On the 9th of February, 2023, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Netherlands hosted a celebration in honor of the 44th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution and the National Day of Iran at the Iranian house in Wassenaar. The event was attended by more than a hundred people. H.E. Dr. Alireza Kazemi Abadi, Ambassador of Iran to the Netherlands, and his spouse, Leila Kazemi, were honored at the event, which brought together ambassadors, diplomats, scholars, and lovers of Iran.
The visitors were welcomed with Iranian hospitality and a huge buffet of traditional Iranian food, which was a wonderful start to the day. The finest examples of Iranian cuisine, from savory meals to an amazing dessert table, were presented to the visitors as a special treat. In addition, carpets and works of art from Iran were shown to illustrate the country’s extensive cultural history.
Ambassador Kazemi and his spouse Leila Kazemi at the Iranian residency welcoming the many guests during the National Day of Iran..
Ambassador Kazemi took advantage of the opportunity presented to him during the continuation of the event to declare the conclusion of his mission in the Netherlands and spend time conversing with the attendees.
It was a moment for thinking back on the work that had been accomplished during his stay in the Netherlands and expressing gratitude for it.
Guests at the 44th Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution and the National Day of Iran at the Iranian residency in Wassenaar.
Ambassador Kazemi emphasized the significance of Iran maintaining its traditions and cohesiveness throughout his remarks. He emphasized the history of the nation as well as the resiliency of the Iranian people by saying, “Iran has encountered many problems throughout the years, but we have always remained strong and unified in the face of adversity.” He was referring to the fact that Iran has endured numerous hardships over the years.
Ambassador Alireza Kazemi Abadi during his speech.
“In the past four decades, Iranian people have gone to the polls for many times to actively exercise their freedom, including for 3 referendums to decide on their desired political system and the constitution as well as for over 40 nation-wide elections to elect their governments, representatives and officials.
However, the fact is that the exercise of the right of self-determination always comes at a price. We have bitterly learned that we can only rely on ourselves and our people’s talent. We had no choice but to invest on own capabilities and enablers.
Foreign military aggression and 8 years of imposed war taught us to locally develop our military capabilities and do not waste our time by waiting for others to come to help us. Similarly, economic sanctions made us to realize that we need to explore all the high-tech fields and industries, be it medicine or nuclear science. That is why neither our military capabilities nor our nuclear energy advancements are up for negotiations or compromise.”
In addition to this, he underlined how vital it is to preserve cultural traditions and to honor the enormous variety that is found within Iranian culture. “Our cuisine, our music, and our art – all of these are aspects of our history that we must continue to respect and pass on to future generations,” he added. “Our legacy includes everything from our culinary traditions to our musical and artistic expressions.”
H.E. Mr. Slim Ghariani, Ambassador of Tunisia and Ambassador Kazemi.
People of all walks of life came together at the event to celebrate Iran’s National Day in a way that was both meaningful and unforgettable. They did so in order to acknowledge and value the country’s extensive cultural heritage and historical heritage. After attending the event, participants were able to get a better knowledge of Iran and a greater respect for the people who call Iran home.
The Office of the Prosecutor launches public consultation to renew the policy paper on crimes against or affecting children
The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Mr Karim AA Khan KC is pleased to announce a call for public submissions for suggested changes to build upon, and renew, the 2016 OTP Policy on Children .
In launching this policy renewal process the Office will seek to develop new and innovative approaches to its work so as to make children more visible in all of its work, and further improve effectiveness in the investigation and prosecution of crimes against or affecting children.
In highlighting the importance of the renewal of this policy and the central role of stakeholder consultation in this process, Prosecutor Khan stated: “Before my election as Prosecutor – and ever since – I pledged to do better by children who, far too often, have been invisible actors in the international criminal justice process. Effective investigation and prosecution of crimes against or affecting children is – and will remain – a key priority during my tenure as Prosecutor. To implement a meaningful survivor-centered approach, we must give children greater agency in cases involving them. Their voices must be heard and their experiences inform every step of the process from preliminary examination to investigations and trial.
“The present consultation process will lead to the review and amendment of the policy on children and will build upon new approaches we have already implemented in the Office and be shaped by the input and advice from many specialists and actors from civil society, national authorities, and international organizations to help ensure we do better by children and affect meaningful change.”
Véronique Aubert, Special Advisor to the Prosecutor on Crimes Against and Affecting Children, will be assisting the Prosecutor and the Office in renewing this policy.
In this first round of external consultations, the Office welcomes comments on the substance of the policy and encourages proposals as to how it may be enhanced. The Prosecutor is of the view that external consultations on its policies and working methods are important for maintaining and furthering transparency and predictability, and generating the most comprehensive policies.
Comments can be sent to OTP.Policies@icc-cpi.int by Wednesday, 31 May 2023, midnight, CEST . All input received by the deadline will be carefully considered in the internal review and revision process.
Dominicans in the Netherlands celebrated their country’s 179th anniversary of Independence in The Hague on 23 February 2023. It has been a festive evening with many colours, happy faces and a vibrant atmosphere.
The host of the soiree H.E. Mr Juan Bautista Duran, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic in the Netherlands warmly welcomed his guests, among them fellow ambassadors from Argentina, Aruba, Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Curacao, El Salvador, Ecuador, Israel, Nicaragua, Panama, St. Martin, Venezuela, Vietnam, and Yemen—further representatives of International organisations, friends of the Dominican Republic and diaspora members.
Ambassador Duran, H.E. Dr Carlos Arguello, Ambassador of Nicaragua to the International organizations, H.E. Mr. Roberto Calzadilla Sarmiento, Ambassador of Bolivia and Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, Diplomat Magazine’s publisher.
After the national anthem, H.E. Mr. Juan Bautista Duran delivered a meaningful and concise discourse. He went to say “Today, February 23, four days shy of the 179th anniversary of our independence, on behalf of President Luis Abinader, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Roberto Alvarez Gil and the Dominican people, I have the honor of sharing with you the joy of celebrating the birth of our country and paying homage to our heroes, fathers of the homeland: Juan Pablo Duarte, Francisco del Rosario Sanchez and Matias Ramon Mella.
Likewise, to the men and women who called themselves the Trinitarians, who sacrificed their lives, put their families at risk as well as their wealth and livelihoods, they gave sweat and blood so that today we can be the Dominican Republic: a free, independent and sovereign nation.
Dominican dancers.
As representative, both of the State and of the Dominican people to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, we assume that the commitment to maintain the legacy of our heroes is a process of permanent construction, which we must carry out every day, with our behaviour, actions, values, so that every effort made, no matter how small, makes a difference.”
“Talking about the Dominican Republic today, means highlighting the achievements of the current government, headed by our President Luis Abinader Corona, together with the efforts of a committed team of professional advisors and technicians in all areas, who combine patriotic duty, dignity, solidarity and an example that emphasises the importance of the national welfare of the country, above personal interest.” said the ambassador.
Ambassador Juan Bautista Duran welcome H.E. Mr. Modi Ephraim, Ambassador of Israel.
“Such achievements as the promotion of an ethical, transparent and proactive international policy, based on the projection of our national interests.
Likewise, the increase in our exports and foreign direct investment, the increase in reciprocal cooperation between countries and the protection of our environment, have been key in the creation and strengthening of a profitable and sustainable economic model. The strengthening of our Tourism sector, one of the main axes of our economy, achieving a growth of more than 10% of tourists by air and 20% by cruise ships in 2022, closing the year with an average of 8 million tourists.”
Then, Ambassador Duran expressed the following about the history of Dutch and Dominican Republic’s relations:
“Relations between the Dominican Republic and the Kingdom of the Netherlands date back more than 500 years, shortly after the arrival of Europeans to the island and long before the consolidation of the territory and the nation as an independent state.
The first Dutch merchants made incursions into the Caribbean in the early 16th century, specialising in maritime trade operations with tropical products, increasing trade between the two countries.
After independence, on January 24, 1856, the Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Navigation was signed and in 1858 the Netherlands established its first commercial representation in the Dominican Republic.
In 2001 the Netherlands established its Embassy in Santo Domingo and in 2005 the Dominican Republic established its diplomatic representation in The Hague, administrative capital of the Netherlands.
Another factor that unites us with the Kingdom of the Netherlands is the relationship that we also have for more than 5 centuries with the Dutch Caribbean. In addition to the extensive trade relations that have been sustained over the years, there is a significant diaspora both in the islands and on the mainland. The bilateral relations between our countries manifest historical ties of solidarity and friendship, which aim to promote and deepen cooperation, based on the principles of equality, respect and reciprocity around sovereignty, and mutual benefit.”
Ambassador Duran and H.E. Mr. Rene Violenus, Minister Plenipotentiary of St. Maarten
After ambassador speech, the second part of the program was a presentation by Mr Rafael Espinal on the history of the Dominican music and the rhythms of the güira and the tambora. Further, features of the Carnaval Dominicano, Carnival sketches, people wearing colourful costumes that symbolize Dominican religious and traditional carnaval characters such as Diablo Cojuelo, dancers and songs. The group in charge of the artistic presentation was Ritmo Dominicano.
During the artist performances Ambassador Bautista Duran illuminated the evening with his rendition of “My Way” and other songs.
A Dominican buffet was prepared by Restaurant Casa del Mofongo. Among the specialities presented were quipes, empanaditas of both chicken and beef, as well as Dominican sushi with ripe plantain.
Also present was Barceló Rum with a generous sampling of excellent Dominican rums and cigars.
Euronews – Protesters in Tbilisi rallied for the third day in a row on Thursday evening, despite securing major concessions from the Georgian government over the controversial Foreign Agents Bill.
Georgia’s Interior Ministry had announced the release of protesters detained during the two previous days of mass demonstrations just hours after the ruling Georgian Dream Party party was forced to withdraw its controversial bill that sparked the rallies.
“All persons arrested on 7 and 8 March during the protests near the parliament by employees of different structures of the Interior Ministry in accordance with the Code of Administrative Offences have been released,” the ministry said in a statement.
Overnight Wednesday police used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the thousands gathered outside the parliament building.
The law, drafted by the ruling Georgian Dream Party, if approved, will make all media outlets and non-governmental organisations that receive 20% of their funding from abroad register as “foreign agents”. This would subject them to monitoring and possible sanctions.
It has been slammed by the country’s civil society, media and analysts, who say it “threatens the fall of Georgian democracy”. Authorities have claimed the law is necessary to improve transparency.
66 arrests were made at the demonstration on Tuesday evening, including the leader of the opposition Zurab Japaridze, while 50 police officers were injured. Protesters also reported injuries, with a number of officers reportedly seen laughing as they dispersed the crowds.
International organisations and western states have also condemned the law, with the EU warning Georgia it could hamstring the country’s EU ambitions.
On Tuesday, European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell described the law as “a very bad development for Georgia and its people.The European Union urges Georgia to uphold its commitment to the promotion of democracy, the rule of law and human rights, and recalls the right of people to a peaceful protest,” he added.
Foreign ministers of several EU member states, including the Baltics, echoed concerns about the foreign agent law, urging Georgia to uphold the principles of “democracy, rule of law and human rights”.
Fights have broken out in the parliament in recent days as the law has been debated.
Georgia’s president, Salome Zurabishvili, has said she would veto the bill, though parliament can override presidential vetos. Khatia Dekanoidze, a member of the opposition National Movement Rally, told parliament: “Everyone should understand that saving our country, saving our young generation, saving our future lies only through the European path.”
The bill, dubbed a Russian-style law by opponents, received initial approval in parliament. In Russia, a foreign agent law has been used to silence organisations and news outlets that criticised the government. Protesters blocked both entrances to the parliament building last night, chanting: “No to Russian law!” “Russians!” “Slaves !”
As the bill was being debated on Tuesday, the US Embassy said in a statement it raised “real questions about the ruling party’s commitment to Euro-Atlantic integration.”
“Today is a dark day for Georgia’s democracy. Parliament’s advancing of these Kremlin-inspired laws is incompatible with the people of Georgia’s clear desire for European integration and its democratic development,” they said.
Georgian Dream chair Irakli Kobakhidze defended the draft law, following the unrest. He said that people had been misled with ‘disinformation’, defending the legislation as necessary to reveal who was financing those who criticised the Georgian Orthodox Church.
Brussels, 20 February 2023, H.E. Mr Dilyor Khakimov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the Benelux and Head of Mission of Uzbekistan to the EU. and NATO, organized the first Uzbekistan-EU: State of the Progress.
The objective was to celebrate the state of progress in Uzbekistan-EU relations. The venue, Steigenberger Wiltcher’s Hotel.
The Uzbekistan-EU: State of the Progress, Uzbekistan Ambassadors to the EU. recounted their accomplishments. One Ambassador managed to interest universities to establish branches of their institution in Uzbekistan.
H.E. Mr Dilyor Khakimov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the Benelux and Head of Mission of Uzbekistan to the EU. and NATO.
On the program, a discourse by Ambassador H.E. Mr Dilyor Khakimov. He started by saying “I am very glad to see the distinguished representatives of the European External Action Service, the European Commission, the European Council, the media, and all our friends. Special thanks to the distinguished Ambassadors of the EU Member States and their representatives.
Ambassador Khakimov and Mr. Luc Devigne, Deputy Managing Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia at the EEAS.
I am glad to welcome my good friend, Luc Devigne, Deputy Managing Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia at the EEAS.
It is very unique that at this event I am joined by my colleagues, Ambassadors of Uzbekistan to Austria – Mr. Abat Faizullaev, to Germany – Mr. Nabijon Kasimov, to France – Mr. Sardor Rustambaev and to Italy – Mr. Otabek Akbarov, are also present here tonight.
My special thanks also for the presence of the Ambassadors of our brotherly Central Asian states (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan) and Azerbaijan. Today’s event is dedicated to the state of the progress made in the relations between Uzbekistan and the European Union.
During the last years, under the leadership of the H.E. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, we are building a New Uzbekistan which regards the EU as one of its key international partner and attaches particular importance to the further development of mutually beneficial cooperation on a whole range of issues.
Uzbekistan is at an important stage of its development. The large-scale program of comprehensive reforms continues in the country, the main goal of which is the steady continuation of the process of transformation of Uzbekistan into a democratic, rule of law based state with a socially oriented market economy, ensuring comprehensive protection of the interests and rights of citizens, security, sustainable development and independence of the country.
Thanks to the democratic transformations in recent years, fundamental values have become a reality in the life of society – human rights and freedoms, rule of law, freedom of speech, freedom of religion and freedom of conscience.
A strong atmosphere of mutual respect, tolerance, peace and stability has been established in the country. The values of interethnic and interfaith friendship and brotherhood, which have been formed on the land of Uzbekistan for centuries, have been strengthened.
As far as the foreign policy is concerned, Uzbekistan carries out an open, neighborly and pragmatic course, aimed at turning Central Asia into a region of stability, security and prosperity. The priority of strengthening and expanding friendly relations and strategic partnership with all states of the world is being actively implemented. There is a unique mechanism for the development of regional cooperation – Consultative meetings of the heads of state of the region.
A historic document – Treaty on Friendship, Good-Neighborliness and Cooperation for the Development of Central Asia in the XXI Century – was signed in Kyrgyzstan during the Consultative Meeting on 21 July 2022.
Uzbekistan’s role in multilateral formats has intensified. Today, our country is taking important initiatives in the framework of the UN and other international organizations to address contemporary regional and global issues, such as promoting the settlement of the Afghan problem, climate change, Aral Sea disaster, achievement of Sustainable Development Goals, etc.
Uzbekistan held the Presidency in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Economic Cooperation Organization, as well as hosted the first time the Summit of the Organization of Turkic States in 2022.
It is no exaggeration to say that 2022 became a new page in bilateral and interregional relations between Uzbekistan and the EU.
The first visit of President of the European Council Charles Michel to our country on 27-28 October 2022, as well as fruitful negotiations and significant agreements reached within the framework of the participation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in the first EU-Central Asia Summit on 27 October in Astana prompted the further development of our comprehensive cooperation.
Ambassadors of Uzbekistan in Europe, together with ambassadors of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan together with the Deputy Managing Director for Eastern Europe at EEAS.
The visit of EU High Representative Josep Borrell to our country on 17-19 November 2022 made it possible to once again discuss topical issues.
The EU-Central Asia Connectivity Conference organized at the initiative of Uzbekistan in Samarkand on 18 November 2022 was an important event in strengthening interregional cooperation. At the end of this event, specific agreements were reached on expansion of cooperation in digitalization, green economy, energy, climate change and transport.
The key areas of our cooperation with the EU and its member states are investments, trade, financial and technical assistance, high-tech transfer, science and technology, education, ecology, tourism, health and culture, as well as strengthening regional security.
A great achievement in our bilateral relations was the successful completion by the parties of negotiations on the Expanded Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA), as a result of which it was initialed on 6 July 2022 in Brussels.
I would like to emphasize that the main provisions of EPCA are fully in line with the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026 adopted in January 2022.
The Strategy identifies seven most important priorities for the country’s development in the coming years. They focus on human rights, strengthening civil society, ensure justice, rule of law and others.
The volume of bilateral trade turnover last year reached $4.48 billion (in 2021 – $3.79 billion). Currently, 1052 enterprises with investments from EU member states are working in our country, including 304 companies with 100 percent of European capital. In this regard, I would like to note that on 10 April 2021, Uzbekistan was granted the status of beneficiary of EU’s GSP+ scheme. This decision made it possible for about 6,200 types of goods produced in our country to enter the EU market without customs duties. Thanks to this, the export of Uzbek goods to the EU has increased significantly.
The Uzbek side is grateful to the European side for supporting Uzbekistan’s WTO accession and for providing the technical support (5 mln euros) in this direction. We are sure that this will serve to further expand trade and economic relations between Uzbekistan and the EU.
I am confident that the close friendly and constructive relations between Uzbekistan and the EU will continue to consistently strengthen and expand in the interests of our peoples.
In conclusion I will now give the floor to Mr. Luc Devigne, Deputy Managing Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia at the EEAS, as well as to my colleagues, Ambassadors of Uzbekistan to Austria, Germany, France and Italy”
Excerpts of the speeches by the above-mentioned persons now follow.ly.
Discourse by Mr Luc Devigne(EEAS)
“Celebrating the progress we have achieved in EU-Uzbekistan relations. Next year, we will celebrate thirty years of formal diplomatic relations between the European Union and Uzbekistan. It has been my honour to be the person on the EU side responsible for this relationship for nearly one third of that time.
Uzbekistan is youthful, dynamic, and rapidly growing. It is a positive force in a region that is geopolitically more and more important. Uzbekistan is outward-looking, active in promoting regional cooperation and global solutions, and a supporter of the multilateral order and the international rule of law. Our partnership is strong and based on common values as well as common interests.
Last year, it was my honour to initial the new Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the EU and Uzbekistan, as the EU’s chief negotiator. We were also able to formalise the entry of Uzbekistan into the EU’s General System of Preferences Plus, nearly two years ago. As well as giving us a new platform to discuss matters of mutual interest and international governance, this has also prompted a big increase in trade between the EU and Uzbekistan, taking advantage of the removal of tariffs on around two thirds of the product lines exported to the EU from Uzbekistan. In the first year of GSP+ membership, Uzbekistan’s exports to the EU more than doubled. Imports from the EU into Uzbekistan are also growing at a record rate.
Last November’s EU-Central Asia Sustainable Connectivity Conference in Samarkand was a great success, which owed much to the energy and leadership of the host nation. It is in our common interest to build closer economic ties between the EU and Uzbekistan, to support Uzbekistan’s economic reform process and its entry into the WTO.
The global situation is a concern, we are very conscious this week of the anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. We understand and respect Uzbekistan’s historical relationship with Russia, and the realities which this imposes. At the same time, we acknowledge Uzbekistan’s policy of balanced neutrality. As Russia’s war enters a second year, it is more important than ever that we work together to uphold international law and find international solutions which respect that law.
Europe is a partner for Uzbekistan as it continues to press forward with its reform programme. We are looking forward to seeing what will be achieved during President Mirziyoyev’s second term in office. We know that lessons will have been learnt from the events of last July in Nukus, particularly on the importance of broad, open consultation. The situation in Uzbekistan for human rights and fundamental freedoms has changed drastically for the better in the last few years, and we as your European partners wish to support you as you cement these positive changes with further reforms in the coming months and years.
Discourse by Uzbekistan Ambassador to Italy Mr Otabek Akbarov.
Uzbekistan-EU: State of the Progress. Today a stable dialogue and comprehensive cooperation in the political, economic and cultural spheres has been formed between Uzbekistan and the EU and its member countries.
We highly appreciate the new dynamics of our relations with Rome which has contributed to the intensification and expansion of cooperation in the political, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres.
We will always remember the first fundamental document with the EU, the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, was signed with the friendly support of the Italian Presidency of the EU Council in Florence in 1996.
We highly appreciate Italy’s support in obtaining the status of a beneficiary of the GSP+ system, as well as advancing the issue of Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization .
Central Asia is the main priority of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy, based on building good neighbourly and constructive relations with all neighbouring countries. Uzbekistan is ready to become a gateway for Italy and all of Europe to Central Asia.
The President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, speaking at the first EU-Central Asia summit on October 27, 2022. in Astana, proposed the establishment of the European Union-Central Asia Economic Cooperation Committee and the development of a strategic program to deepen trade and economic cooperation.
We are working on the creation of an Italian-Uzbek Technology Hub based on Inno Technopark Uzbekistan in Tashkent together with one of the most important conditions for building a New Uzbekistan is to improve the quality of education, taking into account advanced foreign experience.
Cooperation with Italy in this area is the most advanced among all European countries. Two branches of Italian universities are already operating in Tashkent, the Turin Polytechnic University ( 2009) and the University of Pisa (2022).
Bukhara, is planning to open a branch of the Campania University named after Luigi Vanvitelli.
Last year, the University of World Economy and Diplomacy under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan established cooperation with the leading university in Italy – the Free International University for Social Research Guido Carli(University LUISS).
There is a growing interest in Italy for the historical and cultural heritage and today’s life of Uzbekistan.
On January 10 2023 a memorandum was signed between the Culture and Arts Development Foundation of Uzbekistan and the world-famous museum Uffizi Galleries in Florence on organisation of exhibition of paintings from the collection of the State Museum of Art named after Igor Savitsky.”
The Uzbekistan-EU: State of the Progress event was followed by a reception featuring Uzbek cuisine, a national music program and a photo-handicrafts and clothing exhibition. The Gulzoda group gave a concert featuring Maqom, an ancient type of folk art in Uzbekistan. Maqom singer Munojot Yulchiyeva is an Uzbek personality in the world of Art. Noteworthy, Maqom is on the UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The Uzbekistan-EU achievements make Uzbekistan feel a sense of pride and accomplishment !
Following successes of the similar programs in Europe (Vienna and Geneva notably), the Istanbul-based International Organization along with its European (think-tank, academia, cultural diplomacy and media) partners decided to launch the special executive program for emerging leaders (FLEP) on its own.
By its launch on 24th February 2023, this Program gathered participants of diverse professional backgrounds and different geographies, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East – largely the forthcoming leaders from the government, international organisations or industry. The FLEP Executive Program’s concept is rather simple: Participants are spending one entire day with top level speakers – mainly the world leaders that shaped events of the past decades (two per month, last Friday-Saturday in month) in an open, Chatham House rules-based atmosphere, all situated within the historic premisses of the eternal city on two continents.
The very opening of the program has been reserved for the paramount name of European and world statecraft, Austrian state President, Dr. Heinz Fischer, who spend the full day with the highly anticipating audience of the Program.
Excellency Fischer served as the national state president two consecutive terms (2004 – 2016). Witness to and active maker of major events of the past 4-5 decades, he also served as Minister of Science of the Republic of Austria from 1983 to 1987 (Fred Sinowatz government), and as the President of the National Council of Austria from 1990 to 2002. Between 1992 and 2004, Dr. Fischer was Deputy Chairman of the Party of European Social Democrats (PES). From 1995 to 2002 he was President of the National Fund of the Republic of Austria for the Victims of National Socialism. In June 2016 Heinz Fischer was named President of the Association of Austrian Adult Education Centres, and soon after as the President of the Austrian Society for Chinese Studies.
Finally, in January 2017 Heinz Fischer was named president to the Board of the Institute for Human Science, while in August that year, Excellency Fischer was appointed as co-chairman of the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens – function he holds up to this very day.
During the day-long exchanges with the FLEP participants Excellency Fischer elaborated on his career path, notably his role in the national and European politics, on meetings with the heads of states and governments of many countries including biggest powers during his long career. He generously and enthusiastically shared elaborate views on the political climate and structures of Austria and Europe before WWI, in interwar period and especially in the post WWII recovery period. In addition, Dr. Fischer discussed the main challenges for the past 100 years – from poverty, Nazism, armaments, confrontations and lack of democratic and tolerant societal fabrics, collective actions and the crisis of the international multilateral political bodies than open the road for open military confrontation.
Vivid exchanges of views and opinions between speaker of honour and participants marked the closuring part of the 9 hours long lecturing and tour-de-table. Content intensive, inspiring reflective and farsighted, yet amicable and family-like atmosphere with a direct, personal access to the notable guest (full of coffee-breaks and meals spent together) along with the perfect organisation of principal host deeply impressed all.
Closing the event, Dr. Fischer and President of ICYF Taha Ayhan (as a principal host to the event), jointly voiced what all participants already concluded in the course of the day- that the FLEP Program offers truly unique setting, umparallel anywhere else in the world. Two Presidents both agreed that this particular format is once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for emerging leaders from the state, intergovernmental civil and corporate sectors of all meridians.
Indeed, the Program meeting hall was filled with the enthusiasm and hope for the formidable and attenable tomorrow that started on 24th February 2023 with the FLEP Istanbul program. The fascinating voyage of knowledge sets its uncharted waters sail. It will reach its next mesmerising port of wisdom and insights on 24th of March by hosting Prime Minister of Belgium and Secretary General of Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
About the author
Yagmur Ceylan Korkut Hassan
Yagmur Ceylan Korkut Hassan – author is Madinah Group Istanbul Turkey Office Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer.
She was attached to the office of European Union Youth and Education Turkey and Turkish National Agency.
The International Criminal Court marks International Women’s Day in support of global action to advance gender equality and women’s rights. The ICC promotes women’s rights and considers gender perspectives through its work.
The President of the Court, Judge Piotr Hofmański, stated: “The ICC is proud to be at the forefront of the movement toward gender equality in the field of international justice. With nine female and nine male judges currently on our bench, we project to the world the critical importance of the equal participation of men and women in the field of law. Yet, much more remains to be done to achieve effective equality of opportunities in our workforce. As an International Gender Champion, I am strongly committed to treating this as a continuous priority that requires tangible efforts on a daily basis.”
To ensure a safe and inclusive workplace for all, the ICC adopted its first Strategy on Gender Equality and Workplace Culture last year, and is now busy with its implementation to make equity a reality at the Court.
ICC Prosecutor Karim A. A. Khan KC stated: “On this International Women’s Day, I reaffirm my commitment to the ICC’s Gender Strategy and my conviction that gender equality, gender diversity, and empowerment of women within my Office are key prerequisites for high performance. Our working environment must be one in which everyone feels safe, welcome, and thrives professionally.”
He added: ‘’Our Office also protects women’s rights in the crimes we investigate and prosecute. That includes the crime of gender persecution – the ultimate crime of discrimination towards women, including lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex women. Effective investigation and prosecution of gender persecution, amongst other sexual and gender based crimes, are key priorities for my Office, as reflected in the new policy paper on gender persecution issued in December 2022. All strategies of my Office must bring results in the courtroom, for the sake of survivors. To this end, my Office also aims to issue a re-envisioned policy paper on sexual and gender based crimes.”
ICC Registrar Peter Lewis stated: “The Strategy on Gender Equality and Workplace Culture is the first such roadmap adopted by the Court, as well as by any international court or tribunal, binding concrete steps towards gender equality in the context of workplace culture advancements. It is a recognition that to be a beacon of justice and accountability around the world, we must start by ensuring the highest standards of equality, diversity and inclusion inside our walls, among the personnel working at the Court”.
The Focal Point for Gender Equality of the International Criminal Court, Antônia Pereirade Sousa, said: “Together with the Staff Union, the ICC Bar Association and the OTP Gender Focal Point, we have invited all ICC personnel to join us in an internal conference to recognize the critical contributions of women in shaping international criminal justice, and to look ahead at the future generations of talented and aspiring women who will continue to make it a stronger instrument towards international peace, security, and the wellbeing of the world”.
International Women’s Day celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievement of women, while stressing the need to make further progress in gender balance and women’s empowerment.
On Friday, March 3 on the occasion of the Day of Diplomat of Armenia, The Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia H.E. Dr. Tigran Balayan hosted a piano concert by pianists Professor Anahit Nersesyan and Marina Gevorgyan in the Hague.
Both pianists came directly from Yerevan to perform a series of concerts in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Ambassador Balayan organized another great event, always giving the floor to the best Armenian artists. Ambassadors from Panama, Serbia, Costa Rica, and Argentina, diplomats, together with Armenians from The Hague Diaspora enjoyed the master concert.
Antropologe and feminist Dunya Verwey, talked about the Museum Geelvinck collection of Dutch grand historic pianos from the 18th and 19th century and their restoration program.
Marina Gevorgyan explained the details of the great music program including pieces from Armenian composers Khachaturyan and Komitas. After the concert Ambassador Balayan offered a reception with Armenian wines.
H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica, the Ambassador of Armenia, H.E. Mr. Tigran Balayan, H.E. Ms. Ksenija Milenkovic, Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia and H.E. Mr. Mario Oyarzabal, Ambassador of Argentina.
Museum Geelvinck
In Amsterdam both Armenian pianists performed in Museum Geelvinck. The museum manages the largest Dutch collection of pianos from the 18th and 19th century (more than 300 instruments). This also includes the most important collection of early Dutch-made pianos, as well as the Sweelinck Collection. It gives a picture of the development of the piano’s mechanics in interaction with classical music. The unique timbre and playing technique of these special pianos provide inspiration for contemporary composers.
Antropologe and feminist Dunya Verwey.
The Geelvinck Salon was set up eighteen years ago. This series regularly brings concerts with varying classical programming; especially fortepiano. But also early music ensembles, crossovers with world music, and music theatre. Museum Geelvinck started in 1991 and today it is located in the catacombs of the Posthoornkerk in Amsterdam and also in the countryside Huize Kolthoorn in Heerde (NO-Veluwe). Both locations can be visited on request. New public presentations and various music activities are planned for 2023. Museum Geelvinck is included in the Museum Register and accepts the Museum Card.
Geelvinck Music in Museums encourages musicians, piano technicians and music scientists to work with historic pianos. Under their management, it is played by young, professional musicians and ensembles. Historic pianos are a source of inspiration for musicians and composers.
Marina Gevorgyan.
Both pianists from Armenia Marina Gevorgyan and Professor Anahit Nersesyan were amazed by the quality of the pianos and thanked the Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia H.E. Dr. Tigran Balayanfor for the wonderful opportunity to play on these unique instruments in Museum Geelvinck.
Most historic pianos are still waiting for restoration. Support this initiative! Your gift is tax-deductible: the museum foundation is a ‘cultural ANBI’: become a Friend of Museum Geelvinck or make a contribution to bank account no. NL55 RABO 0314238131 for Museum Geelvinck o.v.v. “donation of historic pianos”. All your financial contributions and also gifts or a legacy of your grand piano, fortepiano carré, music books, sheet music, etc. are very welcome!
Support the preservation for future generations and donate for restoration. Give our living musical heritage a resounding future!
ICC Prosecutor Karim A. A. Khan KC concludes fourth visit to Ukraine: “Amidst this darkness, the light of justice is emerging”
I have now completed my fourth official visit to Ukraine. This mission came at a pivotal moment, allowing us to take key steps forward in our investigative work, deepen our engagement with national authorities and meet with those impacted by alleged international crimes in Ukraine. I leave Ukraine with a sense that the momentum towards justice is accelerating.
In Kyiv, I joined our team of investigators and analysts who have been on the ground continuously since May last year, visiting sites of alleged attacks on critical civilian infrastructure as well as homes destroyed by missile strikes. Together with the Prosecutor General of Ukraine, Andriy Kostin, we underlined our collective commitment to ensure that such acts are fully investigated and those responsible for alleged international crimes held to account.
During my visit, I was pleased to meet on two occasions with the President of Ukraine, His Excellency Mr Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Our common message was clear: the pursuit of justice is a collective one, and one that requires collaboration and effective communication while respecting the independent exercise of the respective mandates of my Office and those of Ukrainian authorities.
This spirit of cooperation was reflected in a key step taken during my visit: the approval by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine of the Agreement on the Establishment of the Country Office of the International Criminal Court in Ukraine. This will allow us to significantly enhance our existing field presence, increase missions across Ukraine and, crucially, allow us to work more closely with survivors, members of impacted communities, and civil society.
Since taking up my position as Prosecutor, I have repeatedly said that children must no longer be the forgotten victims of conflict. My mission to Ukraine has underlined this imperative. In southern Ukraine, two kilometres from the frontlines, I visited a care home for children.
The drawings pinned on the wall and the cupboards full of clothes spoke to a context of love and support that was once there. But this home was empty, a result of alleged deportation of children from Ukraine to the Russian Federation or their unlawful transfer to other parts of the temporarily occupied territories. As I noted to the United Nations Security Council last September, these alleged acts are being investigated by my Office as a priority. Children cannot be treated as the spoils of war.
These allegations, and the lived experiences of so many in Ukraine, reflect a deeply challenging, often tragic, context. But during my visit it was also clear that this darkness has allowed us to see new ways of coming together, new ways of building partnerships towards justice.
This was the common message across all actors at the United for Justice Conference in Lviv which I was pleased to attend. It is unprecedented that as conflict takes place, literally as bombs fall, such a groundswell of collective work is being undertaken to ensure that the law is felt on the frontlines.
Concrete action was taken at the conference, with the establishment of the Ukraine Accountability Dialogue Group to increase information-sharing and awareness across all relevant actors. My Office was also pleased to take part in a meeting of the joint investigation team (JIT) on alleged core international crimes committed in Ukraine.
I underlined to those present that the situation in Ukraine must also set a new standard for concerted action to achieve global accountability for international crimes. From Kharkiv to Khartoum, from Kyiv to Cox’s Bazar, survivors should feel this sense of collective urgency and benefit from the innovation we see we are now capable of.
While in Lviv, I was also pleased to meet with key counterparts including EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders and Mr Merrick Garland, Attorney General of the United States. This moment requires us to come together, to find new ways to collaborate and share information if we are to deliver for those that have suffered injustice.
My Office remains committed to continue to work with all partners, across civil society, national authorities, and international organisations, so that we can deliver tangible results and demonstrate the relevance of the rule of law in real-time. I will also yet again reach out to the authorities of the Russian Federation and seek their cooperation with my Office.
I wish to express my sincere thanks to the Prosecutor General of Ukraine and to all representatives of relevant ministries and agencies who dedicated time to meet with me during this visit despite the exceptionally difficult circumstances currently faced by all in Ukraine.
Friday, 3 March 2023, Republic of Ireland: The Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin, and Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, announced a €2 million joint investment in a season of Irish arts and culture which will take place in Germany.
The season will be a joint partnership between Culture Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs, with the aim of deepening Ireland’s cultural engagement with Germany, as a key partner in Europe, as we mark the fiftieth anniversary of our membership of the European Union.
In line with the ambition of Global Ireland, Ireland is committed to strengthening our global cultural presence and impact and places a strategic priority on arts and creativity as a key outward expression of our identity. This initiative aims to provide a special focus on the presentation of contemporary Irish arts in Germany. The Irish Embassy in Berlin and the Consulate-General in Frankfurt, with on-the-ground engagement, will work alongside Culture Ireland to co-fund, plan and deliver the programme.
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, commented as per statement linked below:
“Germany is a vital political and economic partner for Ireland and our bilateral relations are excellent, with a major increase in contacts and coordination between Ireland and Germany since the 2018 strategic review of Ireland’s relations with Germany and the subsequent German-Irish Joint Plans of Action were launched. I am delighted that my department and our Embassy in Berlin and Consulate General in Frankfurt are partnering with Culture Ireland to present a curated season with a vibrant, contemporary and high-quality cultural programme in major venues, institutions and festivals across Germany, and which will grow German audiences for Irish arts.”
This new initiative follows Culture Ireland’s successful delivery of previous special projects, including the international culture programme as part of Ireland 2016 and more recently, Culture Ireland GB18, which focussed on cultural activity in Britain. This new initiative will create new opportunities for artists and companies across artforms to perform across Germany as well as develop their networks of contacts with German-based artists and cultural institutions.
