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Uruguayan Independence Day Celebrated in The Hague

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Uruguayan Independence Day Celebrated in The Hague

The Embassy of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay marked his country’s Independence Day with a grand and festive reception. Held on August 27 at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in The Hague, the event drew over 200 distinguished guests from various sectors of Dutch society.

Ambassadors, chiefs of international missions, diplomats, academics, business leaders, and representatives from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with members of the Uruguayan community, all responded to H.E. Ambassador Dr. Álvaro González Otero’s invitation to celebrate ‘Día de la Independencia’—Uruguay’s National Day, commemorating its independence from Brazil in 1825.

H.E. Dr. Álvaro González Otero, Ambassador of Uruguay. National Day 2024 The Hague.

After nearly 200 years of conflict and civil unrest under Spanish and then Brazilian rule, Uruguay has emerged as a country renowned for its welcoming people, stunning landscapes, first-class meat production, and high-quality wine. In recent decades, Uruguayans have enjoyed a stable democracy, a steady improvement in living conditions, and overall well-being.

In a packed room with an animated audience, Ambassador González Otero took the microphone to thank all the attendees for their sincere affection for his people and country. He then proudly expressed:

“Two years have quickly passed since I arrived in this lovely kingdom. Since then, we have started to shift the focus of the Embassy, placing more emphasis on our bilateral relations. The Netherlands and Uruguay have more in common than people might imagine. We share international principles, landscapes, agricultural production, developed services, qualified exports, and a progressive lifestyle.

We also share strong commitments to the well-being of our citizens and visitors, the protection of human rights, environmental sustainability, progressive social policies, and significant efforts towards renewable energy and climate action. Both countries also emphasize education, democratic governance, and active participation in international organizations promoting peace and development. So, we will keep working to boost our bilateral relations.”

Uruguay National Day, August 27 at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in The Hague.
From the Embassy of Uruguay, Counsellor Pablo Bayarres, Ambassador Gonzalez Otero and Hans Akerboom, Deputy Director Protocol and Host Country Affairs from the Netherlands.

Ambassador González Otero then listed some of the most relevant initiatives undertaken by the Embassy over the last few months:

– Uruguayan participation in the World Hydrogen Summit 2024: Led by the Minister of Industry, Energy, and Mining, Ms. Elisa Facio, with over 50 representatives from various sectors of the public and private sectors.

– Active participation in the “26th World Energy Congress.”

– Cooperation Project with Delft Institute for Water Education: Since 2011, Uruguayan professionals specializing in water resources have participated in the Delft Institute program for advanced training. Initially, the program began with 40 scholarships, resulting in 37 professionals successfully completing their studies. This early success led to the program’s relocation and implementation at the Technological University of Uruguay, now featuring regional participation. The program has since had two new editions in 2022 and 2024, expanding to include 17 professionals from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, and Peru. This development has transformed Uruguay into a regional hub in the field of water resource education.

– Uruguay’s status as one of the 32 signing states of the Ljubljana – The Hague Convention in February 2024.

– Positioning Uruguay as a potential living and working destination for Dutch farmers.

– Interactions with RVO and Port of Rotterdam related to port cooperation.

– Exploring and initiating new cooperation projects with Westland Municipality and Wageningen University.

– Meetings with private sector actors related to agribusiness.

– Preparation for the Capitan Miranda’s visit to Amsterdam: Uruguay’s school tall ship has already confirmed its participation in Sail Amsterdam 2025.

– Multilateral achievements: The Embassy has made progress in multilateral areas, including ongoing contributions and work with international organizations based in The Hague: the ICJ, ICC, OPCW, HCCH, and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Additionally, a closer relationship with The Hague Academy of International Law has been pursued. Significant advances have also been made through the coordinated work of the GRULAC Group in relation to various international organizations.

H.E. Mr. Fernando Arias, OPCW Director General , Ambassador Gonzalez Otero and Mr Arias spouse, Patricia van Oordt.

Following his remarks, Ambassador González Otero invited the audience to watch a short video about Uruguay, which made a great impression on those present. He expressed, “Uruguay is an exceptional country that has developed a dynamic and robust culture, shaped by a fascinating blend of gaucho traditions, European influences, and the unique Rioplatense spirit. Tango, folklore, candombe, and milonga are examples of its rich artistic musical expression. Uruguayan gastronomy, featuring high-quality meat, wine, and dairy products, especially the beloved ‘dulce de leche,’ delights palates and consistently wins prestigious awards worldwide.”

“The work we have done does not mean we are satisfied; we want to continue advancing in a deeper process. The bilateral relationship is already strong, but the potential to strengthen bonds in several key areas is even greater.”

The Ambassador of Uruguay, H.E. Alvaro Gonzalez Otero and the President of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, Judge Graciela Gatti Santana with her husband Mr Gustavo Segovia.

The event was conceived to showcase the rich and diverse culture of Uruguay, a nation with a population of approximately 3,495,527 as of 2022.

The national anthems of Uruguay and the Netherlands were performed by the Uruguayan opera singer Sara de los Campos. After the ambassador’s speech, the Embassy paid tribute to two influential musicians: José “El Sabalero” Carbajal and Jaime Roos, who both lived in the Netherlands. Jaime Roos settled in Amsterdam in 1978, where he played bass in several salsa, rock, and jazz groups. He had a son and remained in the Netherlands until 1984 when he returned to Uruguay.

Carbajal spent his days in the Netherlands with his wife, Anke van Haastrecht, and their two children. Anke was invited to share some special stories from their life together.

Uruguayan opera singer Sara de los Campos.
Uruguayan drummers Luis Gradin, Marcelo Terra, and Nicolás Sánchez.

The enthusiastic audience enjoyed an authentic performance by talented Uruguayan drummers Luis Gradin, Marcelo Terra, and Nicolás Sánchez. The celebration continued with Uruguayan wine, classic savory empanadas, and dulce de leche, which delighted the crowded room and completed the great celebration.

Ambassador González Otero concluded the event by thanking his Embassy team: Counselor Pablo Bayarres, Chancellor Gustavo Morales, his assistant Juan Diego, and Martha Hernández and Sofía Anastasiou. He then led a warm toast for the people of the Netherlands, Uruguay, and the necessary and desired peace in the world.

China: A New Actor in the Contemporary Multipolar World

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China: A New Actor in the Contemporary Multipolar World

By Mariarosaria Iorio, Political Analyst

I. The post-cold war world  

International relations are nowadays characterised by major changes that started at the end of the 80s with the fall of the Berlin Wall.  Indeed, the end of the cold war was marked by the dislocation of the two main political blocks, namely the Soviet Union and the Western World. Such a dislocation resulted in the marginalization of the post-war multilateral system embodied in the United Nations, and the standstill of the multilateral trade negotiations in the late 90s in the context of the World Trade Organisation.  New lines of political thought have been facing each other since then, while reshaping the post-cold war world in a number of fragmented and variable sub-blocks of countries. 

The United States decided to put itself first by concentrating on its internal affairs, while withdrawing from international affairs.  

Europe, the old continent, looks for an efficient strategy towards autonomy from the United States.  Europe also tries, not without difficulty, to create a more cohesive internal and external political approach.  The reality is however evolving rather more towards fragmentation of Europe in favour of European National fragmented interests. Such a fragmentation is the natural consequence of the decadence of the European Institutional and collective actions to the advantage of individual Sates actions and interests.   In sum, what seemed to be a structured and coherent European Union block fighting for the promotion of its economic and political values all over the world has somehow become an alliance at variable geometry both internally and externally.  The disorganisation of the leadership results in a chaotic and unpredictable European External and Internal action. 

Thereof, the empty influence spaces left on the international relations scene has given new international actors the opportunity to emerge.  

Meanwhile, the fragmentation of the European Institutions has also impacted the EU-USA relations within NATO, and affected the security and peace sphere.  Security issues have been on and off on the European agenda.    

In this context, Russia that has lost its empire in the 80s looks now for a new power game. In spite of the disruption of the Soviet Union, Russia attempts either by influence or by force to exercise power in its ancient affiliate countries.  Russia that was supposed to be defeated with the fall of the Berlin Wall takes back its role of opponent to the Western World on the international scene at least as it concerns the international affairs philosophy.  Thus, creating a tension aimed at restoring its power in the world.   

The group of emerging and developing economies that constitute a new variable block with a large portion of population employed in agriculture have emerged as new actors in the world’s geo-political discourses.  At the head of this block on the international scene, there is China.  The shaky international leadership context has indeed given China a new space. China’s   communist past combined with its market-based economic strategy gives it a particular position.  

China is The One that can communicate to Russia. China is also The One that can have an influence on the Western economic and political scene as China owns a big part of Western Foreign Debt  

China embeds a horizontal strategy in both its trade and development policies, while producing at low wages.  Its production system coupled with its pragmatic political approach has reshaped the international power structure.  The top-down approach of the Western World faces now the competition created by the horizontal win-win approach proposed by China in both developing and industrialized countries.

Indeed, as a result of the decline of the Western World global hegemony based on market access and economic and social liberalism as a means to ensure economic growth and promote economic development, the vision promoted by China’s discourse, centred on the protection of livelihoods and local sovereign choices finds new adepts.  Furthermore, China has successfully attempted to promote a trade-off approach to international cooperation during the last 20 years.  A cooperation that does not interfere in internal affairs of partner countries as it has often reproached to the Western countries involved in international cooperation.  

As the developing countries leader, China positions itself as the spoke country for the poor.  As a new world powerful economic actor China plays as the guarantor of the Western Economic stability.  China positions itself as the bridge between the rich and the poor.  It is representing a different hegemonic game that only changes in its discourse, while still pursuing its own interests and influence zones.  Such a situation poses the question of the values that the international regime wants to embrace.  Indeed, this changing world results in an increased number of conflicts – be new or historical conflicts.  

The dislocation of the traditional leaders of the international relations has definitely created a chaotic and unpredictable scenario.  Chaos has in some cases been chosen as a political strategy to disrupt the post-1945 international regime. Such a disruption has benefitted new actors, and given space to new lines of thought.  These new lines of thought have attacked the existing international framework but has not yet succeeded in creating a new regime.  The increasing unbalance of power and the lack of leadership on the international political scene is risky. 

The reduction by choice of leadership of the United States has indeed resulted in the weakening of the values emerged as a result of the dramatic experience of Second World War, namely freedom of thought and freedom of speech to mention only a few.   We are now facing a much more authoritarian world with force used as a means to manage the political arena.  Dialogue seems to be a rather consuming exercise that has left its place to the use of force.  Force is no longer seen as the last option but rather the opening act for political dialogue.  Nationalism and individual interests are now at the centre of the political game. This trend is taking the world to instability and conflict.  

The peoples of the world are more and more questioning the existing system. People’s needs and expectations are not met.  The new emerged actors, such as China have given the hope of a possible change in the present international system without fundamentally questioning its rationale but rather trying to rip a slate of the cake.  

The struggle for influence among countries has not succeeded in building a peaceful and stable world. Citizens will have to face the challenge of building a new era of peace and stability worldwide.

Derrière les murs du Palais de la Paix : permanence et changements de la Cour internationale de Justice

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Derrière les murs du Palais de la Paix : permanence et changements de la Cour internationale de Justice

S.E. M. Philippe Couvreur est arrivé à La Haye en avril 1982, où il a d’abord occupé le poste d’assistant spécial aux bureaux du greffier et du greffier adjoint de la Cour internationale de Justice.

Il a ensuite exercé les fonctions de Secrétaire, Premier Secrétaire et Secrétaire juridique principal, avant d’être élu Greffier de la Cour en 2000, et réélu en 2007 et 2014. Pour marquer l’anniversaire de ses débuts à la Cour, il y a 35 ans, Diplomat Magazine l’a invité à témoigner de son expérience unique au service de cette institution, des évolutions qu’il a pu y observer, et à partager le regard qu’il porte sur les changements qui ont marqué la Cour et La Haye au cours des trois dernières décennies.
Philippe Couvreur avec le Pape Jean-Paul II prise le 13 mai 1985.
Je suis arrivé à La Haye en avril 1982 — de façon aussi inattendue que j’avais entamé des études de droit treize ans auparavant (mais c’est là une autre histoire…) — pour occuper un poste temporaire à la Cour internationale de Justice. La Cour était alors la seule institution judiciaire internationale existante au plan universel. Son activité, particulièrement faible à la fin des années 1970, ne pouvait en ce temps-là guère laisser présager du succès que rencontrerait la Cour dans les décennies à venir. Mon bienveillant maître de Louvain, le professeur Paul de Visscher, fils du célèbre internationaliste Charles de Visscher, unique juge belge à la Cour, m’avait prédit des jours aussi sereins qu’heureux, écoulés à lire et à écrire des ouvrages dans la solitude des imposants murs de la bibliothèque du Palais de la Paix…
Les mémoires ont été dûment déposés dans l’affaire El Salvador c. Honduras dans la salle Bol le 1 juin 1988, l’affaire du Différend frontalier terrestre, insulaire et maritime.
En rejoignant la Cour, un frais matin d’avril, dont je garde un souvenir très précis, le jeune juriste que j’étais découvrit, non sans étonnement, une organisation de taille très modeste, le Greffe, qui en est l’organe administratif, alors composé de moins d’une quarantaine de fonctionnaires. Le fonctionnement de la Cour reposait entièrement sur cette équipe restreinte de personnel permanent, auquel s’ajoutait, selon que de besoin, un personnel temporaire pour faire face au surcroît de travaux linguistiques et de sténodactylographie lors des sessions (publiques et privées) de la Cour. Je me rappelle avoir été frappé par la personnalité haute en couleur de certains de ces traducteurs indépendants, dont la grande culture littéraire m’émerveillait. Cette structure très économique du Greffe impliquait une grande polyvalence de ses membres, et les Secrétaires de la Cour — ses fonctionnaires supérieurs — étaient appelés, en sus de leurs travaux de recherches juridiques, de préparation des documents de la Cour, et de rédaction de la correspondance diplomatique, à assumer eux-mêmes l’essentiel des tâches linguistiques (traduction et interprétation) et d’information, ainsi que la supervision de nombreuses activités administratives et logistiques.
La Grande salle de Justice, l’affaire Relative au Timor Oriental (Portugal c. Australie) Arrêt du 30 juin 1995.
Il n’était nullement rare qu’un nouveau venu comme moi ait à passer week-ends et nuits blanches au Palais de la Paix à effectuer les travaux les plus divers… allant jusqu’à imprimer et polycopier, sur de vieilles machines à stencils ronéotype, des décisions dont la Cour devait donner la lecture en séance publique le lendemain ! Dès mon arrivée au Greffe, j’ai eu le bonheur et le privilège d’être initié et associé à l’ensemble des fonctions de l’institution sous la patiente supervision de personnalités d’exception, tels que MM. Torres Bernárdez et Pillepich, alors respectivement Greffier et Greffier adjoint. J’en ai retiré le plus grand bénéfice, puisque cette immersion sans préparation dans toutes les facettes de l’activité du Greffe m’a permis d’acquérir de ce dernier une connaissance unique — de l’intérieur — et sous tous ses aspects —, un acquis particulièrement précieux au moment où j’ai été amené, bien des années plus tard, à assumer la délicate responsabilité d’en assurer la gestion au plus haut niveau. Devenir un fonctionnaire du Greffe au début des années 1980 signifiait accepter de se couler sans discussion dans un moule à tous égards exigeant, et se donner corps et âme, avec humilité et discrétion, à l’institution, sans penser à soi ni parler de soi. Depuis ces années d’initiation, j’ai été le témoin de profondes transformations de la Cour, rendues inévitables à la fois pour répondre à l’accroissement considérable de ses activités, avec la disparition du monde bipolaire qui avait relégué le règlement judiciaire à un rôle quelque peu marginal, et pour saisir les opportunités nouvelles offertes, notamment, par le progrès des technologies et de la communication. Entre 1982 et aujourd’hui, le nombre de fonctionnaires a ainsi presque triplé (il a quasiment doublé depuis l’an 2000, année de ma première élection en tant que Greffier). L’organisation du travail a été progressivement spécialisée entre les divers départements, juridique, linguistique et chargé de l’information, qui furent créés en 1997, et les services techniques. Par ailleurs, les Membres de la Cour ne disposèrent pas, pendant longtemps, de « référendaires » — ils s’y sont d’ailleurs longtemps refusés—, et l’assistance apportée aux juges en matière judiciaire était principalement répartie entre les fonctionnaires du Département des affaires juridiques.
H.E. Philippe Couvreur avec la Reine Beatrix photo prise pendant le 50 eme anniversaire de la Cour (18-04-1996).
Les cinq premiers postes de juristes référendaires ne furent obtenus de l’Assemblée générale et créés qu’en 2002, à l’issue de difficiles négociations que je me souviens avoir menées avec beaucoup de plaisir et d’intérêt ; le nombre de ces postes s’est progressivement accru, pour s’élever à quinze aujourd’hui. Les divers développements qui ont marqué le monde au cours des dernières décennies n’ont pas manqué de soulever pour la Cour de nouveaux défis. Comme c’est le cas pour toute institution, elle n’a pu les relever en faisant table rase des enseignements de son histoire ni, à l’inverse, en ne saisissant pas toutes les opportunités offertes par le temps présent. A ces différents égards, la Cour est certainement parvenue, au fil des ans, à assurer un équilibre, toujours délicat, entre changements et continuité. La continuité de la Cour est bien sûr inscrite dans son Statut, qui fait partie intégrante de la Charte des Nations Unies, et reflétée dans ses méthodes judiciaires, qui ont été très largement élaborées par sa devancière, la Cour permanente de Justice internationale, et héritées d’elle. Cette continuité historique était particulièrement présente lorsque j’ai rejoint le Greffe. Ainsi, en manière d’anecdote, divers hauts fonctionnaires alors en poste avaient eux-mêmes côtoyé, au début de leur carrière, d’anciens fonctionnaires de la Cour permanente. Tous nourrissaient à l’égard de cette dernière le plus grand respect. Il régnait d’ailleurs dans les couloirs du Palais de la Paix une atmosphère feutrée et délicieusement surannée, évocatrice de la défunte Société des Nations. Je me souviens en avoir encore utilisé maintes fournitures de bureau ! La continuité jurisprudentielle et procédurale entre les deux Cours constitue pour les Etats une garantie importante de sécurité et de prévisibilité juridiques. Cette continuité, juridique et historique, de même que l’expérience accumulée en plus de quatre-vingt-dix ans d’exercice de la fonction judiciaire, sont pour la Cour un facteur crucial de légitimité.
H.E. Philippe Couvreur vec le Roi Willem-Alexander photo prise pendant le 70 eme anniversaire de la Cour (20-04-2016).
En même temps, la Cour a eu, à l’évidence, à s’adapter aux changements du monde réel dans lequel elle opère, comme aux nécessités et opportunités nouvelles de chaque époque traversée. L’une des transformations notoires auxquelles j’ai assisté fut l’ouverture croissante de la Cour sur l’extérieur : longtemps à l’écart, à dessein, des organes politiques des Nations Unies, la Cour a souhaité se faire plus et mieux entendre de ces organes et des Etats membres. Elle a ainsi rompu avec ce qui était parfois perçu comme un « splendide isolement » au sein des Nations Unies, même si elle défend toujours jalousement son autonomie. La Cour doit en outre désormais également tenir compte des nombreuses autres juridictions, internationales ou régionales, qui ont été créées ces dernières années, et veiller, autant que possible, à assurer l’harmonie du « concert judiciaire » que permet ce foisonnement de cours et tribunaux sur la scène internationale. Davantage ouverte sur la communauté internationale et ses réalités, la Cour s’est montrée de plus en plus attentive, non seulement à sa place dans l’Organisation des Nations Unies, mais aussi à la poursuite des objectifs de celle-ci et à sa mission propre au service du règlement pacifique des différends internationaux. Des différends de plus en plus complexes, tant juridiquement que factuellement, en même temps que politiquement plus denses, lui ont été soumis. En révisant constamment, selon que de besoin, ses méthodes de travail, elle a su les résoudre rapidement et efficacement, à un coût particulièrement modeste pour la communauté internationale, tout en assurant le développement du droit. Enfin, pour conclure sur une note plus prosaïque, mais qui est loin d’être négligeable, je ne peux taire la chance que j’ai eue de connaître l’extraordinaire développement de la ville de La Haye au cours des 35 dernières années. Celle-ci offre aujourd’hui à la Cour, comme aux nombreuses institutions internationales qui s’y sont installées à sa suite, une qualité de vie et un cadre de travail uniques, qui sont très loin de ressembler à ce que j’ai trouvé en y arrivant. A l’image de l’imposante stature du Palais de la Paix où elle siège, symbole mondialement connu de la justice internationale, la Cour est une institution solidement établie. En dépit des périodes de doute ou de désaffection qu’elle a traversées par le passé, son rôle est unanimement salué au sein de la communauté internationale et le recours à ses services par les Etats n’a jamais été aussi soutenu. 35 ans après, je continue de mesurer chaque jour le privilège qui est le mien de servir au mieux de mes capacités l’organe judiciaire principal des Nations Unies. —– Les photos dans l’article sont une courtoisie de la Cour International de Justice.

Magyar Péter Peter: a liberator of Hungary or a continuator of Orbán’s political legacy?

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Magyar Péter Peter: a liberator of Hungary or a continuator of Orbán’s political legacy?

By Eljanos Kasaj 

The leader of the Tisza-Respect and Freedom Party and member of the European Parliament, the centrist-conservative Magyar Péter, once a close ally and high-profile figure within the Fidesz-Hungarian Civic Alliance Party of the Bismarckian Prime Minister Orbán Viktor, has achieved a sensational and historic victory in the Hungarian parliamentary elections on 12 April, having secured around 55.25% of the vote and having won a supermajority of 141 seats in the National Assembly.

Through his political platform, which aims to restore the rule of law, strengthen democratic institutions, rebuild public services, reinstate media pluralism and reorient Hungary towards the European Union and NATO, Magyar succeeded in ending Fidesz’s 16-year rule in Hungary.

But if we were to try to look at it more carefully and with cooler emotions, we would notice that, despite the measured and balanced political rhetoric, Magayr and his Tisza Party’s program are very similar to those of outgoing Prime Minister Orbán and his Fidesz Party,

A careful observer would had maybe note that the political objectives of Fidesz and Tisza parties are curiously in many aspects the same (especially when it comes in protecting the Hungarian national sovereignty), differing only in what tools their leaders will use in order to achieve them.

To better understand what changes (if any) there may be in Hungary’s internal and external political course, let us endeavor to analyze the three most delicate and challenging issues that the new Hungarian prime minister is expected to face and what’s his approach on them:

Hungarian demographics and illegal migration

As Magyar Péter has pledged to his electorate a more pragmatic and less confrontational approach to the European Union on various issues, his positions on the key matters of Hungary’s national sovereignty – particularly border control and demographics – remain in line with the anti-immigration and ‘pro-family’ policy developed by the outgoing Prime Minister Orbán Viktor (some time even appearing more ‘radical’ than its predecessor), which we can observe in the following points:

Firstly, Magyar’s political program includes well-planned measures to incentivize Hungarians living abroad to return to Hungary, presenting this as an indicator of the restoration of citizens’ trust in the Hungarian state, and which will be achieved through restoring the rule of law, cutting corruption and improving the performance of public sectors (such as healthcare and education), consequently making Hungary a more attractive country in which to live and build the future.

At the same time, he has emphasized the continuation of support for Hungarians abroad (the autochthonous Hungarian minority and Hungarian diaspora) through the continuation of the policy of dual citizenship, the right to vote and preserving cultural heritage (language, traditions, costums, religion).

Secondly, in parallel with this ambitious program to repatriate Hungarian citizens to their country, Magyar has pledged to adopt a ‘very strict stance’ against illegal migration, including strengthening the southern border fence with Serbia built in 2015 and refusing the migrant relocation quotas mandated by the European Union.

Meanwhile, he also announced that, from June 1, 2026, all work permits for non-European migrants will be terminated, with the aim of reducing the number of new arrivals in the country to zero and stimulating the domestic labor market with new jobs for Hungarian citizens.

Thirdly, in a marked departure from Prime Minister Orbán, Magyar has stated that he intends to extradite high-profile political figures who have been granted political asylum by the previous government – such as former Macedonian Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski, former Polish Justice Minister and Prosecutor General Zbigniew Ziobro and former Polish Deputy Justice Minister Marcin Romanowski – to their countries of origin.

Thus, by putting an end to Hungary’s role as a ‘bastion of freedom’ and a ‘Christian stronghold’ that protected conservative European politicians from perceived ‘political persecution’ and ‘liberal repression’ of EU-aligned governments.

Lastly, while publicly criticizing Brussels’ past ‘mismanagement’ of migration, Magyar has signaled a willingness to find compromises to end the one-million-euro-a-day fine that Hungary has been paying for breaching the European Union’s asylum rules-a move which would liberate Hungary from financial burden and help stabilize its public finances, without forcing the country to make major concessions at the expense of national sovereignty.

Budapest relations with Moscow, Kiev and Beijing

Upon entering the Prime Minister’s office at the Carmelite Monastery, Magyar has pledged to rebuild and strengthen Hungary’s relations with the European Union, Visegrád Group and NATO, thus signaling a ‘de-Orbánization’ of Hungarian foreign policy.

Two of the most delicate and significant challenges of Magyar’s diplomatic approach would be the country’s complex relations with Russia, Ukraine and the People’s Republic of China, which present a curious mix of criticism (miscalculations or failures of the Prime Minister Orbán government) and a pragmatic stance (geographical realism and economic necessity):

While criticizing the previous government’s failure to diversify energy sources, a move that left Hungary after 2022 with no choice but Russian energy supplies, Magyar has preconize to construct a ‘pragmatic dialogue’ with Moscow and to continue importing ‘Russian cheap oil and gas’ until 2035 (a date considerably later than that announced by Brussels, which aims to break away from Russian energy sources by 2027).

At the same time, he has also expressed support to continue the Paks II nuclear power plant project, but has pledged to review and potentially renegotiate the financial and contractual details of the agreement signed with Russia’s State Atomiс Energy Corporation ‘ROSATOM’, over concerns about the financial sustainability of the €12.5 milliard project and the massive Russian loan financing the project, which is considered a potential trap for the Hungarian national finances.

On the other hand he has made it clear that Budapest will neither send its own troops, weapons nor taxpayers’ money to Ukraine, nor will it allow Hungarian territory to be used as a transit country for arms shipments – thus emphasizing the desire to keep Hungary out of the direct or indirect conflict with Moscow that could possibly damage its energy supplies from Russia.

But he appears more open to reaching a compromise with Brussels’ over the European funds for Kiev, which would lead to the resumption of Russian oil and gas supplies via the ‘Druzhba’ oil pipeline, even though it’s not clear how Kremlin will interpret this move.

Meanwhile, unlike his distant stance towards Moscow, Magyar, like many European leaders lately, appears more open to maintaining economic relations with Beijing, albeit with more careful scrutiny and based on ‘pragmatic cooperation’.

Although he has publicly criticized the impact that Chinese factories and plants (as well as those from South Korea) have had on Hungary’s ecological systems, he does not appear to intend to ‘dismantle’ the existing Chinese industrial projects (such as CATL in Debrecen and BYD in Szeged), but has promised to review the contracts with them and to ensure they bring as many benefits as possible to the Hungarian people and to the Hungarian economy.

Magyar has also announced his plans to support European Union initiatives (such as the “Made in Europe” draft law), which could require Chinese and all other foreign investors in Hungary to employ at least 50% of their projects’ workforce from the domestic Hungarian labor market.

Thus, based on this complex stance, we can assume that, rather than a complete reversal of Prime Minister Orbán’s ‘Eastern Opening’ policy, Magyar’s foreign policy towards is based on the ‘Hungary First’ principle, which aims to maximize the benefits for Hungary from its pragmatic relations with Moscow and Beijing.

Approach to Israel

Despite the rise of anti-Israeli sentiment among the European public and the growing criticism and condemnation from European leaders regarding Israel’s genocidal war in Palestine, Magyar has promised that he will continue the policy of ‘zero tolerance’ towards anti-Semitism and ensure the safety of one of Europe’s largest Jewish communities, living in Hungary.

He has also emphasized that Israel is and would remain a key economic partner of Hungary, and that the relationship between the two countries would be ‘pragmatic’ and based on Hungary’s national interest.

Meanwhile, despite an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC), during a telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who congratulated him on his victory in the parliamentary elections, Magyar invited him to Budapest for the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Uprising in October 2026, while Netanyahu invited him in Jerusalem.

At the same time, Magyar has publicly confirmed that he would continue to block the EU’s proposals to impose sanctions on Israel, even though his government will consider each EU decisions “on a case-by-case basis”, but without giving sufficient explanation as to how this evaluation process will be carried out.

Even though it’s still early to draw conclusions, it’s becoming obvious that although Budapest’s rhetoric towards Tel Aviv may or will become more restrained, Hungary will continue to remain one of the most Israel-friendly states in Europe, together with Germany, Italy and the Czech Republic.

Conclusions

As we are now less than 20 days away from 9 May 2026, when Magyar Péter will be officially sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Hungary, many analysts, experts, opinionists, political scientists, academics and journalists are analyzing what the Hungarian people and the European political community will expect from the former Fidesz politician.

It is certain that a reform process (so urgently needed in the country at this moment) will take place in Hungary and with it a new era will begin on the Hungarian political scene and an old one will close.

But, although the ‘revolutionary euphoria’ there are still many questions and uncertainties on how closely this process will align with the expectations of the electorate and Brussels’ political elites.

As tone in Budapest seems set to change, but as the German idiom goes, ‘Der Ton macht die Musik’ – so it remains to be seen how the Magyar’s political rhetoric will impact the Hungarian politics and more broadly the political landscape of Central and Eastern Europe, and if he will be a liberator of Hungary from the Fidesz or a continuator of Prime Minister Orbán’s political legacy.

Bibliography:

https://eng.belta.by/politics/view/expert-orbans-loss-was-not-a-foregone-conclusion-179184-2026
https://www.timesofisrael.com/hungarys-youth-led-revolution-is-a-wake-up-call-for-israels-opposition
https://www.timesofisrael.com/no-time-to-waste-pro-eu-magyar-vows-new-era-in-hungary-after-ousting-orban
https://tass.com/world/2115925
https://tass.com/politics/2116247
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3349821/orban-concedes-defeat-hungarian-voters-deliver-sweeping-rebuke-16-year-rule
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202604/1358890.shtml
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/4/13/who-is-peter-magyar-hungarys-new-leader-who-trounced-viktor-orban

10 Year Anniversary: the journey of An Experts’ Guide to International Protocol

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10 Year Anniversary: the journey of An Experts’ Guide to International Protocol

By Mark Verheul

On 18 April 2016, it was a privilege for Gilbert Monod de Froideville and myself to present the first copy of “An Experts’ Guide to International Protocol – Best Practice in Diplomatic and Corporate Relations” to Professor Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, as former Secretary-General of NATO, in International Press Center Nieuwspoort in The Hague. He had also contributed to our book with an interview about the role protocol played throughout his career, including diplomatic sensitivities, political gains, strategic choices and some great anecdotes. In the presence of dear family members, friends, colleagues, representatives from several ministries, the Dutch Royal Household, as well as numerous foreign diplomats, it was a wonderful start to our global endeavor. 

Throughout the past decade, we’ve been fortunate to see that our book has offered guidance on international protocol and its associated practices, for a wide range of readers around the world. From seasoned diplomatic professionals, to young novices in the field of global trade. From the first online order (by the Socialist Party in Albania), to personally signing copies in the authors’ corners of the PDI-POA Annual Forums in San Diego, San Antonio, Montreal and Miami. Or at additional book launches in Amsterdam, Brussels, Chicago, Madrid and at EXPO 2020 in Dubai.

Being extremely grateful for the many positive reviews, interesting articles in numerous renowned Dutch newspapers and Diplomat Magazine over the years, as well as a pleasant interview on a regional radio morning show, yesterday. And smiling heavily, after reading a 5-star review by ChatGPT, at the time this platform just started to be ‘a hot topic’…

On LinkedIn: “I’m a Master student in International Relations in Belgrade, and am conducting a research project titled ‘Protocol as a Global Language’. After having read your book, with all its delightful behind-the-scenes moments that make the experience even more engaging, I would really appreciate having a conversation with you to discuss the fascinating insights of this highly specific part of diplomacy.” Which I obviously gladly did.

Finding our book on a shelve in a book store in Kathmandu. Or in the library of the Council of the European Union in Brussels or the United Nations Office in Geneva. Or hearing that it’s placed on someone’s Christmas wish list… Being considered mandatory reading material. Or being told that at least 50 yellow sticky notes are placed throughout the copy of a fellow protocol professional in Argentina.

Bumping into a member of the oldest student rowing club in the Netherlands, at Leiden University, during a strategic networking reception two years ago: “Sir, are you really the author of that book on protocol with all those country flags on the cover…? I have it on my book shelve, and certainly want to learn more about it!”

An Experts’ Guide to International Protocol, five different language publications.

In April 2021, adding an extra chapter on the consequences of Covid-19 with contributions from professionals in over 25 cities around the world, ranging from Accra, Geneva, and New Delhi to Rio de Janeiro, Sydney, and Washington, D.C. After the first heavily affected year by the pandemic, a multitude of personal examples, struggles, creative solutions, and lessons learned related to protocol, high-level event management, and stakeholder engagement were shared.

Proudly looking back on the publication of four translated editions. In Spanish in collaboration with Comillas Pontifical University in Madrid in September 2019, followed by Mandarin in collaboration with the National Administration Press in Beijing in June 2020, as well as in Arabic in collaboration with 3zProtocol, a Riyadh-based protocol institute, and Madarek Publishing House, in March 2022, and in French at Amsterdam University Press in November 2025.

And truly looking forward to the times to come. In which AI will definitely play a key role; also in our field of expertise. Artificial Intelligence is a given. Human skills are a gift. Critical thinking remains key. We can’t wait to add an additional chapter to our book related to this matter in collaboration with our new publishing house Routledge. By including the input of a large panel of young protocol professionals. Because they own the future. Stay tuned!

CHUD THAI Through The  Ages-  Presence of The Past

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CHUD THAI Through The  Ages-  Presence of The Past

Chud Thai:The Knowledge, Craftsmanship, and Practices of the Thai National Costume

By Roy Lie Ajtam

Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya delivered an impactful and authoritative keynote lecture on “Chud Thai Phra Ratcha Niyom” in The Hague on April 9, 2026. This event powerfully showcased the royal vision of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, who stands as a groundbreaking designer and stylist. Her bold vision has not only created timeless embodiment of Thai culture but has also been instrumental in preserving and promoting Thailand’s rich cultural heritage through national dress.

In her lecture, “The Evolution of Chud Thai and Thai Textiles,” the Princess confidently presented eight styles of Chud Thai Phra Ratcha Niyom and three styles of men’s royal shirts.

Chud Thai fashion show at Hotel Des Indes.
Chud Thai Fashion Show.

Princess Sirivannavari holds a Bachelor of Arts from Chulalongkorn University and a Master’s in Design from Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode in France. Her collaboration with French couturier Pierre Balmain led to a notable fashion show in Paris, and her debut collection,”Presence of the Past,”fused modern design with traditional Thai elements. She also designed the dress for Sophida Kanchanarin, Thailand’s representative at the Miss Universe 2018 pageant.

Dedicated to honouring the legacy of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, Princess Sirivannavari is committed to preserving Thai craftsmanship and innovating to meet contemporary global demands.

Chulalongkorn University awarded her an honorary Doctorate in Fine and Applied Arts for her significant contributions to Thai fashion through her brand, Sirivannavari.

The prestigious Hotel des Indes in The Hague served as an exceptional venue for this royal presentation, with its historical architecture enhancing the impact of the evening.

The program featured all eight styles of Chud Thai Phra Ratcha Niyom—Thai Ruean Ton, Thai Chitralada, Thai Amarin, Thai Borom.himan, Thai Chakri, Thai Dusit, Thai Siwalai, and Thai Chakkraphat, along with three styles of royal shirts for men. These styles are strong expressions of Thai identity and artistry.

Furthermore, the exhibition offers a contemporary interpretation of Thai design, marking a significant step in elevating Thai dress on the global stage.

This initiative reflects the unwavering commitment of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit to safeguarding and promoting Thailand’s cultural identity.

In her special lecture, Her Royal Highness highlighted the design philosophy that harmonizes cultural heritage with contemporary expression and global aesthetics. She underscored the timeless elegance and cultural integrity of Chud Thai in today’s global fashion landscape.

The presentation attracted a distinguished audience, including members of the diplomatic corps, representatives from international organizations, senior officials from the public and private sectors, leading Dutch media, as well as prominent figures and influencers in fashion, lifestyle, and the creative industries from both the Netherlands and the international community.

Chud Thai Fashion for men.

The Chud Thai is poised to be nominated by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (ICH) Therefore the Thai Cabinet approved the submission of “Chud Thai: Knowledge, Craftsmanship and Practices of the Thai National Costume” to UNESCO for consideration as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, to be reviewed at the 21st session of the Intergovernmental Committee in 2026.

H.E. Asi Mamanee, Ambassador of Thailand.
HRH Princess Sirivannavari with models
HRH Princess Sirivannavari with models.

HRH Princess Sirivannavari concluded her presentation with flair, displaying  models who demonstrated all eight variations of the Chud Thai. Notably, Ambassador H.E. Asi Mamanee and his spouse joined the ranks of the models, adding to the elegance of the event.

This was an memorable  Royal Thai experience unique, stylish, and undeniably impactful, offering a compelling glimpse into the rich cultural significance of the Chud Thai and everything it embodies.

Ambassador’s Welcome Dinner at Hotel Des Indes

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Ambassador’s Welcome Dinner at Hotel Des Indes

Celebrating diplomacy, heritage, and elegance in the heart of The Hague

On the afternoon of Tuesday, 14 April, the magnificent Hotel Des Indes set the stage for an exceptional Ambassador’s Welcome Dinner, held in honour of newly arrived ambassadors accredited to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Hosted by General Manager Yvonne van der Klaauw and Sales Manager Camilla Vaselli, with the valued support of Diplomat Magazine, the evening brought together ambassadors from The Hague and Brussels appointed in 2025 and 2026 together with protocol director and deputy from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands and from the City of The Hague.

Ambassador of Serbia, H.E. Ms. Marina Jovićević and H.E. Ms. Charlotte Frater Ambassador of New Zealand.

Beauty, tradition, and class defined the evening, as Hotel Des Indes once again demonstrated its unparalleled ability to blend historical grandeur with contemporary refinement. From the moment guests arrived, they were immersed in an atmosphere of charm, character, and understated luxury—hallmarks of a hotel that has welcomed the world for more than 160 years.

Located on the prestigious Lange Voorhout, the hotel originally began life in 1858 as the private city palace of Baron van Brienen, treasurer to King Willem III of the Netherlands. Designed for hosting lavish receptions, the residence featured an impressive ballroom, elegant salons, and a spacious inner courtyard for horse-drawn carriages—elements that continue to define its architectural identity today.

H.E. Mr. Carlos de la Mota, Ambassador of Dominican Republic.

This longstanding legacy of royal and international patronage continues to this day. Just last week, Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, presented the first stop  of her global tour for the Royal Thai exhibition and conference on Thai textiles and traditional attire at Des Indes. Her stay at Hotel Des Indes carried special significance, as it honoured the memory of her grandmother, who had also been a guest of the hotel.

From aristocratic residence to diplomatic landmark

In 1881, the building was transformed into a luxury hotel and officially opened by Prince Frederik of Orange. Named after its counterpart in Batavia, Hotel Des Indes quickly established itself as a pioneer of comfort and innovation, offering amenities far ahead of its time, including private bathrooms and early in-room communication systems.

Its strategic location in The Hague—internationally recognised as the city of peace and justice—soon made it a natural gathering place for diplomats, statesmen, and global leaders, particularly following the First Hague Peace Conference.

Throughout the turbulent years of the two World Wars, the hotel played a significant role in history, hosting negotiators, military leaders, and later Allied forces. Figures such as Winston Churchill and Dwight D. Eisenhower were among those who resided within its storied walls.

A guestbook like no other

Few hotels in the world can rival the illustrious guest list of Hotel Des Indes. Over the decades, it has welcomed royalty, political leaders, artists, and cultural icons, including Michael Jackson, Prince, Mick Jagger, and the legendary ballerina Anna Pavlova, who spent her final days at the hotel.

Other notable guests include Mata Hari, Josephine Baker, Maurice Chevalier, Igor Stravinsky, and Thomas Mann, alongside world leaders such as Theodore Roosevelt and François Mitterrand.

H.E. Mr. Koenraad Georges L. Adam ambassador of Belgium and spouse.
Ambassador Lambert Dushimimana from Rwanda and spouse.

A refined evening of diplomacy

Against this historic backdrop, the Ambassador’s Welcome Dinner provided an opportunity for meaningful dialogue, new connections, and the strengthening of diplomatic ties.

Among the guests, Ambassador of Korea, Rwanda, Dominican Republic, Cuba, New Zealand, Suriname, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Lebanon, Belgium, Tajikistan, Serbia, Indonesia, Ghana, Kazakhstan, also Gabriela Sancisi, director of protocol, Hans Akerboon deputy director of Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Camilla van Koten director of protocol of The Hague.

Following an extensive renovation led by renowned designer Jacques Garcia, Hotel Des Indes continues to embody a unique blend of classical opulence and modern sophistication. Its membership in The Leading Hotels of the World further underscores its status among the world’s most distinguished hospitality destinations.

As the evening concluded, the Ambassador’s Welcome Dinner reaffirmed Hotel Des Indes identity as a historic landmark and a living symbol of The Hague’s diplomatic identity.

Rwanda Marks Kwibuka32

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Rwanda Marks Kwibuka32

The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda Marks Kwibuka32 in the Netherlands with Walk to Remember and Commemoration in Amsterdam

On 7 April 2026, Rwanda marked the 32nd commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Kwibuka, meaning “to remember,” is a period of solemn reflection during which victims are honoured, unity is reaffirmed, and a shared commitment to building a better future for all Rwandans is renewed.

The commemoration in the Netherlands began on the morning of 7 April with the Walk to Remember, led by H.E. Ambassador Lambert Dushimimana. Participants gathered at the RAI Exhibition and Convention Centre in Amsterdam and walked together to the Genocide Memorial site in Beatrixpark.

The memorial serves as a place of remembrance for survivors and the wider Rwandan community in the Netherlands, and stands as a tribute to more than one million victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Walking together to the Genocide Memorial site in Beatrixpark.

The event brought together over 150 participants, including the Guest of Honour, members of the diplomatic community, Rwandan nationals residing in the Netherlands, friends of Rwanda, and invited guests.

The official commemoration ceremony opened with remarks by Mr Jeff Rutazihana, representative of IBUKA Netherlands, the association of survivors in the country. This was followed by a powerful spoken word performance by Ms Lisette Ntakabumwe, delivered in English, Kinyarwanda, and Dutch.

Mr Hans Docter, Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands.

In his address, Ambassador Dushimimana paid tribute to the victims and honoured the resilience of survivors. He reflected on Rwanda’s journey of rebuilding through unity, justice, and reconciliation, while expressing appreciation for the Netherlands’ longstanding support in judicial cooperation. He also warned against the persistent threat of genocide ideology, hate speech, and historical distortion—both within and beyond the region—and called for strengthened international action to combat impunity. He concluded by urging continued remembrance, solidarity with survivors, and a meaningful commitment to the principle of “Never Again.”

The ceremony also featured a keynote address by the Guest of Honour, Mr Hans Docter, Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Mr. Jean Hugues Mukama, First Secretary, Embassy of Rwanda.

During the wreath-laying ceremony, Ambassador Dushimimana was joined by representatives of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, IBUKA Netherlands, the Rwandan community in the Netherlands, the Amsterdam South District, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals.

The programme concluded with closing remarks by the Master of Ceremonies, Mr J.H. Mukama, who expressed appreciation to the Guest of Honour, IBUKA Netherlands, and the Rwandan diaspora association in the Netherlands for their contributions to the organisation of this annual commemoration, held in cooperation with the Embassy.

H.E. Ms. Sahar Ghanem, Ambassador of Yemen and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps at the memorial site, Beatrixpark.

For more information about Kwibuka, please visit: www.kwibuka.rw

Cyprus Unveils Palimpsest Worlds in The Hague

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Cyprus Unveils Palimpsest Worlds in The Hague

A Multidisciplinary Exploration of Memory, Identity, and Europe’s Layered Narrative

In the context of the Presidency of the Republic of Cyprus of the Council of the European Union in 2026, the Embassy of Cyprus in the Netherlands inaugurated the multidisciplinary exhibition Palimpsest Worlds on 26 March at Pulchri Studio.

The event marked the beginning of a series of cultural initiatives across the Benelux region, underscoring Cyprus’ commitment to cultural diplomacy during its EU Presidency.

Palimpsest Worlds, Pulchri Studio.

Bringing together visual art, textiles, and sound, Palimpsest Worlds explores the concept of the palimpsest—where traces of the past remain visible beneath the present. This evocative framework reflects both Cyprus and Europe as spaces shaped by layered histories, identities, and narratives that continuously interact and evolve.

The vernissage drew a large and distinguished audience, including ambassadors, EU dignitaries, Dutch officials, and members of the local art and music community. The atmosphere was warm, inviting, and imbued with a Mediterranean spirit—an ambience according with the cultural identity of Cyprus itself. The Embassy transformed the entire first floor of Pulchri Studio into an immersive artistic environment, offering visitors a rich and engaging experience.

Cypriot flutist Eva Stavrou.

A highlight of the evening was a compelling performance by Cypriot flutist Eva Stavrou, whose original composition Breaths added a strong sonic dimension to the exhibition.

In his address, the Mayor of The Hague, the Honourable Jan van Zanen, reflected on the exhibition’s broader significance:
“Europe is not a blank page. Each history is layered, textured, and persistent. Even when we attempt to erase the past, it reappears beneath the surface. The artists behind Palimpsest Worlds show us this truth with remarkable clarity. What their beautiful artwork allows us to experience is, in many ways, a mirror of our own reality.”

He further emphasized the importance of historical awareness in shaping responsible decision-making:
“The present never stands apart from the past. Events do not occur in isolation. Feelings and intentions have deep roots. Recognising what is in both is essential if we are to make wise, responsible, and humane decisions.”

The ambassador of Angola, H.E. Ms. Lizeth N. Satumbo Pena, the Ambassador of Peru, H.E. Ms. Franca Deza Ferreccio, the Ambassador of Panama, H.E. Ms. Sally Lou Hui, the Ambassador of Slovakia, H.E. Mr. Juraj Podhorský and the Ambassador of Chile, H.E. Mr. Jorge Carvajal.

Mayor van Zanen concluded by highlighting the exhibition’s relevance to The Hague’s identity as the international city of peace and justice:
“That is why Palimpsest Worlds is more than an exhibition—it is an invitation to reflect, to question, and to act with care. Thoughtful action is the discipline our world urgently needs.”

The exhibition features works by distinguished Cypriot artists Toula Liasi, Elena Parouti and Irene Stavrou, each contributing unique interpretations of memory, displacement, craftsmanship, and resilience.

H.E. Mr. Spyros Attas, Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, highlighted the exhibition’s conceptual depth and diplomatic relevance:
“Through visual art, textiles, and sound, the exhibition unfolds as a dialogue between past and present, tradition and contemporary expression. It invites us to reflect on Europe as an open and evolving story—constantly rewritten, yet deeply rooted in its cultural heritage.”

The Ambassador of Cyprus, H.E. Spyros Attas during his welcome speech.

He underscored the transformative power of culture in today’s global context:
“In a time marked by geopolitical uncertainty and global challenges, culture acquires even greater significance. It serves as a bridge between peoples, fostering dialogue, understanding, and connection.”

On the picture we can see among participants, the Ambassador of Malta, H.E Mr. Jeffrey Curmi, the Ambassador of Slovakia, H.E. Mr. Juraj Podhorsk and the ambassador of the Philippines, H.E. Mr. J. Eduardo Malaya.

Ambassador Attas also noted the symbolic importance of hosting the exhibition in The Hague, emphasizing the shared commitment of Cyprus and the Netherlands to European cooperation, multilateralism, and cultural exchange. He further acknowledged the vital role of the Cypriot community in the Netherlands as a living bridge between the two nations.

As Cyprus assumes the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Palimpsest Worlds stands as a strong cultural statement—one that affirms art’s ability to transcend borders and illuminate the complexities of identity in a shared European space.

From Recognition to Mutual Understanding: A Gulf Strategy for Stability in an Age of Escalation

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From Recognition to Mutual Understanding: A Gulf Strategy for Stability in an Age of Escalation

By Sheikh Al-Mahfoudh bin Bayyah, Secretary General of The Abu Dhabi Forum for Peace, UAE

When missiles fly or shipping lanes are threatened in the Gulf, the consequences are no longer confined to the region. Within hours, energy markets react, insurance premiums spike, and supply chains recalibrate. What unfolds in the Middle East now travels instantly through the arteries of the global economy. This is the defining feature of the current moment: regional instability has become systemic risk.

The Middle East is once again at an inflection point. Escalating tensions – particularly those involving Iran and the Gulf states – are unfolding against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, fragile supply chains, and intensifying geopolitical competition. The danger is not only the prospect of military confrontation, but the speed at which escalation can cascade into global disruption.

For decades, policymakers have treated security and economics as largely distinct domains. That separation is no longer viable. In an interconnected system, military shocks and economic volatility are mutually reinforcing. The Gulf, as a central node in global energy and trade networks, sits at the heart of this convergence.

What is required, therefore, is not incremental adjustment but strategic integration – an approach that combines geopolitical realism with normative restraint. This may be understood as a diplomacy of reason and values.

Articulated by H.H. Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, this approach is grounded in the concept of “responsible hope.” Far from rhetorical optimism, responsible hope is a policy framework: it acknowledges risk without succumbing to fatalism, and it prioritizes coordinated action over reactive escalation. It is, in effect, a shift from crisis response to risk governance.

Three policy imperatives follow.

First, de-escalation must be institutionalized. Ad hoc diplomacy is insufficient in a high-risk environment. Durable mechanisms – whether formal agreements or sustained backchannel communications – are essential for crisis signaling, conflict containment, and preventing miscalculation. Even limited lines of communication can function as critical stabilizers.

Second, economic resilience must be elevated to a core security objective. Protecting energy infrastructure, securing maritime corridors, and ensuring continuity in global supply chains are not secondary concerns. They are central to preventing localized conflicts from triggering systemic economic shocks. The security of the Gulf is inseparable from the stability of the global economy.

Third, legitimacy must be restored to the center of international engagement. Civilian protection, humanitarian access, and adherence to international law are not peripheral ideals; they are strategic assets. Without legitimacy, political arrangements lack durability and are prone to erosion from within.

Within this broader architecture, the concept of recognition warrants renewed attention. Too often, recognition is treated as a concession – a bargaining chip to be granted or withheld. This instrumental approach is increasingly counterproductive. Recognition should instead be understood as a foundational step toward stability: acknowledging realities, including the legitimate security concerns of different actors, creates the conditions for structured engagement.

Yet recognition alone is insufficient. Stability requires a transition to mutual understanding – a process through which acknowledgment evolves into sustained dialogue, cooperative frameworks, and shared expectations. This transition is not only political; it is intellectual and cultural.

Here, non-state actors play an indispensable role. Institutions such as the Abu Dhabi Forum for Peace help shape the normative environment in which policy operates. By addressing ideological drivers of conflict, fostering intercommunal dialogue, and building transnational networks of trust, such actors reinforce and extend the reach of formal diplomacy.

The costs of failure are considerable. A broader regional conflict would not only destabilize the Middle East; it would disrupt global markets, strain international institutions, and deepen geopolitical fragmentation. The consequences would be felt far beyond the region.

But the inverse is equally true. A successful shift toward risk governance, economic-security integration, and cooperative engagement could position the Gulf as a stabilizing force in an increasingly volatile international system.

The path forward is narrow, but it is navigable. It requires a disciplined integration of strategic reasoning and ethical commitment – an approach that neither ignores power realities nor abandons normative principles. Moving from recognition to mutual understanding is not a linear process, nor is it guaranteed. But in an era defined by escalation risks and declining trust, it may be one of the few strategies capable of delivering durable stability.

A Natural Partnership: Deepening New Zealand–Netherlands Cooperation in a Changing World

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A Natural Partnership: Deepening New Zealand–Netherlands Cooperation in a Changing World


By H.E. Mrs. Charlotte Frater, Ambassador of New Zealand to the Kingdom of the Netherlands

I arrived in The Hague in January, travelling 18,00kms over two days and swapping summer sun for winter snow. Despite the distance and change of season, I’ve received an incredibly warm welcome, and the Netherlands already feels like a second home.

The Netherlands and New Zealand are natural partners with shared values: we are practical, open, hardworking, and adventurous – and we both eat a lot of cheese! People-to-people links remain the foundation of our relationship, and the steady stream of young people heading in both directions under our Working Holiday Schemes, strengthens our bonds, and enriches both societies. 

King Willem Alexander and Ambassador Charlotte Frater during the ceremony of credentials on February 4th, Noordeinde Palace, The Hague.

Our shared history dates back more than 380 years to Abel Tasman’s voyage to New Zealand, and has been shaped by significant experiences including shared campaigns and sacrifices during World War Two, and the large wave of Dutch migration to New Zealand in the post-war period. Consequently, thousands of New Zealanders trace their heritage back to the Netherlands. These connections underpin a vibrant relationship spanning political, economic and cultural spheres, and in 2025 we were delighted to celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations.

Our societies are built on strong democratic institutions, respect for human rights, and a commitment to sustainable development and international cooperation. These principles guide policy choices at home and abroad, and matter deeply at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.

During our Prime Minister’s visit to the Netherlands last year, our leaders recognised that prosperity cannot exist without security, and acknowledged the interconnected nature of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security. They also emphasised the importance of cooperation between New Zealand and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), including through the Indo-Pacific Four Group, comprising New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and South Korea.

Just as New Zealand values the Netherlands’ engagement in the Indo-Pacific, New Zealand stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the Netherlands in condemning, unequivocally, Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. New Zealand has provided Ukraine with significant military and humanitarian assistance, and has implemented a broad range of sanctions in response to Russia’s actions. This reflects our commitment to upholding the rules-based international order that underpins global peace and prosperity.

Ambassador Charlotte Frater Credentials Ceremony February 4th, at Noordeinde Palace.

As someone who has spent much of my career working in international law and trade, I have seen first-hand how clear rules enable trade, investment, and innovation to flourish. In this context, New Zealand welcomed the entry-into-force of the EU–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement in 2024 which saw bilateral trade increase by 20% in its first year. The agreement is creating new business opportunities, and allowing ideas, talent, and capital to move across borders with confidence. The Netherlands remains New Zealand’s second most important export destination in Europe, and our leading source of European investment.  

Research partnerships through New Zealand’s association with Horizon Europe, provide another strong platform for growing the bilateral relationship. We are also modernising our Double Taxation Agreement, to provide greater certainty for businesses and investors in both markets.

It is easy to see why New Zealand companies such as Fonterra Dairy, Gallagher, Dawn Aerospace, and Mainfreight Logistics have chosen the Netherlands as their European base. With world-class logistics, English-speaking talent, agricultural expertise, and a thriving innovation ecosystem, the Netherlands is a natural gateway to the wider European market. More than fifty New Zealand businesses already operate here across sectors spanning agritech, food technology, advanced manufacturing, engineering, aerospace, logistics, and digital services.

For Dutch companies, New Zealand offers a stable democracy, transparent regulation, and an economy consistently ranked among the easiest places in the world to do business.  Distance can even be an asset, with New Zealand’s counter-seasonal production benefiting the Netherlands’ iconic bulb industry and wider horticultural sector. At a time when supply chain resilience matters more than ever, partnerships built on trust, quality, and sustainability are invaluable.

Diplomacy is ultimately about people and relationships. In my first weeks in the Netherlands, I have already seen how deeply our communities are connected – from a Dutch windmill in New Zealand to a Māori canoe in Leiden. These connections reflect something even more valuable: trust. As Ambassador, my goal is simple: to help ensure that New Zealand and the Netherlands continue to turn that trust into tangible results that contribute to both societies.

Farewell to Prof. Dr. Eddy Moors at IHE Delft

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Farewell to Prof. Dr. Eddy Moors at IHE Delft

At the IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, a significant chapter came to a close with the farewell of Prof. Dr. Eddy J. Moors, who served as Rector from 2017 to 2025. Widely respected in the fields of water and climate science, Moors leaves behind a strengthened institution and a global network of partnerships that continue to shape water policy, research, and capacity development worldwide.

Moors’ career reflects a deep commitment to addressing global water challenges through science, policy, and collaboration. He began at the World Meteorological Organization, working in Africa and the Caribbean, before contributing to applied research at Wageningen Environmental Research. Alongside his leadership at IHE Delft, he holds a professorship in Water and Climate at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.

During his tenure, IHE Delft reinforced its role as a leading global centre for water education and capacity development, particularly for professionals from vulnerable regions. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic ensured continuity in education and research, while advancing the Institute’s international partnerships.

Reflecting on his departure, Moors emphasized the importance of renewal: “I have worked at IHE Delft with great pleasure and I am proud of what has been achieved in the last few years… I see the need for a different IHE Delft, to continue being the global leader on capacity development for the whole water sector.”

His decision to step down, he noted, is intended to allow new leadership to bring “new energy and ideas” to meet evolving global challenges.

At the heart of Moors’ work lies the concept of “wicked problems”—complex, interconnected challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and inequality. Returning to this theme in his farewell address, he questioned whether sufficient progress has been made. While acknowledging improvements, including slowing groundwater depletion due to policy interventions, he warned that progress remains insufficient: “Water and climate trends show some signs of policies being effective, unfortunately, not yet enough to change the current negative trends into positive ones.”

He cautioned that international forums risk losing effectiveness if they delay concrete action, urging instead a more proactive approach: “Even if multilateral collaboration gets stuck, individual countries, institutions or persons can make a difference.”

A defining element of Moors’ legacy is his emphasis on water as a connector—linking disciplines, sectors, and nations. He consistently advocated for integrated approaches that bridge science with policy, business, and society, while fostering dialogue across sectors such as energy, agriculture, and urban development.

The Ambassador of Uruguay, H.E. Álvaro González Otero and Dr. Héctor García, professor IHE Delft and the Universidad Tecnológica del Uruguay (UTEC).

Among the many tributes, the remarks by H.E. Álvaro González Otero highlighted the long-standing partnership between Uruguay and IHE Delft. Recalling the arrival of the first Uruguayan water professionals in Delft in 1961, he described how this collaboration has grown into a dynamic exchange of knowledge and expertise.

“As Ambassador of Uruguay, we stepped onto a bridge first built in 1961, when six Uruguayan water professionals arrived in Delft,” he said, noting that generations of graduates have since contributed to strengthening Uruguay’s water sector.

He emphasized that under Moors’ leadership, this relationship evolved into a more balanced and global partnership: “During his tenure, Eddy championed the idea that this connection could no longer be a one-way street—it had to become a true global exchange.”

A key milestone in this evolution was the co-creation of a Master’s programme in Sanitation with the Universidad Tecnológica del Uruguay (UTEC), positioning Uruguay as a regional hub for Latin America. Concluding his tribute, the Ambassador noted: “You have served as a vital link in the evolution of IHE Delft… ensuring that the dialogue between this institute and global professional networks remains strong.”

The ceremony also highlighted IHE Delft’s extensive alumni network of more than 25,000 water professionals worldwide. Ambassadors from Mexico, Sint Maarten, Cuba, Tanzania, Pakistan, Costa Rica, Peru; Dutch ambassadors from UNESCO, Colombia, Senegal, Egypt, Iraq and Bangladesh praised Moors’ role in fostering this global community, committed to advancing sustainable water management and international cooperation.

Looking ahead, Moors stressed the urgent need to invest in the next generation of water professionals, particularly as the sector faces a growing workforce gap. He called for greater inclusivity and stronger educational pathways, emphasizing that capacity development remains essential to addressing global water challenges.

Closing the ceremony, Ambassador Meike van Ginneken, Water envoi of the Dutch Government, reflected on the broader meaning of Moors’ work: “Water management for you means not only engineering… Water means culture. Water means life… At IHE Delft, you have excelled in bridging different disciplines and cultures to tackle wicked problems.”

First Dutchman Knights of Rizal – Area Commander of The Netherlands, Sir Anton Lutter KCR

Diplomat Magazine
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First Dutchman Knights of Rizal – Area Commander of The Netherlands, Sir Anton Lutter KCR

On the 7th of March the capital of Belgium became center of Knights of Rizal Europe Regional Assembly which is held every two years, during this important meeting the Area Commanders (national level) are taking there oath of office. Considering the fact that the Knights of Rizal is established by Philippine Act 646 in 1951 and thus state founded the oath taking was performed by H.E. Mr. Jaime Victor Ledda, himself a Knight of Rizal, ambassador of The Philippines to the European Union.  For the Netherlands Sir Anton Lutter, KCR was appointed by the Supreme Council in Manila thereby the first Dutchman to be appointed as Area Commander. This fact did’n went unnoticed by H.E. Mr. J. Eduardo Malaya, Philippines ambassador in The Hague.

During an appreciation dinner hoisted by the Philippines embassy on March 9, attended by CEOs, senior corporate executives, government officials, and members of the diplomatic and business communities and keynote speaker Undersecretary for International Trade Allan B. Gepty, the Philippines’ lead negotiator for the ongoing Philippines–European Union Free Trade Agreement talks, Anton Lutter was the first awardee of the Exemplary service in promoting Philippines-Netherlands Partnership Award, among other awardees which were exclusively businessleaders.

Sir Chris Kopp, deputy area commander Netherlands, Sir Johnny Villa, KGOR, Europe Regional commander and Sir Anton Lutter, KCR, area commander Netherlands.

In his welcoming speech H.E. Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya, said “this year 2026 is special as we mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. It has been 75 years of steady and growing partnership, and this has largely been on the back of robust business-to-business engagements… It is the fervent wish of the Philippine Government and the Philippine Embassy to convey our deep appreciation in meaningful ways for all their contributions to the robust and dynamic Philippines-Netherlands partnership.”  His remarks were especially in tone with Mr. Lutters contribution towards Philippine-Netherlands relations. He is the founder of the first Knights of Rizal chapter in the Netherlands in 2015 and since then has led in numerous events in cooperation with Philippines embassy in The Hague.

“Tonight, we likewise recognize certain individuals who have provided Exemplary Service in Promoting Philippines-Netherlands Partnership. Our first awardee under this category founded the Order of the Knights of Rizal in the Netherlands with the creation of The Hague Chapter in 2015. Recently, he became the first Dutch citizen to be appointed by the Supreme Council in Manila as the new Area Commander in The Netherlands for the Rizalian Year 2026-2027. Through him, the Embassy enjoys an active engagement with the Knights of Rizal, thus providing meaningful activities celebrating and embodying the life and work of the Philippines’ national hero. Thus, the Embassy is pleased to confer this Exemplary Service in promoting Philippines-Netherlands Partnership to Mr. Anton Lutter.

Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya.

His support of the first ever Dutch translation of Philippines National Hero Jose Rizal’s most important literary work El Filibusterismo and a retranslation of the Noli Me Tangere are a significant contribution to promoting Philippines cultural heritage.

However Jubilee Year 2026 brought another significant Knights of Rizal appointment. Also a first. Sir Alexander Onia, KGOR – Lutters predecessor as area commander – became the first Dutch-Filipino to be elected in the Supreme Council in Manila, remarkable it has been for more over a decade that a person from Europe became Supreme Councillor.

The Knights of Rizal chartered by Republic Act 646 in 1951 is the state founded knightly order of The Philippines and with the Knights of Holy Sepulchre (Holy See) the sole  international organized order operating in The Netherlands. Soly dedicated and named after Philippines’ national hero Jose Rizal. He was born on June 19, 1861, in the town of Calamba, Laguna. In the hope of securing political and social reforms for his country and at the same time educate his countrymen, Rizal, the greatest apostle of Filipino nationalism, published, while in Europe, several works with highly nationalistic and revolutionary tendencies.

In March 1887, his daring book, Noli Me Tangere, a satirical novel exposing the arrogance and despotism of the Spanish clergy, was published in Berlin; on September 18, 1891, El Filibusterismo, his second novel and a sequel to the NOLI and more revolutionary and tragic than the latter, was printed in Ghent. Because of his fearless exposures of the injustices committed by the civil and clerical officials, Rizal provoked the animosity of those in power. This led himself, his relatives and countrymen into trouble with the Spanish officials of the country.

On 30th of  December 1896 he was executed, but instead of suppressing an uprising it unified the unified the Philippines people in their rebellion against the Spanish. This day a defining moment in Philippine history is nowadays known as Rizal Day and remembered in all Philippines embassies areoud the world with a solemn ceremony. The Dutch connection between Jose Rizal was significant for his revolutionary thought process, he was duly influenced by the Max Havelaar published by Multatuli in 1859. Rizal mentions the importance of this work – which he read in London in 1888 – in a letter to Ferdinand  Blumentritt

Though his novel “Max Havelaar” was published over a century and a half ago, Dekker remains one of the most celebrated Dutch writers. Historians and critics credit the book for radically overhauling Dutch colonial policy in the Dutch East Indies in the late 19th century. A  Remarkable feat, Multuli died the month before the magnificent Noli Me Tangere was published.A museum dedicated to Dekker’s writings and thoughts can be found in Amsterdam.

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