. Kosovo became a member of many regional and international organizations, IOF, IOC, UEFA, and FIFA. Our judo wrestlers such as Majlinda Kelmendi and her team won a gold medal at World Olympic Games in Brazil, hence, Kosovo’s flag was waving on top of all others, a proof that the potential of the young people of Kosovo will prevail over political barriers. Kosovo signers such as Rita

And, of course, countries were not built in ten years … Despite a remarkable progress that we have made, Kosovo is still facing the challenges: UN membership, EU and NATO integration, economic development, increase of foreign investment, education, unemployment, membership in other international organisations, regional cooperation, continuation of reforms in different sectors, are ranked highly in our agenda and it is us who should continue and do our at most for a better Kosovo.

There is still a long way ahead of us but together we can make the years ahead the best years our state has ever had if we can rise above cynicism and doubt and continue to remain united for the better future of our generations to come.

It is obvious that all the problems could not be solved over the night but it is important to have good faith and remain committed to our duties and objectives and make the dream of Kosovo’s people come true; to be proud of our achievements and successes, to be proud of being Kosovar, as an equal member state of the EU and NATO. Happy 10th Anniversary Kosovo! Tomorrow is another day!

FINANCING THE RESISTANCE

By Barend ter Haar. Photography: Maaike Vink.

Anybody interested in recent Dutch history should see The Resistance Banker, a movie that is currently shown in many Dutch theaters. The original film, entitled Bankier van het verzetis in Dutch, so look for the version with English subtitles.It tells the story of how during the German occupation of the Netherlands during the Second World War a system was set up to finance the Dutch resistance.

It started with supporting the families of Dutch sailors. Most of them were at sea when Germany attacked the Netherlands and decided not to return to the Netherlands as long as it was occupied by the Nazis. To punish these sailors, the Germans prohibited disbursing their salaries to their wives and children. To support these families an underground Zeemanspot (Seamen-Fund) was set up.

However, there were much more people in need of financial assistance. Therefore a Landrottenfonds (LandlubbersFund) was set up, to be succeeded by the NationaalSteunFonds (National Aid Fund). This NationaalSteunFonds (NSF) supported not only the families of seamen, but also the families of resistance workers that were arrested, people that refused to work for the Germans, Jewish families in hiding, etc.

When in September 1944 a general railway strike was ordered and 30000 railway workers lost their regular income, the NSF took also care of them.

The NSFdistributed about 100 million guilders (currently worth approximately € 500 million) to 50000 addresses, thereby supporting about 150000 people.

Collecting, distributing and administrating so much money to so many destinations would have been a major operation in peace time, but in an occupied country where all this had

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to be done in utmost secrecy, it was a wonder that the system continued working until the very end of the war. Of the 2000 people involved in distributing the money, 82 were arrested and killed by the Germans. Among those were the two founders of the NSF, Iman van den Bosch and Walraven van Hall.

At first, most of the necessary money consisted of gifts. Soon this had to be supplemented by loans that would be paid back after the war. To collect and to distribute the money and to administrate all this, an underground bank had to be set up. This has been the work of Walraven (Wally) van Hall and his brother Gijs.

They developed an ingenious system to cheat the Dutch National Bank that was governed by a pro-German director.

Without using any violence, they robbed the bank of 50 million guilders.

“The film The Resistance Banker rightly honours their courage and creativity.”

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THE PURSUIT OF HIGH PEACE

WELCOMING H.E. JUDGE NAWAF SALAM

By Marwan Hani Osseiran. Photography: Roy Strik.

David J. Goldfield is an author who spent many years in the international corporate word in banking and finance. He wrote “The Ambassador’s Word” finalist in Ottawa Book Awards, now being adapted into a feature length film. “The Ambassador’s Word” is a non-fiction narrative account of a major international hostage taking and the role of the Canadian Ambassador in Lima, Peru in 1996-97.

Now David J. Goldfield present his novel “Into the Volcano” set in Latin America.

It was researched during his time living and working in Panama over 10 years.

A film adaptation is also currently being developed while he is now working in another novel set in India.

Frank Donahue, main character Into the Volcano, is playing a dangerous game in his role as an investigative journalist and publisher of Panama Express reporting on the vagaries of the corrupt government and other organizations. Frank, an ex-US marine, figures he can take care of any trouble that might come along.

He is divorced, resigned to living his life alone, until Shauna, enters his life and asks him to help in tracking down her estranged husband, Paul, who has mysteriously disappeared.

FOR INFORMATION:

pegasuspublishers.com/books/ latest-releases/into-the-volcano Pegasus Elliot MacKenzie Publisher Ltd. Tel.: 01223 370012 editors@pegasuspublishers.com www.pegasuspublishers.com

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On a sunny afternoon in February, I headed to the Peace Palace to meet His Excellency Nawaf Salam of Lebanon. On November 9, 2017, Judge Salam was elected to the International Court of Justice for the 2018-2027 term, having received a concurrent majority of votes in the United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council.

He was officially sworn in as Judge of the Court on the morning of February 6, 2018. High Peace is the literal translation from Arabic of H.E.’s name, and it certainly fits in the circumstances. The International Court of Justice, commonly referred to as the World Court, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. It settles legal disputes between members states and gives advisory opinions to authorized UN organs and specialized agencies. The Court is designed as a mechanism to resolve legal disputes peacefully in order for states to avoid resorting to war.

Judge Salam is a Lebanese diplomat, jurist and academic. He received a doctorate in Political Science from the Institut d’Etudes Politiques de Paris, an LL.M. from Harvard Law School and a doctorate in History from the Sorbonne. He spent over 20 years teaching international law and international relations at various leading universities in Beirut, Paris and Cambridge, Massachusetts. He was also a practitioner at a leading constitutional and public international law firm in Beirut before becoming an ambassador and a political appointee for Lebanon to the United Nations in New York. During his tenure at the United Nations, he had the historic opportunity to serve as a member of the Security Council and presided over it twice during that time. He is considered something of a renaissance man who has made a difference, during a difficult time for the region of the Middle East and Lebanon. Particularly during the creation of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) where he played a special role in supervising and negotiating between the Lebanese government and the United Nations.

Judge Salam did not always aspire to join the Court, H.E. stressed as we sat down. It was not planned, he remarked. It was after becoming the Permanent Representative of Lebanon to the United Nations in New York that he had the idea of submitting his candidature. He became interested in doing more and more. H.E. points to a small frame in his bookshelves, his grandfather Salim Salam’s ID card. “He was a

source of inspiration for me”, he comments. He was not only a modernizing figure, but he also pushed hard for reforms, leading the “Beirut Reform Movement’ during the Ottoman Empire. He was a modern and liberal spirit.

He was also a close friend and advisor to Emir Faisal who led the Arab delegation to the Paris Peace Conference in 1919. Like his grandfather, Judge Salam has a very special relationship to Beirut and is aware of the significant role it played in the renaissance movement of the region through the institution of universities, publishing houses, a free press and a whole spirit of modernization and reform for the entire region. Today, H.E. stressed the need for a new renaissance for the region to promote ideas like the rule of law, human rights, accountability, an end to impunity and many other essential values missing from the region. Judge Salam belongs to a generation that was informed by Beirut, the City, the progressive role it played in the past. In addition, H.E. stressed the continuous development of international law. “Yesterday we faced emerging issues of international environmental law for instance; today, we have cyber-crime. We have something relatively new, the concept of international criminal law and the creation of the ICC, the birth of the whole idea of ending impunity. We are on the right track”, he repeats.

As we move to discuss the seats at the bench and the fair representation of all geographic regions at the International Court of Justice, Judge Salam explained Article 9 of the statute of the ICJ and stressed the importance of a better balance overall, the representation of the main forms of civilization and of the principal legal systems of the world. “Definitely, in the Charter of the UN, there are no reserved seats”, he remarks. “Therefore, there is a need for a contemporaneous and fair representation of all geographic regions on the bench. It is clear that the Security Council no longer reflects the world as it is today. It was important for a long time that the composition of the court reflect that of the security council. Clearly, this is no longer the case.”

“It is clear that the Security Council no longer reflects the world as it is today.”

GREEN SAVANNAH DIPLOMATIC CABLE TAKES OFF IN AFRICA

By Sunday Oyinloye.

Photography: Studio 24, Abuja, Nigeria.

A former staff of the Embassy of Nigeria in The Hague, Netherlands, Sunday Oyinloye has floated Green Savannah Diplomatic Cable, the first international weekly online diplomatic magazine in Nigeria.

Until he floated Green Savannah Diplomatic Cable, Oyinloye was the West Africa Editor of Diplomat magazine, Netherlands-the very first diplomatic magazine in the Netherlands founded by and for Diplomats in the Benelux and European Union. It is also the only official diplomatic publication in the Netherlands.

Sunday Oyinloye, who has put about 28 years into the practice of Journalism was the former Editor of Newspeg newspaper and the Pioneer Editor of Central Post Newspaper both in Nigeria. He is passionate about world peace and has continued to use his magazine to promote peace and build bridges across the globe.

Green Savannah Diplomatic Cable focuses on Embassies, International Organisations, Non-Governmental Organisations/ Health, Business, Politics as well as Culture/Tourism. It has contributors from many African countries, Europe, America and Asia.

The magazine which started operation on June 16,2017 has as its tagline: “Path to a peaceful world”. www. greensavannahdiplomaticcable.com The vision of the magazine is to promote peace across the globe especially Africa which has witnessed some wars and crisis in the past. The Publisher of Green Savannah Diplomatic Cable believes that a stable and peaceful Africa would mean less resources expended on humanitarian crisis by International organisations and donor agencies. It will also mean reduction in the number of deaths in the continent.

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DIPLOMATS AND SOCIAL MEDIA: NEW COMPETENCES NEEDED FOR ‘BIRD WATCHING’

LATIN AMERICAN TABLE

By Dr. Huub Ruël. Professor of International Hospitality Business and Diplomacy & Global Talent Management Innovation.

Hotelschool The Hague – Hospitality Research Centre.

Today’s world is very much a social media world. There is hardly any event that is not caught by a camera and shared via social media. It is the channel for creating, sharing and spinning opinions, videos, messages fake news and so on, although not always free. All types of professions are affected by it, and diplomacy is no exception. The current US president may have helped lift the status of social media to new levels, both higher and lower. He uses Twitter as his channel of first resort to share his opinions with the world before sharing it with his staff and advisors. This is the ultimate classic case of how social media usage impacts the work of diplomats.

Each tweet by the US president requires the US diplomatic corps around the world to interpret the message and stand behind it. The US president’s tweeting-behavior requires diplomats to be on alert 24/7 and beyond.

Social media usage has many good aspects with regard to the work of diplomats. It offers opportunities to increase the transparency of the work done by embassies, it increases the speed of distributing information, and it enables diplomats to contact a wider and more diverse audience. In cases of emerging crises, social media allows the public to be informed instantly. Diplomats have started to use social media for their own profiling and visibility.

But as the case of the US president implies, the phenomenon of social media has also become a source of stress for diplomats. An unending global reporting of events requires instant responses from diplomats and foreign ministries,whichare constantly on the alert.

And in today’s world of fake news, information and social media messages need to be verified all the time, increasing the work pressure.

Another issue arising is that social media usage is a meansto trigger policy change, something that worries authorities in several places around the world. And again, fake news is a risk here as well, intentionally spread by hostile actors to serve their own harmful ends.

All this impacts the role, work and competences required of diplomats. Social media are here to stay and will keep on advancing. Regulations by governments may be starting to contain the trouble of fake news and trolls, but it is difficult to believe that this will ever be completelyresolved. Fake news and trolls existed in the past and will continue to exist in the future.

For individual diplomats, the question is to what extent will my role be served by social media visibility? The roles and types of diplomats are likely to become more diverse. For some types being visible and active on social media is crucial while others will prefer non-visibility, serving thesilent and hidden diplomacy with actors behind the scenes.

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But visible or not, the ability to absorb, analyze and respond to information is a key competence for diplomats in general.The ability to understand the mechanisms of how the ‘viral’ world works, how ‘stories’ and ‘events’ are created and may unfold is essential for diplomats in order to be able to respond and act ‘ahead of the social media news curve’.

As social media are always used intentionally and new types of social media will keep on emerging, diplomats need to have that sense of how to spot new social media developments.

Since social media is a channel for the public, diplomats will need to have a good sense of what’s going on in the host country society.

Staying inside the ‘cocoon’ among fellow diplomats and government representatives will not help them be effective in a social media-sensitive society.

Finally, due to the social media-facilitated high speed information flows around the world, individual diplomats need to have an excellent sense of finding their own space to act (proactively) and react via social media. The time to jump on a horse to deliver a government-approved message to foreign governments and heads of state is unfortunately far too short in a world in which presidents of global powers are using a ‘bird’ to communicate with citizens at home and abroad. And that ‘bird’ speed will keep on increasing.

By Karel Frielink, Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Bonaire, Curaçao, St. Maarten, St. Eustatius and Saba; Dean of the Consular Corps of Curaçao; Attorney in the Dutch Caribbean (This contribution is written a titre personnel). Photography: Dion Gumbs.

What do presidents, diplomats, housekeepers, attorneys, kids, CEOs and second-hand car dealers have in common? They all negotiate in order to get what they want.

Negotiating your way through life. It all starts when you are born. A baby’s negotiating power comes from his mouth; when used by adults it is described as the cry baby tactic.

Before adulthood you negotiate with your parents about pocket-money, getting toys or a scooter. It is then that you realize that size and power do matter. You develop skills and tactics. You will need those skills (and tactics) not only in a work environment, but also in daily living.

Especially if negotiating is part of your profession, you must know how to negotiate successfully. Know your style and that of the others involved in the process: are (only) reasonable negotiators involved? Do they want to be the sole winner of the negotiations or are they seeking a solution to the problems of all parties involved? Are the negotiators competitive or working side-by-side? Does the relationship matter more than the stakes?

Is the focus on interests, or on positions? What is it you want out of the negotiation? What is it the other party wants? What do they think you want? Determine your settlement range: the area between your best and worse-case scenario. Preparation is a key element in achieving success. I refer to Michael P. Donaldson’s book The Power of Preparation: The Wish-Want-Walk Negotiating Method:what you wish ideally (your goal), what you consider right and therefore want (where you think the negotiation should end up) and under which outcome you will walk awayform a deal because it is simply not worth it.

Negotiating is about communication, effective communication to be more precise.

Without listening attentively, which for the avoidance of doubt means stop talking and stop planning your response, effective communication cannot exist. Listening isn’t easy. It too requires preparation as well as a DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE #8

sincere interest in the other party. In order to get what you want, you need to know where the other person is coming from.As Gary Noesner wrote in Stalling for Time: My Life as an FBI Hostage Negotiator: “Listening is the cheapest yet most powerful concession we can make.”

Diplomats and lawyers can learn from each other when it comes to being a smart and effective negotiator. Aernoud Bourdrez is a lawyer based in Amsterdam and a conflict negotiator. The approach of Bourdrez differs from traditional advocacy. Where traditional lawyers focus on the legal aspects of the conflict, Bourdrez puts emphasis on the patterns that characterize the conflict and ways to break through these patterns.

On preventing and resolving conflicts Bourdrez wrote the book Think Like a Lawyer, Don’t Act Like One. For this book he followed the famous course Program on Negotiation at Harvard and he read standard works like Getting to Yes, The Theory of Conflict and The Art of War. He also watched hours of Big Brother and Hell’s Kitchen and dozens of K-1 fights.

But according to Bourdrez, he learned the most from Dashcam movies on YouTube.

Particularly those from Russia, where traffic can get raw. The dash mounted cameras beautifully record how conflicts arise, and how the one conflict drastically gets out of hand and the other one is smartly resolved.

Based on historical events, hilarious blunders, and examples from his own practice, Bourdrez explains the recurring patterns you see in conflicts and how you can break through. In his book he offers 75 successful strategies for avoiding or solving conflicts.

Even a career diplomat could learn a thing or two from a lawyer. And vice versa of course!

The organising committee of the Latin American Table at Nieuwe of Littéraire Sociëteit De Witte consisting of Ms. Sonia de Meijer (chair) and Mr. Jorge E. Colombo Taricco (vice-chair), hosted a lecture by Mr. Jaime Bakker, Project manager of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.

The attendees included ambassadors, diplomats, trade representatives, business contacts, members of Sociëteit De Witte and special guests.

The lecture focused on the idea that export to the EU seems simple in theory.

The EU, after all, is one common market without borders. However, while unified in principle, the EU is comprised of many different cultures, languages, and levies varying taxes.

Foremost, Mr. Bakker recommends getting to know a potential trade partner on a personal level and study the market in order to ensure mutually-beneficial cooperation.

These points were summarized via three questions Mr. Bakker deemed critical when engaging within trade in the EU. First, how can I expand my exports and imports?

Second, what opportunities exist in foreign markets? Lastly, how can I reach foreign markets?.

UPCOMING ACTIVITIES IN LATIN AMERICA BY THE DUTCH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ARE:

• Incoming Trade Missions • Road to Latin America • Road to Central America • Promoting business events • Enterprise Europe Network (offices inArgentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru) • Cooperation with Netherlands Enterprise Agency • CCI International Photography: courtesy of G.N.S. Netherlands.

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This is how Colombia presents itself to the world!

“THE MOL” IN GEORGIA The Embassy of Georgia to the Netherlands hosted “Wie is de Mol” in Georgia. The Embassy organised this event last March to inform the representatives of Dutch tourism agencies and media about the “Mol effect” and to extend humble gratitude to the reality show.

The aim of the promotional event was to make the country more popular as a tourist destination in the Netherlands. The Ambassador of Georgia H.E. Mr. Konstantine Surguladze thanked WIDM to have chosen Georgia beautiful land and for demonstrating its hidden marvels to the Dutch audience.

Colombia’s La Mambanegra orchestra is touring Euroasia

During the event a representative of Georgian National Tourism Administration, Ms. Nino Turashvilimade talked about “Georgia – ‘Mol’ effect and expectations” and the Head of Business Development of Georgian Airways, Ms. Eteri Gaiashvili about Georgian Airways.

Also a member of Georgian wine club, Mr. David Jishkariani talked about the variety of

By Roy Lie Atjam. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

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Georgian wine and the Qvevri winemaking method. At the end of presentations, they answered questions of the audience and talked about the recent undertakings in Georgian tourism industry.

The audience also had the opportunity to listen to the Georgian polyphonic singing by the folk ensemble “Meskheti”, who was also performing in the 8th episode of WIDM. The event was followed by a reception with Georgian wine and traditional dishes.

With the support of the Embassy of Georgia, direct involvement of the Georgian National Tourism Administration and Tbilisi City Hall, the popular AVROTROS-program/ 18th season/ was hosted by Georgia. The TV program took place in the capital, Tbilisi and different regions. “Wie is de Mol” showed many images of Georgia’s touristic potential, its beauty, culture, polyphonic music, etc.

The interest in Georgia since the start of “Wie is de Mol” increased significantly. Producers of the show call it WIDM effect, which occurred directly after the start of the show.

Photography: Marian van Noort.

The Hague, it is Thursday 17 May 2018, the venue, Het Korenhuis, the Embassy of Colombia in the Netherlands presented one of the most popular salsa groups in the World! MrJacoboVélez and his band La Mambanegra. Created in 2012 in Cali Colombia, this Latin America music orchestra has been performing on numerous scenes in the world. El Callegüeso y Su Mala Maña is a muchappreciated piece.La Mambanegra is La nouvelle vague Colombienne!

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia has a project called Cultural Diplomacy. It aspires to promote knowledge of Colombia’s cultural expressions: literature, cinema, gastronomy and of course music to the world.

La Mambanegra put on a dazzling concert at the Korenhuis The Hague on Thursday 17 May. Some of Ambassador Juan Jose Quintana’s colleagues, Peru, Curacao, Argentina and others joined the fabulous salsa+ party. The ambiente was unmistakably Colombian-Latin America.

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The band by all means succeeded in capturing the attention of the audience from start to finish. La Mambanegra presents a repertoire called “Break Salsa” a Latin music mixture of Colombian music, funk, New York salsa, R&B, along with Jamaican influences.

La Mambanegra is on a Eurasian tour that will take them to Azerbaijan, Turkey, Poland and Portugal.

Commonwealth Summit 2018 in London Photography: Courtesy of the Commonwealth.

MEMBERS OF THE ORCHESTRA ARE: JACOBOVÉLEZ – SINGER, SAXOPHONE

April 2018, London: the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2018 was hosted by the 88th British Prime Minister Theresa May in her capacity as Commonwealth Chair-in-Office in rotating fashion after the Maltese Premier Joseph Muscat passed the torch to her.

Sergio ‘Checho’ Orobio – song, güiro Roger Torres – trumpet Fabio ‘Mifa’ Lucumi – trombone Daniel Gutierrez – keyboard Yeferson Carabaldi Obando – base Harold Orozco – drums, timbales Juan Carlos Arrechea – conga

The Commonwealth of Nations is an intergovernmental organisation of 53 member states that are mostly former territories of the British Empire. It represents about 2.4 billion people scattered about the world. This two-day summit involved 46 heads of Commonwealth governments and foreign ministers from the remaining seven countries.

All in all, the leaders agreed on a communiqué entitled “Towards a common future” wherein they obliged themselves to pursue policies to protect the oceans from pollution and climate change, combat cyber online crime and threats, prevent violent extremism and human trafficking, pledged to halve malaria in Commonwealth countries by 2023 and endeavour that all boys and girls should receive at least 12 years of education by 2030.

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Britain encouraged more active trade amongst the countries with in order to expand intra-Commonwealth trade to $2 trillion by 2030.

A pivotal result of the consultations was the decision that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II ought to be succeeded by her eldest son and heir apparent, HRH The Prince of Wales, as Head of the Commonwealth after the former’s demise. The ceremonial role, currently held by Queen Elizabeth II, is largely a symbolic one and carries no maximum fixed term but it is not deemed to be hereditary.

Meanwhile, the Commonwealth Secretary-General and the Secretariat, its central organisation, help to plan many Commonwealth activities.

Incumbent and VI Secretary-General is HE The Rt Hon Baroness Patricia Scotland of Asthal.

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diplomatICSpouses

diplomatICSpouses A very important part of the Pollera is the head accessories called Tembleques (The term comes from the movement of the pistils of the flowers, as they should move when dancing). Tembleques are made of pearls, crystals and other materials. A shaking head can have between 12 and 14 pairs of flowers, depending on the size of the head. They are placed in pairs symmetrically on both sides of the head.

Tatiana Delvalle

PROMOTING AND SHARING PANAMA’S CULTURE IN THE WORLD

By Diplomat Magazine.

Photography: Marian van Noort.

Tatiana Delvalle always brings Panama in her heart, wherever she goes.

In this article, Ms. Delvalle talks with us about her life and duties as the spouse of H.E. Mr. Delvalle, Ambassador of Panama to the Netherlands.

The Netherlands is your first destination abroad as a diplomat’s spouse. Does your experience here live up to your expectations?

Life in The Hague has been wonderful, much better than anticipated. We feel very fortunate to be posted in a city that offers an incredible variety of Dutch and international experiences.

We appreciate the Dutch’s open mind, joyful and straightforward character as well as the opportunity to meet very interesting and friendly people from around the world, which makes the experience of living in The Hague, very unique and extraordinary.

The city of The Hague has a blend of nature, urban, and cultural environment. When we arrived in October 2014, we were surprised to see how beautifully the forest and beach

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embrace the city. We enjoy very much the possibility to cycle and walk around the city to admire the architecture, historical sites, and cultural and gastronomic offer. All of this decorated with beautiful canals, flowers and trees in a very organized and efficient way of living.

In addition, our experience is complemented by everything that The Hague offers as the city of peace and justice. It is amazing how this city welcomes so many international organizations and how important they are for the whole world. We have to take in account that all these international organizations have also made important decisions for the international agenda.

Last but not least, being able to be part of the presentation of Ambassador’s Willys Delvalle letters of credence to His Majesty King WillemAlexander has been one of the most exciting experiences of my life. It is a ceremony full of details such as the travel to the Noordeinde Palace in the state coach, drawn by two horses, followed by the national anthem played by the military band upon arriving at the Palace. This was a truly unforgettable moment because in just a few minutes we felt overwhelmed by the pride of representing our country, full of projects and goals.

As a spouse, you surely have certain responsibilities. How do you use your position to promote your country abroad?

Lastly the Pollera is not complete without the beautiful gold jewelry that complements it.

The jewelry consists of 7 to 12 gold necklace, each of them with a specific name and meaning. The jewelry is full of symbolism related to Spanish heritage, religion and use.

All Panamanian women feel very proud when wearing our beautiful National Dress.

As a leading figure in The Hague’s spouse association, what are your main duties and goals?

I feel very lucky to be part of ASA, and better yet, to be part of the ASA Committee. When I first arrived, joining ASA helped me to meet other spouses, get to know the Diplomatic Community and the Dutch culture. It has definitely done a great difference in making my experience in The Hague a more fulfilled and richone.

I feel very proud to have the opportunity to represent my country. My responsibility as the Panamanian Ambassador spouse is to support and assist my husband and The Embassy team in promoting and sharing some of our culture with the Dutch and international community.

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ASA’s mission is to promote relationships and friendship among its members and the hosting country. I have been part of the Committee for three years. At the present time I am an adviser to the Committee. The Committee works as a team. Our goal is to organize events that interests and enhance the experience of all members to make them feel welcomed.

The Netherlands has a lot to offer in terms of culture, art, logistic, agriculture, architecture, and many other disciplines. Some of the interesting places we have visited are, the Port of Rotterdam, Tomato World, Royal Flora Holland, Urban Farmers, Peace Palace, European Space Agency, Hall of knights, House of Representative and Dutch Senate, Anne Frank House, Rembrandt House Museum, among others. In each visit we have immersed into the Dutch culture and learned how they excel. But not all is work, we also enjoying gatherings, hosted by ASA members, where we can get to know each other, share our experiences and taste delicious food offer from different countries.

But the greatest experience of all is to have met incredible interesting people and make lifelong friends.

Business Circle of the Residentie Orkest at Urban Farmers On the 22th of March the Business Circle of the Residentie Orkest the Hague welcome there members at Urban Farmers. Urban Farmers is the largest rooftop farm in Europe. In essence they believe that better food will bring us together. Growing food better is the only recipe for better food.

The Business Circle received a tour through the rooftop farm and fish farm where the concept of the Urban Farm was explained.

After this there was a performance of Wouter Vossen (concertmaster), Timu Yakubov (1st violin) and Sven Weyens (cello). They played a string trio in Bes. D471 van Schubert en Libertango van Piazolla.

The evening was concluded with an Asian buffet with fresh products of the Urban Farm.

During our last National Day, I had the opportunity to proudly wear our beautiful and sophisticated national dress: La Pollera.

Photography: Robert Huiberts.

La Pollera, is the traditional National dress of the Panamanian woman, usually worn on special occasions to honor our heritage and traditions. This dress made by very skilled ladies who hand craft it after learning the art of sewing from generation to generation, it can take around 18 months to sew the more elaborate ones. It is composed of separate pieces that consist of a shirt, two petticoats and the pollerón, made with very fine cloth and laces. A Pollera can have very different styles; the one I was wearing is called the embroider style. This Pollera was a very special gift from my mother; it has flowers and butterflies filled with orange thread.

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On the picture Sheila Turabaz, Uzma Rathore and Ambassador Shujjat Rathore.

Mrs. Uzma Rathore INTRODUCING MRS. UZMA RATHORE, SPOUSE OF MR. SHUJJAT ALI RATHORE, AMBASSADOR OF PAKISTAN TO THE NETHERLANDS

By Sheila Turabaz. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

The ambassador recently presented his Letter of Credentials to His Majesty King Willem-Alexander, and has already been very proactive in his role as Ambassador of Pakistan to the Netherlands. What was your first impression of the Netherlands and the diplomatic community in particular?

“I think the Netherlands is beautiful, its people in particular: they’re very humble, very polite and very welcoming. That was my first impression. Wherever I went, — shopping for groceries for instance on my second day here in the Netherlands — I found everyone with a smile on their face and a very welcoming attitude.

What role should an Ambassador’s spouse fulfill?

“I think an Ambassador’s spouse has a very important role to fulfill: we are also ambassadors of our country and we represent our country, so whatever we do, portrays an image of our home country. Whether it’s social dinners, cultural events, charity work, etcetera. The way we carry ourselves is very important being an Ambassador’s wife: I represent Pakistan here. Whenever a person will come and meet me, he or she is meeting Pakistan.”

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During the third Diplomats Meet and Greet – co-organized by the Embassy of Pakistan in the Netherlands – all eyes were on H.E. Ambassador Mr. Shujjat Ali Rathore and his elegant wife in particular, Mrs. Uzma Rathore. Mr. Rathore has recently been appointed Ambassador of Pakistan to the Netherlands and this Diplomats Meet and Greet was not just to promote Pakistani culture and trade relationships with the Netherlands, but also served as a first official introduction of the new ambassador to the diplomatic corps, international organizations, the business community and academia.

However, we must not forget the important role that diplomatic spouses fulfill in supporting their partner’s work and Mrs. Uzma Rathore is no exception: An eloquent and poised looking lady with a passion for education and a charitable mindset, I had the honour of interviewing Mrs. Rathore for the first time since her arrival here in the Netherlands, during which Mrs. Rathore underlined the importance of the responsibilities that diplomatic spouses perform in foreign missions.

How do you plan to support the Ambassador in his duties and how would you like to be involved?

Most Ambassador’s spouses are involved in charity work, what is your perspective on this?

“I am an educationist by profession. During all foreign missions I continued to practice my profession. While residing here in the Netherlands, I am active as a patron of an organization called “Pakistani Ladies Organization in the Netherlands”. I consider women’s empowerment to be really important and I would like to support this organization in organizing cultural events. Furthermore, I would also like to do some charity work in the field of education. There are many NGOs active in Islamabad and I would like to organize fundraisings for these NGOs. I will support the Ambassador in all his duties, whether it’s organizing cultural events, fundraising events for the improvement of education in Pakistan, women’s empowerment, or various other activities aimed towards stimulating Pakistan’s economy and trade through promoting our businesses.”

“I consider charity work to be important as well. As mentioned earlier, education and women’s rights are issues I that are close to my heart. Unfortunately the literacy rates of females in Pakistan is very low, especially in rural areas. I would like to promote education and contribute to women’s empowerment by participating in various organizations dedicated to tackling these issues. Moreover, I am also a member of the Ambassador Spouses’ Association (ASA). We have a meeting scheduled this month and I’m looking forward to discuss my agenda with them.”

Apart from supporting the Ambassador, do you have any personal ambitions that you would like to realize during your stay in the Netherlands?

“I would like to work again. I am a trained IB (International Baccalaureate) teacher. For example, I would love to organize a student exchange program with different universities in Pakistan and in the Netherlands”.

What do you miss most about Pakistan?

“Needless to say I miss my family – especially my daughters – and my friends of course. One of my daughters works for the UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) and lives in the U.S. and my other daughter lives in Pakistan and works as a Public Policy Analyst.

We (Pakistan) are a very hospitable nation, hospitality is in our blood. I am proud of our people, our cuisine, our national dress and all other aspects of our culture. “

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Celebrating the Remarkable

Women of Rwanda

By Sheila Turabaz. Photography: the Embassy of Rwanda in The Hague.

Elegantly and traditionally dressed Rwandan women gathered in The Hague for a festive evening on the occasion of International Women’s Day (IWD), organized by the Embassy of Rwanda in collaboration with the Rwanda Women’s Association of the Netherlands. This year’s International Women’s Day 2018 was centered on the theme: “Rwandan women at the forefront of sustainable development: Building the Rwanda we want” and celebrating women’s economic, political, social and cultural contributions and accomplishments in Rwanda. The evening commenced with an opening dance by members of the Rwanda Women’s Association of the Netherlands, followed by powerful speeches delivered by author and a member of the Rwandan diaspora in Belgium, Marie Chantal Uwitonze and Safari Christine, chairperson of the Women’s Association.

More than two decades have passed since the world was shocked to learn of the genocide that took place in Rwanda in 1994, and fortunately much has changed since then, as Rwanda has taken great strides on its road to recovery. As exemplified by the World Economic Gender Gap Report 2017, in which Rwanda was ranked 4th worldwide. Women have played a significant role in rebuilding the nation, as underlined by H.E.Ambassador Jean Pierre Karabarangain his speech (while quoting H.E. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda): “It’s no accident that the renewal of Rwanda was also accompanied by significant upgrades in the status, roles and responsibilities of women. (…) Women are a cornerstone of prosperity for society as a whole.

Even in situations of conflict, they are in a position to make unique contributions to peace and stability.”

Furthermore, the Ambassador has stated that women hold key leadership roles in Rwanda and that an impressive 64% of parliamentarians are women, the highest percentage of any parliament in the world.

The absolute highlight of the evening was the opening dance of the Kigali Fashion Week and a catwalk show organized by up-and-coming Rwandan fashion designers, showcasing their unique (mostly modern but with a traditional twist) fashion designs. Beautiful evening wear in rich and colourful fabrics and casual outfits showcasing the very best the Rwandan fashion scene has to offer. Men and women graced the catwalk in designs made in Rwanda by Seraphina, Sol & Wax designer ltd., Fathia Creations, Sandrine Horn, Delphines, D’ ZoyanKreationz, Hakym Reagan, Mimi’z and IZUBA clothing. The event is also part of an on-going campaign to promote Rwanda’s artistic talent and to stimulate people to purchase products that are made in the country.

Is there anything you would like to share with our readers?

UN Women for Peace Association Annual Awards Luncheon 2018 On the picture, US Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Nikki Haley. Photography: UN.

8 March 2018, New York City, USA, International Women Day: New York Stock Exchange welcomed the board members of the United Nations Women for Peace Association. HRH Princess Camilla of Two Sicilies rang the Opening Bell with fellow board member Dame Muna Rihani Al-Nasser as well as the President of UNWFPA, Barbara Winston.

Women’s accomplishments globally were at focus at the United Nations Headquarters for the annual UN Women for Peace Association award luncheon. Actress and activist Bridget Moynihan served as master of ceremonies. Award presenters included the United States of America’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, HE Ambassador Nikki Haley and HH Sharifa Lalla Joumala Alaoui, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to the USA. In addition to honouring leading women, the award ceremony encourages support from men in order to create a more equitable society.

Panama’s First Lady, Lorena Castillo De Varela earned the 2018 Leadership Award for her work as a Special Ambassador of UNAIDS addressing the public health affected by HIV/AIDS in Latin America and as a global spokesperson for the Zero Discrimination Movement. Sheikha Rima Al Sabah (State of Kuwait) earned the 2018 Peace Award for her charitable work for the benefit of refugees. Model and activist, Ashley Graham was awarded the 2018 Women’s Empowerment Award for her work in spreading body positivism. Eve Branson was given the 2018 Achievement Award for her work in the Atlas Mountains.

Amongst other prominent guests present were Prince Carlo of Two Sicilies, The Duke of Castro with daughters Princess Maria Carolina, Duchess of Calabria and Palermo, and Princess Maria Chiara, Duchess of Capri, HE Ambassador Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations, businesswoman and fashion designer Nicky Hilton Rothschild, patron of the arts and HE Sheikha Paula al-Mubarak Al Sabah.

“The embassy’s doors are open for everyone.

Being an Ambassador’s wife my duty is to welcome everyone. There is room for conversations and dialogue.”

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10 Reasons to Visit Uzbekistan

The Jewish Monument

Uzbekistan promises to turn into one of the centers of world tourism in the coming years

Text and photography by John Dunkelgrün.

Photography: the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Brussels.

Since ancient times, Uzbekistan has been attracting the attention of the world as one of the important centers of the Great Silk Road, possessing great potential, natural, historical and cultural values, wonderful traditions and customs. At present, Uzbekistan has entered a new stage of development not only in the political, socio-economic, cultural spheres, but also in the field of tourism.

The rich historical and cultural heritage, centuries-old traditions of the Uzbek people, the unique architectural monuments of ancient cities of Uzbekistan attract many tourists from abroad. Uzbekistan has a wealth of historical monuments, not least the towns of Bukhara, Khiva and Samarkand, which were the capitals of powerful kingdoms for many centuries.

History and culture. The turquoise domes of the madrassah, shining through the centuries of majolica mausoleums and ornate brickwork of the minarets of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, have an astonishing appeal. The unique design, composition and technological solutions of ancient masters in the erection of monumental buildings amaze the imagination of spectators visiting the sights.

Ecological tourism. In a world where most larger cities have their night sky polluted, Tashkent stands out as a city with a beautiful starry night, facilitated by the proximity of the mountains. It is not surprising that in Uzbekistan many popular tourist routes pass near pristine nature reserves and national parks, teeming with animals, such as bears or golden eagles.

Ethnic tourism. Modern hotels are often indistinguishable from each other. Falling asleep in the steppe under a Shanyrak - a round grid in the dome of a nomad yurt - under stars is a completely different thing. The design of the yurt has not changed in two and a half thousand years, which cools in the heat and warms in the cold. Ethnic tourism provides an opportunity to immerse in the way of life of Uzbekistan. Various ethnographic, culinary and crafts fair festivals are held from spring to autumn.

Recreational rest. All the more popular are trips to the picturesque mountain resorts of Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan is also filled with balneological resorts that offer thermal, chloride-hydrocarbonate sodium waters for bоth drinking and therapeutic baths and showers.

Leisure. Uzbekistan offers visitors many attractive and interesting places: the tops of Chimgan and the Charvak reservoir, the Nurata Mountains or the Aral Sea together with the plateau. For lovers of an active way of life, here is the real expanse: mountain hikes, fishing and hunting and in winter time - skiing and for the most daring - Heli Ski tours.

Business tourism. The successful combination of developed modern infrastructure and the availability of attractive tourism facilities have turned Uzbekistan, in particular Tashkent and Samarkand, into the favorite places for holding international and regional events of several organisations. In Uzbekistan today, the MICE industry (meetings - incentives conferences - events) is actively developing.

Shopping. Tamerlane and his descendants called on ceramicists, artists and architects from all over the empire to beautify the cities

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of Khiva, Samarkand and Bukhara. Their mosques were adorned with the finest murals and mosaics. Happily, Uzbekistan’s artisanal skills live on and you can pick up handmade ceramics or needlework for just a few dollars in most madrassas, which have largely been transformed into bazaars.

Most everyone living here knows that Amsterdam has a long history of Jewish life that was cruelly disrupted and almost destroyed during the Second World War. It is less known that The Hague too had a substantial Jewish quarter that flourished in the very center of the city for almost 400 years. Quite a few of the Jewish “Hagenaars” made considerable contributions to politics, law, journalism, banking and industry of the Netherlands.

Jeep tours.One of the most impressive and unusual forms of tourism in Uzbekistan are Jeep tours. At any temperature or season, this is how you can feel the beauty of the hard-to-reach places of Uzbekistan. Dazzling deserts, with the ruins of ancient cities, picturesque cliffs, mountain rivers, legendary cities, encountered on the way, immerse the traveler from one atmosphere to another.

Home away home. The cities of Tashkent and Bukhara have a rather European vibe – think lakeside beer gardens, landscaped public parks, and cafés next to most of the main tourist attractions.

Easy to get. With a little planning you can squeeze your tour into a week, making this the perfect bite of Silk Road splendour. European nationals can now obtain visas through a simplified procedure. Soon an e-visa system will be introduced to make the visit to Uzbekistan even easier.

In 1940 The Hague had the largest Jewish community after Amsterdam, more than 16,000 people. Many of them lived between the “Spui” where the Town Hall now stands and the Paviljoensgracht where Spinoza lived. After nasty restrictive measures intended to separate the city’s Jews from the rest of the population, starting in 1942 the Nazi’s deported some 14,000 Jews to the destruction camps in the East of Germany and Poland. More than 12,000 were murdered there. After the war the Jewish community in The Hague started up again on a much reduced scale. The Jewish center became first a Turkish area and today it is the city’s China Town. The Great Synagogue on the Wagenstraat became a mosque because it had become much too big for the Jewish population.

To commemorate the old Jewish quarter, “De Buurt” as it was known, and especially in memory of the thousands who were murdered, a monument was established earlier this year on the Rabbijn Maarsenplein, in the center of “De Buurt”. The monument consists of a physical part, designed by Anat Ratzabi and an educative website in Dutch and English compiled by Sharon Loewenstein which explains the Jewish history of The Hague from the sixteen hundreds to today.

The physical monument shows a wall with a door that is slightly ajar giving the impression of an opening, a way out. However on close inspection, the opening isn’t there, there was no way out. The monument incorporates several smaller monuments, the main one being the Amalek monument made in 1967 by Dick Stins with the caption “Remember what Amalek did to you, do not forget” (Deut:25.17.19).

TO LEARN MORE, GO TO WWW.JOODSMONUMENTDENHAAG.NL

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advertorial

The Hague Contemporary Your guide to The Hague’s contemporary art scene The Hague Contemporary is an independent platform that invites both local and (inter)national visitors of The Hague to engage with the best contemporary art the city has to offer.

We communicate this quality selection – which varies from exhibitions, lectures, performances, screenings, debates and more – both online and on paper taking the form of a clean-cut agenda.

Our goal is to inform and encourage a large and diverse audience to experience The Hague’s contemporary art scene and stimulate collaboration and dialogue between its many cultural partners.

meet & greet Embassy of pakistan

Emerging Pakistan

By Roy Lie Atjam. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

Pakistan Ambassador H.E. Shujjat Ali Rathore, along with Diplomat Magazine and Diplomatic Card, organized a superb Meet and Greet on Friday, 2 February at Hotel Carlton Ambassador, in The Hague.

Our close relation to the city’s art institutions gives us a unique vantage point. Among our partners are museums such as Gemeentemuseum Den Haag, Beelden aan Zee and The Hague Museum of Photography; galleries such as Dürst Britt & Mayhew, Heden and Livingstone Gallery; as well as non-profit organisations such as 1646, West Den Haag, NEST and Stroom Den Haag.

It was an excellent opportunity for heads of missions, the business and governmental community to meet with the new Ambassador and his spouse Uzma Rathore.

From its intermediating position, The Hague Contemporary encourages creativity and creatives in the city.

This year, this will culminate in the festive The Hague Contemporary Weekend, happening alongside the graduation of Royal Academy of Art The Hague (KABK) between the 6th and 8th of July.

CURIOUS?

Go to www.thehaguecontemporary.nl for the agenda and more information including a map and full list of our partners. Drop by and pick up a calendar at one of the locations. Connect with us via Facebook and Instagram @TheHagueContemporary.

Picture above: Dürst Britt & Mayhew Pictures below:‘Uncertainty Seminars: The Strange Escape’, 2017. Left: Performance Jude Crilly and Katrina Burch. Right: Performance Tereza Ruller (The Rodina) with Jungeun Lee and Marika Seo. Photograpy: Shari de Boer, courtesy Stroom Den Haag

Among the attendees was a high number of diplomats and ambassadors of all the continents, to mention a few: The Nuncio, Ecuador, Mexico, Morocco, Cameroon, Bangladesh, Georgia, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan, USA, Australia, Armenia, Cuba, Kosovo, Algeria, Argentina and many others.

Ambassador Shujjat Ali Rathore’s welcome speech “Emerging Pakistan” was followed by an authentic Pakistan dinner composed of chicken tikka, palak gos, chicken biryani, chana and zarda. By all means, there was a very joyous atmosphere, the video screened was fantastic and there was ample opportunity to renew old contacts and to make new acquaintances.

A resume of Ambassador Shujjat Ali Rathore welcome address follows: “Pakistan is blessed with diverse geographic strengths including 14 of the world’s highest peaks, one of the largest deserts, vast fertile plains, largest man-made irrigation system in the world, good quality infrastructure including deep-sea ports, motorways, robust housing sector; in industry and agriculture, it produces high quality products in textiles, leather, sports goods, and one of the top producers of important crops like wheat, cotton, rice sugarcane, exotic fruits like mangoes, citrus and much more. Its arts and culture is historically rich. Pakistan takes pride in leading the world in certain sports fields. Its people are creative, hardworking and one of the most philanthropic nations in the world.

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Pakistan has made significant economic progress in the recent past and it has become one of the emerging markets in Asia.

Pakistan is trying successfully to turn its economy into a dynamic, vibrant, and integrated emerging market that is able to create sustainable jobs and prosperity for all.

We are the 4th largest producer of rice in the world. It is one of our major exports. We grow different varieties of rice but as you know, the most popular rice variety from Pakistan is its aromatic Super Basmati Rice.

H.E. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Abohaimed, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Shujjat Ali Rathore, and Uzma, Mr. Zahid Ali Abbasi, Commercial Counselor of Pakistan.

for more pictures see: diplomatmagazine.nl

Pakistan has numerous attractive investment opportunities in the power, oil& gas, IT, infrastructure, consumer goods, financial services and capital market sectors.

Many Dutch companies including Shell, Veon, Akzo Nobel, Nutricia and recently Friesland Campina have made considerable investments in Pakistan. This reflects the confidence of the Dutch investors in Pakistan’s economy. We urge all of you to explore the opportunities of doing business with the emerging Pakistan.

“Our doors at the Embassy are always open to facilitate your contacts.”

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meet & greet Embassy of mongolia

By Sheila Turabaz. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

meet & greet Embassy of HUNGARIA Glittering Tokaj Wines

Tokaj, the one and only - Master class on the world renowned wine region of Hungary

By Michael Bonté. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

Once again the Embassy of Hungary, Diplomat Magazine and the Carlton Ambassador Hotel presented a wine extravaganza with a whopping selection of eleven different wines. All from the most famous Hungarian wine region Tokaj, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has an unique terroir and grape varieties only found in Hungary. The guests were in for a treat.

The venue was the cosy bar area of the hotel. The attendees were a mix of Dutch wine experts and importers, gastronomic journalists and representatives of the catering industry among them was Mr Merlijn Keijzer, Manager of VIP Lounge Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. The owner of Hungarian Corner restaurant in The Hague Mr Marco van den Boomgaard said: “that we only recently also created a winebar so that our guests can try all kinds of Magyar wines.”

H.E András Kocsis, Ambassador of Hungary opened the session saying: “That by targeting all Dutch companies which sell wine we hope to gain more recognition of Hungarian wines in order to generate more sales in The Netherlands”.

“We have undertaken a very exiting task with my colleagues this evening, because contrary to the previous practice when we introduced selections from different wines regions, we have now focused on one particular wine region Tokaj.”

He then introduced our host of the night, Mr Kristian Kielmayer, DipWSET wine expert at the Hungarian Ministry of Agriculture.

He had compiled a list of eleven fine white wines offered by ten Hungarian wineries for the enjoyment of the guests. Meanwhile Mr Kielmayer accompanied the wines with more information and tasting notes on them.

“What does it have to offer, why is it special.

For centuries, kings, queens and nobles have liked, adored these wines; it has its myth, its history. The Tokaij aszu is one of the world’s most fantastic, maybe the best sweet wine and this evening our guests had the chance to experience why this wine region is special, why the wine, the people, the history and the soil are special. It is due to the conditions, the nature, and of course, what lies in the future.”

The invitees certainly had a long list of white wines to taste. It kicked off with a Brut Sparkling wine from Patricius Winery.

Followed by Furmint Bio 2016 from Tokaj Hétszolo Winery, No 8 Cuvée Hárslevelu Kassai Vineyard 2015 from Grand Tokaji Winery, Tokajhárslevelu Kassai 2015 from Kikelet Winery, Chateau Dereszla Tokaj Dry 2015 from Dereszla Winery, Öreg Király Dulo Furmint 2015 from Barta Winery.

Then the sweeter whites were introduced starting with: Late Harvest 2013 from Tokaj Oremus, Szamorodni 6 Puttonyas 2014 from Degenfeld Winery, Puttonyos 5 aszú 2013 from Royal Tokaj Winery, Puttonyos 6 Aszú 2013 from Grand Tokaj Winery and last but not least a magnificient Puttonyos 6 Aszú 2009 from Árvay Pincészet. The last wine was provided

by Mr Gert de Kruijf from De Kruijf Fine Food Services as he was the only one who still had this particular beautiful vintage in his cellar.

After all that imbibing the guests needed a snack and they were treated to a small buffet of, prepared by the Chef de Cuisine of the Hungarian Embassy Mr János Klimay, a hearty richly filled Palóc style lamb soup and a Vargabéles a filopastry pie filled with slightly sweet cottage cheese served with apricot jam.

Last November’s Diplomats Meet and Greet was centered around Mongolian culture in all its splendor. Organized by the Embassy of Mongolia in Brussels, Diplomat Magazine and the Diplomatic Card at the Carlton Ambassador Hotel, guests experienced enchanting Mongolia through live music performances and fantastic food.

Guests were entertained with traditional Mongolian music, played by the Khan Bogd music ensemble, dressed in traditional Mongolian “deel” clothing. The traditional folk music of Mongolia has a rich background and tradition that goes back many centuries and is influenced by various tribes. Musical ensembles performed during ritual ceremonies and various celebrations, for example in the “ger” (Mongolian tent).

The “morin khuur” (horse-head fiddle) is considered to be most important traditional Mongolian instrument, also recognized by UNESCO as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

The ensemble’s repertoire consists of khöömij (throat singing) and magtaal (praise songs).

As usual, and introduction to the national cuisine is an integral part of every Diplomats Meet and Greet. The chefs of Modern Nomads — one of the biggest chain of restaurants in Mongolia — were invited to prepare their best authentic Mongolian dishes, such as the “khorkhog”, a Mongolian barbecue dish cooked inside of a container which contains hot stones and water and “khuushuur”, a fried meat pastry. Our taste buds were also pleasantly surprised with a cocktail of Mongolian “Chinggis Khan” vodka and sea buckthorn juice.

This year marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Netherlands and Mongolia. In his welcome speech, H.E. Ambassador Mr. Od Och expressed his gratitude for the development assistance provided by the Dutch government during Mongolia’s transitional period to an open market economy and for supporting the reintroduction of “Przewalski” horses — a rare and endangered wild horse —thanks to a re-introduction and breeding program for Przewalski horses in the Netherlands.

Furthermore, the Netherlands is the second largest investor in Mongolia and close ties exist between the two countries in the field of education and tourism, — especially in recent years — as tourism in Mongolia grows in popularity.

Mr. Peter Potman, Director of the Asia-Pacific Department at the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs also followed with a speech, in which he mentioned significant moments of “fruitful cooperation” in the 45 years of bilateral relations between Mongolia and the Netherlands. One of these moments was a visit by former Minister of Finance Gerrit Zalm to Mongolia. The Netherlands played an important role supporting Mongolia to join the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in 2006. This turned out to be successful: the ERBD is currently considered to be the largest foreign investor in Mongolia, supporting, among other things, private sector companies and banks in the field of diversification, sustainable growth and infrastructure.

Head of missions came to greed Ambassador Och; on the picture Ambassadors of Russia, Macedonia Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, Korea, Ambassador Ocha and spouse, Peter Potman, follow by the ambassadors of Austria, Australia, EU, Tunisia and Egypt.

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Od Och

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Od Och with his diplomatic staff.

As Ambassador Kocis said:

“According to the feedback received from the public I think that Tokaj was a hit.”

H.E András Kocsis, Ambassador of Hungary welcome a guest.

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for more pictures see: diplomatmagazine.nl

for more pictures see: diplomatmagazine.nl

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THE EMBASSIES OF THE HAGUE OPEN THEIR DOORS TO LEIDEN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AND DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE JUNIOR TEAM

By Guido Lanfranchi.

Over the past few months, many Embassies in The Hague have welcomed delegations of Leiden University students, and several others are planning to do so very soon.

During the current academic year, the Academic Committee of BASIS The Hague and Diplomat Magazine have developed a very solid collaboration, with the aim of providing Leiden University students with opportunities to visit some of the 115 Embassies based in The Hague. This collaboration has resulted in a series of Embassy Visits, in which students have enjoyed the opportunity to meet Ambassadors and diplomats, and to ask them a number of questions about their countries and their daily work.

Since November 2017, eight Embassies have already opened their doors to the students. The first one has been the Apostolic Nunciature in November, when a big group of students enjoyed the hospitality of H.E. Archbishop Aldo Cavalli. Shortly afterwards, H.E. Mr. Konstantine Surguladze, Ambassador of Georgia, met a group of students, followed by Mr. Pablo Romero, then First Secretary of the Embassy of Brazil, in December.

After a long break due to the Christmas holidays and the exam period, the series of Embassy Visits started again in March when H.E. Mr. Ali Shujjat Rathore and his staff talked at length with a group of extremely curious students at the Embassy of Pakistan.

Then, in April alone, the students enjoyed the possibility to visit fours Embassies. H.E. Mr. Edgar Elias Azar and his colleagues welcomed several students at the Embassy of Mexico. Then, it was the turn of H.E. Mr. Andras Kocsis, Ambassador of Hungary to The Netherlands, followed after a few days by H.E. Mr. Abdel Sattar Issa, newly established Ambassador of Lebanon in The Hague. Finally, H.E. Ms. Sahar Ghanem, Ambassador of Yemen, welcomed a group of students at the Embassy for almost three hours.

Although the academic year approaches its end, the series of Embassy Visits is still not over. In May H.E. Ms. Rawan Sulaiman will open the doors of the Palestinian Mission in The Hague, followed by H.E. Mr. Amgad Abdel-Ghaffar, Ambassador of Egypt, on the next day.

Also in May, the students will have the possibility to visit the Russian Embassy and talk to H.E. Mr. Alexander Shulgin. Finally, contacts are already in place with the Embassies of USA, Iran, Afghanistan, Israel and Venezuela, thus paving the way for more events in this year or the next.

The students of Leiden University and Diplomat Magazine sincerely thank all the Embassies that have showed their availability to welcome students, thus enhancing the quality of their study experience and‌ who knows, maybe helping them to become better diplomats in the future!

From top to bottom: Apostolic Nunciature, Hungary, Lebanon, Yemen DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE #8

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United States opens new ‘green’ Embassy in Wassenaar Photography: Marian van Noort and the US Embassy in The Hague.

After speeches and anthems, distinguished guests cut the ribbon and officially opened the new Embassy of the United States of America in Wassenaar on March 26, 2018. The building, located at John Adams Park 1, is a registered Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) sustainable building that boasts greenfeatures. It provides a secure, modern, and environmentally sustainable platform for diplomacy in the Netherlands.

More than 300 guests attended the festive opening, samplingwines from California and beers from North Carolina. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra hosted the ceremony, which included officials from the Department of State, a five-member bi-partisan delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives, the Minister of Social Affairs and Employment Wouter Koolmees, the King’s Commissioner for South Holland Jaap Smit, Mayor Pauline Krikke of The Hague, and Mayor Frank Koen of Wassenaar.

Mayor Koen of Wassenaar noted in his remarks that Wassenaar offers a home to many employees of international companies and their families from all over the world. He noted that this is how Wassenaar contributes to the investment climate in the Hague and Rotterdam metropolitan region. He added that “the greatest gift Wassenaar can offer you [is] a home away from home.”

During his remarks, Ambassador Hoekstra emphasized the strong ties between the United States and the Netherlands. He noted that the great thing about our relationship is that “we will do what is necessary to build this relationship to make a better world.”

He also noted that theinvestment in the new embassy is a symbol of our commitment to the future of U.S.-Dutch relations.

Music during the ceremony was performed by the Marine Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy (Marinierskapel der Koninklijke Marine).

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LANGE VOORHOUT 102

Since July 4, 1959 the American Embassy was located in the city center of The Hague at Lange Voorhout 102. The building was designed by famous Hungarian-American architect Marcel Breuer. He created the iconic trapezoidal features that can be found in designs all around the building from windows, to pillars and even etched in wood or on glass. The design drew the attention ofarchitectural magazines and onlookers for its modern post-war style. In January 2017, the government declared the building a Dutch national monument.

At the time of its conceptualization, the building was intended to accommodate a staff of 150 people. Not only did the number of staff members in the Embassy grow over the years, but also the number of U.S. federal agencies in The Hague. The building at the Lange Voorhout was too small and lacked the security features needed to meet the safety and security needs of the Embassy staff.

JOHN ADAMS PARK 1

The new Embassy is located at John Adams Park 1. The new location was named for the second U.S. President and the first representative for the United States to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Adams, now known as one the American Founding Fathers, was recognized by the Dutch as the Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States in the Netherlands on April 19, 1782. A house he purchased in The Hague became the first U.S. owned embassy in the world. His son later followed him both as the U.S. Ambassador in The Hague and later as President of the United States.

The new embassy is a ‘green’ design that provides a secure, modern, and environmentally sustainable platform for diplomacy in the Netherlands.It was constructed on a site within Wassenaar.

Wassenaar is home to 35 ambassadors and co-workers of international organizations, but this is the first embassy to be built in the city.

The embassy campus is integrated into the surrounding area through the design of the buildings, the landscaping, and the system of canals. The landscape design was carried out by Sasaki and Associates, and combines green areas, trees, water features, and bricked walkways.The pond is a significant landscape feature that not only ties the canals together, but also helps connect the Wassenaar landscape to the site.

The design team used red bricks as the primary façade material due to the predominant use of brick in Dutch design. The exterior walls areaccentuated by patterns of white granite from a quarry in Vermont, the same location that provided granite for the construction of the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C.The interior of the building features the use of wood veneer and blue glass.

Although the facility will not provide Consular services, which are located in Amsterdam, a large multi-purpose space will welcome visitors and is situated with the most advantageous views of the landscape. The Embassy has already hosted a number of events with students, government officials, and other contacts in the new facilities.

The Embassy is currently registered with the U.S. Green Building Council and has achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Silver certification. The design team has submitted a request to upgrade the building to gold. The site has

The Embassy staff moved from downtown to the new location over the weekend of January 26 to 28. The staff stood out front of the new Embassy in Wassenaar at daybreak to raise the flag of the United States over the building at John Adams Park 1.

After clearing and cleaning the building, Ambassador Hoekstra handed over the keys to the former building the city center to the Mayor of The Hague Pauline Krikke on March 5, 2018. Mayor Krikke called the landmark an “iconic building” dating from the Marshall Plan era and “of great symbolic value because of the long-term good relationship between the United States and the Netherlands.” She said she was certain that The Hague will put the iconic building to good use.

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a high water table, as well as an abundance of rainfall. The embassy captures rain, and reuses it for any irrigation needed to sustain the rich landscape. Overall, the embassy is projected to reduce energy costs by 30 percent compared with a conventional building. This saving is accomplished through the use of ground source heat pumps for both heating and cooling, light emitting diode (LED) site lighting, and other sustainable features.

The new American Embassy in Wassenaar provides a secure environment for several hundred staff members of the Embassy and multiple U.S. government agencies.. It was designed by architects Moore Ruble Yudell of Santa Monica (California); structural designers Thornton Tomasseti of New York (New York); mechanical designers Mason & Hanger of Richmond (Virginia); and graphic designers Sussman Prezja of Los Angeles (California).

The facility is a model of accessibility and a reflection of the surrounding landscape.

There is ample bicycle parking to encourage employees to use the eco-friendly mode of transportation.

ART IN EMBASSIES

The art collection at the Embassy was curated by the Office of Art in Embassies. It features art in a variety of media, including painting, photography, textile, sculpture, and video,

by American, Dutch, and Dutch-American artists. It celebratesthe Dutch artistic traditional works featuring modern interpretations of landscapes, portraits, and still lifes. Two of the works were commissions.

One is the outdoor sculpture featured in the pond, by American artist Pard Morrison and the other is a textile mural located in the cafeteria by Dutch artist Claudy Jongstra. The ultimate focus of the collection is to create a rich dialogue of shared cultural values between the United States and The Netherlands.

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diplomaticevents Mr. Alexander W. Beelaerts van Blokland, Justice in the Court of Appeal and International advisor (by virtue) to the Mayor of The Hague, bows out after holding the position for 14 years. Justice Beelaerts van Blokland has been one of the very few persons selected to represent the Municipality of The Hague at functions of the International and diplomatic community.

A valedictory function took place on Tuesday March 13th 2018 in the famous Mauritshuis Museum. The Mayor of The Hague, Ms. Pauline Krikke, thanked Mr Alexander Beelearts van Blokland for services rendered to the city of The Hague, the International City of Peace and Justice.

Alexander Bows Out

Mayor Krikke subsequently presented the instruments of the Haagsepluim award to Mr. Beelearts van Blokland; the ‘Haagse Pluim 2018’, is a very special and prestigious prize the Mayor & Aldermen of The Hague can only give once a year to an organisation or person. Almost all ambassadors credited to the Netherlands and many international judges and representatives from international organisations, as well as the Presidents of the Senate and the House of Representatives, five former Cabinet Ministers and many others were present.

Thank you!

I am very grateful to Diplomat Magazine for giving me the opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to all the companies that, by sponsoring this year the Italian National Day Celebrations, have made possible to host here in the Netherlands the wonderful performances of “Fanfara dei Bersaglieri”.

Through their active support they show their commitment to promoting the “Made in Italy” in The Netherlands and their wish to further contribute to the already excellent relations between Italy and the Netherlands that will celebrate in 2019 their 160th Anniversary.

The Embassy of Italy appreciates that all the sponsors are willing to work together with the Embassy in a coordinated way in order to pursue jointly common initiatives and projects for our mutual benefit and to work fruitfully with our Dutch hosts.

H.E. Andrea Perugini

“For Elisabeth and me it was a very special moment that we will never forget anymore.” said Alexander. Justice Beelaerts van Blokland was one of the founders and Diplomat Magazine’s columnist; he wrote around 50 articles on issues related to The Hague as the international city of peace and justice.

H.E. Andrea Perugini Ambassador of Italy to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Photography: Marian van Noort.

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Residentie Orkest performs at the Zuiderstrandtheater In Scheveningen, a theatre with splendid views of the harbour, dunes and beach.

The venue has ample parking facilities and is easy to reach by car or public transport.

SMALL CONTRIBUTION

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ETS TICK M FRO 3 €2 DIPLOMAT MAGAZINE #8

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Patrick Aarsman, Crowne Plaza’s General Manager.

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Culinary Diplomacy from Cuba

By Anton Lutter. Photography: The embassy of Cuba.

Between 18-20 January the Cuban Embassy organised “Cuban Flavors” at Crowne Plaza Hotel in The Hague.

This event showcased traditional Cuban cooking at its best.

The ambassador from Cuba to The Netherlands H.E. Soraya Alvarez, who hosted the event, welcomed an array of guests at the opening Thursday evening.

In her welcoming speech, she introduced the Cuban chef Mr Reinier Suarez who works and lives in Rome. Amongst the many guests where many ambassadors and other diplomats from South America, the USA, Europe and the Middle East. Among the guests were also representatives from the business world and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Chef Reinier Suarez Rivera, the Ambassador of Cuba H.E Ms. Soraya Álvarez Nuñez and Sous Chef, Claudia Gonzalez Vades.

The guests were treated to an absolutely wonderful taste of Cuban cuisine which everyone enjoyed. As starters, there was Tostones (fried plantain), Tamal en Cazuela pot tamal and Frituras de Malanga. The main dish consisted of breaded Victoria bass, confit pork and Ropa Vieja (beef stew) with as side dishes Yuca (cassava) and Congri Arroz (rice with black beans).

Promnade Food Festivals edition Pakistan

Lastly, the dessert served was caramel French toast, Arroz con Leche (rice pudding) and Flan de Cuba, a custard dessert. The smell and taste from Cuba were emphasized by live musicians from Galan Biz Musica Cubana, who performed traditional Cuban songs.

By Roy Lie Atjam. Photography: Robert Huiberts.

23 February, Hotel Crowne Plaza Den Haag – Promenade organized a Food Festivals in cooperation with the Embassy of Pakistan and Diplomat magazine, Featuring in February was the unique flavours from Pakistan.

The General manager of the Hotel Mr Patrick Aarsman and Pakistan Ambassador Shujjat Ali Rathore, warmly welcome the guests.

Georgian dinner celebrating 100th Annivers ary

By Thomas Fleisher. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

On April, the Embassy of Georgia collaborated with Crowne Plaza and Diplomat Magazine’s monthly Gastronomic event to celebrate Georgian cuisine and culture, whilst, simultaneously, celebrating the Centenary of the birth of their fledgling democratic republic in 1918.

Taking place at the luxurious Crowne Plaza Promenade dining room, varied members of the international diplomatic community, distinguished guests from the Dutch foreign ministry and the Senate, and personal friends began arriving at 18:00.

With a few kind opening words of welcome and gratitude to those attending by Patrick Aarsman, General Manager of the hotel and Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, Publisher of Diplomat Magazine, H.E. Konstantine Surguladze began the event with an introductory speech, wherein Ambassador Surguladze thanked Bavaria and Tikatours for their assistance in co-sponsoring the event.

His Excellency then introduced the fine chefs behind the soon to be served gastronomic masterpiece 3 course meal, Ms, Natalia Chaduneli and her sous-chef Georgi Khvistani, thanking them for “their exquisite hands and for bringing Georgian flavours to the Netherlands”. For their work, they were presented with a framed memorial certificate.

The musical side of the gastronomic event was led by the Ziryab World Music Event, who traveled to the Netherlands for this occasion to present us with the best of traditional Georgian music, a pleasure the ambassador profusely thanked them for in his opening remarks.

Sido de Brabander, chef at Crowne Plaza, Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, Publisher of Diplomat Magazine, Patrick Aarsman, General Manager of Crowne Plaza, H.E. Konstantine Surguladze, Ambassador of Georgia and chef Natalia Chaduneli and her sous-chef Georgi Khvistani.

Ziryab World Music Event

With the cutting of a white ribbon H.E. Ambassador Shujjat Ali Rathore, officially opened the Pakistan edition of the Food Festival.

A team of renowned Pakistani Chefs: Iftikhar Ahmad Chugtai and Muhammad Nazeer prepared authentic dishes. The Chef of Brasserie Brut Sido de Brabander was also part of the deal. Pakistan is the second Embassy participating in the 2018 food festival, Cuba was the first.Among the dishes served were Pakora- and Dhal Soups, muton, gorma, fried lahorifish, chicken biryani and other items.

Desert consisted of assorted Barfi and jalebi. A very colorful presentation.

H.E. Ambassador Shujjat Ali Rathore, and his elegant spouse Uzma, entertained the over a dozen or so Ambassadors who responded to the invitation.

What is more, friends of Pakistan and diplomats, all enjoyed the Pakistani edition of Promenade Food Festival with its mouthwatering flavours.

The Ambassador then outlined the second of the two reasons why this event was held: one hundred years ago the Democratic Republic of Georgia came into being, existing for 3 years until 70 years of Soviet occupation began, until Georgia finally achieved independence 27 years ago, becoming a country in their own right.

A successful International flavour food festival, kudos to Patrick Aarsman and Hotel Crowne Plaza Den Haag – Promenade.

H.E. Mr. Shujjat Ali Rathore, Ambassador of Pakistan with chefs Iftikhar Ahmad Chugtai, Sido de Brabander and Muhammad Nazeer.

However, the Ambassador was clear to point out that Georgia’s aspirations to full freedom and unity have been hampered by the continued occupation of 20% of Georgia’s sovereign territory by the Russian Federation.

Despite this, H.E. Konstantine Surguladze believes he and his people remain optimistic for the future.

After a raising of glasses, the evening properly began. With wine flowing freely and Georgian music filling the roomAll in all, a lovely evening of free conversation and good food, celebrating Georgia’s unique gastronomy was had.

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Founoun Lella Beya/Jouda Najah ensemble.

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Bangladesh unveils mother language monument plaque

By Roy Lie Atjam. Photography by the Embassy of Bangladesh.

The Hague, a good number of Bengali speaking individuals, government officials and friends witness a plaque unveiling ceremony in connection with the construction of the mother language monument on 19 February 2018.

Ambassador of Tunisia, H.E. Elyes Ghariani.

Among them were Mr Rene Baron Director of the Eskam’s city district, Diplomat Mr. Iqbal Ahmed, Mr. Rabin Baldewsingh deputy mayor of The Hague, medias, members of the Bangladesh diaspora and others.

A Warm Welcome to Tunisia

By Michael Bonté. Photography: Kim Vermaat.

Exotic spices, like cardamom, cumin and harissa, wafted from the stand nearby the entrance of the restaurant.

One only had to close one’s eyes to be transported to a souk in Tunisia.

A warm welcome indeed to the cuisine and hospitality of Tunisia at the monthly International Food Festival.

Once again the Crowne Plaza Hotel Promenade, Diplomat Magazine and in this case the Tunisian Embassy hosted this edition of the year long event featuring the gastronomy of a variety of countries.

The Tunisian Ambassador H.E. Mr. Elyes Ghariani opened his speech by welcoming the GM of the property Mr Patrick Aarsman, Diplomat Magazine and the Tunisian National Tourism Office. Furthermore he remarked that: ‘Tunesia is graced with eight UNESCO World Heritage List Sites and we are looking forward to your visit this year’.

Among the guests were: H.E. Mr. Abdelouahab Bellouki, Ambassador of Morocco, H.E. Mr. Ahmad Al Mufleh, Ambassador of Jordan, H.E. Mrs. Odette Melono, Ambassaor of Cameroon, H.E. Mr. Adam M.J. Sadiq, Ambassador of Sri Lanka, H.E. Mr. Magzhan Ilyassov Ambassador of Kazakhstan, H.E. Mr. Abdel Ghaffar, Ambassador of Egypt, H.E Mr. Igor Popov, Ambassador of Macedonia, H.E. Mr. Dimitris Iliopolus, Ambassador of the EU, H.E. Mr. Fernando Bucheli Vargas, Ambassador of Ecuador, H.E Mr. Andrea Gustovic-Ercegovac, Ambassador of Croatia, H.E. Ms. Irene Mkwawa -Kasyanju,

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Ambassador of Tanzania, H.E. Ms. Mirsada Colakovic, Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina, H.E Mr. H.E. Haifa Aissami Madah, Ambassador of Venezuela.

Mr Mohamed Attia the head of the Tunisian National Tourism Office in The Hague remarked that: ‘the revival of tourism is the main focus and that the major Dutch tour operators were returning to the Tunisian market’.

Meanwhile the Founoun Lella Beya/Jouda Najah ensemble commenced their musical ministrations of the violin, oed and darboeka.

The guests were also anticipating their selection of starter dishes: A Tunisian grilled salad, Chicken soufflé, Brick with tuna, Shrimps with a spicy crust and Beef meatball confit. Two Tunisian wines, imported by Ms Catherine Trepagne from Vin et Com in Brussels, a Cabernet Sauvignon Carthage and Domaine Clipea Chardonnay were served.

The buzz of lively conversation mixed with the lilting sounds of the music and the excellent wine created an amicable atmosphere. It was time for the guests to stretch their legs as main courses had to be collected at the buffet. A feast awaited: Couscous with lamb, Rice with vegetables in the Jerba island style, Fish with lemon and capers, Chicken legs with olives, Chakchouka with lamb sausages, beans and pumpkin and Mloukhiya (black sauce) with beef. The last dish is made from the mloukhiya which is a savoury leaf which has bitter spinach notes.

Chef Wafik Belaid, Sido de Brabander, chef at Crowne Plaza and chef Haykel Ben Zaida.

Chef Wafik Belaid mentioned that: ‘ Mloukhiya was not a sexy dish but certainly a tasty one’. Mr Belaid is certainly a rock star in his region’s profession as he was the executive chef for the Tunisian football team and did a cooking show for Discovery channel. He worked for several International hotel chains in Tunesia and impressively showed together with chef Haykel Ben Zaida that he is in the top league.

The invitees to this event were ready now for the dessert once again served at the table.

A Pine Allepo cream and hazelnut cream concoction served in a glass. Tunisian sweets were served on the side. As Nelly Furtado sang: ‘ All good things come to an end’.

Fortunately for those wanting more of a different cuisine are in for a treat as Israel, Viet Nam, Vietnam, Indonesia, Mexico, Uzbekistan, Italy and Hungary will present their food and wine at the Crowne Plaza. So make your reservations quickly!.

The Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh Mr. Shahidut Haque graced the historical event with his presence.

The unveiling of the plaque is by all means, a prelude to the inauguration of the long-awaited mother language monument.

For years several individuals and institutions have invested time and energy to achieve the establishment of the monument.

Records proof negotiations go back as far as 2010. International cities like London and Sydney already have such a monument.

Bangladeshi, particularly those in the Netherland have ample reason to proud themselves and celebrate, for it is with their strength, might yes even their blood the Bengali speaking people fought to keep their mother tongue Bengla.

After speeches by H.E. Ambassador Sheikh Mohammed Belal, Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh Shahidul Haque unveiled the

plaque along with Mr. Baldewsingh; Patriotic songs such as Amar bhai ErRokteRangano

by Abdul Gaffar and martyr Altaf Mahmud added to the pleasant and joyous atmosphere.

The prospect of having a Mother Language’s monument in the Netherlands soon is like a jewel in the crown of H.E. Ambassador Sheikh Belal’s tenure. He has played a stellar role in the establishment of it. Evidently, his all-out efforts have not been in vain.

Belal thanked all those who came out to the Zuiderpark on the breezy winter morning to witness the indelible moment.

Both Ambassador Sheikh Belal and Foreign Secretary Shahidut Haque praised the father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for leading the nation towards freedom.

Burundian expats vote inconstitutional referendum 2018

By Roy Lie Atjam. Photography: the Embassy of Burundi in The Hague.

The Hague 17 May 2018, the Embassy of Burundi. Burundian nationals residing in the Netherlands cast their vote in the country’s constitutional referendum.

Representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) and of the various political parties took position at the polling station in the Chancellery.

Counting of the votes took place immediately after the closing of the polling station. The referendum is aiming at amendments in the constitution. Proposed changes: reintroduce the post of Prime Minister and reduce the number of Vice-President from two to one.

They also involve increasing the presidential term from five to seven years, but restricting a president to two consecutive terms.

The amendments will also reduce the parliamentary majority required to pass legislation.It has been reported that Bujumbura, the capital, had long lines of voters as security forces were deployed across the city.

Five million people across the country were registered to vote.Voting appeared to be going smoothly in most areas, although activist group which monitors reported some allegations of intimidation.

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On the picture: H.E. Vestine Nahimana, Ambassador of Burundi to the Netherlands with representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission and political parties at the Burundian embassy in The Hague.

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Women in Innovation, Science and Industry, Italian Style

Mr. Lelio Gavazza, Co untry Managing Director of Bvlgari, H.E . Hon. Mrs. Ankie Broekers-Knol, Presid ent of the Senate and H.E. Mr. Andrea Perug ini, Ambassador of Ita ly

By Andrew Gibson. Photography: Marian van Noort.

On the 11th April 2018, the Ambassador of Italy, His Excellency Mr. Andrea Perugini, hosted ‘Women in Innovation, Science and Industry’ at his residence, in an event that saw him collaborate with ‘Women Leaders International’ in bringing together top Dutch officials and titans of industry from Italy and the Netherlands.

The event was masterminded by H.E. Mr. Perugini himself, thus continuing his country’s tradition of promoting women in power, as he explained in his speech how according to the 2017 Gender Equality Index, that over the last 10 years Italy is the European Country that has achieved the widest improvements on gender equality indicators, with Italy’s score increasing by 13 points (against 4,2 as the European average) as a consequence of the so called Golfo-Mosca Law, dating from 2011, that required as of 2012 the composition of corporate boards to comprise at least 1/5 of women and from 2015 1/3 of women, and which managed to raise the amount of women in boards of directors to 29% in 2016 compared to 6% in 2011.

The guests of honor was Mrs. Ankie Broekers-Knol, President of the Senate of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, who gave an uplifting message of emphatic motivation to the guests during her speech; she concluded by quoting the Italian scientist Nobel Prize winner, Rita Levy-Montarcini, “Women who have changed the world have never felt the need to show anything but their intelligence”.

H.E. Andrea Perugini, Ambassador of Italy.

Mrs. Marian Hammersma, Secretary General at the Ministry of Education and Science, was also one of the elite speakers.

The guests were also treated to an inspiring video message from Mrs. Stientje van Veidhoven, State Secretary for Infrastructure and Water Management, who was unable to attend due to an official visit to China. “The percentage of women in leading positions is inching upwards, but at a snail’s pace”, and that “the glass ceiling…is unfortunately still firmly in place”, before pointing to the various achievements of women in her field, such as the two women who created the world’s first house heated by solar power. “We must keep hosting conferences like this…keep up the good work.”

The President of Women Leaders International (WLI), Mrs. Gerda de Munck, emphasised the importance of strengthening ties between women from all cultures and backgrounds in order to improve conditions for women at the top levels of government, industry, institutions and organisations worldwide.

Mrs. de Munck also explained the need for organisations such as WLI to promote women with ambition and to make them more visible.

CREATIVE PEOPLE = CREATIVE SOLUTIONS We are passionate about design and communication.

Our creative professionals work together to add value with creative solutions.

We like to be challenged to deliver high quality products such as luxury business-cards or letterheads, user friendly websites, or complete marketing campaigns and corporate identities.

We are the proud designers of Diplomat Magazine.

Participating panelists were Mrs. Luigia Pace, Research Biologist, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine in Turin, Italy; Mrs. Cindy Gerhardt, Chief Operating Officer, Dutch State Mines Biotechnology Center; Mr. Carla Signorini, Head of Electrical Engineering department ESA Space Research and Technology Center in the Netherlands; Mrs. Ilona Haaijer, Former President & CEO DSM Food Specialties, Supervisory Board member Royal Boskalis N.V.; Mrs. Aura Colnaghi Calissoni, President of Carvico Group ad Mrs. Dace Luters-Thummel, Secretary General, European Women Lawyers Association.

Prominent women leaders, Female Executives and ambassadors filled up the room. After the speeches, the Ambassador of Italy H.E. Mr. Andrea Perugini hosted a Question & Answer session, before inviting all guests to a Networking Buffet Dinner to conclude what was a hugely successful event in all regards.

Also on display at the event was a wonderful exhibition of Bvlgari Jewellery, which attracted great interest and adoration from all, courtesy of Mr. Lelio Gavazza, Director of Bvlgari who came from Rome for the special occasion.

Mrs. Ilona Haaijer, Former President & CEO DSM Food; Specialties, Supervisory Board member Royal Boskalis N.V.; Mrs. Gerda de Munck, President Women Leaders International, H.E. Andrea Perugini, Mrs. Marian Hammersma, Secretary General at the Ministry of Education and Science; Mrs. Ankie Broekers-Knol President of the Senate, Mrs. Cindy Gerhardt, Chief Operating Officer, Dutch State Mines Biotechnology Center,; Mr. Carla Signorini, Head of Electrical Engineering department ESA Space Research and Technology Center in the Netherlands; Mrs. Luigia Pace, Research Biologist, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine in Turin, Italy; Mrs. Dace LutersThummel, Secretary General, European Women Lawyers Association and Mrs. Aura Colnaghi Calissoni, President of Carvico Group.

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Contact us and make an appointment with one of our team members (no strings attached).

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