Brazil Celebrates 202 Years of  Independence in Style

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Brazil Celebrates 202 Years of  Independence in Style

By Roy Lie Atjam

On the 6th of September 2024, The Hague stood as a perfect setting to honour Brazil’s National Day, with the picturesque backdrop of het Mauritshuis adding to the grandeur of the occasion.

The event wasn’t just a reception but a truly spectacular affair, a spektakula in Trinidadian carnival lingo. Visualize a lively crowd of over 200 individuals coming together to commemorate Brazil’s 202 years of independence.

With the MC’s introduction, the dynamic Humberto Tan created an atmosphere of unparalleled abundance with quotations from the song, O amanhã, Como será amanhã? By Simone. Throughout the evening, jubilant songs, lively conversations, and joyous laughter filled every corner of the Mauritshuis.

The observance was also a milestone, providing a platform to reflect on the colonial past while celebrating art, Indigenous culture, and the values of gender equality and racial diversity. H.E. Mr. Fernando Simas Magalhães, Ambassador of Brazil to the Netherlands, and Dr Martine Gosselink, Director of the Mauritshuis, highlighted the importance of this occasion as a reflection on the shared history of Brazil and the Netherlands. Netherlands Government officials, foreign diplomats, private sector leaders, cultural icons, and esteemed members of the Brazilian community attended the festivities.

Felipe Ferreira Marques, Cultural Attaché of the Embassy of Brazil in The Hague. Photography by Fred Ernst, Mauritshuis.

Mr Felipe Marques, the Cultural Attaché of the Embassy of Brazil in The Hague, hosted the event. Guest speaker Humberto Tan, a distinguished Dutch television figure, photographer, writer, and social activist, provided insights into the cultural and historical connections between Brazil and the Netherlands.

Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed a performance of Brazil and the Netherlands national anthems by Brazilian singer Carla Maffioletti and Dutch singer Femke Smit, accompanied by musicians from Roda da Holanda.

Clara Maffioletti, Brazilian singer. Photography by Fred Ernst, Mauritshuis.
Femke Smit, Dutch singer.Photography by Fred Ernst, Mauritshuis.

One of the event’s highlights was the unveiling of a mural by the celebrated Indigenous Brazilian artist Daiara Tukano, who also offered thought-provoking words to the audience. Her mural stands as a powerful representation of Brazil’s rich Indigenous heritage and cultural diversity. The celebration concluded with a lively performance by Roda da Holanda, which resonated with the spirit and joy of samba.

The following is a resume of the welcome remarks by the Ambassador of Brazil H.E. Mr. Fernando Simas Magalhãe “It is an honor to welcome you all to this event, as we celebrate the 202nd anniversary of Brazil’s independence. This year’s celebration here at the Mauritshuis holds special significance as we reflect on our shared history with the Netherlands, highlighting the importance of art, Indigenous culture, gender equality, and racial diversity. Our thoughts tonight are part of a broader effort to foster a more equitable, just, and sustainable future, where both Brazil and the Netherlands play vital roles.

Standing here in this historic museum, a symbol of Dutch cultural heritage, we are reminded of how art connects people. I extend my gratitude to Dr. Martine Gosselink, Director of the Mauritshuis, for her commitment to democratizing art and promoting thoughtful discussions about our shared past. The museum’s collection evokes strong emotions, particularly for Brazilians, given its connection to Johan Maurits, who governed Dutch Brazil in the 17th century.

Brazilian artist, Diara Tukano, Photography by Fred Ernst, Mauritshuis

Today, we are honored to unveil a new chapter in cultural diplomacy: a mural by the renowned Brazilian Indigenous artist Daiara Tukano. Her work represents the resilience and magic of Brazil’s Indigenous heritage and will serve as a lasting symbol of our culture in the Netherlands. We are also pleased that filmmaker Ida Does is capturing this moment in a documentary, expanding the mural’s reach to a wider audience.

This evening, we were privileged to hear from Humberto Tan, known for his contributions to television, writing, and photography. We also enjoyed a performance by acclaimed singer Carla Maffioletti, who has performed with André Rieu, and later we will experience the lively rhythms of Roda de Samba da Holanda, a Brazilian-Dutch group.

I’d also like to acknowledge the presence of Rosângela Rennó, a Brazilian photographer whose exhibition will open next week at the BredaPhoto Festival.

Humberto Tan. Photography by Fred Ernst, Mauritshuis.

Tonight’s event celebrates the strong bonds between Brazil and the Netherlands, a partnership grounded in shared values and a rich history. Our cooperation today extends across many fields. For example, in response to recent floods in Rio Grande do Sul, the Netherlands, through its Disaster Risk Reduction initiative, is helping us develop sustainable water management solutions.

Our collaboration in science, technology, and innovation is particularly strong, with both countries boasting dynamic startup ecosystems. A recent highlight of our bilateral cooperation is the contract between the Dutch Ministry of Defense and Embraer for the delivery of five C-390 Millennium military aircrafts, enhancing the Netherlands’ capabilities in humanitarian and disaster relief missions.

Brazil and the Netherlands also recognize the urgent need for global energy transition. Both nations prioritize biofuels, low-carbon hydrogen, and renewable energy as key areas for collaboration. Brazil will host COP30 in the Amazon in 2025, demonstrating our shared commitment to fighting climate change.

Brazil National Day 2024, The Hague. Photography by Fred Ernst, Mauritshuis.

Food security is another priority. As part of Brazil’s G20 presidency, we proposed the creation of a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, and Prime Minister Rutte has been invited to support this initiative. Brazil will also host a historic meeting of G20 Foreign Ministers at the United Nations Headquarters in New York later this month, marking the first time that the G20 will convene at the UN. This meeting symbolizes the importance of inclusiveness and multilateralism and will culminate in a call for reforming global governance, a proposal championed by President Lula and UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

Brazil’s foreign relations are guided by principles such as national independence, human rights, and peaceful conflict resolution. These values are reflected in our involvement with international institutions like the International Court of Justice, the International Criminal Court, and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. Our cooperation with the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the Hague Conference on Private International Law, and EUROPOL further illustrates our commitment to these principles.

As we commemorated 202 years of Brazilian Independence, the celebration not only honoured our past but also looked to the future with a commitment to inclusivity, cultural diplomacy, and strengthening the ties between Brazil and the Netherlands.“

Encrypted Criminal Platform Taken Down: 51 Arrested in Major Operation

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Encrypted Criminal Platform Taken Down: 51 Arrested in Major Operation

51 arrests in wide-scale operation to take down encrypted communication platform used by organised crime groups

The Hague, 18 September 2024

During a global operation, authorities from around the globe took down an encrypted communication platform used for criminal activities such as drug trafficking, homicide, corruption and money laundering. The wide scale operation, supported by Eurojust and Europol, led to over 50 arrests and the seizing of financial assets.

Investigations into the communication platform started when authorities were alerted of a new encrypted service being used in Sweden, France, Spain and the Netherlands. Due to servers being located in France, French authorities started investigations into the platform. The platform’s robust encryption made it ideal for criminal networks to use for their activities. It was mostly used for drug trafficking but also for other criminal activities, such as arms trading, homicide, robbery, kidnapping, and money laundering.

The communication platform is a fully anonymised service. Users can purchase the solution without any personal information. The platform uses three encryption standards and offers the option to send a message followed by a specific code that results in the self-destruction of all messages on the target phone. By using multiple private servers around the world, third party or government agencies have difficulty tracking the communication solution.

As servers were found in France and Iceland, the platform was administered from Australia and Canada, and financial assets were located in the United States, a global operation against the phone service started. A joint investigation team (JIT) between authorities from France and the United States was set up at Eurojust, the second-ever JIT with the United States. This allowed them to exchange information and evidence in real time. Authorities from the Netherlands, Sweden, Canada and Australia were also involved in the investigations. Through coordination among the authorities, hosted by Eurojust, a strategy to take down the encrypted phone solution was defined.

To facilitate investigations into the illegal activities using this communication platform, an Operational Taskforce (OTF) was established at Europol in March 2022 involving law enforcement authorities from Australia, Canada, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden and the United States.

A Joint Operational Centre was also established at Europol’s headquarters, where representatives from the OTF members and Europol’s officers provided support and facilitated the coordination of the simultaneous operational activities taking place around the globe.

The investigations culminated in a number of joint action days taking place across the globe against the phone service. 38 suspects were arrested in Australia, 11 in Ireland, one in Italy and one in Canada. A drug lab was dismantled in Australia and weapons, drugs and over EUR 1 million euro is cash was seized globally so far. Further actions are expected as the investigation progresses.

The following authorities were involved in the actions:

  • France: Cybercrime unit Prosecutor’s office – JUNALCO (National Jurisdiction against organised crime); Gendarmerie Nationale – C3N Cybercrime Unit
  • Netherlands: National Police
  • Sweden: Swedish Prosecution Authority; Swedish Police Authority
  • Australia: The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
  • Canada: Public Prosecution Service of Canada
  • Iceland: Director of Public Prosecution; National Commissioner of the Icelandic Police; Reykjavik Metropolitan Police
  • United States: Department of Justice; Federal Bureau of Investigation

ICC and Europol conclude agreements

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
ICC and Europol conclude agreements

On 18 September 2024, Judge Tomoko Akane, the President of the International Criminal Court, and Catherine De Bolle, the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation – Europol, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on secure communication and a Liaison Agreement at Europol Headquarters in The Hague.

These agreements complement a framework Working Arrangement establishing cooperative relations which was signed between Europol and the ICC on 25 April 2023. The agreements operationalize aspects of the cooperative relations between the ICC and Europol, better enabling the two institutions to enhance their cooperation and encourage the exchange of information, knowledge, experience and expertise.

ICC President Tomoko Akane said: “Our two institutions share a fundamental understanding that international cooperation is key to the pursuit of justice. At this challenging time, the objectives of the Court, including the pursuit of an end to impunity in the context of full respect for the rule of law, can be best achieved in close cooperation and partnership with others. Today, we strengthen this cooperation by adopting frameworks for its practical implementation between our two institutions.”

Europol Executive Director Catherine De Bolle said: “The cooperation between Europol and the ICC is of high interest to both parties in the fight against core international crimes. As law enforcement practitioners and especially for those of us who work in pursuit of international criminal justice, the International Criminal Court is a reference. It is a symbol for the international community efforts to hold accountable those guilty of some of the world’s worst crimes.”

The ICC is the first permanent, treaty-based, international criminal court established to help end impunity for the perpetrators of the most serious crimes of concern to the international community, namely war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and the crime of aggression.

Europol is the European Union’s Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation. It serves as the center for law enforcement cooperation, analytical expertise and criminal intelligence in Europe.

International Criminal Court Conducts Training on Protection and Support for Victims and Witnesses

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
International Criminal Court Conducts Training on Protection and Support for Victims and Witnesses

On 10-13 September 2024, the International Criminal Court held a training on witness protection and support for victims with 15 law enforcement officers from Ukraine, in partnership with the European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM) Ukraine.

The training gathered at the seat of the Court, in The Hague, the Netherlands, 15 law enforcement officers from Ukraine to help apply an integrated, witness and victim-centered model for the protection and support of victims and witnesses.

Discussions, presentations, case studies and practical exercises focused on various issues related to protection and support, such as witness protection in the international context and from a national perspective, threat and risk assessment, risk management, confidentiality and information security, psychosocial aspects in witness protection, management of children in witness protection, and memorandums of understanding.

The training was organized with the financial support of the European Union.

President of Slovenia visits International Criminal Court

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
President of Slovenia visits International Criminal Court

On 16 September 2024, the President of the Republic of Slovenia, H.E. Nataša Pirc Musar, visited the International Criminal Court (ICC), where she was received by ICC President Judge Tomoko Akane. During her visit to the Court, the President also met with Prosecutor Karim A. A. Khan KC, Registrar Osvaldo Zavala Giler, Judge Beti Hohler, and Executive Director of the Trust Fund for Victims, Deborah Ruiz Verduzco.

On behalf of the ICC, President Tomoko Akane thanked H.E. Nataša Pirc Musar for honouring the Court with her visit.

The visit of President H.E. Nataša Pirc Musar to the ICC highlights Slovenia’s commitment to the Court and the joint efforts deployed in the fight against the impunity of the perpetrators of the most serious crimes that affect the international community as a whole. Slovenia signed the Rome Statute on 7 October 1998 and deposited its instrument of ratification of the Rome Statute on 31 December 2001.

The President of the Republic of Slovenia, H.E. Nataša Pirc Musar, and Executive Director of the Trust Fund for Victims, Deborah Ruiz Verduzco..

UK and Africa, for the Future

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
UK and Africa, for the Future

By Dayana da Silva

Following the great outcomes and lasting successes of the similar programs in Europe (Vienna and Geneva most notably), one of the leading African economic institutes along with its European (think-tank, academia, cultural diplomacy, and media) partners, and its Asian and Latin American associates, decided to launch the special executive program for future business executives on its own.

As a part of the notable series (within the Institute’s Certified Economic Diplomat Program) concepted and conducted by prof. Anis H. Bajrektarevic, the former UK Defence Secretary, Sir Geoffrey Hoon gave a highly informative and content intensive lecture for the IEF participants and invited (practitioners and academia) guests. 

During the content-intensive exchanges with the IEF’s CED participants, Sir Hoon elaborated on his career path, notably his role in the Labour Party, while contextualizing it in the general historical framework (pre-modern and modern political history) of Britain. He generously and enthusiastically shared elaborate views on the political structure of the United Kingdom and its main power brokers. In addition, he discussed the political development of the nation’s history in the post WWI, interwar and post-WWII periods.

The Post-war recovery, European integrations, Cold War, formation of multilateral forums in Europe (such as the Council of Europe, EEC, and Conference for Security and Cooperation in Europe), fall of the Berlin wall and subsequent democratization in Eastern Europe, NATO and its R2P (Responsibility to Protect) role, Brexit, Euro-MED dialogue as well as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and in Gaza (than increasingly jeopardises balance, passions and drives of the entire MENA theatre) were main point that captivated participants all through the frank and open talk.

Vivid exchanges of views and opinions marked the closuring part of the two-hour long lecturing and tour-de-table. Content intensive, inspiring reflective and farsighted, yet amicable and family-like atmosphere with a direct, personal access to the notable guest deeply impressed all. Closing the event, Excellency Hoon, attendees and the hosts, jointly encapsulated what all participants already concluded in the course of the talk – that the Program offers unique setting, unparallel anywhere else in the world. They all agreed that this particular format is truly remarkable opportunity for emerging leaders from the state, intergovernmental and corporate sectors of all meridians.

The fascinating ship of insights and wisdom gets a full swing sail once again. Its next port of call awaits before too long, with the world’s top developmental agencies (such as UNIDO, OFID, WTO, IaB) experts from Washington, Vienna and Geneva (14 September). It will be soon after  followed by the International Liberal President, Ms. Al Haité (on 21st September).  

——-

Geoffrey William Hoon is a former Defence Secretary, Transport Secretary, Leader of the House of Commons, and Government Chief Whip of Britain. His book, “See How They Run”, chronicles his career as an academic, lawyer, politician, and international business figure. Sir Geoffrey Hoon was educated at Jesus College, Cambridge, and later taught at universities in both the United Kingdom and the United States. As a trained lawyer and senior cabinet member in Tony Blair’s Labour government, he held several key ministerial roles.

In addition to his political career, Hoon served as a Member of Parliament (1992–2010) and as a Member of the European Parliament (1984–1994). Following his time in politics, he became a senior industry executive at AgustaWestland, where he worked in both the defence and civil aerospace markets on a global scale. More recently, he has taken on roles as a non-executive director (NED) and served as the chair of both a charity and a private-sector organization.

In August 2024, Hoon was one of the inaugural speakers at the IEF Lecture Series, which is part of the “Certified Economic Diplomat” program. This program proudly hosts current and former heads of state, Nobel Prize laureates, and key influencers from politics, economics, security, and energy sectors. Alongside figures like Professor Jeffrey Sachs and former OSCE Secretary General, Hoon addressed a diverse audience of emerging leaders from government, international organizations, and industry across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East—many of whom are high-ranking diplomats.

About the author:

Dayana da SilvaBenelux-based Communicology. Dayana serves as the IFIMES Senior Research Fellow and Liaison to the Brussels-based Intl FORAs.

Mexico Promotes Air Connectivity and Tourism in the Netherlands

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Mexico Promotes Air Connectivity and Tourism in the Netherlands

The Secretary of Tourism of Mexico, Miguel Torruco Marqués, recently concluded a successful visit to the Netherlands from September 3rd to 4th, accompanied by the Ambassador of Mexico to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, H.E. Ms. Carmen Moreno Toscano. This initiative, known in Spanish as Operación Toca Puertas (Operation Knock on Doors), aimed to boost tourist arrivals from the Netherlands, enhance air connectivity, and encourage higher per capita spending by visitors.

As a key event, the Embassy of Mexico in the Netherlands organized a seminar and networking session entitled “This is Mexico”, which showcased the country’s tourism offerings. Secretary Torruco, along with state authorities and industry representatives, addressed over 100 Dutch tour operators and travel agents, presenting Mexico’s diverse and extensive tourism attractions.

Miguel Torruco Marqués, Secretary of Tourism of Mexico.

Highlighting Mexico’s Tourism Potential

In his presentation, Secretary Torruco emphasized the crucial role of tourism in Mexico’s economy, and introduced the latest developments in tourism infrastructure, such as the Mayan Train, the Felipe Angeles International Airport (AIFA), and the Tulum Airport. These projects enhance accessibility across Mexico’s 279 destinations. He also spotlighted Mexico’s renowned beaches, major cities, and its unique cultural heritage, which includes 177 Magical Towns, 34 Magical Neighborhoods, 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and various archaeological wonders. Special attention was given to nature tourism, adventure opportunities, culture, and Mexico’s world-renowned gastronomy.

Following Secretary Torruco’s keynote, representatives from the regions of Chihuahua, Yucatán, La Paz, and Los Cabos provided detailed presentations on their tourism assets. Additionally, Mark Mooren, Country Manager for the UK, Ireland, and Benelux at Aeroméxico, discussed the airline’s role in connecting the Netherlands and Mexico via flights from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. The seminar concluded with presentations by René Luis Rodríguez, CEO of Ketzaltour, who showcased tailored tourist packages for the Dutch market, and David Figueroa Zurita, President of Bolt Media, who highlighted investment opportunities in Mexico’s growing tourism sector.

Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation in Tourism

Secretary Torruco also participated in several bilateral meetings with key Dutch stakeholders in the tourism sector. Alongside Ambassador Moreno Toscano, he met with Jos Vranken, Director General of the Netherlands Bureau of Tourism and Conventions (NBTC), where they exchanged best practices in international tourism promotion. They agreed on prioritizing the attraction of foreign exchange from tourism and increasing travelers’ per capita spending, moving away from mass tourism to avoid overcrowding in popular destinations.

Further discussions with Frank Radstake, Director of the Dutch Association of Travel Agents (ANVR), and Rob Oostendorp, Director of Product-Long Haul at TUI Nederland, focused on strengthening cooperation to boost Dutch tourist arrivals to Mexico. TUI Nederland, a key player, is among the top three airlines operating flights between the Netherlands and Mexico.

Enhancing Air Connectivity 

As part of efforts to increase air connectivity, Secretary Torruco met with Mark Mooren of Aeroméxico, where they discussed the airline’s impressive role in facilitating Mexico-Netherlands travel. In 2023, Aeroméxico operated 34% of flights between the two countries, increasing to 36.3% in the first half of 2024. The Mexican delegation also held meetings with Egon Heini, Director of Government and Industry Affairs at KLM, and Hugo van Joolen, Director of Tourism Development and Commercial Alliances at KLM. KLM, which accounted for 52.1% of flights between Mexico and the Netherlands in 2023, reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening air links with Mexico.

During a visit to SkyTeam headquarters in Amstelveen, Secretary Torruco met with CEO Patrick Roux and the Corporate Management team to discuss the alliance’s global connectivity, serving over a thousand destinations across 23 countries with a capacity of more than 28.3 million seats projected by 2024.

Promoting Mexican Culture through Gastronomy

Mexican gastronomy, a key element in promoting Mexico’s cultural richness, was a highlight of Secretary Torruco’s visit. As part of the Reconnecting with My Roots initiative, the Secretary and Ambassador Moreno Toscano presented awards to 21 Mexican and Dutch chefs, restaurant owners, and entrepreneurs for their role in promoting traditional Mexican cuisine in the Netherlands.

Networking Reception and Closing Remarks 

The visit culminated in a networking reception hosted by Secretary Torruco and Ambassador Moreno Toscano, which brought together Dutch authorities, representatives from Dutch companies with substantial operations in Mexico, academic and cultural partners, and members of the Mexican community in the Netherlands. Secretary Torruco extended his gratitude to the Embassy of Mexico in the Netherlands for their indispensable role in ensuring the success of this mission.

Tourism Statistics

In 2023, Mexico welcomed 96,711 Dutch tourists, a 5.2% increase compared to 2019, with an expenditure of $108.892 million USD, reflecting an 18.2% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels. The Netherlands advanced from the 21st to the 19th position among countries with the highest tourist arrivals to Mexico.

ICC Prosecutor visit to Ukraine

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
ICC Prosecutor visit to Ukraine

ICC Prosecutor Karim A. A. Khan KC concludes sixth visit to Ukraine: “Amidst conflict, the law can unify our response to atrocities”

Today, I completed my sixth official visit to Ukraine. I leave more convinced than ever that our common work, together with all partners in this situation, will allow us to demonstrate how justice can and must play a central role in confronting aggression and combatting attempts to wield unbridled power. It is remarkable that amidst bombs and abductions, as children are targeted and intentional suffering is inflicted against civilians, the people and authorities of Ukraine have set an example by turning to the law as their ally.

From my engagement with survivors at sites of alleged crimes, through my dialogue with Ukrainian authorities including my valued counterpart Andriy Kostin, Prosecutor General of Ukraine, and in my discussions with the team of investigators, analysts and support staff now based in the country office of the International Criminal Court in Ukraine, it is clear: we have never been firmer, more united and more focused on delivering justice for international crimes inflicted in the Ukraine situation.

ICC Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan KC addresses the United for Justice Conference in Kyiv on 11 September 2024.

During my visit, I was pleased to meet with their excellencies, the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Andrii Sybiha, Minister for Foreign Affairs, whom I congratulated on his recent appointment. In those meetings, I strongly welcomed the decision of the President, now approved by the Ukrainian Parliament, to ratify the Rome Statute, the founding treaty of the International Criminal Court. 

We should not underestimate the significance of this moment. That a State, amidst the most intense heat of conflict turns ever more firmly towards the law, is something to recognise and applaud. This decision by Ukraine, especially at this moment, strengthens not only the protection that international law can provide to the people of Ukraine, but to all people subjected to aggression, tyranny and atrocities globally. It is a powerful act of unity and solidarity at a time when many seek to drive a wedge between those that believe in the rule of law.

This collective spirit and commitment to common action towards accountability was also clearly reflected at the United for Justice Conference I had the honour to attend with Prosecutor General Kostin and other national Attorneys General, Ministers of Justice and Prosecutor-Generals, as well as at the 4th Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen, to which I was so kindly invited by her Excellency Olena Zelenska, First Lady of Ukraine. At both events, a clear message was sent on the power of the law to insist on the common value of all people, of all children, of all lives. Every human life must be seen to have equal value under the law.

Prosecutor Khan meets with local civil society organisations at the office of the International Criminal Court in Kyiv on 11 September 2024.

As always, it was my engagement with survivors that gave the clearest view of the need for evermore effective action through our investigations on the ground. At Okhmatdyt National Children’s Hospital, I met with nurses who were impacted by the missile strike on 8 July this year as they stayed behind to finish the dialysis treatments being provided to children. They told me of their colleague who, as she sought to provide the children on the intensive care ward with the support they need, as she struggled to save lives, was killed in the missile strike.

My Office is continuing its investigations into crimes against and affecting children and into attacks on civilian objects in Ukraine.

At Hostomel, outside Kyiv, I heard from victims who told me of being held as hostages in an industrial freezer with no light, tortured and then illegally transferred to the Russian Federation. Crimes committed in detention facilities, including unlawful confinement, torture and extrajudicial killings, are an emerging and significant focus for my Office and I call for the support and engagement of all of our partners as we seek to hold to account those responsible for these crimes. 

As we seek to deepen our work in this area, our partnerships with national authorities, and, in particular, with the Ukraine Joint Investigative Team established under the auspices of Eurojust, will take on even greater importance. I was pleased to address a meeting of the Joint Investigative Team in Kyiv and I am convinced that the clarity of vision and purpose of this group is going to deliver even greater benefits to our own investigations in the coming months.

Civil society will also be crucial allies in this ongoing work. During my visit, I was delighted to meet with 15 representatives of local CSOs who are undertaking vital, courageous work in the documentation of crimes and the provision of support to survivors and the families of victims. Our conversation underlined progress made in our collaboration but, much more importantly, identified areas where we can more effectively, and collectively, leverage our work together in order to deliver more for affected communities. I am truly grateful for the time they dedicated to our discussion.

This was my sixth visit to Ukraine. I will return again, inshallah. Members of my office continue their work here every day from our permanent office in Kyiv and from headquarters in the Hague. We will not let up our focus; we will increase the intensity of our work; we will deepen our partnerships with all our Ukrainian counterparts until we have truly demonstrated the potential of the law in this moment.

This is both a message of hope and a clear warning.  Those who trespass in Ukraine, those who trespass on the rights of its inhabitants, those who believe that they can use untrammeled power to abuse the vulnerable should know that we are united in holding them to account. And this is a message not just for senior leaders, but for any person at any level engaged in these crimes.  If you are a foot soldier, if you are guiding a drone to its target, if you are behind a desk planning illegal abductions of individuals, please know that the collective efforts that have been demonstrated in the last days will, eventually, remove any sense of impunity that you presently have.

As my Office further increases its field presence in Ukraine, we will be accelerating our work in pursuance of this imperative. 

I wish to express my sincere thanks to the Prosecutor General of Ukraine for his strong support in the organisation of my visit and his ongoing partnership, as well as to all representatives of relevant ministries and agencies who dedicated time to meet with me during this visit despite the exceptionally difficult circumstances currently faced by all in Ukraine.

Celebrating 420 Years of Friendship Thailand and the Netherlands

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Celebrating 420 Years of Friendship Thailand and the Netherlands

By Roy Lie Atjam

On the 30th of August 2024, in The Hague, at the Diligentia Performing Arts Theater, The Embassy of Thailand celebrated 420 years of friendship between Thailand and the Netherlands.

The event offered an exclusive opportunity to witness the creative evolution of Thailand’s iconic classical dance, Khon, brought to life by artist Jitti Chompee and curated by Thanpuying Sirikitiya Jensen. Invited by Ambassador H.E. Mr. Asi Mamanee, attendees seized the chance to experience the mesmerizing fusion of Thai classical dance and contemporary art.

Mrs. Ittha Mamanee, Thanpuying Sirikitiya Jensen and the Ambassador of Thailand, H.E. Mr. Asi Mamanee.

Ambassador Asi Mamanee welcomed his many guests with the following remarks: “It is my great honour to welcome you to this special gathering tonight. We are at a remarkable moment in history, celebrating 420 years of friendship between Thailand and the Netherlands—a relationship that has blossomed since 1604.

This evening is not just about cultural splendour; it’s about cherishing the deep ties that have connected our two countries for centuries. Tonight, we invite you on a journey through time and artistry, showcasing the crown jewel of Thai cultural heritage – Khon, our revered masked dance drama. For those who know this fascinating art form, prepare to deepen your appreciation. And for those experiencing it for the first time, you’re in for a treat that will transport you to the heart of Thai artistic expression.

The Miscellany of Khon we present this evening is more than just a performance; it’s a window into the soul of Thailand. You will witness the rich tapestry of our arts, culture, and the very essence of Thai life. It fills me with great pride that, in 2018, Khon was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition affirms that Khon is not just a dance, but our living spirit. Tonight, the Royal Thai Embassy in The Hague, in collaboration with Thailand’s Ministry of Culture, is honoured to welcome preeminent artists and musicians from the National Theatre and Fine Arts Department of Thailand.

On behalf of the Royal Thai Embassy, The Hague, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Thanpuying Sirikitiya Jensen, Project Advisor and Curator of Miscellany of Khon, and Mr. Jitti Chompee, our brilliant Artistic Director and Choreographer, and members of the performers and musicians who are the key figures of this special project in The Hague.”

The Miscellany of Khon has been warmly introduced to The Hague as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The impressive cultural performance concluded with a reception featuring delicious Thai snacks.

Turkmen economic projects with participation of Afghanistan move forward to practical implementation

Diplomat Magazine
-
0
Turkmen economic projects with participation of Afghanistan move forward to practical implementation

On 11 September 2024, a number of events related to the practical implementation of large-scale energy, transport and infrastructure international projects implemented with the participation of Turkmenistan and Afghanistan took place on the Turkmen-Afghan border.

The National Leader of Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov participated in the events personally.

In the morning, the National Leader of Turkmen people arrived at the border checkpoint “Islim-Cheshme” of Serhetabat town of Tahtabazar province of Mary region, where he was met by key officials.

Some time later, Acting Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Afghanistan Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund arrived to the place as well. In accordance with noble Turkmen traditions, bread and salt were offered to the Afghan guest.

Then, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov had a meeting with Acting Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Afghanistan in the conference hall built at “Islim-Cheshme” checkpoint.

After talks held in a friendly setting, the parties took part in the ceremony dedicated to the opening of the railway bridge of Serhetabat-Turgundi railroad, laying the foundation of “Shatlyk-1” gas compressor station in Mary region, as well as launching of the construction of the Serhetabat-Herat section, which is an important part in the implementation of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India Transnational Gas Pipeline Project (TAPI) and the Serhetabat-Herat fiber-optic communication line, entitled “Arkadagyň Ak ýoly” (Bright Path of Arkadag).

The events also included the launch of works on the construction of a warehouse complex in the “dry port” of the Turgundi railway station and the Turgundi-Sanabar section of the first phase of the Turgundi-Herat railway, as well as the commissioning of the “Nur-el-Jahad” power plant located in Herat province of Afghanistan as part of the first phase of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (TAP) power transmission line project.

President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov addressed the participants of the events via videoconferencing.

It is important to note that Turkmenistan is actively participating in the global efforts aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Today’s events serve yet as another proof of Turkmenistan’s commitment to developing a modern energy security architecture and sustainable transport for regional and international economic growth.

For further information 

https://www.mfa.gov.tm/en/news/4734

1...293031...864Page 30 of 864