A deadly attack in Sydney was solemnly commemorated in The Hague during a special Hanukkah memorial and solidarity gathering held on Sunday evening, 14 December, at the Peace Palace.
The event was organised by the Centre for Yiddishkeit in The Hague to honour the memory of the 15 victims and to express unity in the face of violence and hatred. Among those remembered was the Assistant Rabi at Chabad of Bondi and key organiser of the event, Rabi Eli Schlanger.
Schlanger recently said “Be more Jewish, act more Jewish and appear more Jewish” Roy Cohen, Chairman of the Centre for Yiddishkeit in The Hague, was also present. The gathering emphasised the symbolic message of Hanukkah — bringing light in times of darkness.
In response to the events at Bondi Beach Australia, security in The Hague was placed on heightened alert. Dozens of attendees assembled around 8:00 p.m. for a Hanukkah service, where prayers were offered and the victims of the Sydney attack were remembered.
The Australian Ambassador to the Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Gregory French, attended the memorial and addressed those present, expressing gratitude for the show of solidarity.
“This is a time of great sadness and shock for Australians, and especially for Jewish Australians,” the Ambassador said. “Together we stand strong — in love and solidarity — for our shared values and against hatred and darkness.”
The evening concluded with the singing of traditional Hanukkah songs.
By H.E. Mr. Syed Haider Shah, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Pakistan and the Netherlands share a relationship that is both longstanding and practical. Since the Netherlands recognized Pakistan in 1948, our two countries have built ties based on mutual respect and steady cooperation. The bilateral relationship between Pakistan and the Netherlands combines long-standing cooperation with fresh opportunities across trade and investment, water management, agriculture, education, and innovation. The Netherlands brings globally recognized strengths in logistics, ports, sustainable solutions, and supply-chain efficiency, while Pakistan offers a large market, a geo-strategic location, and a fast-developing business ecosystem, particularly in agribusiness and technology.
Agriculture and value-added industries present equally strong potential. As Pakistan modernizes its agricultural and food systems, Dutch capabilities in seed technology, controlled-environment farming, cold-chain logistics, and sustainable dairy and horticulture can support climate-smart production and higher-value exports. Beyond food, textiles and responsible supply chains offer scope to move from volume to value through sustainability, compliance, and circularity, while digital innovation and IT-enabled services are emerging as new growth drivers. Partnerships in technology, fintech, and digital solutions can further boost efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness across sectors; a proof that this relationship is no longer just solid, but strategically smart.
While Pakistan–The Netherlands relationship stands firmly on its own, it also gains momentum from Pakistan’s broader engagement with the European Union. The Netherlands is not only a trusted bilateral partner; it is also a key European voice and a global leader in innovation, logistics, water expertise, and sustainable solutions.
This is why Pakistan views its partnership with the European Union guided by three major frameworks as central to shaping the environment in which our cooperation with European partners, including the Netherlands, can grow. These comprise the EU–Pakistan Cooperation Agreement (2004), the granting of GSP+ status (2014), and the EU–Pakistan Strategic Engagement Plan (2019). Together, these frameworks have helped move the relationship beyond periodic interaction toward structured cooperation, shared priorities, and a more future-oriented partnership.
The 2004 Cooperation Agreement provided an essential foundation for sustained political and economic dialogue. It created a predictable framework for engagement and helped open avenues for practical cooperation across sectors. This kind of structured relationship encourages continuity, supports long-term planning, and strengthens confidence among governments, institutions, and the private sector. In real terms, it also reinforces bilateral ties such as Pakistan’s cooperation with the Netherlands by enabling greater alignment on trade facilitation, development cooperation, and sectoral initiatives.
Since 2014, the European Union’s Special Incentive Arrangement for Good Governance and Sustainable Development (GSP Plus) has expanded market access for Pakistani exports and provided a framework for structured dialogue on international commitments relating to human rights, labour rights, environmental protection, and good governance. Engagement with these international conventions reflects Pakistan’s longstanding national priority anchored in constitutional obligations, international responsibilities, and domestic reform objectives. In this context, GSP+ is not merely a trade preference but it is complementary to Pakistan’s broader agenda of economic competitiveness, institutional strengthening, and modernisation. These priorities have driven sustained investments by Pakistani industries in standards, compliance, traceability, and improved governance practices that are increasingly integral to global trade.
Implementation of the 27 International Conventions spanning human rights, labour rights, climate change, and good governance is pursued as part of Pakistan’s overarching governance and development framework. To ensure effective coordination and implementation, the Government of Pakistan has established a Treaty Implementation Cell (TIC) at both federal and provincial levels, with the Ministry of Commerce serving as its Secretariat. The Cell includes representation from the National Commission on Human Rights, Pakistan Workers Federation, UN Women, and the International Labour Organization, reflecting an inclusive and institutionalised approach to treaty implementation.
H.E. Mr. Syed Haider Shah, Ambassador of Pakistan to the Netherlands. Photography by Roy Strik for Diplomat Magazine.
As a result of these coordinated and sustained efforts, the outcomes of the four Biennial Assessments conducted in 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2023 were positive. The EU Monitoring Mission visited Pakistan in the last week of November 2025 for the fifth Biennial Review of GSP Plus. During the visit, the Mission held detailed consultations with relevant stakeholders on progress achieved since 2023 across the four thematic clusters of human rights, labour rights, environment, and good governance. Throughout the fifth biennial review period, the Government of Pakistan has undertaken significant legislative, policy, and administrative measures to advance implementation of the conventions. These reforms reflect Pakistan’s continuing commitment to its international obligations, and the Government remains confident of a successful conclusion of the current review.
In Pakistan’s bilateral trade with the EU, rice sector offers a particularly positive story. Pakistan is globally recognized for premium aromatic rice, especially Basmati, and the industry is steadily moving toward higher quality, improved processing, stronger branding, and better traceability. European consumers are increasingly focused on origin, quality, and responsible production. This creates real opportunities for long-term sourcing partnerships, premium positioning in retail and food service, and investment across the value chain from modern milling and packaging to logistics and marketing. With Dutch expertise in supply-chain efficiency and agrifood innovation, there is considerable scope to deepen cooperation in a way that benefits farmers, businesses, and consumers alike.
The third framework, the EU–Pakistan Strategic Engagement Plan (2019), broadened the relationship further reflecting the reality that today’s challenges cannot be addressed through trade alone. The Plan covers cooperation in peace and security, governance and democracy, migration and mobility, trade and investment, sustainable development, education and culture, science and technology. Pakistan welcomes this comprehensive approach because it supports partnerships that are longer-term and solutions driven. It also encourages joint initiatives that strengthen institutions, build skills, and foster innovation.
Looking ahead, Pakistan is positioning itself to respond constructively to global challenges such as climate change, sustainability, and regional stability. Climate resilience especially water security, agricultural adaptation, and disaster preparedness is a national priority. Pakistan is eager to expand cooperation with the Netherlands and European partners on climate-smart agriculture, efficient water use, renewable energy solutions, and green innovation. Pakistan’s growing technology sector can also contribute to this transition through digital tools that improve efficiency, transparency, and service delivery.
In essence, Pakistan–The Netherlands relations are strongest when seen alongside a wider Pakistan–EU partnership shaped by the 2004, 2014, and 2019 frameworks. Pakistan remains committed to constructive engagement and to building relationships that deliver measurable outcomes: stronger trade, greater value addition, sustainable supply chains, and deeper cooperation in areas that matter to our shared future. With sustained dialogue and practical collaboration, Pakistan, the Netherlands, and the European Union can continue to strengthen a partnership that honours its history while actively shaping a more resilient and prosperous tomorrow.
A criminal network suspected of trafficking vulnerable Romanian women to the United Kingdom for sexual exploitation has been dismantled following a coordinated action day in Romania and the UK. The operation, carried out in close cooperation with Eurojust, led to the arrest of four suspects and the seizure of several luxury vehicles and properties.
The investigation began in November 2022 when police identified a group of Romanian sex workers regularly operating in a London car park. Although the women initially did not report sexual exploitation, authorities established that a single Romanian national had financed their repeated travel between Romania and the United Kingdom. Further inquiries revealed that the women had been recruited in Cândești, Romania, transported to multiple locations across the UK, and forced into street prostitution in London.
To dismantle the network, Romanian and UK authorities established a joint investigation team with the support of Eurojust. Coordination meetings at Eurojust enabled the exchange of information and evidence, highlighting the transnational nature of the criminal organisation. UK authorities identified individuals responsible for transporting the women from Romania and within the United Kingdom, while Romanian investigators traced the proceeds of the criminal activities flowing back to Romania.
Following a three-year investigation, an action day was carried out in early 2026. In Romania, three suspects were arrested and two others placed under judicial control. Nine luxury cars and several properties were seized. In the United Kingdom, one suspect was arrested and charged under the Modern Slavery Act for arranging and facilitating the movement of persons for the purpose of exploitation.
Authorities involved:
Romania: Prosecution Office of the High Court of Cassation and Justice; Directorate for the Investigation of Organized Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) – Buzău Territorial Office; Ploiești Organized Crime Combating Brigade; Craiova Organized Crime Combating Brigade; General Inspectorate of the Romanian Gendarmerie.
United Kingdom: Crown Prosecution Service London; Metropolitan Police.
In November 2025, the United States released a new National Security Strategy that marks a decisive redefinition of American foreign and security policy. Rooted firmly in the “America First” doctrine of President Donald Trump’s second administration, the document presents a comprehensive framework that prioritizes sovereignty, economic resilience, strategic restraint, and a recalibration of global engagement based on clearly defined national interests.
Departing from the expansive and often idealistic approaches of the post–Cold War era, the strategy emphasizes a focused alignment between ends and means, arguing that U.S. foreign policy must be selective, realistic, and directly connected to the well-being of the American people. It places strong emphasis on border security, industrial and energy dominance, technological leadership, and burden-sharing with allies, while rejecting global overextension and permanent military entanglements.
“My Administration has moved with urgency and historic speed to restore American strength at home and abroad, and bring peace and stability to our world. Starting on my first day in office, we restored the sovereign borders of the United states and deployed the U.S. military to stop the invasion of our country. We got radical gender ideology and woke lunacy out of our Armed Forces, and began strengthening our military with $1 trillion of investment. We rebuilt our alliances and got our allies to contribute more to our common defense, including a historic commitment from NATO countries to raise defense spending from 2% to 5% of GDP. We unleashed America energy production to reclaim our independence, and imposed historic tariffs to bring critical industries back home.” President Donald Trump.
For diplomats, policymakers, and international observers, this strategy offers important insight into how Washington intends to engage with key regions—including Europe, the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and the Western Hemisphere—while reshaping alliances, trade relations, and multilateral cooperation. As such, the 2025 National Security Strategy is a policy blueprint for the United States, a signal to the international community of a more transactional, sovereignty-centered, and interest-driven American role on the global stage.
The Hague, 12 December 2025 – The Philippine Embassy in The Hague hosted a Holiday Karaoke Party on 12 December 2025, bringing together friends, partners, and colleagues from other Missions and International Organizations in The Hague to celebrate a fruitful and productive year.
The gathering served as a warm expression of gratitude for the continued support and close cooperation of the Embassy’s partners and counterparts throughout 2025, whose collaboration contributed to the successful advancement of shared initiatives and diplomatic engagements.
Inspired by the Filipino tradition of merry-making during the Christmas holidays, the event reflected the spirit of joy, togetherness, and gratitude that characterizes the season in the Philippines.
True to this tradition, music and laughter filled the venue as guests were invited to take part in videoke—a permanent fixture of Filipino celebrations and a beloved hallmark of Filipino culture.
H.E. Mr. J. Eduardo Malaya, Ambassador of the Philippines during his Philippines Holiday Karaoke Party.
Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands, H.E. J. Eduardo Malaya welcomed colleagues in the chancery’s Kalayaan Hall which was donned in Christmas decorations, including the Philippines’ iconic lanterns called “parol”, making the venue very much fit for the occasion.
Aside from expressing his gratitude for the productive and friendly collaborations from other missions, the Ambassador also wowed the crowd with a song number proving the stereotype that almost every Filipino can sing!
Through this festive activity, colleagues in The Hague experienced firsthand the simple yet heartfelt joy of a Filipino holiday gathering.
The Holiday Karaoke Party not only marked the close of a successful year but also strengthened bonds of friendship and camaraderie, setting a positive and hopeful tone for the year ahead.
Lithuania, a State Party to the International Criminal Court (ICC) since 2002, has made a voluntary contribution of EUR 25,000 to the Trust Fund for Victims (TFV), reaffirming its commitment to international justice and the rights of victims of crimes under the Rome Statute.
Welcoming the contribution, Mr Andres Parmas, Chair of the Board of Directors of the TFV, stated: “I wish to express my sincere appreciation to Lithuania for its voluntary contribution to the Trust Fund for Victims at the ICC. This contribution, which is higher than Lithuania’s previous one, is a clear symbol of its continued commitment to international justice and to addressing the harms endured by victims of crimes under the Rome Statute. The unrestricted nature of this contribution allows the TFV Board of Directors to allocate it to any programme under its purview. Such support is crucial to the TFV’s work, and we encourage other States to follow Lithuania’s example in promoting hope within affected communities.”
H.E. Audra Plepytė, Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, added: “Lithuania is proud to contribute to the Trust Fund for Victims, whose efforts provide vital and tangible assistance to those affected by the most serious crimes. By standing alongside the ICC and the Trust Fund for Victims, we reaffirm our strong commitment to accountability, justice, and the inherent dignity of every victim. We remain convinced that healing and recovery are essential foundations for lasting peace, and we are pleased to contribute to this important mission.”
The Embassy of India in the Netherlands organised the Viksit Bharat Run 2025 on Sunday, 28 September, at Westbroekpark in The Hague, highlighting the core objectives of service, sustainability, and swachhta (cleanliness).
The run attracted a large and enthusiastic turnout, with participants from both the Indian and Dutch communities, including many youth and children, reflecting the inclusive and community-oriented spirit of the initiative. The event was flagged off by H.E. Mr. Kumar Tuhin, Ambassador of India to the Netherlands, who addressed the participants and explained the significance of the Run’s central themes: Service, Sustainability, and Swachhta.
In addition to The Hague, the Embassy, in collaboration with the Indian Students’ Associations of Maastricht and Groningen, successfully organised Viksit Bharat Run 2025 events in Maastricht and Groningen, further extending the initiative’s outreach across the Netherlands.
Viksit Bharat Run 2025 – Embassy of India
The Viksit Bharat Run 2025 forms part of Seva Pakhwada, observed from 17 September to 2 October 2025. Seva Pakhwada is a celebration of service, responsibility, and collective effort, reflecting the core values of Indian civilisation, particularly Seva Bhav, or the spirit of selfless service. During this period, communities in India and abroad come together to engage in activities that serve society, strengthen community bonds, and promote shared responsibility. The Viksit Bharat Run in The Hague was one such meaningful activity.
Other initiatives organised during Seva Pakhwada included the planting of fruit trees at Amity International School Amsterdam under the Ék Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative; a cleanliness drive at the Embassy premises under the Ék Din Ek Ghanta Ek Saath initiative; the donation of books on Indian culture to Shri Saraswatieschool in Rotterdam; and the organisation of the Bhartiya First Conclave 2025, in association with Stichting Sankriti Aur Sanskar.
What began more than forty years ago in the Netherlands as a simple yet radical idea has today found a home in Vietnam. The concept was straightforward: if children can borrow books from a library, why not art created especially for them?
At the time, I assumed such initiatives already existed everywhere. They did not. When de Volkskrant published an article about the very first Children’s Art Lending Library, Jeugdjournaal (Dutch Youth News) proposed organizing an official opening—an event that marked not only a Dutch first, but, according to the German University of Culture, a global one. There was no comparable institution anywhere else.
Today, that idea lives on in Da Nang, Vietnam—possibly the only Children’s Art Lending Library in Asia—through the Art for Children Gallery, a space dedicated to free creative activities for children and to making art truly accessible to young audiences.
Art Made For Children
The gallery’s uniqueness lies in its philosophy: all artworks are created specifically for children. Just as they borrow storybooks, children can take art home, live with it, and return it—making art a natural part of everyday life rather than something distant or untouchable.
This journey toward children’s art began unexpectedly. While presenting exhibitions for adults, a young girl once asked me a simple question: “Where is the exhibition for children?” I had no answer—and that was the moment everything changed.
Soon after, leading children’s illustrators and artists embraced the idea with enthusiasm. Artists such as Thé Tjong-Khing, Sylvia Weve, Tonke Dragt, and Max Velthuijs generously contributed their work. Invitations followed from institutions and companies worldwide. Philips invited me to Taiwan; Shell sent me to England, Brunei, and beyond, working closely with the Foundation for Dutch Education Abroad. Hundreds of travelling exhibitions followed across the Netherlands, Belgium, and further afield.
Art, especially art for children, rarely generates income—but it generates something far more valuable: connection, curiosity, and unforgettable journeys.
A New Chapter in Vietnam
As retirement approached, Vietnam entered my life—and never really let go. I lectured for UNESCO at the Hanoi National Art Museum for the Association of Vietnamese Museums and, with the support of the Dutch Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City, curated the international MeetingPoint exhibition at the HCMC Fine Art Museum.
Later, I was invited to become the first director of the Terracotta Park & Museum near Hoi An, an extraordinary experience that exceeded expectations in less than a year. Subsequent requests from museums in Hanoi followed, focusing on educational and outreach projects.
The turning point came in Da Nang, when Oanh—whom I had met while working at the Terracotta Museum—opened the Art for Children Gallery and Children’s Art Lending Library and invited me to visit. I could not resist. I am still there today, sharing experiences, writing booklets, creating videos, and supporting whatever new ideas emerge.
Building Bridges Through Stories
Several of my children’s books have been published in Vietnam, and my storytelling—often inspired by Vietnamese museums and culture—has been warmly received, often ending in applause.
Our YouTube channel offers further insight into our work in Vietnam, and any compensation for lectures or events is fully directed to supporting the Art for Children Gallery.
I spend a few months each year in the Netherlands, and for schools, companies, or cultural organizations wishing to organize Vietnam-related activities—especially for families and children—I am always happy to contribute. I do not claim to be a Vietnam expert, but I do know how to tell stories that connect.
And for those who wish to see it all firsthand: come visit us in Da Nang!
Liguria arrives in Utrecht with a story that speaks directly to the Dutch public, weaving together tourism, landscape and culture along a path that leads naturally from Northern Europe to the Mediterranean. From 8 to 11 January, the region will be present with an institutional stand created in collaboration with ENIT, showcasing a destination to be enjoyed all year round, amidst the sea, historic villages and the hinterland.
A strong cultural reference adds depth to this narrative: the major monographic exhibition “Van Dyck l’Europeo” (Van Dyck, the European), dedicated to the Flemish painter Antoon van Dyck, scheduled to take place in Genoa from 20 March to 19 July 2026. An international project, the exhibition provides an opportunity to trace a symbolic thread linking the Netherlands and Liguria, following the journey of a profoundly European artist and rediscovering Genoa as a city of exchange, historical connections and long-standing artistic tradition.
Liguria’s presence at Vakantiebeurs builds on a age-old relationship with the Dutch market, which has long shown an interest in accessible, authentic destinations offering rich opportunities for exploration. Liguria presents itself as a compact yet surprisingly varied region where, within just a few kilometres, panoramic coastlines give way to sea-view trails, inland villages and cities of art, allowing for flexible, customisable travel experiences.
A distinctive feature of Liguria’s offering is its appeal beyond the peak season. The calm of autumn, mild winters and the shoulder seasons reveal a more intimate Liguria, ideal for discovering villages in their everyday life, walking the trails at a slower pace and enjoying attentive hospitality, in a natural balance between quality and value for money.
Building on the journey that began in 2025 as the European Region of Sport, Liguria continues to highlight its landscape as a privileged setting for active and sustainable tourism: walking, exploring and experiencing the territory with awareness. This approach naturally aligns with the sensibilities of Northern European travellers, who are increasingly drawn to outdoor experiences that are authentic and respectful of local areas.
Participation in Utrecht stems from a shared effort involving local authorities and territorial organisations from Ponente to Levante, brought together in a regional stand that conveys a coherent, unified picture of the destination. It is a narrative shaped by landscapes, culture, traditions and relationships, designed to guide the Dutch public on a journey that begins with Flemish art and arrives at the Italian Riviera: understated, vibrant and deeply European.
8 December 2025 | Doha, Qatar — The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), in collaboration with the Doha Forum, is pleased to announce that Ms. Malebona Precious Matsoso, former Director-General of South Africa’s National Department of Health, has been awarded the Doha Best Negotiator of the Year 2025.
The award recognises individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership in negotiation, resilience in complex diplomatic processes, and a sustained commitment to advancing peace and international cooperation. Ms. Matsoso was selected for her instrumental role in leading negotiations on the Pandemic Agreement, adopted at the 78th World Health Assembly in May 2025.
About the Recipient
Ms. Malebona Precious Matsoso has held distinguished leadership roles across national, regional, and global health governance. She previously served as Director of Public Health Innovation and Intellectual Property at the World Health Organization (WHO) and led South Africa’s Medicines Control Council for six years.
Her extensive international experience includes serving as Chair of the WHO Executive Board, member of the UN High-Level Panel on Access to Health Technologies, Chairperson of the Independent Oversight and Advisory Committee for the WHO Health Emergencies Programme, and member of the Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response.
From left to right: Mr. Rabih El-Haddad, Ms. Sabrina Wollmann, Ms. Matsoso and H.E. Maha Al-Awadi, marking the formal recognition of Ms. Matsoso’s achievement.
Currently, Ms. Matsoso directs the Health Regulatory Science Platform at the Wits Health Consortium, serves on the Interim Executive Committee of the College for Africa Regulatory Science Professionals (CARSP), and is an Adjunct Professor at Sunway University in Malaysia. She is also a recipient of the South African Medical Research Council’s Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.
Ms. Matsoso was nominated for the Doha Best Negotiator of the Year Award for her leadership as Co-Chair of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB), where she guided UN Member States toward consensus on a landmark global framework for pandemic preparedness.
The Pandemic Agreement aims to:
Strengthen preparedness and surveillance systems;
Ensure equitable access to vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics;
Enhance coordinated responses to future health emergencies;
Uphold solidarity, transparency, and evidence-informed decision-making.
Her contribution is widely regarded as one of the most significant multilateral health achievements of the post-COVID era. During the award ceremony, Ms. Matsoso expressed her gratitude to all partners involved in the negotiation process, stating:
“We rebuilt trust, acted as bridge builders, and navigated complex constellations to keep the process moving forward. We have shown that when we come together, adversity can become a catalyst for lasting change.”
She also underscored the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement:
“Dialogue can and will pave the way. Let us continue to be the bridge builders, the trust rebuilders, and the hope keepers that this world needs.”
The award was presented by Mr. Rabih El-Haddad, Director of the Division for Multilateral Diplomacy at UNITAR, together with H.E. Maha Al-Awadi, during the Doha World Negotiation Day 2025.
This year’s edition focused on the role of preventive diplomacy in a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment. High-level speakers exchanged perspectives on strengthening multilateral mechanisms, rebuilding trust among international partners, and designing negotiation ecosystems capable of preventing future global crises.
Reflecting on the purpose of the initiative, Mr. El-Haddad noted:
“It is our task at the United Nations to recognise when positive things happen in the world — and to acknowledge negotiators who overcome deadlocks, rather than only those who fail.”
