The Hague, The Netherlands, November 13, 2024. Costa Rica’s Deputy Minister of Multilateral Affairs, Alejandro Solano Ortiz, conducted a series of high-level meetings in The Hague, reaffirming Costa Rica’s steadfast support for international justice institutions based in the city and reinforcing bilateral ties with Dutch authorities.
At the International Criminal Court (ICC), Vice Minister Solano met with ICC President Judge Tomoko Akane, expressing Costa Rica’s unwavering support for the Court, its officials, and staff amid pressures aimed at undermining its mandate to combat impunity for serious international crimes and deliver justice to victims. Judge Akane expressed gratitude for Costa Rica’s consistent support. Additionally, Solano held discussions with ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan, reviewing the Office of the Prosecutor’s ongoing work.
During a meeting with Philippe Gautier, Secretary of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Solano discussed Costa Rica’s dedication to resolving disputes through international law. Gautier acknowledged Costa Rica’s impactful cases at the ICJ, which have contributed to international jurisprudence.
Vice Minister Solano also engaged with Marcin Czepelak, Secretary General of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), highlighting the PCA’s 125-year legacy and Costa Rica’s historical role as the first country to establish a regional headquarters agreement with the Court. Czepelak noted the high percentage of Spanish-language cases currently handled by the PCA, underscoring the Court’s accessibility to Spanish-speaking litigants.
In discussions with Marcel de Vink, Director General of Political Affairs of the Netherlands, Solano reviewed recent political consultations between Costa Rica and the Netherlands. They agreed on the favorable moment for enhancing bilateral cooperation, with promising opportunities for deeper political dialogue and collaboration.
Reflecting on his visit, Vice Minister Solano stated, “This working visit reaffirmed Costa Rica’s strong support for the international legal institutions based in The Hague and underscored the strength of our bilateral relationship with the Netherlands, with substantial potential for future cooperation.”
The Costa Rican delegation included Ambassador Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Minister Counsellor Manuel Morales Ovares, and Minister Counsellor Sofia Cob Briceño.
