The “Al Qaeda-ization” of the Wagner Group

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The “Al Qaeda-ization” of the Wagner Group

By Mr. Kung Chan

In late June of this year, the world was shocked by the Wagner Group’s mutiny that erupted in Russia. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner Group, which had been engaged in frontline fighting in the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, publicly declared the group’s decision to march towards Moscow to “reform” the decayed and corrupt Russian military leadership. This decision was prompted by a significant number of casualties among Wagner’s personnel due to armed attacks from the Russian Defense Forces.

However, timely intervention and active dissuasion by Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko and others led to the rapid resolution of the incident. Prigozhin ordered his military personnel to return to their relevant military bases and gradually handed over heavy weaponry to the Russian defense forces. Subsequently, both Prigozhin and his military personnel traveled to Belarus and expressed their intention to continue Wagner’s activities there. Lukashenko also revealed that Wagner personnel had initiated military training activities with the Belarusian defense forces.

The outbreak of this incident revealed internal contradictions and vulnerabilities within the Russian ruling group. Although the astonishing speed of its resolution drew worldwide amazement, the profound impact of it on Russia and the world at large remains far from dissipating. After the incident was quelled, one aspect that attracted considerable attention was the future course of the Wagner Group.

Wagner was originally an international private military company (PMC) that operated independently worldwide and possessed its well-trained military force and network, with the support of the Russian government. After a period of operation, Wagner established significant footholds in Africa and the Middle East, leveraging its ties with Russian intelligence agencies and special forces. It adopted a successful operational model characterized by the integration of national resources, military capabilities, and mineral rights, effectively engaging in “commercialized warfare” (Kung Chan, 2019).

Especially in Africa, Wagner Group has gained considerable regional influence by providing security services, establishing its own bases, and cultivating unique networks of relationships. The group offers security protection and military training to politicians and government officials in the West-Central African region as part of commercial deals, thereby gaining control over significant sources of important raw materials, such as mines and forest areas. Furthermore, due to its close ties with the Russian government, the Wagner Group serves as a vital informal channel for Russia to expand its influence in Africa.

After the halt of the Wagner Group’s advancement towards Moscow, certain analysts speculate that the group will persist as a crucial instrument for Russia’s expansion into Africa, serving their national interests. Prigozhin himself openly stated that Africa would be the upcoming focus of Wagner’s operations when he was in Belarus. Noteworthy is his public appearance during the Russia-Africa Summit in late July, where he warmly greeted Freddy Mapouka, the Ambassador of the Central African Republic to Russia, indicating that Wagner Group appears to be returning to its initial trajectory.

However, the issue may not be that simple. The current Russia that is deeply embroiled in the Ukrainian battlefield is no longer the Russia of the past, and the Wagner that had staged the march toward Moscow is unlikely to remain the same either. Predictably, its survival and evolution could possibly transform into a Russian version of “Bin Laden” and an organization with a Russian background resembling a network of bases.

Firstly, in terms of its legitimacy and resource support, Wagner Group will find it challenging to receive genuine endorsement from the Russian authorities. The group’s emergence, development, and expansion in the past were strongly facilitated by the support of the Russian government and President Vladimir Putin. Disclosed information indicates that Wagner Group’s establishment received significant backing from the Russian military intelligence agency (GRU), with the majority of its early members directly originating from the Russian military and special forces. Wagner’s military training and operations within Russian territory also received substantial official support.

After the mutiny erupted, Putin himself openly explained and acknowledged that Wagner’s activities in the past had comprehensive and robust backing from the Russian authorities. Between May 2022 and May 2023, the Russian government provided financial assistance amounting to USD 1 billion. Dmitry Kiselyov, a prominent Russian media figure closely connected to Putin, stated that the total amount of security contracts and financial support given to Wagner Group by the Russian authorities reached around USD 10 billion, and when including additional support to Prigozhin’s “Concord Group”, the total sum would reach USD 20 billion.

After the outbreak of the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, the Russian authorities further accelerated Prigozhin’s “militarization” by granting him authority to recruit from prisons. However, all of this came to naught with Wagner’s “march” towards Moscow and the de facto “mutiny”. This has left the Russian ruling elite in disarray, with Putin even fleeing Moscow for St. Petersburg on a private jet overnight. The weakness and chaos among the Russian leadership were undeniably exposed. For a political strongman like Putin, this was a direct humiliation, leading to the complete dissolution of the close relationship between Prigozhin and Putin. At the same time, it is widely known that Wagner Group’s relationship with the Russian Ministry of Defense had been severely deteriorating for quite some time. Even figures within the military hierarchy closely associated with Wagner Group, such as Sergei Shoigu, have been purged. The anti-Wagner forces, including Shoigu, have largely eliminated Wagner’s sympathizers and supporters within the military-political circles, leaving Wagner and Prigozhin with few genuine allies there.

Although Wagner Group is temporarily sheltered in Belarus, it is a country highly reliant on Russia. Recently, Russia officially deployed tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, indicating a further expansion of Russia’s influence in the country. For the Wagner Group, Belarus can only serve as a temporary refuge, but the strong influence of anti-Wagner forces in Belarus means that this temporary shelter is not safe. It is almost certain that the Belarusian authorities will not provide Wagner Group with genuine official endorsement or support in its operations. Therefore, lacking official endorsement and resource support from major countries, the Wagner Group may have no choice but to shift toward banditry.

Furthermore, the deep-rooted confrontation and hostility between Wagner and the West are unlikely to undergo fundamental changes, making it virtually impossible for the group to align itself with the West. Existing research has shown that far-right nationalist ideologies are prevalent among the leadership of the Wagner Group, and these ideologies are closely intertwined with the Russian Imperial Movement. One prominent characteristic of this ideology is staunch opposition to Western liberal democracy and universalism. The ideological confrontation inherently makes it challenging for the Wagner Group to gain recognition from the West, a recognition that the group and Prigozhin himself are not interested in pursuing.

In fact, since 2016, the United States and the European Union have imposed a series of sanctions on the Wagner Group and its leadership. Following the outbreak of the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, countries like Switzerland, Japan, Canada, and Australia also swiftly imposed sanctions on it and its leaders. In 2023, the U.S. explicitly declared its intention to designate Wagner Group as a “significant transnational criminal group”, laying the groundwork for further escalation of sanctions in the future. Additionally, the Parliamentary Assembly of the OSCE officially defined the group as a terrorist organization in July of this year. Even after the mutiny, there is no sign that the West would lift the sanctions against the Wagner Group. Shortly after the coup, the U.S. government stated that it would not reduce the sanctions on the Wagner Group. In late July, the U.S. even sanctioned three Malian officials who supported the Wagner Group. Moreover, Wagner’s influence in Africa is primarily concentrated in Mali, Burkina Faso, Sudan, and the Central African Republic, where the governments exhibit a clear hostile stance toward Western countries. The geopolitical confrontations further affirm that the West will continue to intensify pressure on the Wagner Group’s operational space.

Thirdly, considering the political landscape in Africa, the Wagner Group can only thrive or even survive when there is turmoil. Therefore, it is likely to emulate the decentralized network organization of Osama bin Laden, gradually showcasing its independence and challenging the global security order.

After the end of the Cold War, Western capital withdrew from Africa en masse. The suppressed ethnic and religious conflicts during the Cold War era became increasingly pronounced, especially in the region south of the Sahara, into long-term turmoil and unrest. The Wagner Group took advantage of this to intervene in Africa, gradually expanding its influence by providing security and military training, thereby gaining control over significant natural resources.

The situation in Africa was one of the main reasons for Wagner’s rise. Wagner’s four main strongholds are still plagued by tribal and religious disputes. The security services provided by Wagner mainly cater to favored tribal warlord groups. As Wagner progressively acquired vast natural resources, it also became a military force in the region.

Despite Wagner’s entry and consolidation in Africa, it has not brought true internal stability to African countries. Central African Republic and Sudan, among others, continue to face serious internal conflicts. Nevertheless, in recent years, Western countries have been increasing their focus on Africa. The U.S. and the EU have introduced infrastructure support programs and penetration plans for African civil society, aiming to change the backward social structures and inefficient governance in Africa, especially in the region south of the Sahara. Once these transformation plans take effect and African countries gain modern governance and security capabilities, they will no longer rely on Wagner’s security protection and will seek to regain control over the mineral and forest resources pledged to Wagner. This will inevitably limit Wagner’s survival and operations.

In the latest turn of the event, there have been reports that in the face of a looming military intervention threat, the junta in Niger has sought assistance from the Wagner Group. Unconfirmed reports suggest that a Russian transport plane was found landing in Niger’s capital, Niamey.

For Wagner, it might be essential to maintain a considerable level of turmoil within its strongholds to preserve its survival space. Concurrently, the group will exploit existing turmoil factors in various African countries. For instance, it may strengthen ties and provide support to terrorist organizations like Boko Haram, spreading chaos further across the entire African continent. This is to hinder effective Western transformation efforts in Africa and sustain its existence. Wagner relies on turmoil for its foothold, to secure its position, and to plan its survival. When it comes to this stage, the Wagner Group is no longer just a private security firm; it has transformed into a fully-fledged terrorist organization.

Final analysis conclusion:

Considering all these factors, the Wagner Group appears to have lost its firm footing in its homeland and is simultaneously facing increasing Western pressure. Under these two significant factors, the group has essentially ceased to be a purely private security firm in the conventional sense. Deprived of its national background, the Wagner Group is likely to adopt a fundamental survival strategy based on fomenting turmoil. This inevitably implies that it will continue to sow discord, conflict, and unrest across the African continent, posing a considerable challenge to global security. At the same time, this also signifies that the Wagner Group has effectively transformed into an internationally akin terrorist organization, similar to Al-Qaeda, making it a great threat to regional and international security and stability.

About the author:

Chan Kung

Mr. Kung Chan is the founder of ANBOUND Think Tank, Kung Chan is one of China’s renowned experts in information analysis. Most of his academic research activities are in economic information analysis, particularly in the area of public policy.

Former Minister Gerda Verburg returns to the Netherlands as chair Element NL

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Former Minister Gerda Verburg returns to the Netherlands as chair Element NL

Gerda Verburg will take up the position of independent chairman of Element NL on September 1, 2023. In her role as chairman, Verburg will represent the industry on a national and international level.

Spearheads are the role of natural gas in the energy transition, the importance of Dutch production with a view to security of supply and affordability, and the contribution of Dutch natural gas to the energy mix. Within the association, she will lead this transition from the industry towards the climate goals.

Member of Parliament, minister and the United Nations

Verburg was a member of the House of Representatives for the CDA from 1998 until her appointment as Minister of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality in the Balkenende IV cabinet (2007-2010). She then held two positions at the United Nations: first as ambassador of the Netherlands to the Food and Agriculture Organizations of the UN from 2011 to 2016 in Rome. In 2016, she was appointed Assistant Secretary-General by the UN Secretary-General to lead the SUN (Scaling Up Nutrition Movement) from Geneva as coordinator. Verburg returned to the Netherlands at the beginning of this year.

Security of supply and energy transition important themes

With Verburg, Element NL has acquired an experienced driver who has earned her spurs both nationally and internationally. Lex de Groot, Vice-President of Element NL: “Last year we saw how important Dutch natural gas is to be energy independent and thus to guarantee reliability, affordability and safety of energy. Natural gas from our own soil is also indispensable in the energy transition. In addition, our sector is a driver of innovations such as CO2 storage and we want to shape the hydrogen economy together with the wind industry. This is how we work together on the transition to clean energy sources. A lot can and still needs to be done, which is why I am very pleased with the arrival of Gerda Verburg and the role she can play in taking on this important task.”Element NL is the association for energy from Dutch soil. Element NL brings together the 12 companies that have a license to explore and produce natural gas in the Netherlands

Asean@56 Celebrations

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Asean@56 Celebrations

We dare to dream, we care to share, together for ASEAN

By Roy Lie Atjam


The Indonesian Ambassador’s residence, Wismar Duta, hosted the 56th anniversary of ASEAN. The celebration began with the hoisting of the ASEAN flag followed by a stunning performance by students from Sekolah Indonesia Den Haag -SIDH.

Indonesia successfully hosted the celebration of the 56th Anniversary of ASEAN (ASEAN Day) on 8 August 2023 at the Ambassador’s Residence in Wassenaar. Indonesia is currently the Chair of the ASEAN Committee in The Hague (ACTH) for the second semester of 2023.

Diplomats attending ASEAN 56 Anniversary at Indonesian Ambassador’s residence, Wismar Duta

 The event began with the ASEAN flag raising ceremony by the Flag Raising Troop of the Indonesian School in The Hague (SIDH) accompanied by the ASEAN Anthem, followed by remarks by the Indonesian Ambassador to the Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Mayerfas, and the Director for Asia and Oceania of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, H.E. Ambassador Karin Mössenlechner.

ASSEAN Ambassadors on the 56 Anniversary

 

Ambassador Mayerfas said that ASEAN is the most successful and peaceful regional organization in the world despite its diversity and various challenges both internally and externally. Ambassador Mayerfas encouraged ASEAN Dialogue Partners and external parties to continue working together in creating a peaceful, stable, resilient, and prosperous region, and to be optimistic that ASEAN would become the world’s major economic power in 2045.

 The event was also enlivened by cultural performances and special dishes from each ACTH country. Indonesia presented an angklung performance of Michael Jackson’s Heal The World and a folk song, Rek Ayo Rek.

 ASEAN Day was attended by around 150 invitees, consisting of ASEAN Ambassadors accredited to the Netherlands and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) both based in the Netherlands and Belgium, Ambassadors and representatives of ASEAN Dialogue Partners based in the Netherlands, representatives of international organizations based in the Netherlands, representatives of diaspora from each ACTH country who reside in the Netherlands, and Embassy officials of each ACTH country.

ASEAN Matters, Epicentrum of Growth !

Pakistan Independence Day 2023 Celebration in The Hague

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Pakistan Independence Day 2023 Celebration in The Hague

The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in the Netherlands celebrated Pakistan’s Independence Day with traditional zeal and enthusiasm. A flag hoisting ceremony was held at Pakistan House which was attended by a number of Pakistani community members including, students, women and children from different parts of the Netherlands. A group of young Pakistani diplomats who are in the Hague to attend training programme at the Clingendael Institute as part of Pakistan-the Netherlands cooperation also attended the event.

The national flag was hoisted by H.E. Ambassador Suljuk Mustansar Tarar at the tune of national anthem. Special messages of the President and Prime Minister on this auspicious occasion were read out to the audience. 

Pakistani community members attending the flag hoisting ceremony at Pakistan House.

Mr. Shahroz Kashif, a renowned Pakistani mountaineer, also attended the flag hoisting ceremony. He is the youngest mountaineer who climbed the K2 on 27 July 2021.

He also addressed to the participants and informed about his vision to fly Pakistani flag on the top of all 14 eight-thousander mountains. Mr. Kashif is on the visit to the Netherlands to project tourism potential of the country.  

The Ambassador off Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Suljuk Mustansar Tarar during his speech.

The Ambassador in his address paid tribute to the national heroes of Pakistan movement.  He informed about Pakistan – the Netherlands bilateral relations and the celebrations being held in the Hague and Islamabad to commemorate 75 years of the establishment of bilateral relations between the two countries this year.

He also emphasized to remember Kashmiri brothers and sisters in our prayers who are facing persecution in Indian illegally occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK). He reiterated Pakistan’s continued political, diplomatic and moral support to the Kashmiri people.

The Ambassador appreciated the Pakistani community’s active role. He urged the community members to continue to play a constructive role in improving relations between Pakistan and the Netherlands. The ceremony ended with prayers for the prosperity, safety and economic stability of Pakistan. 

Statement issued by te Embassy of Pakistan in the Netherlands.

The Hague, 14 August 2023

International Development, an everlasting Quest since 1945

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International Development, an everlasting Quest since 1945

In a vibrant city of Istanbul, the Future Leaders Executive Program (FLEP) in its June segment welcomed a distinguished guest, one of the most successful high ranking officials of the United Nations in decades: H.E. David M. Malone, Rector of the Tokyo-based UN University and its Undersecretary General (2013-23). With a profound understanding of the system, global challenges and actions to address them, the distinguished guest mesmerised its audience in a thorough debate.

Talks about international development permeate current debates in academic and policy circles around the world. Yet, decades after its endorsement as one of the international community’s top priorities, the term continues to elude clear and univocal definitions, and it remains a contested concept. Dr. David M. Malone – a top Canadian diplomat – talked about his own take on the historical evolution of international development in an exchange with the FLEP fellows.

Drawing from his profoundly rich professional and personal journey, Dr. Malone noted that the concept of international development has emerged only fairly recently as a major issue on the world stage. The League of Nations, for instance, was not concerned with development, and even the United Nations did not initially devote much attention to this concept. Similarly, development was not on the agenda of the economic institutions established at the 1944 Bretton Woods conference – notably the International Monetary Fund (IMF), whose aim was to ensure monetary stability, and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD, the World Bank’s predecessor), whose focus was on the post-war reconstruction effort.

How did it happen, then, that these institutions gradually took the lead in promoting and sustaining development worldwide? The key factor underpinning this shift – In Dr. Malone brief but comprehensive account – is the process of decolonization, which started in the late 1940s with the independence of India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Having freed themselves from the exploitative rule of colonial powers, these countries first sought to launch their first development programs, which often had a focus on agricultural development and famine prevention. At the time, international support to such efforts was very limited, consisting only of some experimental activities on specific technical issues, but with extremely tight budgets.

Yet, things started to change as a “huge decolonization wave” took off in the late 1950s, creating almost 80 new countries in the span of little more than 15 years. As these countries entered the UN en masse, they soon gained a majority in the organization. Questioning the UN’s single-handed focus on political and security issues, these countries – which were then labelled as “developing countries” – started to advocate for their own interest: the promotion of development throughout the developing world, with support from the international community.

These calls were rather successful. Entities such as the IBRD/World Bank, on a good track to completing their post-war reconstruction mission, soon started to shift their attention towards the developing world, ramping up the scale of their previously meagre technical endeavours. Even more importantly, international support for developmental efforts started to materialize, both through bilateral agreements between countries and in the form of borrowed funds.

While the calls for international support were successful in raising the attention and the funds devoted to the topic of development, the early developmental endeavours were not always as successful. In a number of instances, the lack of adequate infrastructure prevented these endeavours from yielding the expected results, leading leaders to re-think their focus on what – reflecting on his own choices and moral convictions – Dr. Malone termed “wildcat industrialization”. Further on, in their efforts to finance development (and, at times, to amass personal wealth in the pockets of national elites), developing countries piled up an increasingly serious amount of debt, resulting in the debt crisis of the early 1980s.

The reaction of the industrialized world was mixed. Initially, shock and surprise prevailed, coupled with calls for developing countries to repay their debt at any cost. International institutions such as the World Bank and the IMF asked indebted countries to tighten their belt to free up funds for debt repayment. Lacking alternatives, many countries did so; yet, this came at a serious price over the medium to long term. Over time, however, a more realistic outlook on the issue emerged. Creditors organized in two groups – the “Paris Club” for official donors, and the “London Club” for private creditors – and discussed their response. Eventually, the strategy was two-fold: part of the debt was rescheduled, while another part was outright cancelled.

Over the following decades, this major debt-management operation did yield important results – Dr. Malone stressed. By 1995, developing countries were fully out of the debt crisis, and government officials in industrialized countries were less worried about the overall situation. Still, tensions between developed and developing countries persisted, including at the UN. The latter asked the former to contribute to their development as a reparation of past damages under colonialism, while the former accused the latter of mismanagement and claimed full control over the use of their own funds. As of the mid-1990s, this debate had not led anywhere: everyone wanted to move on, and so they did.

The game changer emerged around the turn of the new millennium, when the UN – under the lead of Secretary General Kofi Annan – heavily invested in the creation and promotion of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The goals were narrow but ambitious; and yet, despite this ambition, most (although not all) of them were met by 2015. According to Dr. Malone, this success was made possible by the high growth rates enjoyed by developing countries through the first 15 years of the new millennium – a growth that, among other factors, was enabled by the previous debt-management strategy and by the increasing flow of international capital to the developing world.

The success in achieving the MDGs thus triggered a new process at the UN, which raised the bar and set for the world even more ambitious goals – the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These objectives were underpinned by an assumption that the high rates of growth that had characterized the first decade of the new millennium would continue. As it became clear, however, this assumption was overly optimistic. The 2008 global financial crisis significantly slowed down growth, both in the industrialized world and (albeit to a lesser extent) in developing countries. As a result, international development efforts faced – and still face – increasing challenges. To respond to these challenges, the 2015 Addis Ababa Action plan sought to adopt a more sophisticated strategy to ensure funding for international development efforts. Moving away from a single-handed focus on official development assistance, the plan stressed the importance of multiple funding streams, including remittances and lending instruments. Yet, significant challenges remain as of today, and the path of international development remains uphill.

Looking towards the future, the needs of developing countries will likely be much more compelling that those of their industrialized counterparts. In short, international cooperation and developmental efforts have achieved a lot over the past 78 years, but much more has yet to be achieved. As we enter the new-realities era, the world should be aware of that.

As the event draw to a close, H.E. David Malone and President of ICYF, Taha AYHAN (as a principal host to the event) both expressed what all participants had already concluded throughout the talk: that the Future Leaders Executive Program offers a unique setting and the winning narrative. Excellency Malone and President Taha accorded that this particular format – in which an established experience meets the new passions, drives, rhythms and colours through cross generational leaders’ talks – represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for emerging leaders from verities of environments: the state, intergovernmental, and corporate sectors of all meridians.

The mesmerising FLEP-flagship of insights and wisdom, passion and vison gets a full swing sail once again in the Fall of 2023.   

Celebrating Uruguayan Nostalgia

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Celebrating Uruguayan Nostalgia

There is one event that truly captures the essence of the Uruguayan vibrant cultural scene, its rich history and love for music, which is the “Noche de la Nostalgia.” This annual event, which has long been a cornerstone of Uruguayan nightlife, is now set to take the Netherlands by storm for the first time, thanks to the efforts of the Embassy of Uruguay in The Hague. Spearheaded by H.E. Mr. Alvaro Gonzalez Otero, Ambassador of Uruguay to the Netherlands, this upcoming celebration promises to be a night to remember.

In Uruguay, the night of August 24 holds special significance as it precedes the Declaration of Independence holiday on August 25. This evening is known as “Noche de la Nostalgia,” and it is marked by an explosion of festivities across the country. Discos, nightclubs, and tents come alive with the melodies of the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s.

The origins of Noche de la Nostalgia date back to August 24, 1978, when Mr. Pablo Lecueder, the owner of CX-32 Radiomundo radio, organized a party centered around old music hits. This theme was inspired by his radio program “Old hits,” and thus began a tradition that would endure for decades. Each year, Lecueder would host “La Noche de la Nostalgia,” inviting people to come together to dance and relive the musical glory of the past. Iconic tracks from legendary artists like Queen, The Beatles, Elvis Presley, and more filled the air, creating an atmosphere of pure nostalgia and joy.

Over the years, the popularity of Noche de la Nostalgia grew exponentially. The event expanded beyond Lecueder’s initial efforts, with various individuals and businesses joining in to organize their own nostalgia-themed parties. These gatherings catered to different audiences and preferences, ranging from reunion parties to dinner shows and even anti-nostalgia events for those seeking something different.

The once-small event had evolved into a thriving entertainment industry, supporting sectors such as restaurants, discos, DJs, gastronomy companies, security services, hotels, and more. The Ministry of Tourism of Uruguay recognized its potential and officially labeled it Nostalgia Night in 2004, promoting it as a tourist attraction both locally and abroad.

This year, the festivities are transcending borders as the Embassy of Uruguay to the Kingdom of the Netherlands brings the enchanting allure of Noche de la Nostalgia to its selected group of guests. The Embassy of Uruguay is leading the charge, ensuring that the essence of Uruguayan culture and its love for music are celebrated in the heart of the Netherlands. The event is not only an opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable night of music and dance but also a chance to strengthen cultural ties between the two nations.

As the date approaches, anticipation is building for the inaugural Uruguayan “Noche de la Nostalgia” in the Netherlands. For Ambassador Alvaro Gonzalez Otero, this night is more than just a celebration; it’s a bridge that connects nations and generations through the universal language of music. The “Noche de la Nostalgia” in the Netherlands is poised to be a joyful night that will leave a lasting impression on all who attend.

Pakistani Mango Fest 2023

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Pakistani Mango Fest 2023

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Hague, 7 August 2023. The Pakistan diplomatic representative in the Netherlands organized the Pakistani Mango Fest 2023, celebrating three-quarters of a century of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Netherlands.

Pakistani mango exhibition and testing at the residence of Pakistan in The Hague.

Pakistan is the world’s Sixt largest mango producer and fourth-largest exporter of fresh mangoes. The Netherlands is the world’s second-largest importer and re-exporter of mangoes. Mango production in Pakistan is a huge business. Mangoes are produced at certified farms and processed in HACCP-certified facilities.

The delicious spread of Pakistani cuisine was a hit among the guests, with everyone raving about the juicy Chaunsa mangoes and flavourful basmati rice biryani. Mangoes can be enjoyed in sorbets, ice cream, puddings, curries,  kuchelaor even mango tea.

The 2023 mango-tasting festival at Pakistan House attracted a significant number of attendees.

H.E. Mr. Jian Tan, Ambassador of China and H.E. Mr. Suljuk Mustansar Tarar, Ambassador of Pakistan.

Apart from the Dutch- Pakistani business community, the 2023 Pakistani Mango Fest was attended by Dutch officials, Ambassador Karin Mossenlechener, Director of the Asia and Oceania Department at the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, furthermore Ambassadors of Bangladesh, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Cameroon, China, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Greece, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Nigeria, New Zealand,Oman, Panama, Romania, South Africa, Suriname, Thailand, Uruguay, all joined in the celebration of the King of Fruits “Mango” 

The Ambassador of Costa Rica, H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, the Ambassador of Bangladesh, H.E. Mr. Riaz Hamidullah and his spouse Sazia Ahmed and the Ambassador off Panama, H.E. Ms Elizabeth War Neiman.

Sonia Meijer, Honorary Consul of El Salvador, Dayana Perez Fernandez, Counsellor, Dominican Republic, Angie and Jens-Volker Ginschel, Armaments Attache, Embassy of Germany, H.E. Juan Bautista Duran, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic and Paul Matos De Lara, from Diplomat Magazine.

After cordially welcoming his guests, H.E. Ambassador Suljuk Mustansar Tarar went on to highlight 75 years of  Pakistan-Netherlands bilateral relations which cover politics, trade, education, water management, capacity development and many other facets.

“The Pakistani diplomat elaborated the economic and trade content of the relations saying that bilateral trade between the two countries increased in the last few years to more than $2 billion. The Dutch companies are among the key investors in Pakistan.

“Over the long period of time, the Dutch businesses and market has long-held confidence in Pakistani market, manufacturers and exporters.”

The Ambassador of Pakistan and Ambassador Karin Mossenlechener, Director of Southeast Asia & Oceania Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Highlighting the uniqueness of Pakistani mangoes, Ambassador Tarar said “Pakistan is the 6th largest producer and the 4th largest exporter of mangoes in the world which are exported across the world and the Netherlands is an important growing market.”

Ambassador Suljuk informed that Pakistani experts through extensive research and development (R&D) have succeeded in making many improvements in the traditional chaunsa variety and developed its commercial sub-types viz. Safaid chaunsa, Azeem chaunsa, black chaunsa and late chaunsa etc, added the statement.

The guests were also served Pakistani Biryani made from Pakistani Basmati rice, Tarar informed the audience that Pakistan is the top supplier of Basmati rice to the EU and the Netherlands as well.

Lucia Rodriguez Fetzer, Counsellor, Embassy of Guatemala and H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica.
H.E. Dr. Eniola Olaitan Ajayi, Ambassador of Nigeria and the Ambassador of Pakistan.

In her remarks, Ambassador Karin Mossenlechener mentioned that bilateral relations have been consistently progressing in all areas. She remarked that different activities have been organised by both sides to celebrate the landmark year. She elaborated through the history of bilateral relations how the two countries stood with each other in times of natural disasters.

She mentioned that in 1953 when the Netherlands faced floods and Pakistanis raised funds. Highlighting the importance of people-to-people contact, Ambassador Karin Mossenlechener also appreciated the leveraging of Pakistani arts and culture by the Pakistan Embassy.

The event was organized with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan which provided mangoes for the occasion and supported by the Netherlands-based leading Diplomat Magazine.

Pictures are a courtesy of the Embassy of Pakistan in The Hague and from Diplomat Magazine photographer, Roy Strik.

Prosecutor Brammertz statement on Kabuga Decision

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Prosecutor Brammertz statement on Kabuga Decision

Arusha, The Hague, 8 August 2023 – I have carefully reviewed the Appeal Chamber’s decision in the Kabuga case. Its decision must be respected, even if the outcome is dissatisfying.

This result is due first and foremost to Kabuga’s flight from justice for so many years. In full knowledge of his actions before and during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, he refused to stand trial before an independent and impartial international tribunal to answer the charges against him. As a fugitive, he was harbored by his family and associates, beginning in Kenya and ending in France.

My thoughts are with the victims and survivors of the Genocide. They have maintained their faith in the justice process over the last three decades. I know that this outcome will be distressing and disheartening to them. Having visited Rwanda recently, I heard very clearly how important it was that this trial be concluded.

I would like to assure them, though, that my Office will not stop our work on their behalf. As the recent arrest of Fulgence Kayishema highlighted, accountability for crimes committed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda must continue in courts in Rwanda and countries around the world. My Office will provide our full support. In particular, as requested by the Prosecutor General of Rwanda, we will significantly strengthen our assistance to his office, including through the provision of our evidence and developed expertise, to ensure more genocide fugitives stand trial for their alleged crimes.

This decision may be a disappointment, but I can assure the victims and survivors that it is not the end of the justice process.

China and CFC signs agreement for a Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme

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China and CFC signs agreement for a Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme

27 July 2023, The Hague.   The Common Fund for Commodities (CFC) and the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM) announced the signing of a landmark agreement at the Embassy of China in The Hague, Netherlands, on 27 July 2023.

Ambassador Tan Jian, Ambassador of China to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Managing Director of the CFC Ambassador Sheikh Mohammed Belal witnessed the signing ceremony in presence of other delegates.

This agreement, the first ever,  paves the way for the provision of Junior Professional Officers (JPOs) as a part of the CFC’s Junior Professional Officer Programme. The goal of this initiative is to enhance the skill sets of young professionals with limited work experience by providing them an enriching and structured learning opportunity under the guidance and supervision of experienced CFC officials.

The Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China is taking an important step towards contributing to this program by deploying JPOs to the CFC, demonstrating its commitment to the professional development of future international civil servants.

The exchange of human resources will allow the JPOs to accumulate knowledge and practical experience, preparing them for successful careers as international civil servants. This agreement signifies the strong collaboration between the CFC and the People’s Republic of China and their shared dedication to fostering future talent.

Ms. Michèle Schwarz, CFC Head of Accounting and Administration; Amb. Sheikh Mohammed Belal, Managing Director of CFC; Mr. JIN Yuan, Counsellor for Economy and Commerce at the Embassy ; and H.E. Mr. TAN Jian, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Netherlands.

“We believe that this agreement will mark a new chapter in our collaboration, opening doors for more dynamic, creative, and innovative professionals who will undoubtedly contribute significantly to the sustainable development and growth of the global commodity sector.

China’s poverty reduction story is a story of persistent growth through economic transformation. As China’s economy now adjusts to a new low carbon growth model, its eagerness for upgraded skill levels  is in line with China’s vision  for  an improved social protection to ensure a just transition that complements CFC’s mission for alleviation of poverty.

We look forward to welcoming the first cohort of JPOs from China to CFC and to the enriching experience they will bring to our diverse team. The JPO program, it is hoped, will open up windows to learn from China’s battle against poverty that has benefited the largest number of people in human history.” Said Ambassador Belal.

Most wanted Hungarian criminals arrested in Spain with Eurojust support     

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Most wanted Hungarian criminals arrested in Spain with Eurojust support     

Three Hungarian criminals on Europol’s European Most Wanted list have been arrested by the Hungarian and Spanish authorities in a simultaneous joint action carried out in Spain. The suspects allegedly run a cannabis plantation and processing facility in Hungary. Eurojust supported the investigation and played a key role in facilitating cross-border judicial cooperation during the operation.

Between 2020 and 2021, the suspects allegedly operated a professionally equipped and automated infrastructure for the cultivation and processing of thousands of cannabis plants in Hungary. The Hungarian authorities dismantled the facility in May 2021. During the operation, the authorities seized 165 kg of marijuana and cocaine and assets worth over HUF 380 million (EUR 983,700).

The authorities were able to identify all seven members of the criminal network and arrested two of them soon after the operation. The other five members were placed on Europol’s European Most Wanted list.

Three suspects fled to Spain from where they are believed to have continued their criminal activities. According to the investigation, they imported 100 kg of marijuana and 10 kg of cocaine into Hungary on at least 10 occasions.

The Hungarian authorities contacted their Spanish counterparts to carry out a search of the suspects’ hideout, where they were renting a house under false identities in the Spanish town of Calpe. As a European Investigation Order (EIO) had to be executed in parallel with the arrest of the suspects, the authorities requested assistance from Eurojust. Close cooperation between the National Desks of Hungary and Spain ensured round-the-clock transmission of documents and the execution of the EIO in Spain just one day after it was issued by the Hungarian authorities. 

The three suspects were arrested in Spain on 19 July. The investigation is still ongoing as two members of the criminal organisation are still on the run.

The following authorities took part in this investigation:

  • Hungary: National Bureau of Investigation, Chief Prosecution Office of Zala County
  • Spain: Investigative Court in Alicante (num 2), International Cooperation Unit of Prosecution Service in Alicante, Guardia Civil
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