The Embassy of the Dominican Republic in The Hague marked the country’s Independence Day on February 25 with a joyful celebration that filled the large Residentie Hall of the Leonardo Royal Hotel. Diplomats, Dutch officials, members of the business community, representatives of the Dominican diaspora, and friends of the Dominican Republic gathered to commemorate nearly 182 years of sovereignty.
The evening reflected the warmth and dynamism of Dominican culture. A live musical group and a traditional dance ensemble brought the rhythms of the Caribbean to The Hague, while guests enjoyed rum tastings, premium cigars, and Dominican coffee, experiencing firsthand the flavors that define the nation’s heritage.
In his address, H.E. Carlos de la Mota, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, delivered a speech that blended history, patriotism, and forward-looking optimism.
“It is a privilege to gather this afternoon to commemorate one of the most defining moments in the history of the Dominican Republic: the proclamation of our independence nearly 182 years ago,” Ambassador De la Mota began. “This anniversary is not simply a remembrance of the past, but a reaffirmation of the principles that continue to shape our nation and our people, wherever they may reside.”
He described Independence Day as the embodiment of courage, sacrifice, vision, and conviction — the belief that a free, sovereign, and dignified nation was not only possible, but necessary.
Recalling the historic events of February 27, 1844, the ambassador paid tribute to the Founding Fathers — Juan Pablo Duarte, Francisco del Rosario Sánchez, and Ramón Matías Mella — who proclaimed independence from Haiti at the Puerta del Conde after twenty-two years of foreign domination.
“Duarte endured years of exile across the Caribbean, including in Curaçao, carrying with him — and strengthening — the ideals that define our Republic. Sánchez gave his life before a firing squad in defense of national sovereignty. Mella devoted his existence to the cause of freedom,” he said.
He continued:
“Independence is the essence of our national identity. To defend it today means acting with integrity and justice, strengthening our institutions, and working collectively toward sustainable development. It means honoring their sacrifice through actions that consolidate democracy, peace, and prosperity.”
Celebrating this historic date in the Netherlands carries special meaning, he noted, given the long-standing cultural, economic, and human exchanges between the two countries.
“Thousands of Dominicans have built their lives in this special country, contributing to its diversity while upholding their roots with pride. Their perseverance and sense of community are a living testament to the Dominican spirit.”
Looking ahead, the ambassador outlined important initiatives for the coming year. The Dominican Republic will host CHEMEX-GRULAC, a multi-component chemical emergency response exercise supported by the governments of Canada, Spain, and the European Union.
He also announced the first-ever Dominican Week, organized in collaboration with the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in the Kingdom of Belgium and the Euro Chamber of Commerce. The initiative will showcase strategic sectors of the Dominican economy, promote trade and investment opportunities, and facilitate networking between Dutch and Dominican businesses.
Switching to Spanish, Ambassador De la Mota reflected on the present and future of his country:
“El día de independencia es un momento de reflexión; no sólo de honrar el pasado, sino de celebrar el progreso que hemos alcanzado y lo que aún nos falta por lograr. República Dominicana seguirá creciendo, innovando, abriendo nuevos caminos de oportunidades, sin olvidar la mano de sus dominicanos que, como nosotros, aportamos desde el exterior mediante el servicio y el interés de ser ejemplo de excelencia.”
He continued:
“Nuestra democracia se fortalece por la participación activa de su gente. Nuestra economía se supera mediante la insaciable capacidad de innovación. Nuestra cultura continúa vibrando más allá del Caribe, con las notas de nuestro ritmo, el sabor de nuestras recetas y el cálido encuentro de nuestra presencia.”
As the celebration drew to a close, glasses were raised in tribute to the nation’s legacy and future.
“May the example of our Founding Fathers inspire us to live with humility, integrity, patriotism, and service wherever we may find ourselves,” Ambassador De la Mota concluded before closing with a patriotic proclamation:
“¡Que viva la República Dominicana!”
