As Ambassador of Chile to the Netherlands, His Excellency Jaime Moscoso Valenzuela has overseen a period of significant development in the Chile-Netherlands relationship. Over his six-year tenure, he has navigated the complexities of diplomatic engagement, promoting initiatives in green energy, honoring historical solidarity, and supporting collaboration on democracy and human rights.
Now, as he prepares to conclude his term, Ambassador Moscoso Valenzuela reflects on the experiences and achievements that have defined his time in the Netherlands, offering insights into the unique Dutch culture and sharing his hopes for the future of Chile-Netherlands relations.
What do you consider to be the key accomplishments in reinforcing Chile-Netherlands relations during your tenure? Could you share some of the most memorable or successful projects?
However, I would highlight three events that exemplify the strong bilateral relations: our collaboration on green hydrogen, the awarding of the international solidarity medal, and the visit of Chile´s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alberto van Klaveren Stork.
As mentions, Chile, with its abundant natural resources capabilities to produce green hydrogen in the mid-term, and the Netherlands with the Port of Rotterdam- one of Europe’s most vital energy hubs- have been working closely as strategic partners. Together, we aim to establish a future green energy corridor. Both countries are deeply committed to green hydrogen as a key driver to accelerate the energy transition and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
In another significant initiative, the promotion and defense of democracy and human rights gained special significance in 2023, as we commemorated 50 years since the coup d’état in Chile. In recognition of democracy as both a memory and a future commitment, we had the opportunity to present the International Solidarity Medal to 11 Dutch citizens who distinguished themselves through their support for Chilean refugees following the military coup and their dedication to human rights and the restoration of democracy during the dictatorship.
These honorees were selected for their contributions during those years and for representing the wide-ranging assistance provided to thousands of Chileans during that difficult period.
The ceremony was attended by the then Secretary General of the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Paul Huijts, who underscored the importance and emotional resonance of this occasion.
Finally, I would like to emphasize the visit of Chile´s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alberto van Klaveren, in December 2023. Visits from the highest authority in our Ministry are always significant. His trip allowed us to engage in productive working meetings with officials of the main international organizations based in The Hague, as well as with his counterpart, former Foreign Affairs Minister, Hanke Bruins-Slot.
This meeting provided an opportunity to review our comprehensive agenda as like-minded nations. It was particularly meaningful for Minister van Klaveren, considering he was born in Amsterdam.
What aspects of Dutch culture have left a lasting impression on you? How has your understanding of Dutch society evolved during your time in the country?
Having been based in The Hague for six years, I´ve had the opportunity to gain a grounded and realistic perspective on Dutch society and culture. Two aspects in particular have left a long-lasting impression.
The first is the Dutch character. The Dutch are open and friendly, which allows for easy and respectful interactions. They are also straightforward and give a clear message, which reduces the possibility of misunderstandings. I admire their pragmatism; when they see that something does not have much chance of progress, they do not insist and quickly look for an alternative. In contrast, in our region, we tend to be more flexible and persistent in pursuing a goal.
Secondly, Dutch society is remarkably results-oriented, which can be seen in the country´s structure and organization, from urban planning to daily life, all designed to meet the ongoing challenges posed by nature. It is impressive to see the infrastructure dedicated to this purpose: cycle paths, railways, bridges, highways, dykes, and more.
Daily life here follows set patterns, from regular mealtimes and family gatherings planned months in advance to productive work routines and social activities after hours., The Dutch also have a unique connection with nature, embracing and integrating it into their lives. In Chile, while we have remarkable natural landscapes, life is generally more city centered. We are gradually shifting in this direction and still have much to learn, but we are on a positive path.
Future and Staying Connected.
As you transition out of your role, are there any specific bilateral projects or initiatives you hope will continue to thrive after your departure?
I am confident that the relationship with the Netherlands will continue to deepen and that the projects I´ve mentioned, such as the green hydrogen initiative, will keep advancing, bringing benefits not only by diversifying the energy matrix but also by positively impacting people and the environment.
Currently, both foreign ministries are working to commemorate 200 years of bilateral relations in 2025. Although I won’t be present, I am certain this event will mark a significant milestone in our historical relationship. The history shared between Chile and the Netherlands, and their ties could be more well-known.
In fact, our history dates back even earlier than 1825, dating to 14 June 1615, when the ships captained by Willem Schouten and Jacobus Le Maire departed from the Port of Texel and arrived months later at what would become known as Cape Horn. This voyage marked a significant achievement in European navigation, opening of an alternative trading route and advancing knowledge of Patagonia.
Over time, our relationship has seen periods of booming bilateral relations and others in which they have been colder and more distant, especially after September 1973. The return of democracy in Chile was celebrated in the Netherlands, and bilateral relations returned to normal. Today, we can say our connection has deepened, incorporating new agenda items and enriched by the presence pf many Chileans who have made their lives here; from Chilean students attending prestigious Dutch universities; and Chilean academics teaching in various institutions. We would like to highlight all this and more on the bicentenary of our bilateral relations
I am confident that my successor will be committed to further strengthening these ties and enhancing Chile’s image in the Netherlands. For this mission, he will have the support of an excellent team of diplomats and professionals at the Embassy, the Consulate General, and ProChile, who have been dedicated and loyal collaborators during my tenure.
Do you have plans to remain involved in Dutch or international affairs, perhaps in other capacities? How do you see your connection with The Hague and the Netherlands evolving in the future?
The conclusion of my posting in the Netherlands is particularly significant for me. First, it marks the end of my mission in the country where I was promoted to Ambassador, undoubtedly the greatest honor and responsibility of my career. Second, at the end of this year, I will conclude 35 years of diplomatic service to my country.
I am gradually coming to terms with the fact that my daily life will change from what it has been for the past 35 years, and that a new chapter begins, full of challenges, in Brussels with my wife, Radka, and my daughters. Life is an adventure, and I am ready to live it.
As for my continued involvement in international affairs, there is one area I am enthusiastic about. I have submitted my candidacy, with the support of Latin America and the Caribbean countries, to serve on the Advisory Committee for the election of Judges of the International Criminal Court, which will be elected at the next Assembly of States Parties ¿this December. If elected, I hope to contribute my experience to this important work, which will also highlight Chile´s commitment to the International Criminal Court.
Diplomatic Perspectives
As a diplomat, how do you perceive the role of Chile in addressing global challenges such as climate change and economic cooperation?
Chile’s foreign policy operates within an international system and context that inevitably shapes our vision and work efforts. In recent years, global events have influenced how various actors interact within the International System. Given this scenario, Chile´s foreign policy reflects both continuity and change.
Our international strategy is guided by the principle of diversifying our foreign policy to achieve greater international autonomy and thus avoid falling into a relationship of dependence on a particular actor. This position is not new; it has been a fundamental State policy since our return to democracy.
We continue to strengthen our network of trade agreements, which now total 34., connecting to 66 economies, that represent over 88% of the world’s GDP. We value this network and seek to expand it into new areas.
Chile is deeply committed to promoting and protecting human rights, international law, and international humanitarian law while fostering respect for democracy. Our election to the Human Rights Council for the period 2023-2025, with the first regional majority, signifies international confidence in Chile´s activism. We have consistently condemned egregious violations of human rights and international law, regardless of their origin.
Additionally, we have made strides to enhance our foreign policy by incorporating new issues, such as gender inclusion in International Relations, transitioning towards a green and sustainable economy that prioritizes environmental protection and ocean conservation, and taking actions required to mitigate the climate crisis.
Chile is transitioning towards a green and equitable economy, aiming to establish itself as a regional leader in clean energy production, particularly through our abundant natural resources and favorable climatic conditions for producing green hydrogen. We are also promoting lithium on the international stage, another key resource for the global energy transition, where Chile holds some of the largest reserves.
Another crucial aspect of environmental protection is our status as a coastal state, which underscores the importance of oceanic considerations in our foreign policy. In line with our commitment to biodiversity conservation, both on land and in our marine resources, we have worked to designate large parts of our ocean as protected zones, and we are applying to position Valparaiso as the Secretariat for the Biodiversity Beyond Natural Jurisdiction (BBNJ).
Chile occupies a unique position within a transitioning international system. We possess valuable minerals now deemed critical, significant advantages in developing green energies, and a resilient institutional framework capable of withstanding abrupt political cycles. Our territory offers natural laboratories for scientific research, requiring the development of scientific diplomacy. With have a strong academic system and infrastructure valuable human resources, and experienced career diplomats, we are well-equipped to contribute to both continuity and change in the global arena.
