In the grandeur of the Nieuwe Kerk of The Hague, an evening of cultural celebration unfolds. Ambassadors, special guests, and music lovers friends of Azerbaijan gather for a spectacle of Azerbaijani classical music, an homage to the nation’s rich heritage and its commitment to global cultural dialogue.
Hosted by His Excellency Mr. Rahman Mustafayev, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and His Excellency Mr. Seymur Fataliyev, Secretary-General of the National Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan for UNESCO, this event commemorates the 30th anniversary of the establishment of National Commission of Azerbaijan for UNESCO.
Azerbaijan 30 Anniversary of UNESCO
As the audience settles into the pews of the baroque-style church, Ambassador Mustafayev welcomes them to an evening of musical enchantment. The ambiance is imbued with reverence for the centuries-old tradition of Azerbaijani classical music, a tapestry woven from the threads of history, geography, and cultural diversity. In his address, the Ambassador emphasizes the profound significance of music as a medium for storytelling, emotional expression, and cultural preservation.
Azerbaijani music, with its intricate melodies and poetic lyricism, embodies a harmonious fusion of East and West, reflecting the nation’s diverse cultural landscape.
“We are immensely proud that Mugham and the music of Ashig, as well as national musical instruments of Azerbaijan such as “Kamancha’’ and “Tar” are recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. To date, 23 cultural heritage samples of Azerbaijan were inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of UNESCO. This underscores the global importance and the vital role of Azerbaijani culture in fostering cultural diversity and human creativity.”
His Excellency Mr. Rahman Mustafayev, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Beyond the realm of music, Azerbaijan’s commitment to UNESCO’s mission is exemplified through its initiatives in education and cultural preservation. The country’s support for the UNESCO Global Education Coalition reflects a dedication to advancing access to quality education, particularly for marginalized communities. By allocating resources to initiatives that promote gender equality and connectivity, Azerbaijan exemplifies the transformative power of education in fostering social inclusion and sustainable development.
As the concert unfolds, the audience is treated to excelent performances by Azerbaijani musicians, including merited artist Jeyla Seyidova, opera singer Afag Abbasova, and Tar virtuoso Ibrahim Babayev. Their virtuosity and passion pay homage to the luminaries of Azerbaijani classical music—visionaries such as Uzeyir Hajibeyli, Gara Garayev, and Fikrat Amirov, whose compositions have left an indelible mark on the world stage.
His Excellency Mr. Rahman Mustafayev with Azerbaijanis artists. Azerbaijan 30 Anniversary of UNESCO
Through excerpts from iconic operas and ballets, the audience embarks on a musical journey that traverses the landscapes of Azerbaijani folklore and mythology. From the timeless tale of “Leyli and Majnun” to the evocative melodies of “Seven Beauties” and “Path of Thunder,” each composition is an example to the strong legacy of Azerbaijani composers and their ability to captivate audiences with their creativity and innovation.
In commemorating 30 years of collaboration with UNESCO, Azerbaijan reaffirms its role as a custodian of cultural diversity and a champion of global cultural diplomacy.
In the last fifty years, more than ever before, finances have become a powerful instrument of influence and negotiation between states. The increase in power of transnational entities and their weight in today’s world has led to the emergence of new elements that exceed state dimensions. Besides the emergence of what has been called for some time “economic hitmen,” whose results are seen in various countries around the world, from South America to Europe, a mechanism through which political pressure can be exerted on a state or regime is through economic sanctions.
Apart from the significant effects they can have on the economy and population of a state, sanctions can be considered an effective means of pressure on a recalcitrant regime or state. They can be used to induce political and other changes, potentially leading the population of the targeted state to demand and support profound changes.
The essential question is whether economic sanctions are indeed effective in achieving the political and economic objectives intended by their issuers. Their effectiveness is primarily determined by two elements: how the state(s) adopting these sanctions adhere to them, and how the targeted state manages to counteract the effects of these sanctions.
An eloquent example is the sanctions imposed on Iran in the context of its nuclear program. Despite the negative consequences on the Iranian economy, these sanctions did not lead to the cessation of the nuclear program. Furthermore, these sanctions reinforced the opinion among the Iranian population that developing nuclear weapons is the best way to ensure national sovereignty.
Another example is the case of North Korea, which, despite facing severe sanctions, continues its nuclear and ballistic development program, ignoring pressures and sanctions.
In both cases, there have been states that have helped both Iran and North Korea mitigate the negative effects of the sanctions they face.
Another example, often forgotten, more or less intentionally, is that of the sanctions imposed on Libya after the Lockerbie terrorist attack (1992 – 2003). These had a limited effect on the Kaddafi regime, both due to the countermeasures taken by the Libyan regime and due to the partial non-compliance of some states, including France, Germany, and Italy. Romania, although having significant economic interests in Libya (especially in the oil industry), amounting to many millions of dollars, fully complied with the sanctions, including by closing the direct flight between Bucharest and Tripoli. However, Romania did not know how to properly capitalize on and obtain compensation for the losses suffered in this case.
The most recent example is the sanctions imposed on Russia after the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. So far, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union have imposed more than 16,500 sanctions on Russia. The main targets were Russia’s funds, with financial reserves of around $350 billion being frozen (approximately half of the total reserves). Another major target was exports of oil and natural gas.
However, the sanctions did not have the intended effects, as Russia found ways to limit their impact. It is estimated that Moscow uses a fleet of about 1,000 tankers under foreign flags, managing to export around 8.3 million barrels per day, especially to India and China.
The effects of the sanctions were seen in 2022 when Russia’s economy contracted by 2.1%, but grew by 2.3% in 2023, with an estimated growth of 1.1% in 2024.
The conclusion of some important experts is that the sanctions did not make the war costly enough for Russia, which means it will be able to continue it for some time.
It can thus be concluded that economic sanctions are not a foolproof instrument, and their results can vary depending on several factors, such as the political context, the level of international support, and the resilience capacity of the target. In the end, the effectiveness of economic sanctions depends on careful planning and implementation, accompanied by as broad international support and involvement as possible, and the resolution of global crises and conflicts.
Material for MEPEI TALKS2, Bucharest, April 10, 2024
In the intricate threads of history, some facts remain hidden until a diligent scholar unravels them, shedding light on forgotten truths and rewriting the narrative of our past. “Leonardo da Vinci and Verrazzano’s Royal Discovery of New York (1524-2024): Codex Cèllere Reassessed” is one such revelation, offering a compelling reassessment of aan important moment in transatlantic exploration.
Authored by Professor Dr. Stefaan Missinne, a distinguished figure in the realms of historical discovery and exploration, this book unveils layers of history previously obscured by time. Professor Missinne’s credentials, including his status as a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, Laureate of the Belgian Prince Albert Society, and Honorary President of the Austrian-Belgian Society, underscore his expertise and commitment to scholarly inquiry.
Within the annals of Verrazzano Castle in Greve in Chianti, Professor Missinne, renowned for his discovery of the da Vinci Globe from 1504, unearthed a 500-year-old treasure: the travel report of Italian explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano. This discovery set forth a captivating journey, leading from the heart of Italy to the halls of Windsor Castle, where Leonardo da Vinci’s papers revealed a world map dating back to circa 1515. This map depicted an open seaway between Florida and Newfoundland, challenging existing narratives of geographical understanding.
But the intrigue deepens. Did Verrazzano’s encounter with Magellan in Seville in 1517 foreshadow his historic voyage? And what of Leonardo da Vinci, who resided in France from 1516 to 1519—did he, in his ingenious way, influence Verrazzano and his royal patron? Astonishingly, the ties between the Verrazzano and da Vinci families stretch back to Florence, where they were once neighbors, adding layers of complexity to this enthralling narrative.
In this reassessment, Professor Missinne presents new evidence, weaving together the threads of history to unveil the intertwined fates of Leonardo and Verrazzano. The Codex Cèllere, housed at the Pierpont Morgan Library, emerges as New York’s literary birth certificate, marking a seminal moment in the city’s storied history.
“Leonardo da Vinci and Verrazzano’s Royal Discovery of New York” invites readers on a journey through time, where the past comes alive with newfound clarity and intrigue. This volume contains new historic findings which are of relevance to the French-Italian-American-Dutch diplomacy.
The seventeenth century painting ‘A Rocky Coast, with Soldiers Studying a Plan’ has been safely returned to the United Kingdom from Romania with the support of Eurojust. The Italian Baroque landscape by Salvator Rosa was stolen from the Christ Church Picture Gallery in Oxford in March 2020. The Agency supported the investigation and played a key role in facilitating cross-border judicial cooperation between the national authorities involved.
The handover of the painting took place on 26 March 2024 at the National Museum of Art, Bucharest, between Thames Valley Police, Romanian Police, Christ Church College and the Romanian Ministry of Culture. This was assisted by the National Crime Agency’s International Liaison Network.
The UK authorities are appealing for information about two other paintings stolen in the same raid: ‘A Soldier on Horseback’ by Anthony van Dyck, dating from around 1616, and ‘A Boy Drinking’ by Annibale Carracci, dating from around 1580.
The Romanian police were contacted by a man in possession of the Rosa painting, who had sold on the other two artworks, which are understood to be somewhere in Europe. He chose to return the Rosa painting to the authorities. The man is being treated as a witness by the Romanian authorities and has not been arrested.
The three works had an estimated value of GBP 10 million (EUR 11.7 million)
The case was opened at Eurojust at the request of the United Kingdom. The Agency helped the national authorities involved to coordinate their investigations and to resolve the legal problems related to the different national laws. Eurojust assisted the UK authorities in drafting a letter of restitution for the Romanian authorities so that the painting could be returned promptly to Oxford Christ Church.
This investigation was also supported by Europol
The following authorities took part in this investigation:
Romania: Public Prosecutor’s Office attached to Ilfov Tribunal (PPO), Romanian Police Directorate for Investigating Economic Crime (IGPR – DICE)
United Kingdom: Thames Valley Police, National Crime Agency International Liaison Network
Founded in 1951, IOM is the leading inter-governmental organization in the field of migration, with 175 member states and a presence in over 100 countries. The International Organization for Migration started its activities in the Netherlands in 1991, with projects including facilitating voluntary return and reintegration, supporting refugees accepted for resettlement and family reunification, services aimed at inclusion and labor and skills mobility. IOM Netherlands assists migrants who wish to return voluntarily to their country of origin and support their sustainable reintegration by offering information and counseling services, procuring travel documents, arranging safe travel and providing reintegration support.
Voluntary return assistance is available to most migrants. Anyone returning with IOM assistance can benefit from an extra package for reintegration. The reintegration budget consists of a maximum of 1800 EUR for adults, 2800 EUR for minor children returning with their families and 2800 EUR for unaccompanied minor children. The amount can be used for an income generating activity (such as a small business), education and, if necessary, on accommodation. Before departure from the Netherlands, a reintegration plan will be drafted with the help of IOM counselors, explaining how the budget will be used. Once back in the home country, the budget will be received. A maximum of 300 EUR of the total budget can be received in cash, upon departure from Schiphol airport.
The data provided regularly by IOM can bring valuable insights into trends and patterns in voluntary return support from IOM Netherlands. By analyzing data on the number of people receiving assistance, their country of origin and their reasons for returning, IOM can better understand the needs of migrants and improve its services.
Between January and March IOM Netherlands spoke to a total of 961 people about the assistance that IOM can provide for voluntary return. 75.5% of this group decided to submit an application to IOM and prepare for their departure from the Netherlands. This (eventually) led to the departure of 482 people in the first three months of the year. 70% of them were males.
Among the top areas of destination were Brazil, Indonesia, Turkiye and Republic of Moldova.
About two-thirds of the migrants who left in the first quarter can claim a reintegration budget after their return and thus develop an activity that helps to provide for their livelihood after their return. 10% of the people IOM supported received additional medical support. This can vary from a medical escort to the provision of crutches or a wheelchair during the trip and an extra budget for medical expenses after return.
The collaboration between return migrants and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Netherlands highlights the transformative power of support systems in facilitating successful reintegration. By offering tailored assistance, IOM Netherlands empowers returnees to rebuild their lives with dignity and resilience.
On April 11, members of the Diplomatic Spouses Association in The Hague were invited to join a special event at the Irish Ambassador’s residence, hosted by his lovely wife, Mrs. Kevin Doris Ejon.
Diplomatic spouses, Getting to know Ireland
Under the theme ‘Getting to know Ireland’ the event provided a comprehensive overview, including a presentation on Irish dance by a former World Dancing Champion based in New York, as well as discussions on Irish food and Irish tourism, followed by a tasteful luncheon.
Throughout the event, Mrs. Ejon’s dedication, natural openness and big friendly smile made the gathering truly extraordinary. As a journalist who worked for Norwegian broadcasting and the BBC, presented her own radio program at one point and have also worked in film and documentary industry, she certainly has the experience in dealing with such occasions.
During the lunch Kevin presented a Q&A section.
‘Music, dance, poetry and conversation are in the Irish DNA. Irish dancing has been evolving and been popular for centuries. But in 1994 it went global. During the Eurovision song contest in Ireland in 1994 the interim act was called Riverdance. It lasted for 7 minutes and took the world by storm. The rest is history as is said! Irish dancing became a world phenomenon and today there are schools across the world. Irish dance plays a major role in promoting Ireland and indeed many millions have been introduced to Ireland through dance.’ (Kevin Doris Ejon)
Niall O’Leary, former World Irish Dancing Champion spoke on the history of dance and also performed some Irish dances for the enchanted audience. The former World Dancing Champion delivered an outstanding presentation on how Irish dance became famous worldwide, showcasing his extensive career in promoting dancing. Guests absolutely enjoyed his exclusive and energetic performance.
Niall O’Leary, former World Irish Dancing Champion.
Laura Crowley, from the Irish Food Board, then discussed the private-public partnership promoting the quality of Ireland’s food exports to Europe. Guests savored wonderful fresh oysters, sampled various Irish products available in Dutch supermarkets and indulged in a delicious lunch made entirely from Irish products.
Next, Jackie Keogh, a representative from Tourism Ireland for over 20 years, delivered a fantastic presentation packed with numerous tips, convincing everyone that their next trip should be to Ireland.
Nela Colin, the spouse from Bosnia & Herzegovina Ambassador, presenting an Irish products basket.
Mrs. Ejon told us: ‘someone visiting Ireland should know that it is one of the friendliest countries in the world, also one of the most beautiful, full of cultural and historical opportunities. I love the people most. I was getting on the bus at Dublin Airport recently and the bus driver said to me “welcome home missus” and I thought “Yes this is a place I love”.’
It was a lovely event which for sure made us all curious and eager to put Ireland on our traveling list.
Thank you, Ireland and to our lovely host of the day!
When I was a parliamentarian and Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, I used every means – both inside and outside of parliament – to mobilize political will to arrest the first genocide of the 21st century, launched in Darfur in 2003.
I could never have anticipated that the calls to action that I shared twenty years ago in parliament, at Save Darfur Rallies, and in international forum would apply equally today, and would resonate so painfully and tragically.
Our Centre’scomprehensive reportdemonstrates in chilling detail that the same perpetrators of genocide twenty years ago – now under the flag of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) – are committing genocide against the Masalit people and non-Arab tribes in Darfur.
Our report is a wake-up call for the international community and puts the genocidaires and their sponsors on notice that they will be held accountable. It provides the substantive legal framework for justice and accountability for international institutions, NGOs, governments, parliaments, and courts to act upon.
Twenty years ago, the international community at least acknowledged the genocidal atrocities, though it utterly failed to take the necessary action to prevent them. Today, one can only feel shocked – if not betrayed – by the ongoing level of indifference and impunity in the face of another genocide that is being effectively silenced and sanitized.
The responsibility to prevent, punish, and put an end to genocide is not a policy option, but an international legal obligation of the highest order.
The prevailing culture of indifference, impunity, and complicity enabled the current escalation of mass atrocities to reach the point of genocide. But today, we can no longer look away and say we do not know.
By H.E. Mr. Vladimir Tarabrin, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Kingdom of the Netherlands
The Great Patriotic War – as the part of the World War II, spanning from 1941 to 1945, is called in Russia – was not merely a military conflict, but a profound struggle for survival, identity, and the future of the whole world. On June 22, 1941, when Nazi Germany invaded the Soviet Union, it opened one of the bloodiest chapters in human history. However, the powerful and heavily-armed war machine of the Wehrmacht came face to face with the enormous force of the Soviet people, united by the will and determination to protect their motherland.
From the very beginning the leadership of Hitler’s Germany made no illusions about the true goals of their “Drang nach Osten” – the enslavement and complete extermination of the people who lived on the territory of the Soviet Union. The resources — both human and material — that were mobilized in the USSR to stop Nazism were immense. About 27 million Soviet people lost their lives on the frontlines, in German captivity, perished of starvation and bombings, in ghettos and Nazi concentration camps. Some researchers even estimate that the total losses of the Soviet Union exceeded 30 million people. To put it in perspective, the USSR lost 1 in 7 of its citizens, while Britain, for example, lost 1 in 127 and the United States lost 1 in 320. That is the reason why we cannot be idle observers to the marches commemorating Nazi collaborators in Baltic states (whom they proudly call patriots) or the standing ovation in honour of the SS 14th Waffen Division veteran in the Canadian parliament.
The Great Patriotic War
Our country certainly remembers and honors the Allies’ contribution to the defeat of Nazi Germany. Without the deliveries of aid under the Lend-Lease program, the battle of El Alamein, the Allied air raids aimed at destroying the industrial centers of the Third Reich, and the landing in Normandy, the victory would be much more difficult.
However, in recent years we have witnessed attempts by a number of countries to minimize the role of the Soviet Union in the WWII. We refuse to tolerate this. It was the heroes of the Red Army that took their last battle in the encirclements of 1941, fought for every house in Sevastopol and Stalingrad, launched tank attacks at Prokhorovka and Kharkov, liberated not only Soviet cities, but also Bucharest, Belgrade, Warsaw, Budapest, Vienna and Prague and finally stormed Berlin.
Beyond those famous battles, the Siege of Leningrad stands out as a harrowing testament to the suffering and endurance of the Soviet people. For nearly 900 days the city was encircled by enemy forces, subjected to relentless shelling and severe food shortages. The resilience of Leningrad’s citizens reflects the indomitable spirit of the Soviet people. More than a million citizens died as a result of what was essentially genocide perpetrated by the Wehrmacht on our soil. We can’t let that fade into oblivion.
H.E. Mr. Vladimir Tarabrin, Ambassador of Russia.
79 years have passed since the end of that terrible war. However, today many European politicians seem to have forgotten what that victory cost us. We see memorials to fallen Soviet soldiers being demolished in many European countries, streets and squares being named in honor of Nazi collaborators and criminals.
Against the background of this dismal trend, measures to preserve the memory of the heroic deeds of Soviet soldiers seem all the more valuable. We appreciate the efforts of those Dutch people who contribute to the work of the Soviet War Cemetery in Leusden (next to the Amersfoort Rusthof cemetery). The remains of 865 war victims from the Soviet Union are buried there, including 101 prisoners from Amersfoort concentration camp. Currently, the work is underway to construct a museum of the Soviet War Cemetery. And next year we hope to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory there.
I would like to say that today the legacy of the Great Patriotic War continues to shape the Russian national identity, reminding our current and future generations of the resilience and sacrifice that ensured the survival of our country as well as the whole Europe. Unfortunately, time passes and we see less and less living veterans of the War. This makes the preservation of the memory of that tragic period of utmost importance. Ignoring the lessons of history inevitably leads to a heavy reckoning. That is why the Russian Federation will firmly uphold the truth based on documented historical facts. And we will vehemently defend an honest and unbiased account of the events of that terrible war.
The two high-ranking politicians were invited to Athens on the occasion of the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the New Democracy ruling party with Kyriakos Mitsotakis as president and prime minister.
For understandable reasons and in view of the upcoming negotiation with Lebanon, Nicosia is publicly keeping a fishy silence about what was discussed at the Athens meeting. A government source stated that the discussion moved along two axes: firstly, the plan prepared by the EU to act “very specifically” in supporting Cyprus to stop migration flows and secondly, as to the conclusion regarding the messages that would be conveyed by the Nikos Christodoulidis in the leadership of Lebanon. The latter is considered to be of outstanding political importance as what Beirut heard will not just be positions of Cyprus but positions with which the EU now also agrees. After all, the matter will be transferred to the forthcoming informal Council of the EU.
Equally important, however, if not more important, is the economic dimension. The same source emphasized that the President of the Commission went to Athens extremely prepared with regard to the issue of financial support which could be given in the context of an agreement with the Lebanese officials to comply with the existing agreement to stop the flows. At the same time, there will be such support in the direction of Cyprus, which is finding it difficult to cope in terms of resources and structures for the Syrians who are already on the island.
Nicosia seems completely satisfied with the attitude of the President of the Commission and the fact that the same source emphasized the excellent atmosphere in which the meeting took place is indicative of this. He particularly emphasized Nicosia’s gratitude for the support of Athens and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis personally in this effort, who declared that “Greece and Cyprus are one”.
Ursula von der Leynen, Christodoulidis- Mitsotakis and Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens.
Generous financial package
It is a mostly economic package that is expected to be generous so that Lebanon – which already receives large sums from the EU for stemming the flows – will accept the deal. For weeks, Beirut has appeared to be flouting the existing deal to pressure the EU for more money – it has collected more than €2.5bn in recent years – resulting in flows of refugees and other Syrians living on the ground of Lebanon to reach unprecedented proportions. Cyprus is certainly not in a position to manage them since the accommodation facilities for political asylum seekers have been overcrowded for a long time, and the climate in society is dangerously sharpening again, throwing water to the mill of the extreme and especially the extreme right.
The authorities are now talking about a slow-burning bomb ready to explode
In this climate, the government of Cypriot President Mr. Nikos Christodoulidis is trying on the one hand to put pressure on Lebanon, and on the other hand to convince the European Union to intervene, mainly on an economic level by increasing aid to Lebanon. In case of failure of the consultations, the return of Syrians to Syria itself with boats that will be made available by Cyprus is not excluded, as Lebanon, despite the existing agreement, refuses to accept returns to its territory.
In fact, in one of these attempts, a warship of the Lebanese military prevented the Cypriot authorities from driving back one of the vessels that had attempted to reach the coast of Cyprus. Reports in Cypriot newspapers that in the event that things reach an extreme point Nicosia will declare some areas as emergency zones with all that entails, are considered untrue as Cyprus is not in a position to do so unilaterally.
It was preceded by Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to Cyprus a few weeks ago
On March 7, the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, visited Cyprus and met the President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulidis. The two politicians traveled from Bucharest where they attended the European People’s Party Summit. In the evening the President of the Republic of Cyprus hosted a dinner in honor of the President of the Commission at the Presidential Palace. According to the sources of the presidency, among the topics that concerned them at the dinner were the maritime corridor for the provision of humanitarian aid to Gaza and their planned visit to the port of Larnaca, the current situation in Cyprus and immigration.
Ursula von der Leyen is proud of Nikos Christodoulidis
Ursula von der Leyen expressed her pride for the leaders who belong to or are close to the European People’s Party, including President Christodoulides, referring to the initiative for humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip, in her speech before the plenary session of the EPP conference, on which was expected to confirm her candidacy for a second term in the Presidency of the Commission on behalf of the European centre-right.
Mrs von der Leyen referred successively to the achievements of a series of leaders from the EPP to demonstrate that “this is the leadership of the EPP”, as a “party of the people” which “brings results to the issues that concern the world”. In particular, the President of the Commission said that she is proud of Mr. Christodoulidis “for his leading role in increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza and for bringing economic development to Cyprus”. As Mrs. Von der Leyen pointed out, she is proud, among others, of Donald Tusk “for bringing back the rule of law in Poland”, for Kyriakos Mitsotakis “for bringing Greece back to the path of success”, and Andrej Plenkovic for Croatia’s entry into the Eurozone and the Schengen area.
Also, she said she was proud of, among others, Karl Nehammer for dealing with irregular immigration in Austria, Peteri Orpo for Finland’s entry into NATO, as well as Roberta Metzola for her capable leadership in the European Parliament. In her speech, Ms. Von der Leyen spoke at length about the values of the EU, noting that the EPP promoted the European vision from the beginning. Referring to conditions internationally, he spoke of a dangerous world, where an “alliance of dictators” is on the rise, and where Russia continues its effort to eliminate Ukraine in a war that remains more intense than ever, and also referred to the war in Gaza, the destabilization of the Middle East, and the distortion of international competitiveness by China and others, while inside the EU “Putin’s friends” try to rewrite history and spread hatred.
Mrs. von der Leyen spoke of challenges from the extreme right and the extreme left and added that the EPP will stand for a strong and secure, peaceful and prosperous Europe. He referred to the successive crises of the pandemic, the threat of economic recession and climate change and how unity has helped the EU move forward.
Immigration in the countries of the European Union
In relation to immigration, he said that the EU had achieved results by strengthening Europe’s borders, and added that the EU would continue to respect its international obligations in relation to human rights, but that Europeans would decide who comes to Europe and who does not. the organized networks of traffickers. As he said, he understands why citizens are worried about the future, but he emphasized that after successive crises the EU managed to cope, noting that the common market is Europe’s safe harbor. In this context, he referred to the need to strengthen competitiveness and the transformation of the European Green Deal into an economic, social and industrial agreement.
Specifically on energy, he noted that the EU has resisted Putin’s energy blackmail, now producing more energy from renewable sources than from gas. He emphasized that “unlike others, we support pragmatic solutions, not ideological ones”, since, as he underlined, “there is no competitive economy without climate protection and there is no climate protection without a competitive economy”. Competitiveness, he continued, goes through the reduction of bureaucracy but also increased attention for small and medium-sized enterprises in the EU.
Referring to agricultural policy, she noted the challenges faced by farmers as prices are rising and volatile. “A young man told me that sometimes they are forced to sell their products at prices below the cost of production,” he added, noting that this is unacceptable. In relation to Ukraine, he reiterated that this is the most urgent security issue and referred to the war crimes in Bucha, the abduction of children and the death of Navalny, stressing that Putin will be brought to justice and that a court awaits him in The Hague. He stressed that Russia is destroying infrastructure, but not destroying the dream of a free and prosperous Ukraine within the EU, which also lives in Georgia, Moldova and the Western Balkans.
Thursday, 11 April 2024, Munich, Free State of Bavaria: The Technical University of Munich (TUM) hosted a symposium on the topic “New stages of cooperation between Uzbekistan and Germany in the fields of education, science and industry”.
The event was organized by the Ministry of Preschool and School Education of Uzbekistan and the University of “New Uzbekistan” in cooperation with “TUM International GmbH” of the Technical University of Munich.
The symposium was attended by the Ministry of Energy from Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan Airways, Almalyk Mining and Metallurgy Combine, Navoi Mining and Metallurgy Combine and renowned industrial companies from Germany such as Siemens AG, Knorr-Bremse, Airbus, Deloitte, IT4IPM and Linde as well as leading scientists and experts in the field education, science and innovation from universities in both countries partook.
The Uzbek delegation of was led by the Minister of Preschool and School Education of Uzbekistan Hilola Umarova who also took part in the event.
The main goal of the symposium is to present the results and achievements of the New University of Uzbekistan, founded in June 2021 by decree of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to become acquainted with the results of successful cooperation between the universities of our country and the Technical University of Munich and to identify new promising innovations in the field of education and science.
Hilola Umarova, Minister of Preschool and School Education of Uzbekistan.
The conference was opened by the Honorary President of TUM, Prof. Wolfgang A. Hermann, the Minister for Preschool and School Education of Uzbekistan Hilola Umarova and the Managing Director of “TUM International GmbH” Friederike Hettinger. The speakers spoke about the role of education in shaping modern society, about the prospects for innovation and development in the field of education, about the experience of introducing modern methods and technologies in the educational process, as well as about the tasks and prospects of mutual cooperation.
It was noted that the University “New Uzbekistan” is becoming a living example of reforms in education aimed at modern standards and innovations. The prospects for expanding cooperation between the universities of the two countries were also discussed, in particular the establishment of effective connections with scientific institutions and industrial companies in Bavaria.
As part of the event, lectures were given by leading scientists and specialists from both universities. Particular attention was paid to trends in science, education and production, promising projects, exchange of experiences, expansion of cooperation and establishment of new contacts.
Vice Rector for Academic Work of the University “New Uzbekistan” Bahadir Akhmedov provided detailed information about the extensive reforms in the education system using the example of the university.
The Uzbek-German symposium has developed into an important platform for intellectual exchange and the development of innovative ideas in science, education and business.
