Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025 – Inclusivity and Sustainability

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Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025 – Inclusivity and Sustainability

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a regional organization made up of ten countries in Southeast Asia. Since its establishment in 1967, ASEAN has sought to promote peace, economic growth, and cultural development in a rapidly evolving global environment. With a population exceeding 680 million and a combined GDP of over US$3.6 trillion, ASEAN represents both a significant regional bloc and an important partner on the international stage. Its structure is built around three interconnected pillars: Political-Security, Economic, and Socio-Cultural Communities, united by a commitment to consensus and regional cooperation.


Malaysia’s 2025 Chairmanship: A Key Year

In this milestone year, Malaysia assumes the Chairmanship of ASEAN, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the formal establishment of the ASEAN Community. Under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” Malaysia aims to collaborate closely with fellow Member States to foster peace, prosperity, and resilience across the region. The Chairmanship provides an opportunity to lead ASEAN through a period of growing complexity in global and regional affairs.

ASEAN in a Changing Global Landscape

The world today is marked by rapid interconnectedness as well as intensifying global disruptions, from pandemics to supply chain disruptions and rising geopolitical tensions. These developments underscore the growing importance of regional frameworks like ASEAN in supporting stability and multilateral cooperation. Malaysia’s chairmanship will seek to reinforce “ASEAN Centrality,” the guiding principle that places ASEAN at the centre of regional architecture and diplomacy.

Malaysia has identified three strategic priority areas for its chairmanship, reflecting both current global challenges and long-term aspirations for the ASEAN Community.

Priority Area 1: Promoting Regional Peace, Stability and Security

Malaysia will continue to emphasize trust-building, sustained diplomatic engagement, and constructive dialogue to foster a peaceful and stable regional order. During its ASEAN chairmanship, Malaysia aims to expand and deepen ASEAN’s partnerships with international partners and promote a cooperative framework anchored in mutual respect and pragmatic principles. In doing so, Malaysia seeks to reaffirm ASEAN’s role as a key player in regional peace and security.

Priority Area 2: Enhancing Trade and Investment

The second priority focuses on strengthening economic integration within ASEAN and enhancing ties with global partners. High-level events, such as the ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit and the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit in Kuala Lumpur, will serve as platforms to boost economic collaboration.

In parallel, ASEAN will prioritize technological advancement and digital transformation as essential drivers of economic resilience. ASEAN will continue to capitalise on developments in science, technology, and innovation while maximising the benefits of digital transformation across Member States as means to achieve inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

Priority Area 3: Advancing Inclusivity and Sustainability in Regional Development

The third focus area highlights the importance of narrowing development disparities within ASEAN. Malaysia’s chairmanship will promote inclusive growth by addressing social and economic inequalities, improving living standards, and strengthening climate resilience.

Sustainability is at the heart of this agenda. ASEAN will work collectively to tackle climate change challenges to foster sustainable development, economic growth, and shared prosperity that benefits all segments of society.

ASEAN Community Vision 2045: Charting a Strategic Path Forward

A key outcome of Malaysia’s chairmanship will be the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, a comprehensive roadmap guiding ASEAN community-building initiatives over the next two decades.

The Vision aims to transform ASEAN into a more resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centred Community. It will outline ASEAN’s approach to existing and emerging global trends through more effective and innovative responses, while simultaneously reinforcing ASEAN Centrality. On the international stage, the Vision will position ASEAN as a more influential global stakeholder capable of making substantive contributions to worldwide development efforts.

Fostering Trans-Regional Cooperation: ASEAN, Europe and the Netherlands

Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship presents valuable opportunities for enhanced ASEAN-Netherlands cooperation. For a globally engaged nation like the Netherlands, stronger ASEAN integration offers mutual benefits in trade, innovation, climate action, and education. Malaysia deeply appreciates the European Union including the Netherlands’ support in working towards a successful ASEAN Chairmanship under Malaysia’s leadership.

Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025 is both a responsibility and an opportunity to lead with vision and resolve. By championing inclusivity and sustainability, Malaysia will work to ensure that ASEAN remains a cohesive, dynamic, and forward-looking community. As ASEAN looks to the future, partnerships with international partners including the Netherlands will be crucial in promoting mutual growth, peace, and shared prosperity.

Italy: A Journey Between Innovation, Tradition, Art and Entertainment

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Italy: A Journey Between Innovation, Tradition, Art and Entertainment

By Roy LIe Atjam

On 15 April 2025, the National Made in Italy Day was celebrated at the Italian Cultural Institute in Amsterdam with an event entitled

“Italy: A Journey Between Innovation,Tradition, Art and Entertainment”

Made in Italy 2025

In his opening speech, the Italian Ambassador to the Netherlands H.E. Mr. Augusto Massari stressed the importance of Made in Italy as a symbol of passion for beauty, innovation and tradition. The choice to celebrate the event on April 15, the birthday of Leonardo da Vinci, is a tribute to the Italian genius.

Ambassador Massari also recalled that Made in Italy is synonymous with quality, creativity and elegance, thanks to the regulations that guarantee authenticity. In a competitive world, Italy is a key player, with more than 500 Italian companies in the Netherlands (29,000 jobs and a turnover of €19 billion) and trade with the Netherlands that amounted to €55 billion in 2024.

Made in Italy 2025

“The real value of Made in Italy,” said the Ambassador, “lies in the human capital that transforms natural resources into unique products and brings innovation to a wide range of sectors.” This is the secret of Italian success: doing things with passion, as Leonardo da Vinci did, who combined art and science.

During the event, art historian Matteo Fochessati outlined the history of Made in Italy in art, design and film, from Gio Ponti to the transatlanticists and the icons of the silver screen. The second part discussed sustainable water technologies, with speeches by RAI Amsterdam, EMEC and Atlas Filtri, leading Italian companies in the Netherlands and in the world.

Emec, Atlas e RAI representative. Made in Italy 2025.

A successful 2nd edition of the National Day of Made in Italy in Amsterdam.

Italy has very few natural resources of its own, yet the country ranks high in various industries. Italians ensure that their products are glamorous, stylish, and enjoyable, embodying the delightful essence of Italy. The focus on glamour is unique to Italian manufacturers, setting them apart from others in the market.

Atlas Filtri- Made in Italy 2025.

Copenhagen Democracy Summit

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Copenhagen Democracy Summit

The Copenhagen Democracy Summit 2025, held on May 13–14 at the Royal Danish Playhouse, convened global leaders, activists, and innovators to address the pressing challenges facing democracies worldwide.

Organized by the Alliance of Democracies Foundation, the summit emphasized themes such as defending democratic values, countering authoritarianism, and leveraging technology to bolster democratic institutions .(Copenhagen Democracy Summit 2025, Copenhagen Democracy Summit 2025).

Anders Fogh Rasmussen Founder and Chairman of The Alliance of Democracies Foundation David Cameron Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Photo Hasse Ferrold COPENHAGEN DEMOCRACY SUMMIT 13 05 2025 10.

Key Themes and Discussions

1. Democracy Under Pressure:
The summit highlighted the increasing threats to democratic systems, including the rise of authoritarian regimes and internal challenges within democratic nations. Discussions centered on the need for renewed commitment to democratic principles and the importance of international cooperation to uphold these values.

2. Technology and Democracy:
A significant focus was placed on the intersection of technology and democratic governance. Speakers addressed how technological advancements can both support and undermine democratic processes. Emphasis was placed on developing frameworks to ensure technology serves as a tool for enhancing transparency, civic engagement, and the protection of human rights.

3. Global Democratic Solidarity:
The summit underscored the importance of solidarity among democratic nations. Discussions included strategies for collective action against authoritarian influences and support for nations striving to establish or maintain democratic systems .(Via Ritzau, allianceofdemocracies.org)

The Ambassadors of Sweden (L), Fritz Schur (M), Ambassador of Finland (R). Photo Hasse Ferrold COPENHAGEN DEMOCRACY SUMMIT 13 05 2025 12

The summit featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including political leaders, activists, and experts from around the world. While the full list of speakers is extensive, some notable participants included:

  • Mette Frederiksen, Prime Minister of Denmark, who delivered opening remarks emphasizing Denmark’s commitment to democratic values.
  • Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Founder and Chairman of the Alliance of Democracies Foundation, who highlighted the need for a united front among democracies to address global challenges.(Copenhagen Democracy Summit 2025)
  • Jacob Mchangama, Executive Director of The Future of Free Speech, who discussed the role of free speech in the digital age.(LinkedIn)

These speakers, among others, contributed to a rich dialogue on the state of democracy and the paths forward .(Copenhagen Democracy Summit 2025)

The Copenhagen Democracy Summit 2025 served as a crucial platform for dialogue and collaboration among democratic stakeholders. By addressing current challenges and exploring innovative solutions, the summit reinforced the collective commitment to safeguarding and advancing democratic ideals in an increasingly complex global landscape.

Conscientious objection in war times

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Conscientious objection in war times

A Brussels-based NGO writes to the Constitutional Court

12 May 2025 

To the Acting Headof the Constitutional Court of Ukraine Petryshyn Oleksandr Volodymyrovych 

Dear Oleksandr Volodymyrovych, The international human rights organization “Human Rights Without Frontiers,” in cooperation with several European religious organizations, is closely following the proceedings regarding the constitutional complaint submitted by Ukrainian citizen Dmytro Zelinskyi.

This matter is of fundamental importance to all conscientious objectors in Ukraine, especially those whose religious beliefs do not allow them to bear arms or perform other forms of military work. 

Dmytro Zelinskyi was sentenced under Article 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine to three years of imprisonment for evading military conscription during mobilization in a special period. He justified his inability to serve in the military on the basis of his religious beliefs, as he has been a member of the “Christian community of the Seventh-day Adventist Church” for over 20 years.

He expressed his willingness to perform alternative non-military service, but such a right was denied due to the absence of relevant legal provisions allowing for alternative (non-military) service during mobilization in a special period. Dmytro Zelinskyi filed a complaint with the Constitutional Court of Ukraine requesting a review of the conformity of Part 1 of Article 1 of the Law of Ukraine “On Alternative (Non-Military) Service” with Part 4 of Article 35 of the Constitution of Ukraine. In his complaint, he states that “Part 4 of Article 35 of the Constitution of Ukraine pertains to the fulfillment of military duty in general.

Therefore, alternative (non-military) service should be introduced in place of all forms of military service, not only compuls service”; “however, the provisions of the Law allow alternative (non-military) service to substitute only for compulsory military service, which does not exist during martial law. This entirely nullifies the realization of the constitutional right provided by Part 4 of Article 35 of the Constitution of Ukraine and is thus unconstitutional.” 

Zelinskyi points out that “the Constitution of Ukraine guarantees exemption from military service for citizens whose religious beliefs do not allow them to bear arms. Moreover, no law has been adopted in accordance with Article 64 of the Constitution of Ukraine that would restrict the rights granted by Article 35 during martial law.” Therefore, he believes the current provisions of the Law contradict the Constitution, and the right to alternative (non-military) service must be guaranteed at all times. 

On 18 March 2025, the Venice Commission published an opinion prepared at the request of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine. In this opinion, the Venice Commission thoroughly analyzes the issues raised in Zelinskyi’s constitutional complaint in light of international human rights standards.  The Venice Commission clearly stated that: – Article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights and Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which concern freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, guarantee the right to conscientious objection to military service; – According to the European Convention on Human Rights, states must establish a system of alternative service that is separate from the military structure, is not punitive in nature, and remains within reasonable time limits.

Access to alternative service must be non-discriminatory and subject to fair and transparent mechanisms; – The very nature of conscientious objection implies that it cannot be entirely excluded during wartime; – The state cannot invoke national security as the sole justification for restricting the right of individuals or groups to practice their religion; – Any restrictions on the right to conscientious objection must be clearly prescribed by law, pursue a legitimate aim, be strictly limited to what is evidently necessary to achieve that aim, and be proportionate to that aim. 

The Commission also emphasizes that “under no circumstances can a conscientious objector be forced to carry or use weapons, even for self-defense.” We are deeply concerned by the fact that dozens of believers who refused military service during martial law solely for religious reasons are currently serving sentences in prison.

Other believers who refuse mobilization on religious grounds are being criminally prosecuted under Article 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. They were not provided with the right to alternative (non-military) service guaranteed by the Constitution of Ukraine and international human rights standards. This represents a serious human rights violation that requires urgent constitutional response. 

The Constitutional Court is now essentially tasked with ensuring that Ukrainian believers are able to exercise their constitutional rights and fulfill their duty to Ukraine in a way that does not involve imprisonment. 

We are gravely troubled by the fact that the case of Dmytro Zelinskyi has not yet been resolved, even though the six-month period provided by law has already expired. We call for a transparent, fair, and timely review of this case, which is of vital importance to many believers in Ukraine who wish to exercise their constitutional rights according to their conscience. 

In view of the above, we kindly request information regarding the scheduled date for consideration of this case by the Constitutional Court.

Respectfully, 
Willy Fautré 
Director and Co-Founder 
“Human Rights Without Frontiers International”

“Tea for Harmony – Yaji Cultural Salon” and “Jiangxi Day” Promotion Event Held in Morocco

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“Tea for Harmony – Yaji Cultural Salon” and “Jiangxi Day” Promotion Event Held in Morocco

NANCHANG, China, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The “Tea for Harmony – Yaji Cultural Salon” and the “Unique Landscape in Jiangxi – Jiangxi Day in Morocco” promotion event were held on May 9 in Rabat, the capital of Morocco. More than 120 guests from various sectors in both China and Morocco attended the event.

The event was co-hosted by the Jiangxi Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the Chinese Culture Center in Rabat, and the Network of International Culturalink Entities, with special support from the Moroccan Tea and Coffee Industry Association.

Ye Jianchun, Governor of Jiangxi Province, delivered a speech highlighting three key cultural symbols: tea culture, ceramic art, and intangible cultural heritage. He introduced Jiangxi as a province with picturesque landscapes, a rich cultural legacy, and dynamic development. He expressed his belief that this cultural dialog between Jiangxi and Morocco would yield even more fruitful results. Governor Ye also expressed hope that both sides would leverage their unique strengths to further deepen cooperation and openness in the fields of culture and tourism.

Guests visiting the photo exhibition during Jiangxi – Jiangxi Day in Morocco.

Li Changlin, Chinese Ambassador to Morocco, also delivered a speech, inviting Moroccan guests to visit Jiangxi. He noted the positive momentum in China-Morocco relations and emphasized Jiangxi’s advantages in sectors such as aviation, electronic information, equipment manufacturing, traditional medicine, new energy, and new materials. He expressed hope for expanding cooperation opportunities with Morocco.

During the event, Chinese and Moroccan tea artists performed tea ceremonies together. Other highlights included a tourism promotion event titled “Unique Landscape in Jiangxi”, a photo exhibition “Picturesque Jiangxi with Unique Landscape”, a ceramic art exhibition “New Charm of Porcelain from Jiangxi,” a tea culture exhibition named “Orchid Charm Meets Jiangxi”, and live demonstrations of Jiangxi’s intangible cultural heritage.

Source: Jiangxi Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism

Denmark Remembers: 80 Years Since Liberation from Nazi Rule

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Denmark Remembers: 80 Years Since Liberation from Nazi Rule

This May marks 80 years since Denmark was liberated from Nazi occupation. The official commemorations for the 80th anniversary began at 15:30 with a special service at Vor Frue Kirke in Copenhagen. The Royal Family, members of the Danish Parliament, diplomats, and veterans of the resistance attended the service.

The event was broadcast on DR and TV2 from 19:30 to 21:00, and featured a performance by the Copenhagen Boys’ Choir (Københavns Drengekor).

Later, the Royal Family and veterans proceeded to Mindelunden in Ryvangen — a memorial park dedicated to Danish resistance fighters and civilians who died during the Nazi occupation. Originally a site for executions and burials, Mindelunden hosted a ceremony that included a speech by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, musical performances by DR Pigekoret (DR’s Girls’ Choir), a community sing-along, and a wreath-laying.

Across Denmark, additional commemorations took place, including ceremonies, concerts, and public gatherings, all paying tribute to the nation’s journey from occupation to freedom.

Malaysia: VNM Talks – Perspectives on Malaysia

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Malaysia: VNM Talks – Perspectives on Malaysia

By Roy LIe Atjam

The Embassy of Malaysia in the Netherlands, in collaboration with the Vereniging Nederland-Maleisië(VNM), proudly hosted the annual VNM Talks under the theme “Perspectives on Malaysia”at the Embassy of Malaysia in The Hague on April 11, 2025.

The lineup of speakers at Malaysia VNM Talks.

H.E. Dato’ Rosli Abdul, the Ambassador of Malaysia, warmly welcomed the guests and officially opened the event. The lineup of speakers was impressive and included: Introduction by Mr. Hans van de Bunte, Chairman of the Vereniging Nederland-Maleisië.

Hans van Bunte and Martijn Habers during Malaysia VNM Talks.

Presentation I “Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025” by Mohd Ishrin bin Mohd Ishak, Deputy Chief of Mission. –

Presentation II: “Sustainable Palm Oil in Malaysia” by Inke van der Sluijs, Director of Market Transformation at the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO).

Presentation III: “The Grand Tour — A Study Trip to Malaysia” by Martijn Habers from the Technical University of Delft. –

Presentation IV: Book Discussion and Photo Presentation on “An Indonesian Woman in Malaysia” by Rick Honings and Coen van ’t Veer from Leiden .

The successful Perspectives on Malaysia event concluded with a traditional Malaysian hospitality treat.

A cross-section of the audience. Malaysia VNM Talks.

Best of Bangladesh in Europe 2025: Catalyzing Opportunities for Trade and Business Growth

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Best of Bangladesh in Europe 2025: Catalyzing Opportunities for Trade and Business Growth

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Best of Bangladesh in Europe has concluded with success, marking a significant turning point for Bangladeshi trade and businesses. The second edition of the “Best of Bangladesh” presentation took place in Amsterdam on April 17-18, 2025, at the historic Beurs van Berlage. This venue was the perfect setting for a significant trade and business event. Originally designed as a commodity exchange, the Beurs van Berlage was constructed between 1896 and 1903 and has a rich history. It was also the site of the civil ceremony for the wedding of King Willem-Alexander and Máxima Zorreguieta in 2002. This event firmly established Bangladesh’s presence in European trade and business, showcasing its potential for growth and collaboration.

The event being held on 17-18 April 2025 at Beurs Van Berlage in Amsterdam showcased the dynamic potential of Bangladesh’s economy, attracted over 1500 visitors, including buyers and investors and stakeholders from around the Europe.

The two-day nation branding event is being organized by Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE) and powered by PDS Limited, in association with City Bank Plc, Bangladesh, and KDS Group, with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA).

The Best of Bangladesh Fotograf: MichielTon.com

The event featured 32 exhibitors representing eight vital sectors, including apparel, leather, jute and handicraft, IT, agro-food, poultry and seed, offering a unique opportunity for Bangladeshi businesses to connect directly with international partners.

The exhibiting companies includes Aus Bangla Jutex Ltd., Agronochain, Brain Station 23, BJIT Group, Bondstein Technologies Ltd, Countree Agro, Centrotex Ltd, Classical Handmade Products BD Ltd, Delmas Apparels Pvt Ltd, Knit Asia Ltd, KDS Group, Lal Teer Seed Ltd., Leatherina Pvt Ltd, Mapped In Bangladesh (MiB), Meridian Foods Ltd., Noize Jeans, Nourish Feeds Limited., PDS Limited, PDS Venture, Good Earth, Smartex, Pacific Knit Division, Paddock’s Jeans, Polka Flex, PRAN Foods Ltd., Paragon Group, Rising Group, Reverse Resources, Ruhrose Studio RBT,Simco Spinning & Textiles Ltd. (Cyclo), Shin Shin Apparels Ltd, Tarango, Turjo Tex Limited, Team Group, and Zhejiang Weixing Industrial Development Co. Ltd.

The event was inaugurated at 11am Amsterdam time where Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) was the Chief Guest; while Charles Whiteley, Head of South Asia Division of European External Action Service was the Guest of Honor; Pascalle Grotenhuis, Director-General for International Cooperation of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands was the special guest; H.E Mr. Tareque Muhammad, Ambassador of  Bangladesh to the Kingdom of the Netherlands was the Guest of Honor; and Pallak Seth Executive Vice Chairman of PDS Limited was also the Guest of Honor.

The Best of Bangladesh Fotograf: MichielTon.com

On the first day of the event Panel Discussion 01: Bangladesh: Overarching Economic Growth and Investment Opportunities, Panel Discussion 02: Bangladesh into Future: A Global Sourcing Hub, Country Presentation (Bangladesh) by City Bank Plc, Bangladesh, Presentation PDS in Action: Turning Sustainability into Reality in Bangladesh By PDS Limited, Presentation by OneTrueValue – ORE II: Decarbonizing Global Supply Chains, Presentation by Aware™ – Proof Over Promise, Fireside Chat 01 – Opportunities for Action – Driving a Just Transition in Bangladesh by Laudes Foundation, Fireside Chat 02 – Bangladesh Poultry Industry, Breakout Session 01 – The Global Circular Future: Unlocking Social Business Opportunities in Bangladesh and Europe, Breakout Session 02 – Fashion for Good (Innovation in Action), and Breakout Session 03 – Dutch-Bangla Roundtable on Textile Recycling were held.  

The Best of Bangladesh Fotograf: MichielTon.com

Contributors of the 2nd edition of the Best of Bangladesh in Europe are Apparel Impact Institute, Cascale, Circle Economy, Clean & Unique, Dutch Greenhouse Delta, European Union, Export Partner, Ethical Trading Initiative, Fair Wear Foundation, Fashion for Good, Netherlands Food Partnership, Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), OneTrueValue, SeedNL, Social and Labor Convergence Program (SLCP), and YY Ventures.

In the event, Fashion runway was organized where capability of Bangladesh apparel industry in innovation, sustainability as well as in product design and development was showcased.

Shin Shin Group, Pacific Knit Division, Team Group and CentroTex Group presented their latest products on the ramp of the 2nd edition of Best of Bangladesh in Europe at the iconic Amsterdam Conference Centre Beurs Van Berlage in Amsterdam, the Netherlands in front of the European representatives of fashion brands and retailers.

Fotograaf: MichielTon.com

Mostafiz Uddin, Founder & CEO of Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE), said “As we celebrate the achievements of Best of Bangladesh 2025, the Bangladesh Apparel Exchange extends heartfelt thanks to all exhibitors, sponsors, and partners who contributed to the event’s success. This gathering was not just an exhibition; it was a vital catalyst for transformation within our trade landscape.”

 â€śBest of Bangladesh has profoundly elevated our position in the international market. It is an outstanding opportunity for Bangladeshi businesses to showcase innovation and engage with key stakeholders, fostering partnerships that drive economic growth.”

For more information visit: https://bestofbangladesh.org/

Uzbekistan Karshi State University Presentation In Westland

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Uzbekistan Karshi State University Presentation In Westland

By Roy Lie Atjam

A delegation led by the Rector of Karshi State University,
Uzbekistan, Professor Dilmurod Nabiyev, visited the World Horti 
Centre International Exhibition and Trade Centre in the 
Netherlands as part of a business trip to Europe.

A meeting was held with Marga Vintges, Strategic Advisor to Westland
Municipality, West-Holland Greenport Project Manager, Dr.
Caicheng Huang, Professor of Plant Breeding and
Biotechnology at the Inholland University of Applied Sciences,
and Professor Li Zeng, International Project Manager of the
Lentiz Education Group is located in South Holland. The parties
exchanged views on agribusiness, biotechnology, and safe food
supply, innovative educational methods and prospects for
international cooperation.

World Horti  Centre International Exhibition and Trade Centre.

At the end of the meeting, the parties agreed to establish
cooperation in important areas such as agriculture, water
resource conservation, environmental sustainability, and food
security.

Ahead of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference
Conference to be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, this autumn, a
delegation led by the rector of Karshi State University, Professor
Dilmurod Nabiyev visited Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 

to widely promote the rich historical and cultural heritage
of Uzbekistan on an international scale. A comprehensive
presentation on the topic “The Priceless Heritage of Uzbekistan”
was held in Amsterdam. It showcased the national art, crafts,
and Uzbek national cuisine. The exhibition and cultural
programs aroused great interest among the guests. The event
was attended by many students and guests.

Uzbekistan delegation during the visit to the World Horticulture Centre.

The Karshi State University presentation concluded with a vibrant Uzbek lunch buffet, accompanied by engaging music and dance. Attendees enjoyed a showcase of exquisite Uzbek fashion items, while also seizing valuable networking opportunities.

Canada Votes for Unity: Mark Carney Elected Prime Minister as Nation Embraces Change

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Canada Votes for Unity: Mark Carney Elected Prime Minister as Nation Embraces Change

Ottawa, April 2025 – In a defining moment for Canada’s political landscape, Mark Carney has been elected as the new Prime Minister, following a federal election marked by high voter turnout, peaceful transition, and a clear call for national unity. Carney, an experienced economist and former Governor of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England, led a campaign under the slogans “Standing Up for Canada,” “United Canada,” and “Canada for All.” His vision appealed to a wide cross-section of Canadians eager for pragmatic leadership, inclusivity, and forward-looking policy.

In his victory speech in Ottawa, Carney emphasized reconciliation, climate action, and economic resilience. “Canadians have spoken clearly,” he said. “They want a government that brings people together—east and west, rural and urban, Indigenous and non-Indigenous. We are stronger united, and our diversity is our strength.”

His campaign struck a careful balance between progressive policies on climate and social justice and a centrist, fiscally responsible economic approach—rooted in his international financial experience.

Leadership Changes: The End of an Era

This election also marks a significant shift in Canadian politics with the resignation of a key political figure: Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party.

Jagmeet Singh, after nearly a decade at the helm of the NDP, stepped down after losing his seat in the newly established riding of Burnaby Central during the 2025 Canadian federal election. He was defeated by Liberal candidate Wade Chang, a lawyer and first-time Member of Parliament. Singh cited a desire to allow a new generation of leaders to shape the party’s future.

Singh’s tenure was marked by his charismatic advocacy for social justice and equity, and he leaves with a legacy of having broadened the party’s base and modernized its image.

Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party, lost his long-held Carleton seat in the recent federal election, he has acknowledged the party’s defeat and expressed his intention to hold the new minority government accountable. Poilievre had been a polarizing figure in Canadian politics, faced criticism in recent months for his confrontational style and lack of a unifying message during a time when Canadians sought cohesion over division.

With Carney’s election, Canada enters a new chapter—one focused on bridging divides, tackling climate change, restoring global partnerships, and ensuring economic fairness in a rapidly evolving world.

Internationally respected and domestically admired, Carney is seen by many as a leader capable of restoring confidence and diplomacy to Canada’s role on the world stage. Early signals from European capitals, Washington, and Commonwealth partners have already been positive, welcoming his election as a reaffirmation of Canada’s liberal democratic values.

Looking Ahead

The new Prime Minister is expected to form his cabinet within the coming weeks, with a focus on representation, innovation, and cross-party collaboration. Early legislative priorities are likely to include climate legislation, housing affordability, Indigenous reconciliation, and strengthening Canada’s role in multilateral diplomacy.

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