The Latin American Table at the Nieuwe of Littéraire Sociëteit De Witte in The Hague continues to serve as an important platform for dialogue between Latin America and the Netherlands. Under the dedicated leadership of Sonia Meijer—Honorary Consul of El Salvador and founder of the El Salvador-Holland Chamber of Commerce— the Table was created in 2015 to focus attention on Latin American issues within De Witte’s 190+ thematic tables and extensive network.
The Latin American Table filled an important gap creating a space dedicated to Latin America. It has since its creation, hosted numerous successful lectures and cultural events. Topics have ranged from trade opportunities and diplomatic relations to art and cultural identity, always presented in English to accommodate the international audience.
The most recent conference, featured H.E. Mr. Agustín Vázquez Gómez, Ambassador of El Salvador. His presentation, entitled “El Salvador: History, Identity and a New Model of Transformation”, captivated an audience that included ambassadors from Chile, Costa Rica, Panama, Uruguay, and Venezuela, alongside Dutch society members, journalists, and business figures.
Ambassador Vázquez Gómez, who brings extensive experience as a career diplomat and former naval officer, spoke passionately about El Salvador’s national symbols—its distinctive flowers, birds, and rich natural heritage—which have remained pillars of identity despite the country’s past struggles with earthquakes, civil wars, and generalized gang violence.
A short film showcasing Salvadoran folkloric dances and a series of images highlighting the nation’s flora, fauna, and historic landmarks followed his talk, giving guests a visual immersion into the beauty and resilience of El Salvador.
The ambassador described how, under the leadership of President Nayib Bukele, El Salvador is undergoing a profound transformation. Salvadorans are now regaining peace and security, a feeling that had been unknown for decades. The country, once associated with instability, is now changing. It welcomes growing number of tourists, hosts international events, and sees the return of Salvadorans who once fled abroad. New businesses are flourishing, and a sense of national pride and hope has been rekindled.
The conference concluded with a lively Q&A session. Guests asked about El Salvador’s economy, political relationships with the Netherlands and the United States, and future political developments. The ambassador addressed all questions with openness, transparency and optimism.
Congratulations are in order for the Latin American Table at Sociëteit De Witte for yet another successful and enriching event. The Table remains an important venue for ambassadors and influential figures from the economic, political, and cultural worlds to share their visions with a select and engaged public.
