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.
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Les photos dans l’article sont une courtoisie de la Cour International de Justice.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia plays a crucial role in the country’s relationship with international organizations, including the International Criminal Court (ICC). As a member of the ICC, Armenia is committed to upholding the principles of the Rome Statute, which aims to prevent the most serious crimes that concern the international community, strengthen the rule of law in the international community, and achieve more universality of the ICC
The official ceremony dedicated to the membership of Armenia in the International Criminal Court (ICC) took place on February 8, 2024, at the ICC headquarters in The Hague. The ceremony marked Armenia’s accession as the 124th signatory of the Rome Statute, the ICC’s founding document. The event included the raising of the Armenian flag, congratulatory remarks by the President of the ICC, Mr. Piotr Hofmański and the President of the Assembly of States Parties to the ICC, Ms. Päivi Kaukoranta, and a statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan.
In this context, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Ararat Mirzoyan, emphasized the importance of preventing the most serious crimes, strengthening the rule of law in the international community, and achieving more universality of the ICC during the official welcoming ceremony dedicated to Armenia’s membership in the ICC
During the ceremony, Mirzoyan emphasized Armenia’s priorities and expectations regarding its membership in the ICC, which are in line with universal principles of democracy, the rule of law, and the fight against impunity. He also highlighted the importance of preventing the most serious crimes, strengthening the rule of law in the international community, and achieving more universality of the ICC.
Mirzoyan also highlighted the importance of the ICC’s role in crime prevention and ensuring fair and impartial justice processes for peaceful resolution of conflicts, especially in the context of the South Caucasus region, where Armenia has faced continued aggressions, heinous atrocity crimes perpetrated against Armenians, and ethnic cleansing.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia also discussed the measures undertaken and further steps necessary towards the implementation of the Rome Statute, emphasizing the close cooperation with the Assembly of States Parties to the ICC.
This cooperation is crucial for ensuring that the ICC can fulfill its mandate to investigate and prosecute individuals responsible for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression.
In a separate meeting with Päivi Kaukoranta, the President of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, Mirzoyan discussed the measures undertaken and further steps necessary towards the implementation of the Rome Statute. Kirakosyan, the Representative of Armenia on international legal issues, presented the details of the steps initiated in the direction of harmonizing the legislation of the Republic of Armenia with the Rome Statute.
The ceremony was attended by the ICC Prosecutor General, representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in The Hague, from about 60 diplomatic representations, the President of the Association of Journalists, as well as other guests.
The membership of Armenia in the ICC is a significant step towards the establishment of an international judicial system that ensures punishment for persons who have committed genocide and other serious crimes. Armenia has been an initiator and pioneer in the processes of prevention and condemnation of the crime of genocide, both within the framework of the United Nations and other international organizations and forums.
The ICC’s role in crime prevention and ensuring fair and impartial justice processes for peaceful resolution of conflicts is significant. In the context of the South Caucasus region, where Armenia has faced continued aggressions, heinous atrocity crimes perpetrated against Armenians, and ethnic cleansing, the ICC has real potential to prevent any further escalation and atrocities, becoming a milestone towards stability and sustainable peace in the region.
Armenia’s commitment to the ICC and the shared vision of a world where justice prevails and the dignity of every individual is protected will be an active member of the Court and will significantly contribute to the works of the Assembly of the States Parties. Together, the international community moves forward in solidarity, bound by the ideals of the Rome Statute, as they strive for a future defined by fairness and the rule of law.
The Foreign Minister of Armenia, Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan, visited the Netherlands for a working visit in February 2024. During his visit, he had several significant meetings that focused on strengthening Armenia’s bilateral relations with the Netherlands, expanding the Armenian-Dutch bilateral agenda and political dialogue, and discussing the perspectives of cooperation in various directions, including for further strengthening Armenia’s resilience.
Mirzoyan met with H.E. Mr. Marcin Czepelak, the Secretary-General of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, to discuss the functioning of the Permanent Court of Arbitration and the possibilities of interaction between Armenia and international judicial bodies, including the PCA. They also exchanged views on the general security situation in the South Caucasus and the existing challenges.
Mirzoyan met with H.E. Mr. Fernando Arias, Director General of the OPCW.
Mirzoyan also met with Mr. Raymond de Roon, the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives (Parliament) of the Netherlands, and members of the committee representing the majority of parliamentary parties. During the meeting, Mirzoyan noted that Armenia is on the path of democratic reforms and presented to the parliamentarians Armenia’s vision on establishing stability and peace in the region and the efforts undertaken in that direction.
He emphasized the key principles of the Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization process, including the importance of unequivocal respect for territorial integrity and inviolability of borders.
The Foreign Affairs Minister of Armenia with Ms. Hanke Bruins Slot, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands during a team meeting.
Mirzoyan had a meeting with Ms. Hanke Bruins Slot, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, where they discussed issues on the agenda of the Armenia-EU partnership and emphasized the importance of the continuous development of cooperation in various directions, including for further strengthening Armenia’s resilience.
During a round-table discussion at the Clingendael Institute of International Relations, H.E. Viktor Biyagov, Ambassador of Armenia to the Netherlands, Armenian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan, from Clingendael, Mr. Tony van der Togt and Niels Drost.
Mirzoyan also participated in a round-table discussion at the Clingendael Institute of International Relations, where he presented the current security situation in the South Caucasus and the peculiarities of the normalization process of the Armenia-Azerbaijan relations. He emphasized the need for unequivocal recognition of territorial integrity and ensuring maximum clarity for further delimitation process based on the Alma-Ata Declaration and the most recent maps of the USSR General Staff.
The President of the Assembly of States Parties to the ICC Ms. Päivi Kaukoranta, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan. and the President of the ICC Mr. Piotr Hofmański.
Finally, Mirzoyan had a meeting with the President of the International Criminal Court Piotr Hofmański, where they exchanged views on issues related to the implementation of the Rome Statute, the court’s founding document. Mirzoyan emphasized that Armenia, as a country that has been facing the severe consequences of impunity in the region, is well aware of the imperative to combine efforts in order to fight against continuous impunity and prevent crimes against humanity.
Overall, Mirzoyan’s visit to the Netherlands was significant in strengthening Armenia’s bilateral relations with the Netherlands, expanding the Armenian-Dutch bilateral agenda and political dialogue, and discussing the perspectives of cooperation in various directions, including for further strengthening Armenia’s resilience.
Authorities in Romania, Italy and Austria have dismantled a criminal network that abused work visas to smuggle over 500 Pakistani, Bengali and Egyptian migrants to various EU Member States. In total, 12 suspects have been formally identified and will be charged during an action day with the active support by Eurojust and Europol. Eurojust also assisted in setting up and financing a joint investigation team (JIT) into the case.
The migrant smuggling network advertised its services online, but members of the organised crime group (OCG) based in Pakistan also recruited migrants locally. The criminal network started its activities in January 2021 and operated until recently. In the EU, the OCG operated from Romania, Italy and Austria and is estimated to have earned at least EUR 1 million with their illegal activities.
The smugglers obtained Romanian work visas for the migrants through a series of linked companies set up for this purpose, and placed them in Bucharest and Brasov. From there they were transported to the border area near Timisoara, from where they were further trafficked to Italy, Austria and Germany. These onward journeys were either by guided passage on foot across the border or in lorries.
Investigations were launched in Romania in August of last year and identified 15 suspects and 5 enterprises set up for the smuggling activities. During the action day, a total of 29 places have been searched and an estimated value of EUR 146,000 in cash was seized.
Eurojust not only assisted in setting up the JIT between Romania, Italy and Europol, but also provided additional cross-border judicial support during the action. Europol provided elaborate analytical support and operational cooperation and facilitated the exchange of information.
The operation on the ground was carried out at the request of and by the following authorities:
Romania: Directorate for Investigation of Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) – Brasov Territorial Structure; Brasov Bureau for Combatting Organised Crime
Austria: Public Prosecution Office Salzburg; State Criminal Police Office Salzburg
Italy: Public Prosecution Office of Udine; Carabinieri, Special Operational Group of Udine Anti-Crime Unit
The Ambassador of Panama H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman hosted a Panamanian gastronomic festival featuring food specialities of her country Panama. It was a two-day festival that took place in The Hague on 18-19 April 2024.
Ambassador Elizabeth Ward Neiman entertained fellow ambassadors from Argentina, Chili, Cameroon, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Greece and Curacao, along with high representatives from ICC, ICJ, IOM, business persons, and public servants to name a few. The Food Festival was open to members of the public by reservation via Leo’s International Flavors.
Thomas Kortleve, General Manager of Royal Leonardo Royal Hotel The Hague.
Ambassador Ward Neiman delivered her welcome address, she was introduced by Mr Thomas Kortleve, General Manager of Leonardo Royal Hotel The Hague, who recently returned from a fabulous and revealing visit to Panama. He very much appreciated the architecture of the old city and of course the Panamanian cuisine.
The Ambassador stated in her speech “It is an honor and a privilege for me, as the Ambassador of Panama to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, to address you tonight during the Panama Gastronomic Festival. Today, we gather to celebrate Panama´s culinary diversity and showcase its offerings as a tourist destination, an investment hub, and, of course, a gastronomic paradise.
Panama Embassy team.
Panamanian cuisine is a living reflection of our history, culture, and diversity. Combining indigenous, African, European, and Asian influences with the fresh and exotic ingredients that characterize our land, each dish you savor will tell a unique and delicious story.
From sancocho to ceviche, from coconut rice to patacones, our cuisine is a sensory journey that brings people together around the table.
Ambassador Ward Neiman and Chef Roberto Torres.
For tonight´s meal, renowned Panamanian chef Roberto Torres´s creativity stands out. Roberto has prepared a unique menu that blends tradition with innovation, while taking our palates on a journey through Panamanian cuisine. His culinary talent and his passion for local ingredients are undeniable.
However, Panama is not only a gastronomic destination but also a country filled with breathtaking landscapes, a rich history and a vibrant culture. Additionally, it offers a conducive environment for investment and business growth. With a solid economy, a strategic and safe location, and a welcoming business atmosphere, Panama stands as an ideal destination for those seeking new opportunities.
I want to commend the work of our co-hosts, the Consulate General of the Panamanian Merchant Marine in Rotterdam.
This consulate plays a crucial role in facilitating services related to navigation under the Panamanian flag, ensuring compliance with the highest international standards of safety and maritime regulation.
Traditional San Blas Mola Art exhibited at Leonardo Royal Hotel During the Panama Food Festival.
I also wish to express my gratitude to Diplomat Magazine and to the Leonardo Hotel for their help in organizing this event which allows us to share our gastronomic culture with you. Their continued support to the diplomatic community as well as their commitment to excellence is invaluable.
Last, but never least, I mention special words of appreciation to the embassy team who are the backbone of everything we do.
H.E. Mr. Philippe Couvreur, ICJ Judge and the Ambassador of Argentina, H.E. Mr. Mario Oyarzabal.
The Gastronomic Festival is more than just a celebration of food; it is a tribute to Panamanian identity and hospitality. I invite all of you now to explore the flavors of Panama and enjoy our traditional dances, while you admire our typical dress, the pollera.
Long live Panamanian gastronomy, and the friendship between Panama and the Netherlands!”
Panama stands out. Green diplomacy, is an interesting concept. Panama, known for its tourism, investment opportunities, and gastronomy, is also a country that takes climate change seriously. In 2021, Panama produced 82% of its electricity from renewable resources, setting an example for other governments around the world. Panama is leading the way in conserving carbon sinks while transitioning to clean energy.
Ambassador Ward Neiman, with H.E. Mr. Antonio Polosa, IOM Chief of Mission and Ms. Fyfy Djeradi, Secrétariat,ICJ.Panama Food Festival 2024
At the dinner, Ambassador Ward Neiman, who was elegantly dressed in red and had a friendly smile, chatted with guests at each table. She even made a second round, this time introducing Chef Roberto Torres.
The three-course menu consisted of ceviche in yellow leche de tigre, seabass, cheese empanada, and more for the starter. The main course was duo de Caribe, which included escabeche, pork belly, and roasted chicken. For dessert, guests enjoyed sweet corn cake, coffee-chocolate mousse, caramelized pineapple with lemon sorbet. Beverages served at the dinner included red, white, and rose wines, as well as a choice of Zombie Cocktail and pineapple-coconut juice before the dinner.
Minoska Ramirez and Julian Perez-Urriola from Panama Conjunto Folclorico, Bailes y Tradiciones de Berlin.
The event also featured a display of typical Panamanian outfits, as well as a dance performance by the group Conjunto Folclorico Panama, Bailes y Tradiciones de Berlin. The performers, Julian Perez-Urriola and Minoska Ramirez, put on a dazzling show.
The evening was further animated by a constant flow of lively Panamanian tunes. Overall, the Panamanian gastronomic festival was impressive, combining indigenous, African, European, and Asian influences with fresh and exotic ingredients. It catered to different tastes, appealing to food lovers and foodies alike.
All in attendance enjoyed the gastronomic festival.
On April 10, a group of ambassadors who participated in The Curacao Experience – Ambassadors Edition 2024, gathered at Leonardo Royal Hotel The Hague to express their gratitude and extend their congratulations to H.E. Minister Plenipotentiary Carlson Manuel for his outstanding coordination and creation of an amazing atmosphere throughout the visit.
“We would also like to extend our appreciation to all stakeholders involved in organizing this successful and delightful voyage.”
Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, Diplomat Magazine’s Publisher, Curacao Minister, Carlson Manuel, the Ambassador of Colombia, H.E. Ms. Carolina Olarte Bácares and the Ambassador of Moldova, H.E. Mr. Veaceslav Dobîndă.
The attendees were treated to a video presentation of the “Curacao Experience -Ambassadors Edition 2024” displaying over a hundred pictures taken during the trip. The video was accompanied by music from renowned artist Izaline Calister and other performers. Minister Manuel was presented with a gift on behalf of the participants, an apple from Royal Delft. An apple was chosen as it is an ancient symbol of good health. Besides the Royal Delft apple, several personal gifts were presented to the Minister. As a courtesy, Diplomat Magazine offered Minister Manuel with a 3-layer cake in the tricolour of Curacao, by Marta Orban along with a degustation of Punche Crema, a typical beverage of Curacao.
Minister Manuel thanked the Ambassadors for their loyal participation. He went on to thank his staff for their mega contribution. Further, he also thanked Diplomat Magazine for their preparatory work.
H.E. Ms. Carolina Olarte Bácares,Ambassador of Colombia.
The celebration highlighted powerful speeches by H.E. Ambassador Carolina Olarte Bácares of Colombia and H.E. Ambassador Veaceslav Dobîndă of Moldova. Their impactful words left a lasting impression on the occasion.
An extract of the delivery by Ambassador Carolina Olarte-Bácares of Colombia. “Dear Minister, dear Carlson, I have the pleasure and honor to address to you a few words of gratitude on behalf of the group of ambassadors and attendees of the Curacao Experience.
Curacao and Diplomat Magazine Team together with the ambassadors of Colombia and Moldova with Minister Carlson Manuel.
We have organized this meeting to express our thankfulness to you and to your entire team, for organizing the trip to your wonderful island, and especially for the interest and warmth with which you prepared the program and welcomed us.
We would also like to express our appreciation for the participation of the authorities at the highest level, with whom we had the opportunity to interact, such as the Governor, the Prime Minister and several of the cabinet ministers, as well as a significant number of civil servants and experts.
All of them provided rich presentations with insightful information and analysis, and in that regard, we want to highlight particularly the moderation of the various panel discussions. Their professionalism is another example of the current consistency and the great future that Curaçao has.
Ambassadors, spouses, Diplomat Magazine and Curacao team all attending the event.
The way in which every detail was taken care of, from the smallest to the largest, allowed us to see the industriousness and dedication of your team, whom we also thank. Yet, we want to make a very special acknowledgement of a person, Kirina, who truthfully deserves the award of providing all the solutions and the attentions.
We had the chance to notice the great number of sponsors that the Curacao event had. Hence, we would like to specially ask you to let them know about our full appreciation. Today, we can do this to Diplomat Magazine, for which we also want to thank the support provided by her director, Mayelinne De Lara, who helped us and is part of the organization of today`s event.
Since returning, we’ve discussed Curaçao among ourselves and colleagues, processing information and generating new ideas. In sum, this ambassadors experience in Curaçao has been a success from our point of view, and we hope that more people will be able to live it.”
H.E. Mr. Veaceslav Dobîndă , Ambassador of Moldova.
The next speaker was, Ambassador Veaceslav Dobîndă of Moldova. In part he stated “Dear Carlson, Kirini, Jessica, Excellencies, Friends, Kalibambeya!It is a great privilege and honor to express on behalf of the team of ambassadors all the gratitude for the professionalism and hospitality that we all benefited from during “The Curacao Experience – Ambassadors Edition 2024“.
I can say without hesitation that it was an extraordinary experience that combined a comprehensive agenda and knowledge about the unique environment, history, business and investment opportunities, academic projects, and exceptional tourism infrastructure.
On the other hand, the efforts of your team, together with the perfect weather conditions and the kindness of the people, made our joint meeting a real success, both in terms of form and content. Certainly, now Curacao has become a splendid future destination for many of us, but also for our colleagues, friends, and family members.
H.E. Ms. Carolina Olarte Bácares,Ambassador of Colombia, H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica, Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, Diplomat Magazine’s Publisher, H.E. Mr. Agustín Vásquez Gómez, Ambassador of El Salvador and H.E. Mr. Juan Duran, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic. H.E. Ms Elizabeth War Neiman, Ambassador of Panama and Minister Carlson Manuel.
We enjoyed the whole range of positive emotions, in terms of the Papiamento language, multiculturalism, art, simplicity and originality, delicious food, Curacao cocktails and of course the fascinating local people. And if you allow me, I will also add live music and dance.
We are extremely grateful for your generosity and in this way, we reciprocate our gratitude and friendship to you, supplemented by wishes for peace, prosperity, creativity, and well-being.
Dear Carlson, please accept our highest consideration for this unforgettable experience and we would like to reiterate once again that we are proud and lucky to have met you and your tireless team!”
Minister Manuel envisages organising similar voyages to Curacao in the near future. The reception was a resounding success, and all attendees left in high spirits.
JAKARTA, April 23, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – The Indonesian government, according to the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR), believes that the 10th World Water Forum in Bali will be able to generate political consensus among participating heads of state, and achieve the agreements necessary to address the global climate challenge.
The World Water Forum (WWF) is the largest gathering in water sectors involving various stakeholders, and is co-hosted by the World Water Council and a host city. Held every three years, it has been taking place since 1997, with participants from politics, multilateral institutions, academia, civil society and the private sector.
The Government of the Republic of Indonesia will host the 10th World Water Forum in Bali from 18–25 May 2024. The National Organizing Committee (NOC) is chaired by the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut B. Pandjaitan, while the Minister of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR), Basuki Hadimuljono, will serve as Daily Chairperson.
This year’s Forum will be attended by numerous heads of state, with several former world leaders expressing their intention to be present, considering it necessary to attend. These include the former Presidents of Chile, Hungary, Slovenia, Malawi, Sri Lanka, and Costa Rica. The former Prime Ministers of Belgium, Korea, and Bhutan will also be present.
La soirée inaugurale du Mois de la Francophonie, sous le slogan « Francophonie sans frontières », s’est tenue à la Résidence du Canada le 1er mars 2024.
Cet événement a constitué un rendez-vous incontournable dédié à la présentation de la diversité culturelle de sept pays qui avaient organisé des espaces spécifiques : la Belgique, la Croatie, la Côte d’Ivoire, le Maroc, la Roumanie, le Sénégal et la Tunisie. Présents lors de la soirée d’inauguration du Mois de la Francophonie, notamment les ambassadeurs de la Pologne, de la France, et du Rwanda.
Dans chaque espace dédié à l’un des sept pays, il y avait de l’artisanat et d’autres expressions artistiques, des plats typiques ainsi que des desserts, des vins, thés et boissons aux fruits. La Roumanie a également offert des vins exquis qui ont égayé l’événement.
L’Ambassadeur du Canada, S.E. M. Hugh Adsett, l’Ambassadeur de Tunisie, S.E. M. Skander Denguezli, l’Ambassadeur Mamadou Bamba Hanne, Représentant Permanent de l’OIF auprès de l’Union Européenne, et l’Ambassadeur Geneviève Brisson, Déléguée Générale du Québec à Bruxelles, étaient présents pour cette occasion.
La soirée a été embellie par la présence de la violoniste Mme Murielle Lemay, qui a obtenu son baccalauréat en musique de la prestigieuse université McGill de Montréal et a approfondi ses études en violon au Conservatoire Royal de Liège, puis en composition au Conservatoire Royal de Bruxelles. Le guitariste M. François Thomas Sagne, diplômé du Conservatoire régional de Chambéry et du Conservatoire Royal de Bruxelles, a accompagné Murielle. Thomas Sagne explore les univers musicaux en allant du jazz à la fusion, en passant par la musique contemporaine et expérimentale.
La violoniste Mme Murielle Lemay et le guitariste M. François Thomas Sagne en plein performance.
L’Ambassadeur Brisson a eu une pensée pour le décès de l’ancien Premier Ministre du Canada Brian Mulroney et a indiqué que le drapeau sera mis en berne à la Délégation Générale du Québec.
Elle a également souligné sa satisfaction d’être présente afin de célébrer ensemble avec les partenaires du GAF l’appartenance à la Francophonie et la richesse des liens qui unissent, bien au-delà de la langue.
l’Ambassadeur de Tunisie, S.E. M. Skander Denguezli.
L’Ambassadeur de Tunisie, Skander Denguezli, a prononcé un discours chaleureux au début de l’événement.
“Rappelons que la langue française rassemble aujourd’hui plus de 321 millions de locuteurs à travers le globe, dont 225 millions en font un usage quotidien. Elle est la 5ème langue mondiale par le nombre de ses locuteurs et la seule, avec l’anglais, à être présente sur les cinq continents. La Tunisie, l’un des pays fondateurs de la Francophonie, a accueilli le 18ème Sommet de l’OIF, organisé à Djerba en novembre 2022, qui a coïncidé avec le cinquantième anniversaire de la création de la Francophonie.
La Tunisie accorde une attention constante et particulière au développement du projet francophone, vecteur d’amitié, de solidarité et de coopération entre ses membres. Le prochain Sommet, le 19ème, sera ouvert le 4 octobre 2024 à la Cité Internationale de la Langue Française à Villers-Cotterêts. Dès à présent, je souhaite à nos amis français tout le succès pour cette prochaine édition dans l’intérêt commun de tous les membres de la famille francophone.”
L’Ambassadeur a remercié tous ceux qui ont contribué à l’organisation des différentes activités du Mois de la Francophonie, notamment le groupe de travail au niveau des missions diplomatiques, la Représentation Permanente de l’OIF à Bruxelles, l’Alliance Française de La Haye, l’Institut Français et le Lycée Vincent van Gogh.
Madame Geneviève Brisson, Déléguée Générale du Québec à Bruxelles et ’Union Européenne à Bruxelles et
SEM Mamadou Bamba Hanne, Représentant Permanent de l’OIF auprès de l’Union Européenne à Bruxelles.
Le programme du Mois de la Francophonie au niveau du GAF comporte principalement les activités suivantes : la projection de courts-métrages francophones de Côte d’Ivoire, de France, du Maroc, de Suisse, du Sénégal, de Tunisie et du Québec au cinéma Filmhuis à La Haye, ouverte au Corps Diplomatique ainsi qu’au grand public ; et une réception offerte par le Bureau de l’OIF à Bruxelles.
l’Ambassadeur Mamadou Bamba Hanne, Représentante Permanente de l’OIF auprès de l’UE, est également intervenue à cette occasion avec une petite et significative allocution. L’événement a été une autre démonstration de la bonne coopération entre les pays francophones et de son importance dans le monde.
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The Director of the Asia and Oceania Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Wouter Jurgens, hosted a farewell luncheon to honor the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Netherlands, Her Excellency Ms. Aruni Ranaraja. Ambassador Ranaraja, after three years of dedicated service to her country in the Netherlands, will be returning to Colombo.
The luncheon, held at Kookstudio Eric Jan Fransen, was attended by a selected group of ambassadors and officials close to Ambassador Ranaraja. Ms. Gerrie Willems, Deputy Director of the Asia and Oceania Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, graciously served as the host for the occasion.
In her remarks, Ambassador Ranaraja reflected on her tenure in the Netherlands, expressing gratitude for the fruitful and successful collaborations achieved during her time. She highlighted milestones such as the establishment of a new honorary consulate and deepening connections with the Sri Lankan community in the Netherlands.
Ms. Gerrie Willems, Deputy Director of the Asia and Oceania Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs presented a souvenir to the Ambassador of Sri Lanka, H.E. Ms Aruni Ranaraja.
Ambassador Ranaraja took a moment to personally acknowledge each individual present at the luncheon, emphasizing the significance of their contributions to her tenure in the Netherlands in different ways.
The event was marked by warmth, camaraderie, and fond reminiscences, symbolizing the deep bonds forged during Ambassador Ranaraja’s tenure.
As Ambassador Ranaraja embarks on her journey back to her beloved country, we extend our best wishes for her continued success and prosperity.
In the grandeur of the Nieuwe Kerk of The Hague, an evening of cultural celebration unfolds. Ambassadors, special guests, and music lovers friends of Azerbaijan gather for a spectacle of Azerbaijani classical music, an homage to the nation’s rich heritage and its commitment to global cultural dialogue. Hosted by His Excellency Mr. Rahman Mustafayev, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and His Excellency Mr. Seymur Fataliyev, Secretary-General of the National Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan for UNESCO, this event commemorates the 30th anniversary of Azerbaijan’s engagement with UNESCO.
Azerbaijan 30 Anniversary of UNESCO
As the audience settles into the pews of the baroque-style church, Ambassador Mustafayev welcomes them to an evening of musical enchantment. The ambiance is imbued with reverence for the centuries-old tradition of Azerbaijani classical music, a tapestry woven from the threads of history, geography, and cultural diversity. In his address, the Ambassador emphasizes the profound significance of music as a medium for storytelling, emotional expression, and cultural preservation.
Azerbaijani music, with its intricate melodies and poetic lyricism, embodies a harmonious fusion of East and West, reflecting the nation’s diverse cultural landscape.
“We are immensely proud that Mugham and the music of Ashig, as well as national musical instruments of Azerbaijan such as “Kamancha’’ and “Tar” are recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. To date, 23 cultural heritage samples of Azerbaijan were inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of UNESCO. This underscores the global importance and the vital role of Azerbaijani culture in fostering cultural diversity and human creativity.”
His Excellency Mr. Rahman Mustafayev, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Beyond the realm of music, Azerbaijan’s commitment to UNESCO’s mission is exemplified through its initiatives in education and cultural preservation. The country’s support for the UNESCO Global Education Coalition reflects a dedication to advancing access to quality education, particularly for marginalized communities. By allocating resources to initiatives that promote gender equality and connectivity, Azerbaijan exemplifies the transformative power of education in fostering social inclusion and sustainable development.
As the concert unfolds, the audience is treated to excelent performances by Azerbaijani musicians, including merited artist Jeyla Seyidova, opera singer Afag Abbasova, and Tar virtuoso Ibrahim Babayev. Their virtuosity and passion pay homage to the luminaries of Azerbaijani classical music—visionaries such as Uzeyir Hajibeyli, Gara Garayev, and Fikrat Amirov, whose compositions have left an indelible mark on the world stage.
Through excerpts from iconic operas and ballets, the audience embarks on a musical journey that traverses the landscapes of Azerbaijani folklore and mythology. From the timeless tale of “Leyli and Majnun” to the evocative melodies of “Seven Beauties” and “Path of Thunder,” each composition is an example to the strong legacy of Azerbaijani composers and their ability to captivate audiences with their creativity and innovation.
In commemorating 30 years of collaboration with UNESCO, Azerbaijan reaffirms its role as a custodian of cultural diversity and a champion of global cultural diplomacy.
