ICC President visits Ghana for keynote lecture and meets with the country’s highest authorities 

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ICC President visits Ghana for keynote lecture and meets with the country’s highest authorities 

From 26 to 28 September 2022, the President of the International Criminal Court, Judge Piotr Hofmański, paid an official visit to the Republic of Ghana to deliver the second annual public lecture of the African Centre of International Criminal Justice (ACICJ) at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).

During his visit, the President of the Court held official meetings with the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Speaker of Parliament, The Rt Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Chief Justice of Ghana, Kwasi Anin-Yeboah JSC, and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mr Godfred Yeboah Dame. In his conversations with the national authorities, President Hofmański recognised with appreciation Ghana’s longstanding support of the Court, and received strong assurances of the country’s ongoing commitment in this respect. The meetings also provided an opportunity to discuss ways of further developing the cooperative relationship between the ICC and the Republic of Ghana with a view to strengthening the system of international criminal justice. While in Accra, the ICC President also met with the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr Charles Abani, as well as members of the diplomatic community in Ghana.

In his public lecture at GIMPA, President Hofmański reflected on the achievements and progress of the ICC during its 20 years of existence, and discussed the complementary roles played by the Court and national jurisdictions in the fight against impunity for the gravest crimes under international law.

He emphasised that “the ICC, while it plays a key role as the lynchpin of the international criminal justice system, has no chance of stopping impunity on its own. That is why the capacity building of national jurisdictions is so crucial. That capacity building has several elements, including the education and training of lawyers, as well as legislative measures”. He went on to state that “[a]s a court of last resort, the ICC acts as a mirror to national jurisdictions, urging them to deal with the gravest crimes through domestic courts, so that the ICC does not need to get involved. And indeed most states prefer to see trials take place in their own courts, rather than in The Hague. So the ICC is a catalyst of a sort, an incentive for national jurisdictions to hold perpetrators of atrocity crimes accountable.”

Ghana signed the Rome Statute, the Court’s founding treaty, on 18 July 1998 and deposited its instrument of ratification on 20 December 1999. Ghana is currently a member of the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute.

Putin’s Nuclear Threat is No Bluff

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Putin’s Nuclear Threat is No Bluff

By Kung Chan

After rounds of successive defeats in the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin has now threatened to use nuclear weapons. He is too desperate that he would use any means at this moment.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sees the issue in the same way, saying in a recent interview with CBS that he doesn’t think Putin is “bluffing” about the nuclear threat. Putin’s threat to use nuclear weapons could become a reality, he said. “He wants to scare the whole world. These are the first steps of his nuclear blackmail. I don’t think he’s bluffing. I think the world is deterring it and containing this threat. We need to keep putting pressure on him and not allow him to continue”, Zelenskyy noted.

Nuclear war is something serious. Zelenskyy has previously said that Russia’s use of it is to scare the world. The Ukrainian President appears to change his mind this time, which means that this is something peculiar. In essence, what he said is that,

1. The United States, Ukraine, and possibly some other Western countries have shared intelligence that Russia is going to launch a nuclear war. This time, it is not a “bluff”. Russia is really preparing to do so.

2. The United States takes this nuclear threat seriously and is taking proactive action to prevent Russia from doing so.

3. There is not much that Ukraine and Europe can do if Russia does use nuclear weapons. Germany for instance not only will not be able to do anything, but it will also be against others from taking action. France too will abstain from doing anything further, and even if it has nuclear weapons, it will not have the courage to act. Therefore, the whole of Europe may not do anything except distributing some anti-radiation pills. In short, Europe cannot stop Putin.

4. The United States, on the other hand, can do many things, even stopping Putin from launching the nuclear war, but that is where “nuclear equilibrium theory” comes in.

The theory of nuclear equilibrium mainly includes two aspects. First, it is the nuclear equilibrium that prevents nuclear war, not any nuclear weapons agreement nor the humanitarian motive of the weapon-possessing nations. It is the fear of the mutual-destruction that creates the equilibrium, and this has been the case for decades. Second, nuclear equilibrium emphasizes the balance of power. It is only when different countries own similar amounts of nuclear weapons that the equilibrium could exist. As for those countries with only dozens or hundreds of nuclear weapons, it is practically not much of use, and they can be destroyed at any time.

What the United States can do now is act according to the theory of nuclear equilibrium. It is also easy for it to stop Russia, i.e., convincing Russia that if nuclear weapons are used, the United States will retaliate with nuclear weapons as well. To prevent Putin from taking risks out of desperation, it must convince Russia that after a nuclear war is triggered, the United States will not tolerate the nuclear power being controlled solely by Russia, which means that the equilibrium has been completely broken. Therefore, once a nuclear war is launched by Russia, the United States will have no option but counterattack to the point where Russia is annihilated. It will be the denuclearization of the world by means of “de-Russification”, so to speak, to achieve equilibrium again.

This is not mere empty talk. In fact, such a thing has been done in the United States before. During the Cuban Missile Crisis, American nuclear bombers, nuclear submarines, and militia nuclear missiles were all close to launching. Humanity is never at a far distance from a nuclear war.

There does not seem to be any other solutions.

Through the nuclear equilibrium theory, we can see that this is actually equivalent to a tug of war. The world’s peace is rather fragile now, and the reason is the stalemate of nuclear weapons. Whichever party launches a nuclear war first will be the loser, as according to the nuclear equilibrium theory that party will bear the responsibility as it is the beginning of the imbalance.

While the Russians and the North Koreans might do whatever Putin commands them to do, so as to prevent nuclear war, the United States and the West will defend their way of life, and will not make such choices out of fear, and would choose death over the other option.

About the author:

Founder of ANBOUND Think Tank, 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.

For more information, please contact 

siangkimchia@anbound.com

A delegation from the Algerian Ministry of Agriculture visited The Netherlands

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A delegation from the Algerian Ministry of Agriculture visited The Netherlands

In line with the new approach drawn up by the President of Algeria, Mr Abdelamadjid Tebboune in terms of economic diplomacy and as part of the Embassy’s endeavors aiming at strengthening cooperation with the host country, a large delegation of the Algerian Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development visited the Netherlands, from August 31th to September 03rd, 2022.  

This delegation was made up of executives from the supervisory Ministry,   Chambers of Agriculture of some provinces as well as other stakeholders, operating in various agricultural sectors such as horticulture, floriculture, dairy farming.

Algeria delegation visit at Wageningen University & Reseach

During their stay in The Hague, Algerian delegates carried out series of meetings with representatives of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Nature and Food Quality, followed by field visits to some Dutch companies and units working in the realm of diary production, horticulture, and floriculture and potato seeds. Establishing Business relations and transfer of Dutch expertise and know-how were obviously top on agenda of all these activities.

Afterwards, a roundtable discussion on the potential of the Algerian agricultural sector took place at the University and Agricultural Research Center of Wageningen, in presence of all delegation members.

B2B workshops at the Embassy of Algeria.

Furthermore, Ambassador of Algeria, H.E. Ms. Salima Abdelhak inaugurated a B2B   program, designed to bring close together Algerian and Dutch stakeholders in the area of agriculture, amidst a remarkable attendance of officials of the Dutch MFA and the MENA-Netherlands Business Council’s representatives.

Ambassador Salima Abdelhak giving an address.

At the conclusion of their trip, the Algerian delegation participated in the Embassy festival of The Hague, where local products, traditional costumes, and culinary delights were exhibited, and unleashing great joy all-around the corner.

Algeria’s stand at Embassy Festival of The Hague.

Apostolic journey: Why did His Holiness visited Kazakhstan

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Apostolic journey: Why did His Holiness visited Kazakhstan

By H.E. Mr. Askar Zhumagaliyev, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of the Netherlands

On September 13 at 17:45 plane of His Holiness landed at the Nur-Sultan international airport. The President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev personally met Pope Francis.

During the meeting ceremony, the heads of state introduced the members of the delegations of the two countries to each other, then the leader of Kazakhstan and the Head of the Catholic Church had a brief conversation in the Fireplace Hall of the presidential terminal. Right after the cortege of the distinguished guest went to the residence palace – Akorda.

Pope Francis and the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

His Holiness came to Kazakhstan to take part in the «VII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions». The event has been running since 2003. The idea of ​​the Congress was first voiced during the historic visit of Pope John Paul II to Kazakhstan on September 22-25, 2001.

The head of the Catholic Church visited Kazakhstan shortly after the events of September 11, 2001, which brought extremism and terrorism to the forefront of the international agenda.

Welcoming Pope Francis at the Presidential Palace, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan.

Humanity is faced with the threat of an intercivilizational split. It was at that moment that Kazakhstan initiated a forum of spiritual leaders, which was supported by authoritative religious and political figures.

The six congresses held since then have become one of the largest international events in the history of independent Kazakhstan and have played an important role in the global discourse.

The topic of this year’s Congress: «The role of leaders of world and traditional religions in the spiritual and social development of mankind in the post-pandemic period». The theme of the event was not chosen randomly.

«The spread of the coronavirus has significantly affected all spheres of life – economy, politics, and social relations. Unfortunately, the global health care system was not prepared to effectively cope with this global challenge. The crisis hit developing economies hardest, reinforcing poverty and inequality, accelerating global inflation. We are faced once again with food shortages in the least developed regions of the world.

Metropolitan of Astana and Kazakhstan Alexander, during the congress in Nur-Sultan.

At the same time, geopolitical confrontation between major powers has intensified, increasing tensions in different parts of the world. The previous system of international security is collapsing. Extremism and terrorism remain serious threats. The sanctions-induced energy crisis threatens the achievement of carbon neutrality we had just set», said the President of Kazakhstan during his speech at the opening ceremony.

This is «not a goal we can afford to ignore». Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed that Kazakhstan has always favored solving any disputes exclusively at the negotiating table in the spirit of the UN Charter and as the Chairman of CICA will continue to strengthen the dialogue with international and regional organizations and forums in accordance with the Regulations on External Relations.

«VII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions»

Threats, sanctions, and the use of force do not solve problems.

«At such moments we must turn to humanistic ideals», he added.

His Holiness supported the point of President’s view.

«Kazakhstan represents a significant geopolitical crossroads, and so it has a fundamental role to play in lessening cases of conflict», said His Holiness. «A lot of ethnic groups make Kazakhstan a unique multiethnic, multicultural and multi-religious laboratory and disclose its particular vocation, that of being a country of encounter», underlined Pope Francis.

His Holiness paid his special attention the Kazakh musical instrument – the dombra. He referred to the dombra as a symbol between «two parallel strings».

«The dombra is played by plucking its two cords. Kazakhstan is known for its capacity to keep creating harmony between “two parallel strings”: temperatures that are as frigid in winter as they are torrid in summer; and between tradition and progress, as symbolized by the encounter between historic cities and modern cities like this capital. Above all, in this country we can hear the “notes” of two souls, Asiatic and European, which give it a permanent “mission of linking two continents” of being “a bridge», said the Pope.

His Holiness raised his hope that the name of Kazakhstan may continue to be a synonym of harmony and peace.

These two words – harmony and peace – are the things that our world need right now more than ever.

His Holiness Pope Francis and President Tokayev.

His Holiness demonstrated the deep understanding and knowledge of Kazakh history and culture by quoting the words of great Kazakh poet and thinker Abay Kunanbayev.

«Yesterday I spoke using the image of the dombra; today I would like to associate a voice to that musical instrument: that of the country’s most renowned poet and the father of its modern literature, an educator and composer often portrayed with the dombra. Abay (1845-1904), as he is popularly known, has left us writings that are steeped in religious devotion and reflect the noble soul of this people: its sage discernment, its yearning for a peace found through humble questioning, and its pursuit of a genuinely humane wisdom, never closed-minded but open to being inspired by a variety of experiences. Abay challenges us by asking a timeless question: “What is the beauty of life, if one does not go deep?” (Poems, 1898)», cited Pope Francis the words of Abay Kunanbayev.

Pope Francis and President Tokayev, during one of their meetings in Nur-Sultan.

Another poet, pondering the meaning of life, mentioned The Pope, «placed on the lips of a shepherd in these vast lands of Asia an equally essential question: “Where will this, my brief wandering, lead?” (G. LEOPARDI, Canto notturno di un pastore errante dell’Asia).

«Questions like these point to humanity’s need for religion; they remind us that we human beings do not exist so much to satisfy earthly interests or to weave purely economic relationships, as to walk together, as wayfarers, with our eyes raised to the heavens. We need to make sense of the ultimate questions, to cultivate a spirituality; we need, as Abay says, to keep “the soul alive and the mind clear” (Book of Words, Word 6)», said HisHoliness.

After the panel session at the VII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions Pope Francis held a Holy Mass.

About 100 delegations took part in the congress.

Romania makes first voluntary contribution to the Trust Fund for Victims

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Romania makes first voluntary contribution to the Trust Fund for Victims

The Trust Fund for Victims (TFV) at the International Criminal Court (ICC) takes great pleasure in announcing that in 2022, the Government of Romania made its first ever voluntary contribution of €20,000 through the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Agency for International Development Cooperation (RoAid). Romania is the 50th States Party of the ICC that makes a voluntary contribution to the TFV. 

Welcoming this donation, Franziska Eckelmans, TFV Acting Executive Director thanked the Government of Romania saying “The TFV expresses its sincere appreciation to Romania for this first voluntary contribution and for Romania’s trust in the force of reparations for the victims of Rome Statute crimes.” Ms Eckelmans emphasized that the Trust Fund for Victims seeks to increase the number of ICC States Parties voluntarily contributing to its activities: “The higher the number of contributing States Parties the stronger are the foundations of the  ICC’s reparative justice system, of which the activities of the Trust Fund for Victims form a pivotal part.”

To date, the TFV is implementing programmes in four reparation cases ordered by the ICC, the Lubanga, Katanga, Al Mahdi, and Ntaganda cases. The convicted persons in these cases were all found to be indigent and the TFV has responded to the ICC’s requests to consider complementing the payment of the reparations awards. Using the available voluntary contributions, the TFV is paying for the implementation of reparations awards in these four cases. Additional funds are urgently required to continue the reparation programme for the victims of the case Lubanga. The TFV has also engaged in the fifth reparations proceeding in Ongwen since the beginning of 2021.

The TFV’s situation-related activities include reparative programmes for the benefit of victims of Rome Statute crimes in the following ICC situation countries: Central African Republic, Côte d’Ivoire,  Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Uganda. The TFV will soon launch new programmes in Georgia, Kenya and Mali.

The  65th National Day of Malaysia Celebrations

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The  65th National Day of Malaysia Celebrations

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Ambassador of Malaysia in the Netherlands, H.E. Dato’ Nadzirah Osman and her spouse Dr Mohd Yazid Abd Manap, hosted a reception in conjunction with the 65th National Day of Malaysia.

The venue was the Rumah Malaysia, the Ambassador’s official residence in Wassenaar, on 22 September 2022.

Over 200 dignitaries including members of the diplomatic corps, high-level government representatives, officials, business and other friends of Malaysia, joined in the jollification on the lawns of the Ambassador’s residence. 

Sape player Mr Jerry Kamit, H.E. Dato’ Nadzirah Osman and her spouse Dr Mohd Yazid Abd Manap, soprano singer Ms Florence Chong and Mr Deckson anak Bundak from Sarawak Tourism Board.

The atmosphere was gorgeous, and a constant flow of excellent unique Malaysian food and beverages augmented the ambience even more.

Ms Florence Chong, a Malaysian singer based in Maastricht sang the Malaysian national anthem – Negaraku – and a few songs, including ‘Zande Brand’ (Oh Malaysia) a popular song in the 1960s by a Dutch singer Anneke Gronloh. The attendees were also entertained by the traditional tunes of the Sape string instrument by Mr Jerry Kamit, specifically flown in from the State of Sarawak, in the east of Malaysia.  

Malaysia celebrated its 65th National Day on 31st August 2022, with hundreds of thousands of people in parades up and down the country, waving the national flag Jalur Gemilang – Stripes of Excellence.

This year’s celebration themed “Keluarga Malaysia Teguh Bersama,” – Our Strong Malaysian Family. 

Amazing, while many are focusing on liberating themselves of the family- and family values, Malaysia clings to authenticity,  Malaysian Family Stronger Together – Keluarga Malaysia Teguh Bersama.

Ambassador Dato’ Nadzirah Osman in her welcome remarks stated “It is a privilege to welcome all of you to this reception, to celebrate and commemorate the sixty-fifth anniversary of Malaysia’s National Day. I am delighted that all of you are able to share this joyous occasion with me today.

Over the years, both Malaysia and the Netherlands have nurtured close and warm bilateral relations. While the relations between our two countries can be traced back to more than 400 years, this year is special, as we are celebrating the 65th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between both countries. Bilateral relations remain strong in strategic areas of common interest be it political, economic or cultural. We are looking forward to elevating further the existing bilateral relations with the resumption of the political consultation between the two countries, which is scheduled to be held early next year.

Malaysia National Day Ambassador, spouse and diplomatic staff.

Currently, there are more than 250 Dutch companies and businesses with operations or investments in Malaysia. With the cooperation and support from all our partners and stakeholders, I am confident that this upward trajectory in trade and investment will continue for many more years to come.

As for bilateral visits, I am delighted that several visits have taken place from both sides this year, at ministerial and senior official levels, to discuss cooperation in various areas such as water management, hi-tech agriculture, science and technology, and the health sector amongst others.

Malaysia has active engagements with multilateral organisations that are based here in the Netherlands. Among others, we are currently serving our fifth term as an Executive Council member of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). Our commitment to rules-based order for global peace and security and dispute resolution through peaceful means is also reflected in our longstanding engagement with legal institutions such as the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), The Hague Conference for International Law (HCCH), and the international courts here in The Hague. We have in our midst the representatives of these organisations and I would like to thank you for your presence today.

New Zealand Ambassador , H.E. Susannah Hayden Gordon, Dr. Karin Mössenlechner, Director General of the Department of Asia and Oceania – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands and the Ambassador of Malaysia, Her Excellency Dato Nadzirah Binti Osman.

 I would also like to take this opportunity to convey my appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands particularly to the Asia and Oceania Department headed by my good friend Karin, various other Ministries, Government Agencies, Private Sector and our Dutch friends for their continued support, assistance and cooperation rendered to us which has further strengthened and deepened the ties between our two countries.

Before I conclude, allow me to thank our sponsor, the Sarawak State Government for its generosity and for providing us with a sape player, Mr Jerry Kamit, who came all the way from Sarawak to entertain us today.

Once again, thank you for your presence. I hope you will have a pleasant day with us. Terima kasih, Dank u wel”.

Malaysian food

I would also like to take this opportunity to convey my appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands particularly to the Asia and Oceania Department headed by my good friend Karin, various other Ministries, Government Agencies, Private Sector and our Dutch friends for their continued support, assistance and cooperation rendered to us which has further strengthened and deepened the ties between our two countries.

Before I conclude, allow me to thank our sponsor, the Sarawak state government for its generosity and for providing us with a sape player, Mr Jerry Kamit, who came all the way from Sarawak to entertain us today.

Once again, thank you for your presence. I hope you will have a pleasant day with us.Terima kasih, Dank u wel”.

The 65th National Day of Malaysia Celebrations has been fabulous at home and abroad.

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The Samarkand Initiative is a concentrated expression of Mirziyoyev’s political “doctrine”

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The Samarkand Initiative is a concentrated expression of Mirziyoyev’s political “doctrine”

By Akramjon Nematov

On 15-16 September Samarkand held a very important event – summit of SCO Heads of State. It was different from previous ones due to its extensive program, comprehensive agenda, as well as broad representation of states, international and regional organizations. Leaders and senior representatives of about 20 states and heads of more than 10 international and regional organizations took part in the event.

The unprecedented outcome of the summit was the adoption of 44 documents, including strategic and conceptual ones. They identified comprehensive expansion of mutual trade, infrastructure development, industrial cooperation, acceleration of green and digital transformation, joint combating of infectious diseases, negative climate effects, etc. as the main directions of further deepening of mutually beneficial cooperation.

The developed collective solutions contain the answers to the challenges that the international community is facing today and are designed to meet the demand of the peoples of the world to restore socio-economic and political stability.

Undoubtedly, the Samarkand summit marked the beginning of a historically new phase in the process of further transformation of the system of international relations, based on the joint efforts to address common problems of economic, social, cultural and humanitarian nature on the principles of mutual trust, equality, respect for each other’s interests and mutual benefit.

The forum highlighted a variety of initiatives, the implementation of which would undoubtedly facilitate expansion and deepening of mutually beneficial multifaceted cooperation in the SCO space.

At the same time, the Samarkand Solidarity Initiative for Common Security and Prosperity put forward by President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev can be honestly called a key initiative that has received extensive support by all the members of the Organization and was articulated in the final part of the Summit outcomes – the Samarkand Declaration.

The distinctive feature of this initiative is its focus on addressing the lack of mutual trust, a fundamental problem in international relations today that impedes effective and mutually beneficial cooperation between states on various issues of global and regional agenda.

It is the lack of trust and understanding in relations between states that causes the global complex crisis facing the international community today.

We are witnessing geopolitical confrontation and rivalry, the revival of block thinking stereotypes and the growth of mutual alienation, disregard to the principles and norms of international law, which in turn leads to the destruction of the international security architecture and sustainable development, limiting opportunities to resolve various acute regional and local conflicts through comprehensive and coordinated approaches.

This causes the dysfunction of multilateral institutions, leads to the loss of their ability to serve as critical agents in addressing the pressing problems of our time, generates uncertainty in the international arena, and exacerbates numerous challenges and threats to the sustainable development of states. Among these are the negative consequences of climate change, the scarcity of water and natural resources, the socio-economic consequences of pandemics, the aggravation of problems of energy and food security, which lead to economic imbalances and social upheaval.

It is becoming clear that the growing fracture in the foundations of international cooperation and its fragmentation are not in anyone’s interest.

Under these conditions, as President Shavkat Mirziyoyev notes, there is a growing global demand for mutual trust, justice and solidarity. The continuation of an open and constructive dialogue and the restoration of multilateral formats of international cooperation are in demand more than ever.

At the same time, the current realities are such that the contradictions among the leading states in political, security and economic issues are so aggravated that it is unlikely to find a mutually acceptable compromise on them in the foreseeable future. However, in the interests of common security and stability the search for mutually beneficial solutions must not cease, which of course requires maintaining and consistently deepening dialogue.

This is the relevance and exceptional importance of the Samarkand Initiative, the main goal of which is the gradual and at the same time progressive restoration of trust through the involvement of all interested states in a global dialogue among civilizations, the search for coordinated approaches and solutions, the removal of global tensions, uncertainty and unpredictability in order to establish international cooperation.

To achieve these goals, the establishment of inter-civilizational and inter-cultural relations and dialogue unencumbered by ideological agenda and political-economic interests serves as an effective platform. As President Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted, such a dialogue, free from geopolitical rivalry, ideological contradictions and disputes, is in great demand today.

The Samarkand Initiative is called upon to consolidate efforts of the states and peoples of the world to alleviate existing contradictions and disagreements by building cultural-civilizational, international, inter-religious interaction based on equality, cooperation, tolerance, justice, humanism and recognition of the priority of universal values, respect for cultural, national and religious diversity.

In order to work out the algorithms for the practical implementation of this initiative, the leader of Uzbekistan suggests holding an international Samarkand forum in 2023 with the participation of a wide range of actors, from political leaders, influential representatives of public, business, academic and expert circles, representatives of clergy, cultural figures and artists. 

As the main dialogue platform of the Samarkand Initiative, the Samarkand Forum will be deliberately inclusive. It will allow ensuring the comprehensive consideration of interests, confidence-building and mutual understanding at all levels, among diverse social groups, cultures and civilizations in a variety of fields.

At the same time, the work of the forum will be based on a rich Program of Action, which may include a set of measures to seek mutually acceptable solutions to the most pressing international and regional problems, as well as to strengthen the spirit of dialogue, mutual understanding, respect and trust, increase political and diplomatic, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation. This, in turn, would give a systemic character to the implementation of the Samarkand Initiative, ensure its openness, transparency, inclusiveness and efficiency.

Such an approach undoubtedly meets the need of the states to preserve, multiply and transmit to future generations their centuries-old cultural and civilizational values. This is one of the key factors that will contribute to the support, development and achievement of the goals, the guarantor of the strength and reliability of cooperation on the proposed platform.

In fact, the Samarkand Initiative will be the practical embodiment of the UN Declaration on Dialogue among Civilizations, adopted in 2001 by the UN General Assembly. The Samarkand Initiative will, in fact, be a practical embodiment of the UN Declaration on Dialogue among Civilizations, adopted in 2001 by the UN General Assembly, calling on governments to encourage, endorse and support dialogue among civilizations.

It is important to note that the Samarkand Initiative, while global in nature, is not accidentally put forward within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Since its founding, the SCO has remained committed to the “Shanghai spirit” and its founding principles of non-aligned status, non-targeting of third countries, openness, consensus, trust, mutual benefit, equality, and respect for the diversity of cultures and shared prosperity.

Moreover, as President Shavkat Mirziyoyev notes, the SCO is a unique interstate structure that has managed to unite countries with different cultural and civilizational codes, their own foreign policy guidelines and models of national development. The SCO’s formula for success is the promotion of multifaceted cooperation, the absence of ideological dogma in its activities and the commitment to universal values and universally recognized norms.

Strictly adhering to the “Shanghai spirit” and principles of SCO Charter, and effectively cooperating with various states, international and regional organizations in addressing a multitude of pressing problems, SCO has come a long way in this historically short period, becoming an integral part of the modern global order and a pole of attraction.

In the year of its chairmanship, Uzbekistan has managed to preserve and enhance the “Shanghai spirit”, as evidenced by the broad representation of states and international organizations at the Samarkand summit, the launch of the SCO expansion process by new members, dialogue partners and observers, including Iran, Belarus, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Maldives, Myanmar and others, who often hold diametrically opposed views.

It is the desire of Uzbekistan to convey to all interested parties the experience of interaction within the framework of the SCO that explains the choice of this platform for the promotion of the Samarkand initiative.

At the same time, the choice of Samarkand as an integral part of the initiative has a deep meaning. As President Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted, since ancient times this city has been a center of spiritual, economic, cultural and scientific exchange between peoples living in the space from East Asia to North Africa, the Middle East and Europe. This city is a prime example of how for centuries the principles of tolerance and respect for the traditions and values of different peoples have been put into practice.

In the dynamic and proactive diplomacy of President Shavkat Mirziyev, Samarkand has acquired a special dimension, acting as a unique platform for promoting the most important international and diplomatic initiatives of Uzbekistan.

It was in Samarkand that the process of regional cooperation and rapprochement was launched. In particular, the historic conference “Central Asia: One Past and Common Future, Cooperation for Sustainable Development and Mutual Prosperity,” organized in 2017 under the auspices of the UN, resulted in the “Samarkand Spirit,” through which Central Asia began to transform into a space of good neighborliness and trust, mutually beneficial cooperation and sustainable development.

This process was also supported by the UN. In 2018 the Organization’s General Assembly adopted a special resolution on “Strengthening regional and international cooperation to ensure peace, stability and sustainable development in the Central Asian region”, recognizing the important role of dialogue among Central Asian countries in ensuring peace, stability and sustainable development in the region, as well as in promoting regional and international cooperation.

In this regard, the Samarkand Initiative is a kind of symbiosis of the “Shanghai Spirit” and the “Samarkand Spirit. If the former is built on the principles of mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, respect for the diversity of cultures and joint development, the latter, as noted by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, is the embodiment of constructive dialogue, mutual understanding, good neighborliness and friendship.

And reliance on these principles, which should become the basis and content of the Samarkand initiative, is the key to its successful implementation.

Yet another factor that instills confidence in the success of this initiative is the high level of responsibility that Uzbekistan realizes for the stability, security and sustainable development in the region, as well as the attained political and diplomatic experience in conducting a constructive dialogue and searching for joint solution of common problems.

Thus, in a historically short period of time, Tashkent has managed to establish good-neighborly relations with neighboring countries and jointly solve acute systemic problems related to border, water resources, energy, transport and communications and other issues, as well as consolidate the efforts of international community for socio-economic stabilization of Afghanistan.

Moreover, by pursuing a balanced, open, constructive and pragmatic foreign policy, Uzbekistan has built a balanced relationship with all global players and is engaged in practical interaction with China, Russia, the United States, the EU, South Asia, the Asia-Pacific region and the Arab world.

In essence, Uzbekistan has become a kind of “mediator” of dialogue between various states and international organizations, and has proved itself as a responsible state capable of making an important contribution to establishing constructive cooperation and finding mutually acceptable solutions.

It is important to note that by putting forward this initiative, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev once again demonstrated his commitment to an open, constructive, peace-loving and pragmatic policy. One can even argue that the Samarkand Initiative is a concentrated expression of Mirziyoyev’s political “doctrine”, which is based on the principles of openness, comprehensive inclusive dialogue, pragmatism, constructive cooperation, respect for equal rights and interests of everyone, as well as the search for reasonable compromises.

And it is clear that this approach is in demand in international relations today. Moreover, the great need to restore dialogue, mutual understanding and solidarity is felt by the peoples of the world who, with the disorganization of systems of political, economic and financial relations, face uncertainty about their future.

Leaders also spoke about this at the summit. In particular, they emphasized the urgent need to maintain the philosophy of trust-based dialogue in international relations, peaceful and negotiated ways of resolving conflict situations, and to maintain a balance of interests in dealing with various points of concern.

In conclusion, I would like to express confidence that the Samarkand Solidarity Initiative for Common Security and Prosperity, supported by the SCO member states, will help restore and strengthen trust and mutual understanding between states, make a significant contribution to dialogue and cooperation as an important condition for overcoming the challenges and threats the humanity is facing today.

Said trial opens at International Criminal Court

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Said trial opens at International Criminal Court

On 26 September 2022, the trial in the case The Prosecutor v. Mahamat Said Abdel Kani opened before Trial Chamber VI of the International Criminal Court (“ICC” or “the Court”), composed of Judge Miatta Maria Samba (Presiding judge), Judge Socorro Flores Liera and Judge Sergio Gerardo Ugalde Godínez. As a former alleged Seleka commander, Mr Said is accused of crimes against humanity (imprisonment or other severe deprivation of liberty; torture; persecution; enforced disappearance and other inhumane acts) and war crimes (torture and cruel treatment) allegedly committed in Bangui (CAR) in 2013. 

The trial started with the reading of the charges against Mr Said. The Chamber was satisfied that the accused understood the nature of the charges. The accused pleaded not-guilty to all the charges. Mr Said is represented by Principal Counsel Jennifer Naouri and her team. 

The Judges of Trial Chamber VI at the opening of the trial in the Said case at the ICC in The Hague (Netherlands) on 26 September 2022 ©ICC-CPI

The Court’s Prosecutor Karim AA Khan KC and Senior Trial Lawyer Holo Makwaia took the floor for opening statements. This will be followed by the opening statements of the Legal Representative of Victims, Sarah Pellet, and the Defence. The first Prosecution witness is scheduled to start testifying after the end of the opening statements. The Prosecution is currently expected to call 43 witnesses.

After it is finished, the Legal Representative of Victims may submit observations, and the Defence will have the opportunity to present its case and call witnesses. At the end of the trial hearings, the Judges will render their judgement within a reasonable period of time. The Trial Chamber will convict someone only if it is satisfied that the charges have been proven beyond reasonable doubt.

The 77th Anniversary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam

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The 77th Anniversary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Embassy of Vietnam in the Netherlands organized a reception to Celebrate the 77th Anniversary  National Day of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. The celebration of this memorable day took place in The Hague on 19th September 2022.

H.E. Ambassador Pham Viet Anh opened the reception by quoting from the declaration of independence of the United States of America back in 1776 and the French Republic in 1791. Both declarations accentuated the aspects of Equality, Liberty and Humanity. 

 “Men are born and remain free and equal in rights.” 

The Independence of Vietnam in September 1945 was along similar lines, as written by the founding father, President Ho Chi Minh.

The Ambassador of Indonesia H.E. Mr. Mayerfas and spouse Mme. Virna Mayerfas, Dr. Karin Mössenlechner, Director General of the Department of Asia and Oceania – Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ambassador of Vietnam, H.E. Mr. Pham Viet Anh and spouse Mrs. Le Thi Hien Anh, the Ambassador of the Philippines, H.E. Eduardo Jose Malaya and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand, H.E. Mr. Chatri Archjananun.

Vietnam has come a long way and is a dynamic and developing country doing well. Its education system ranks among the best in the world. Vietnam progressed in mathematics and IT.  85-90% of young people can speak English.

Ambassador Pham Viet Anh, in his welcoming remarks, thanked all for coming to celebrate Vietnam Nation Day with him. In part, this is what he went on to say. “The first two paragraphs of the Declaration of Independence of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. As written and proclaimed solemnly by our President Ho Chi Minh on September 2, 1945, in Ha Noi, which marked the end of more than 8 decades of miserable colonization in Viet Nam. It is not by chance that President Ho Chi Minh quoted the two famous declarations of the United States and France. The reason is simple as life: He found there the fundamental values of Humanity that we have long been deprived of.

Vietnam 77th Anniversary, September 2022.

This historic moment turned Vietnam into the era of independence and on the way of integration with the world. It brought our nation the happiness and strong hope for freedom, humanity and friendship with all peoples.

However, the peace was too fragile. Just one year later, we were dragged into another long colonial rule. In 1954, our glorious victory with the well-known Dien Bien Phu Campaign ended 9 years of arduous struggle and heroic resistance war of the Vietnamese people.

But our joy of triumph, again, was temporary: the country was separated north and south for another 20 years. Our strong aspirations for peace motivated the whole nation to fight for noble values, among those are sovereignty and independence. The successful Ho Chi Minh Campaign marked the end of the war on April 30th, 1975, paving the way for an unified Vietnam.

The Ambassador of Japan, H.E. Mr Hidehisa Horinouchi and Dr. Karin Mössenlechner, explore a Vietnamese musical instrument.

The young Vietnam just walked out of wars, suffering from entrenched poverty, underdevelopment, and dealing with persistent hardships. I myself grew up in the shadow of the bomb in Hanoi and in many country sides. The memories of those dark days are still vivid, reminding me and many other Vietnamese how precious peace is and how hard we were fighting for it.

Rising from the ashes of war, Vietnam today proudly has become a dynamic and developing country, as well as an active and responsible member of international community, contributing to peace, security and development of the world. The World Bank once stated: “Vietnam is a success story.” And we’re proud it’s true. Between 2002 and 2020, our GDP per capita increased 3.6 time. The poverty rate fell from more than 32% in 2011 to less than 2% in 2020. Vietnam’s economy has shown considerable resilience during crisis, most recently the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Ambassador of Sri Lanka, H.E. Ms. Aruni Ranaraja, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, H.E. Dr. Alireza Khazemi Abadi and the Ambassador of Costa Rica, H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro.

Our achievements are partly thanks to the precious and generous support of friends around the world, who also share the values of peace and justice. The Dutch people and government are among our precious supporters. As early as in 1968, the Medical Commitee Netherlands-Vietnam (MCNV) was established, collecting medicines, materials and money to build a hospital in Quang Tri, locating very close to the demarcation line. In those days, under the incessant bombing there, the talented Dutch documentary filmmaker Joris Evens was present to capture the fierce and tragic images of the war, including the suffering of innocent Vietnamese people.

We can say friendship between the Dutch and Vietnamese peoples was made long before the official establishment of diplomatic relations. It reminds me of the famous quote by Blaise Pascal:

“The heart has its reasons which reason knows nothing of” or “l’amour a des raisons que la raison ne connait pas”.

H.E. Mr. Marc Anthony Pace, Ambassador of the Republic of Malta and H.E. Mr. Tigran Balayan, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia.

After establishing diplomatic relations, the Dutch government and people also lent us a helping hand in rebuilding the country, especially in the fields of agriculture, irrigation, education, health and infrastructure. As a result, the two countries became strategic partners in climate change adaptation and water management, sustainable agriculture and food security. Currently, the relationship between the two countries is a comprehensive partnership.

Vietnam Ambassador’s diplomatic team.

In addition, trade is also one of the promising areas between Vietnam and the Netherlands, especially after the EVFTA came into force. Now, the Netherlands ranked 8th of 140 countries and territories in the world and No.1 European investor in Vietnam with about 400 projects. The turnover of bilateral trade between Vietnam and the Netherlands in the first 6 months of the year reached more than $5 billion, up 26% compared to the same period in 2021. These are encouraging indicators for us to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year.

The prouder we are of our important achievements, the more grateful we are for the valuable support and cooperation of all our friends around the world. Vietnam has always loved peace and justice, and has always wished to sincerely cooperate with all countries for a peaceful and prosperous world.

On this solemn occasion of Vietnam’s National Day, we would like to extend our good wishes and deep gratitude to the King and the Queen of the Netherlands, the Dutch government and people.”

H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica, H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, Ambassador of Panama, H.E. Dr. Alvaro González Otero, Ambassador of Uruguay and the IOM Chief of Mission, Mr. Antonio Polosa.

The 2022  Vietnam National Day reception was well attended, among the attendees were persons from the business community, Director General of the Department of Asia and Oceania – Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, former Dutch diplomats, OPCW, IOM, President of the diaspora and Ambassadors-Diplomats from, Philippines, Kuwait, Armenia, Rwanda, Russia, Argentina, Belarus, Sri Lanka, Uruguay, Thailand, Iran, Pakistan, Japan, Malaysia, Malta, UK, Australia, Indonesia, South Africa, Peru, Bangladesh, Costa Rica, Morocco, Nigeria, Sudan, Yemen, Panama, and many more. Guests enjoyed presentations of colorful Vietnamese dances.

Dr. Karin Mössenlechner, Director General of the Department of Asia and Oceania – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands.

A second speaker at the Vietnam 2022 National Day celebration was Dr. Karin Mössenlechner, Director General of the Department of Asia and Oceania – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands. Here are Dr. Karin Mössenlechner remarks.

”I am honored to address you at this festive occasion on the 77th anniversary of the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Vietnam and the Netherlands have close bilateral relations. No wonder, given the remarkable similarities between our countries.

Like the Netherlands, Vietnam is country of water and rivers. We both are seafaring and trading nations, with open economies. Vietnam is the 2nd largest exporter of coffee in the world, the Netherlands – per capita – the 3rd coffee drinking nation. The Netherlands is the largest EU investor and the second largest EU trading partner of Vietnam. More than 100 Dutch companies are established in Vietnam.

H.E. Mr Pham Viet Anh and Mrs. Le Thi Hien Anh.

We have a Comprehensive Partnership Agreement with Water and Climate Change and Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security as its main pillars; this provides a promising basis for expanding and deepening our co-operation with Vietnam.

Many projects have been launched in recent years, for example the HCMC flood protection project. Vietnam also invited us to jointly develop a human rights curriculum for the Ho Chi Minh Political Academy. And just two weeks ago a Dutch integrated mission regarding the Mekong Delta went to Vietnam with many stakeholders. In the Mekong Delta, the Netherland is offering its expertise on water, agriculture and logistics.

H.E. Mr. Alexander Shulgin, Ambassador of Russia and spouse, Mrs. Natalia Shulgina.

At the same time, the Netherlands has much to learn from the dynamics, resilience and energy of Vietnam’s development, which together with its entrepreneurial spirit leads to unprecedented growth. Vietnam’s open economy, structural economic growth, multilateral positioning, and strategic location in ASEAN provides many opportunities for further cooperation.

Next year, in 2023, we will be celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the Netherlands. The year will be dedicated to strengthening our bilateral bond, between our governments, our businesses, our knowledge institutions and especially also between our people: for example through student exchanges and cultural activities. Culture builds bridges, creates mutual understanding and connects people, which is more needed than ever in these times.

Our embassies will play an important part in the organisation of the half centennial festivities. I am glad to inform you that at this very day our new ambassador in Hanoi, Kees van Baar, presented his credentials to President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, so he is all set to start. 

I look forward to our continuing cooperation in the future; may it be even more successful and closer than it is now!“

The celebration of the 77th Anniversary of the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam has been a delight.

An information session for diplomats by the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration

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An information session for diplomats by the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration

Information session for diplomatic representatives on the activities of the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Hague, 15 September 2022. International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) organized a bilingual (English and French) information session for Diplomats. During the sessions, the courts provided a synopsis of their activities.

PCA Secretary General H.E. Mr. Marcin Czepelak

The following Ambassadors and diplomats attended the information sessions, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Kosovo, Myanmar, Kuwait and others. Also present are diplomats from Angola, Colombia, Croatia and many more.

Featuring on the program, an overview of the activities of the PCA, followed by a Q&A session in the Administrative Council Chamber, was presented by H.E. Mr. Marcin Czepelak, Secretary-General of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The court handled 115 cases in 2021. When diplomacy fails, arbitration comes into play. Mr. Czepelak, among other subjects, talked about “The Host Country Agreement”.

“The Host Country Agreement” allows parties in dispute who are located in or near the host country to take full advantage of the flexibility and efficiency of PCA-administered proceedings in the territory of the host country.

The Host Country Agreements also provide wider benefits to the host country, neighbouring states, and parties in dispute: attracting arbitrations to the host country that would otherwise be conducted elsewhere; raising the international profile of the host country as an arbitral forum, just to mention a few.

The PCA has Host Country Agreements in force with Argentina, Chile, China (in relation to Hong Kong SAR), Costa Rica, Djibouti, India, Ireland, Malaysia, Mauritius, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, Uruguay and Viet Nam. The PCA has concluded Host Country Agreements with a number of other countries whose entry into force is pending completion of constitutional procedures. The PCA also benefits from certain privileges and immunities in Austria “.

ICJ Registrar H.E. Mr. Philippe Gauthier

Next was an overview of the activities of the International Court of Justice ICJ., followed by a Q&A session in the Great Hall of Justice, presented by H.E. Mr Philippe Gautier, Registrar of the International Court of Justice. He explained the important position ICJ takes in guarding international justice and how the registrar supports the court.

There are 133 cases, 27 are consultative, and 15 cases are pending. Gautier also touched on the relationship between the court and the Carnegie Foundation. There is an agreement between the UN and the Carnegie Foundation as to renting the facility. Talking about relocating the court, yes, there is asbestos but there will be no relocation.

“The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations“. It was established in June 1945 by the Charter of the United Nations and began work in April 1946.

The Court’s role is to settle, in accordance with international law, legal disputes submitted to it by States and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorized United Nations organs and specialized agencies.

The Court is composed of 15 judges, who are elected for terms of office of nine years by the United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council. It is assisted by a Registry, its administrative organ. Its official languages are English and French.

The Registry is the permanent administrative secretariat of the Court. It is accountable to the Court alone. It is headed by a Registrar, assisted by a Deputy-Registrar.

The Registrar is elected by the Court for a term of seven years and may be re-elected  The Registrar is responsible for all departments and divisions of the Registry “.

The successful information session concluded with a group photo and a reception in the entrance hall of the Peace Palace.


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