Vision for the Western Balkans: 2030

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Vision for the Western Balkans: 2030

In the picture Ms. Jana van der Velde, Head of the Division Central and South Eastern Europe from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Alessandro Rotta, from the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities .

By Nynke van der Heide.

The Austrian Embassy hosted a panel discussion on ‘Vision 2030 for the New Balkans: The Importance of South Eastern Europe for the Prosperity, Stability and Security of the EU’ at the beautiful Austrian Residence in The Hague. This discussion is part of the dialogue that started in December 2018 with the initiative “New Horizons for the Young Generations in the Balkans”.

The initiative gives a voice to the vision of a young generation growing up in the Western Balkans. Resulting in the study published in December 2019: ‘Vision 2030 for the New Balkans: Towards Alternative Horizons’, which was presented by co-author Vedran Džihić, Senior Researcher at the Austrian Institute for International Affairs. 

Ms. Jana van der Velde, Head of the Division Central and South Eastern Europe from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Alessandro Rotta from the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities., Dr. Arlinda Rrustemi, The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies, Security Expert, H.E. Ms. Heidemaria Gürer, Ambassador of Austria, Dr. Vedran Džihić, Senior Researcher at the Austrian Institute for International Politics and the Ambassador of Croatia, H.E. Ms. Dubravka Plejic Markovic.

The Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia H.E. Ms. Dubravka Plejic Markovic, Head of the Division Central and South Eastern Europe from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jana van der Velde and Senior Political Adviser, Alessandro Rotta from the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities contributed valuable insights from different perspectives to the discussion as well.

The discussion was moderated by Security Expert Dr. Arlinda Rrustemi from the The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies. 

Dr. Arlinda Rrustemi, Dr. Vedran Džihić, the Ambassador of Croatia, H.E. Ms. Dubravka Plejic Markovic, Ms. Jana van der Velde and Alessandro Rotta .

The panel discussion was opened by a speech from Ambassador H.E. Ms. Heidemaria Gürer whom emphasized the importance of the theme of the discussion for Austria in light of the 2018 Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Stability and security in the Western Balkans are important topics for the European Union and in particular Austria, which has close relations with its neighbouring countries. 2018 became known as the “Year of Hope” in which EU enlargement in the Balkans had a high priority. Especially the topic of today, the ambassador stressed, is vital. The Western Balkans orientating to the future through the lenses of a new generation. 

The paper provides a platform for young people to let their voice be heard. It gives them a chance to set out their hopes for the future, Dr. Džihić explained. According to him there needs to be a horizon that guides the Western Balkans to a different future. This also means the present outlook is not so good. The vision of the European Union is still endangered within the region. Old-fashioned politics, loss of normative power and lack of economic, educational and social perspective were pointed out. But the paper offers a perspective of hope. Although a lot of energy and enthusiasm for the future has gone lost in the region – it is still visible with the young generation. 

The major elements that the paper touches upon are about positive democratic feelings. The youth is more optimistic about a future together with the European Union than the older generation. In the paper the writers put their focus on sustainable economical, social, educational and environmental change.

They are lesser concerned with the problem of nationalism. Important is that the Western Balkans needs more identification with Europe. It needs to find a voice on European level, be part of the shaping forces of Europe. Young people believe in the possibility of change: an atmospheric change in politics. One of joy instead of fear, Dr. Džihić concluded. 

H.E. Mirsada Čolaković, Ambassador of Bosnia Herzegovina, during an intervention. Also in the picture the Ambassador of Czech Republic, H.E. Ms. Kateřina Sequensová, the Ambassador of Albania, H.E. Ms. Adia Sakiqi, the Ambassador of Latvia, H.E. Aiga Liepina at Mr. Wilhen Neomar Diaz Lara, Charge d’affaires of Venezuela.

In context of the current Croatian Presidency of the Council of the EU the ambassador H.E. Ms. Dubravka Plejic Markovic pointed out the importance of looking at the problems. She stressed the struggle of the brain drain, young people leaving the region to work elsewhere. The Western Balkans have a good market, but the region is still relatively poor which stalls process.

Initiatives are being done, but it is not enough. There is a need for greater engagement on higher level. This needs more domestic homework. Reforms should be put in place, but this is difficult. It needs support. Therefore, the people need to understand their own value. They can make necessary change happen by becoming politically awake citizens. The ambassador pointed out that it is possible to work out these issues with the right amount of dedication. 

Dr. Vedran Džihić, Senior Researcher at the Austrian Institute for International Politics and Dr. Arlinda Rrustemi, The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies, Security Expert.

Head of the Division Central and South Eastern Europe from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jana van der Velde highlighted the Dutch position on the Western Balkans in regard to the accession in the European Union. It is important to make a distinction: the Western Balkans are six different countries.

“Each country is different and has its own problems”, she pointed out. The Netherlands care about these countries and where they stand. But their accession is determined by strict and fair criteria. The pace of accession is decided by the countries themselves and it takes hard work. The Dutch concerns are regarding the rule of law and regional issues and stability. Ms. van der Velde agreed that the focus on youth is important. The older generation is over represented in politics. Therefore, more engagement is necessary. But it is a package, she concluded. Europe is one continent and many issues are relevant to all of Europe. Working together is vital. 

Ambassador Gürer during her remarks.

An outlook on instability regarding minorities in the Western Balkans was put forward by Alessandro Rotta from the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities. He explained that the societies in which minorities are integrated are most stable. The framework – composed out of many elements such as rights, legislation and policy arrangements – for the Western Balkans is complex. It cannot always combat the daily political discourse in which minority issues are being used as a tool to divert attention from other problems such as corruption or other social-economic problems, he pointed out. Another important problem in these societies is the segregation of education. This is the recipe for a divided society, but it is very difficult to change. 
             

The different views brought forward by the panel stimulated an engaged debate with the esteemed guests. Many interesting questions were raised and answered. The debate ended with a small reception where guests could share their thoughts on the subject.

The study by Dr. Džihić can be read here: https://www.oiip.at/cms/media/2019-12-concrete-proposals-young-generations-for-the-new-balkans-2030.pdf 

Photography by Gualtiero Buonamassa.

First ever Dutch translation of El Filibusterismo launched in The Hague

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First ever Dutch translation of El Filibusterismo launched in The Hague

In the picture, Knights of Rizal with H.E. Jaime Victor Ledda. Picture by Anton Lutter.

By Anton Lutter.

The Order of Knights of Rizal together with the Embassy of the Philippines in The Hague launched Gerard Arp’s Dutch translation of El Filibusterismo, written in the 19th century by Jose Rizal, the national hero of The Philippines. Last year during the embassies Independence Day reception Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere was presented to H.E. Mr. Jaime Victor Ledda, the Ambassador of The Philippines to The Netherlands.

Ambassador Ledda held an interesting expose about Dr. Jose Rizal and his connection with The Netherlands. He mentioned the fact – although Rizal – never visited The Netherlands, the El Filibusterismo was clearly influenced by one of Netherlands’ greatest literary works the 19th century Max Havelaar by Multatuli.

After ambassador Ledda, the renowned Rizal scholar from Belgium, Lucien Spittael, entertained the attendants with a visual history of Rizal’s life in Europe, which brought us through countries like Great Britain, Swiss, Germany, France and Belgium. Finally, Jan Mulder’s lecture placed Rizal in the historical context of the 19th century in comparison with the Netherlands-Indies (nowadays Indonesia). This included also the earlier mentioned author Multatuli, who was in fact the civil servant Eduard Douwes Dekker, who wrote the Max Havelaar based on his experiences in in the residency Banten on Java.

De revolutie front – El Filibusterismo written by Dr Jose Rizal.

Of course the first exemplar of El Filibusterismo, translated from the original Spanish version, as De Revolutie, was presented to Ambassador Ledda by the translator and publisher Gerard Arp. The former profusely thanked Mr. Arp for his contribution to promote the legacy of Dr. Jose Rizal, by publishing this Dutch translation. 

The gathering took place on the 6th of February at Museum Sopiahof and included many guests from Philippine’s Diaspora, board members of the Multatuli Genootschap, academe as well as many others.

From the diplomatic corps we noticed the deputy head of the Embassy of Indonesia Minister Mr. Fikry Cassidy, the Chargé d’affaires ad interim of the Embassy of Malaysia Dr. Mohd Norhisyam Mohd Yusof, the Minister Plenipotentiary of Curaçao, Mr. Anthony Begida, the Minister Plenipotentiary of Sint Maarten Mr. Rene Violenus and the Honorary Consul-General of The Philippines at Amsterdam, Mr.  Eppo Horlings.

The Order of the Knights of Rizal is the sole official order of knighthood in The Philippines and created to honor and uphold the ideals of José Rizal. Organized on a global scale its headed in The Netherlands by The Hague chapter commander Sir Anton Lutter, KCR.

Next to the Dutch members a large delegation from Brussels attended the launching. Including the European Regional Commander Sir Albert Arevalo, KGOR and deputy Sir Juanito Villa, KGOR, former European commanders Honorary Consul Sir Tony Guansing, KGCR and Sir Lino Paras, KGCR. The latter being the sole person ever to have been awarded the Pro Patria Award outside of The Philippines.

Russia Celebrate the Diplomat’s Day

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Russia Celebrate the Diplomat’s Day

The celebration of the Diplomats’ Day at the Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Netherlands

In the picture H.E. Mr. Alexander Shulgin, Ambassador of Russia.

To mark Diplomats’ Day 2020, H.E. Mr. Alexander Shulgin, Russian Ambassador to the Netherlands, and his wife Mrs. Natalia Shulgina hosted a reception at the Embassy of the Russian Federation in The Hague.

Since 2002,  Diplomats’ Day has been celebrated, as an opportunity for the nation to celebrate its foreign service and recognize the work carried out by Russian diplomats around the world.

Diplomat’s Day at the Russian Federation Embassy in The Hague.

Alexander Shulgin drew the attention of the all presents to the fact that this year we are celebrating two major anniversaries: the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II (remembered in Russia as the Great Patriotic War), and the 75th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations.

The Ambassador emphasized that Russia has done everything necessary in order to counter the falsification of history, to preserve the good name of the victorious soldiers, and to prevent the revision of the internationally recognized results of Nazism’s defeat. Along with Russia, many responsible states across the world advocate for a proper historical memory – he noted.

Ambassadors of Morocco, Jordan, Egypt and Algeria admiring the Russian art exhibition.

The head of Russian mission also touched upon the role played by Soviet diplomacy during World War II. To this memory – he explained – the hall of the ground floor at the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs features a plaque in honor of the employees of the Soviet diplomatic service operating during the Great Patriotic War. This plaque – Mr. Shulgin noted – serves as a constant reminder for the new generations of diplomats of their predecessors’ courage and patriotism.

The Russian piano player Anna Frank during her remarkable performance.

Ambassador Shulgin also offers to guests an insight into the history of his country’s diplomatic corps. The foundations of Russian diplomacy were laid more than a 1000 years ago, he explained, when a delegation from Ancient Russia led by Princess Olga successfully conducted negotiations with the Byzantine Empire.

A photo exhibition depicting remarkable milestones of the Soviet and Russian diplomatic service was introduced to public.

The Russian piano player Anna Frank performed a variety of music pieces.

Uruguay Embassy brings Poems by Ida Vitale to The Hague

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Uruguay Embassy brings Poems by Ida Vitale to The Hague

Edith Bergansius, The Hague Hispanic Association’s president, H.E. Ms. Laura Dupuy Lasserre, Ambassador of Uruguay and Prof. Gabriel Inzaurralde, Latin American Master Studies program at Leiden University.

Once again, the Embassy of Uruguay together with The Hague Hispanic Association, directed by the president Ms. Edith Bergansius, organised a successful event to pay tribute to the reputable writer of Latin American letters: Ida Vitale of Uruguay, the winner of the 2018 Miguel de Cervantes Prize. 

The Koningkerk was filled to its maximum capacity, as the members of the Diplomatic Corps including Ambassadors of Ecuador, and Chile, as well as members of The Hague Hispanic Association which celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2020, and other friends of Uruguay and groups of the Spanish speaking diaspora attended to hear Gabriel Inzaurralde, Professor at Leiden University of Hispanic Literature, to give a lecture about Vitale. 

Professor Inzaurralde, Latin American Master Studies at Leiden University.

The evening began with H.E. Ms. Laura Dupuy Lasserre, the Ambassador of Uruguay, proudly presenting her views on one of the most important poets of the generation of 45’. 

An essayist  “critic, a professor of literature, a translator, the author of more than thirty books, as well as the recipient of countless wards and recognitions.  It is a source of pride that an Uruguayan woman has received the highest award of the Spanish language, the Miguel de Cervantes Prize for Literature. She is the fifth woman to receive the Cervantes prize that was established in 1976” , noted Ambassador Ms. Dupuy.

H.E. MS. Laura Dupuy Lasserre, Ambassador of Uruguay.

Ida Vitale taught literature in Montevideo until her exile in Mexico from 1973 until 1980, then Vitale, together with Enrique Fierro, her husband, moved to Austin in Texas, where they remained for 30 years until Fierro’s death in 2016.

The poet then returned to Montevideo, were she is still living and writing today. At the age of 96, the author is currently working on a new novel recounting her years in Mexico. 

H.E. Ms. Laura Dupuy, Ambassador of Uruguay, H.E. Ms. Maria Teresa Infante Caffi, Ambassador of Chile and the Ambassador of Ecuador, H.E. Mr. Andrés Terán Parral.

“Her poem Fortuna refers precisely to her status as a woman, and the fortune of having been able to develop in a free society. She belonged to the so-called “Generation of 45′, and like one of her contemporaries, Mario Benedetti, she had to live in exile in Mexico, a country that historically received many Uruguayans in solidarity, in particular from the world of art,” explained H.E. Ambassador Dupuy, who then added that at the event “we will deliver some of Vitale’s poems for your delight.”

Professor Mr. Inzaurralde gave a masteringly engaging speech that kept the public attentive until the end. He managed to bring the poet Vitale to the audience thanks to lively anecdotes, while also reading and analysing many of her poems as well as her life. 

Gustavo Morales Bertinat, Cultural Attache, Embassy of Uruguay, the Ambassador of Chile, H.E. Maria Teresa de Jesus Infante Caffi, Ambassador Dupuy, Professor Inzaurralde, Edith Berganisus and the Ambassador of Ecuador, H.E. Mr. Andrés Terán Parral.

On the screen, a broadcast of the Miguel de Cervantes awards ceremony with the King and Queen of Spain, together with Ms. Ida Vitale, as well as a short video of her addressing the audience from home was screened. 

This evening full of cultural experiences continued when Ambassador Dupuy invited all guests to taste exclusive Uruguayan wines as well as traditional empanadas and alfajores. Thereafter,  the conversations of all present continued until late, marking this event a great success. 

Congratulations to Ida Vitale in Montevideo, as well as organisers and all participants!

Book Launch: The Order of the Nights of Rizal

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Book Launch: The Order of the Nights of Rizal

By Roy Lie Atjam.

The Hague, Thursday 5 February 2020. The Philippine Embassy in The Hague, together with  the Netherlands Chapter of the sublime Order of the Nights of Rizal (1911) organized the launching of the first Dutch translation of El Filibusterismo written by Dr Jose Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines. The first copy of the book was presented to H.E. Mr. Jaime Victor Badillo Ledda, Ambassador of the Philippines.

Mr. Lucien Spittael a Rizal expert, delivered a lecture on the life and works of the Filipino colossal Dr Jose Rizal.

Mr. Jan Mulder also delivered a lecture on Rizal. The translation into Dutch was done by Mr. Gerard Arp of Arpenco Publishers. Notably present at the serene event was a contingent of Knights of Rizal in full regalia, coming all the way  from Belgium.

De revolutie front – El Filibusterismo written by Dr Jose Rizal.

After presenting H.E. Mr. Jaime Victor Ledda, Ambassador of the Philippines with the first copy of  El Filibusterismo in Dutch, the Order of Rizal anthem was sung and the “Sir” as the knights address one another, shared some experiences, reminiscent of the excellent time they have had with Ambassador Ledda when he was stationed in Brussels. Ambassador Ledda thanked the Order of the Nights of Rizal (The Hague Chapter) and expressed his gratitude for receiving the first copy of Dr Jose Rizal’ book in Dutch.

A reception concluded the fabulous evening.

PRC and Germany up for green partnership

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PRC and Germany up for green partnership

PRC Foreign Minister Wang Yi and German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas – Picture by Xinhua, Wang Qing.

Friday, 14 February 2020, Berlin, Germany. During a visit to Germany for the Munich Security Conference, State Councillor and Foreign Minister of the PRC, Wang Yi encountered his German counterpart Dr. Heiko Maas. 

The two chiefs of diplomacy agreed on an array of key agendas for this year, including cooperation and a push for aligning the Belt and Road Initiative with the EU’s Eurasia connectivity strategy, explore the establishment of a China-EU green partnership and carry out cooperation in the digital sector.

Chancellor Sebastian Kurz & Foreign Minister Wang Yi – Picture by Austrian Federal Chancellery. Picture by Austrian Federal Chancellery/Dragan Tatic

At Munich Foreign Minister Wang Yi likewise pursued a similar bilateral agenda during a meeting he held with Austrian Federal Chancellor Sebastian Kurz and Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg. State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang was accompanied by the PRC Ambassador to Germany, Wu Ken. 

For further information:

 Embassy of the PRC to Germany – HE Ambassador Wu Ken: http://www.china-botschaft.de/det/dszl/dsjl/

IEA holds talks vis-à-vis Azerbaijan

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IEA holds talks vis-à-vis Azerbaijan

IEA Executive Director, Fatih Birol and President Ilham Aliyev – Picture by Presidency of Azerbaijan.

Saturday, 15 February 2020, Munich, Free State of Bavaria, Germany: Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan sat for a tête-à-tête with the Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), Fatih Birol, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. 

Fatih Birol welcomed President Ilham Aliyev’s intervention during the Energy Security round table held as part of the conference. 

Azerbaijan readies to increase its energetic weight in relation to Europe with the construction of the so-called “Southern Gas Corridor”, a chain of pipelines linking Azerbaijan to Italy that is almost ready.

For further information: 
The meeting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QHX2XRXgCqA
President of Azerbaijan: https://en.president.az/articles/35802

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Germany: http://berlin.mfa.gov.az/news/4/3640

Cuban Ambassador Ramón Ripoll welcomed in Bavaria

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Cuban Ambassador Ramón Ripoll welcomed in Bavaria

Minister Dr. Florian Herrmann and Ambassador Ramón Ripoll Díaz – Picture by Bayerische Staatskanzlei.

Friday, 7 February 2020, Bavarian State Chancellery, Munich, Free State of Bavaria, Germany: State Minister Dr. Florian Herrmann, Head of the State Chancellery and Minister of State for Federal and European Affairs and Media, received in his office the Cuban Ambassador Ramón Ripoll Díaz and the latter’s spouse, Maria Milagros Franco Suárez, for a meeting on bilateral relations Cuba-Bavaria. 

There was an emphasis on exposing Cuba further to the Bavarian market as a tourist destination, but likewise to expand cooperation in economic and scientific affairs. 

Ambassador Ripoll Díaz holds a degree in Economics from the Habana University, and is accredited to Germany since 15 December 2017. 

For further information: 
Embassy of Cuba in Germany: http://misiones.minrex.gob.cu/es/alemania

https://www.bayern.de/service/fotoreihen/?frid=in131635&fbclid=IwAR3GPq5Ey9iZ2y8O4ZAQVJIpJPafV3wtaHLtR6MyoWh_SvK9MOM3g73ULSE

71st Republic Day at the India House

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71st Republic Day at the India House

In the picture H.E. Mr. Venu Rajamony, Ambassador of India.

Text and pictures by Catherine Dailey.

This morning, some 600 guests gathered outdoors, under sunny skies, to celebrate India’s 71st Republic Day at the “India House”, the residence of India’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, His Excellency Ambassador Venu Rajamony.

The program opened with a flag raising ceremony and the playing of the National Anthem, “Jana Gana Mana.”

On behalf of President Shri Ram Nath Kovind, Ambassador Venu Rajamony extended a warm welcome to his many guests, including scores of Indians who are working or studying in the Netherlands; Dutch citizens who, by way of Surinam, form the largest number of India’s diaspora; representatives from the municipalities of The Hague and Wassenaar and other “friends of India” who joined the Ambassador and his staff for the annual celebration.

Ambassador Rajamony read the President’s annual Republic Day address which emphasized the rights of his people as “citizens of a free and democratic nation” and called for an accompanying responsibility to “always adhere to the central tenets of our (Indian) democracy – justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.”

Noteworthy for Dutch guests, and others, was the President’s reference to the recently created “Ministry of Jalshakti” (May, 2019) which has been tasked with prioritizing water conservation and water management to meet current and future requirements for the world’s most populous, diverse and multi-lingual democracy. 

The President’s address also placed a strong emphasis on the government’s continued commitment to provide access to health and education and that both are “often considered the foundation of good governance.”  The availability of quality generic medicines, available at affordable prices to the “common people in the country”  are but one example of his government’s ambitious goals towards improving the lives of India’s 1.3 billion plus citizens.

In reading President Kovind’s address, the Ambassador also referred to the India Human Spaceflight Program, the Tokyo Olympics, and “another important source of national pride – the India diaspora.  In closing, he emphasized President’s Kovind’s words, “We are now in the third decade of the twenty-first century. This will be the decade of the rise of New India and a new generation of Indians.”

He continued, “Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals remain relevant” in the country’s “nation-building efforts” emphasizing the president’s call to reflect upon Gandhi’s message of truth and non-violence” as part of one’s daily routine. The full text of the 71st Republic Day address can be accessed here.

In conclusion, Ambassador Rajamony, invited his guests to explore the parklike grounds of the India House, noting that it is one of the most beautiful properties belonging to “the people of India.” The 104 year old residence is a listed monumental property in Wassenaar and has been owned by the Indian government since 1953.

Ambassador Rajamony also commented on the state visit of Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima to India in October, 2019.  Four Dutch ministers and a trade mission of over 250 persons accompanied the King and Queen to New Delhi, Mumbai and the State of Kerala. The delegation was, according to Ambassador Rajamony, by far, the largest in Dutch history.

Madras Chorus, at Indian House.

The crowd was also delighted to learn that KPN, will be illuminating the KPN building overlooking Rotterdam’s iconic Erasmus Bridge, with an image of India’s flag later this evening. India’s charismatic ambassador quipped that, “in addition to New York and Dubai, Rotterdam will also be partaking in celebrations” in honor of India’s Republic Day!.

He closed with a reference to his book, “India and The Netherlands – Past, Present and Future,” launched to coincide with the October State Visit, and he invited his guests to use it as an educational resource for India’s younger generation.  The luxuriously bound special edition book is available for purchase at local bookstores. It can also be ordered, here, through the publisher, Bombay Ink, or via various online booksellers.

71st Republic Day at the India House.

The 71st Republic Day tradition at the India House concluded with a cultural program featuring music performed by the Madras Chorus and a classical dance performance by dancers from the Laya School of Dance and Arts and finished with an Indian “breakfast buffet” for all. More information about today’s festive 71st Republic Day program is available at the “India in Netherlands (Embassy of India, The Hague) Facebook page.

The Islamic Republic of Iran Celebrates

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The Islamic Republic of Iran Celebrates

In the picture Dr. Alireza Kazemi Abadi, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Netherlands celebrated the 41st Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution and the National Day of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Hundreds of guests came by to felicitate H.E. Dr. Alireza Kazemi Abadi, Ambassador of Iran in the Netherlands. The date was Tuesday 11 February 2020. H.E. Dr. Alireza Kazemi Abadi, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, delivered the following speech.

“It is a real honor for me to welcome you to the celebration of the 41st anniversary of the Islamic Revolution and the National Day of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

 This morning, millions of Iranian people came to the streets of all Iranian cities to celebrate the victory of their revolution against oppression, tyranny, arrogance, aggression and external interferences and to demonstrate once again their strong will and determination to stand up against economic terrorism, which manifest itself in the form of the so-called “U.S. maximum pressure campaign”.

In fact, from the outset, the Islamic Republic of Iran was subject to variety of illegal sanctions but the re-imposition of the U.S. sanctions after its unilateral withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA or nuclear deal with Iran) is manifestly in violation of all rules of international law, including the recent ruling of International Court of Justice and provisions of the Security Council resolution 2231.

This new wave of sanctions is part of a larger campaign of economic terrorism, which targets ordinary people with an aim an to starve them to submission. The continuation of these illegal sanctions will certainly constitute crimes against humanity and pose an imminent threat to international peace and security.

The first days of 2020 were very ominous for our nation, for our region and for the whole world. We in Iran lost a legendary hero and a noble soldier and our region lost a great anti-terrorist fighter. In fact, the premeditated vindictive assassination of General Soliemai and his companions by the United States in Iraq brought the Persian Gulf region to the edge of a war.

Guests attending the reception of the 41st Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution and National Day of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Shouldn’t have Iran brought the Persian Gulf region to the edge of a war. Shouldn’t have Iran exercised self-restraint to this illegal and provocative act, the region was experiencing another deadly and destructive war whose consequences would most probably have exceeded way beyond the region.

Despite these provocations, the Islamic Republic of Iran has consistently followed its sublime principles; namely the principles of prohibition of the use of force, non-interference in domestic affairs of other nations and commitment to constructive dialogue and engagement with other countries based on the principle of mutual respect. 

Today, more than ever we need to cherish the value of dialogue, multilateralism, mutual understanding and respect for the principles of international law. One may put his country first, but we all have to remember in this interdependent world peace, security and economy of each and every state are indivisible from the others’.

In this line and as another step towards promoting peace and tranquility in the Persian Gulf region and beyond, President Ruhani presented his initiative, called HOPE, in last September. It is an endeavor to encourage dialogue and respect among the nations in the region, to strengthen territorial integrity and the inviolability of international borders, and to re-emphasis the principles of peaceful settlement of disputes, non-aggression and non-intervention in internal or external affairs of others.

On bilateral relations between Iran and the Netherlands, please allow me to remind you that the relations between our nations go back to over 400 years ago. Unfortunately, however, in the year 2019, because of the re-imposition of the U.S. extraterritorial sanctions, the level of economic relations between us decreased, but still several high-level political delegations were exchanged and we are expecting some ministerial visits in very near future. We on our part and as the embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran try our outmost to strengthen the bond of friendship between our nations and to develop the bilateral relations between the two countries.

Before concluding, I would like to thank my colleagues in the embassy and their families who worked hard to make today’s event a successful one. I also thank Mr. Fadaei, who let us to display some of the paintings in the form of small exhibition at the margin of this reception. I strongly recommend you to visit the exhibition before you leave. 

Once again thank you for joining us and I hope you enjoy the rest of the evening with us.”

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