“Branding” cities, “branding” nations…

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“Branding” cities, “branding” nations…

“A Thought and a Smile…”

After a few years of mission-critical assignments elsewhere, Eelco H. Dykstra resumes his acclaimed column “A Thought and a Smile…”.

P.S. His first column, “Branding Cities, Branding Nations,” is also a call to action. Members of the diplomatic community interested in further exploring the topic of ‘branding’ can contact Eelco, as he is planning a series of articles on this topic.

By Eelco H. Dykstra

The word “branding” in Dutch means “the surf”… the coming and going of waves and breakers at beaches and other shorelines. A lot of dynamics, sounds, smells, a lot of things happening at the same time.

The word “branding” in English has been described as “creating a distinct identity that sets one apart from others in the minds of target audiences as well as the general population”. A lot of dynamics, sounds, images, a lot of things happening at the same time.

  • Public entities engage in “branding”.
  • Private companies do it.
  • Cities do it.
  • Nations do it.
  • We all do it.

Decades ago, The Hague decided to brand itself as an “international city”. The ambitions were high: becoming the third “United Nations” city – after New York and Geneva. And so it branded itself as a city of peace, justice and safety [= stad van vrede, recht en veiligheid]. After a decision was made to drop the  ‘safety’ aspect, the branding of The Hague was and still is as “The International City of Peace and Justice’”  

It worked. With the Carnegie Foundation’s Peace Palace as starting point, The Hague attracted UN and EU agencies such as the International Criminal Court (ICC), the International Court of Justice (ICJ), a range of UN Tribunals, OPCW and Eurojust, to name but a few.  You all know what the impact this branding has been: diplomats in The Hague became busier and busier  – and more and more expats moved to The Hague. 

So you may ask: what about Embassies?

Well, they are deeply engaged in ‘branding’ too. First, diplomats need to think about what it is that sets their country apart from others. Then they think about their audience. Who are we addressing? Specific professional target audiences? Or the general population?

These kind of questions, along with the actual messaging, are key to successful branding. When it comes to the ‘messaging’ itself,  successful branding has been described as being in need of 5 C’s: Clarity, Consistency, Content, Connection, and Confidence.   

During my international years, I’ve seen many examples of ‘branding’ attempts by embassies. Some successful, others not so. Particularly in global hubs like Washington DC, it is part of the daily workload for embassy staff to figure out how best to connect with the eyes, ears, hearts and brains of local counterparts and media outlets.

And is there  competition between embassies in Washington DC? Oh yes, you bet there is – and thus getting the branding right is of paramount importance…

Along with the 5 C’s, the use of strong and attractive visuals is highly recommended. From logos and websites to interactive games and podcasts, they all  help. And don’t forget the tone, also hugely  important. Remember this saying? “C’est le ton qui fait la musique” (it is the tone that makes the music).

In closing, I will share an example of smart ‘branding’ I picked up when working in  Washington DC.  Staff at the Royal Netherlands Embassy used the following ‘mantra’ to introduce and describe the Netherlands to America and to Americans:

“The Netherlands: the same population as Florida, the same size as Maryland and the same GDP as New York”.

Wow.

Clarity. Consistency. Content. Connection. Confidence.

And their logo? An orange tulip…    

Burkina Faso’s media regulator suspends BBC Africa and Voice of America

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Burkina Faso’s media regulator suspends BBC Africa and Voice of America

The Burkinabe authorities should immediately lift the suspension of BBC Africa and Voice of America, and reverse the directive seeking to control local outlets’ coverage, said the Committee to Protect Journalists on Friday.


CPJ (26.04.2024) – On Thursday, the Superior Council of Communication (CSC), Burkina Faso’s media regulator, suspended the British government-funded BBC Afrique and U.S. Congress-funded Voice of America from broadcasting for two weeks, according to a CSC statement and news reports. The CSC said the suspensions were “precautionary measures” in response to the outlets’ reporting on allegations of misconduct by the Burkinabe army, detailed in a report by the global Human Rights Watch (HRW) rights group.

The CSC also ordered internet service providers to block access to the BBC Africa and Voice of America’s websites, and asked Burkinabe media not to relay the content of the Human Rights Watch report under penalty of “sanctions provided for by the laws in force.”

“The Burkinabe authorities must immediately lift the suspension of BBC Africa and Voice of America and refrain from censoring local journalists and media outlets,” said Angela Quintal, head of CPJ’s Africa program, in New York. “The army’s conduct cannot be a taboo subject. Burkinabe citizens have the right to be informed on all matters of public interest in the military response to the security crisis in their country.”

According to the HRW report, the Burkinabe army had killed 223 civilians in the country’s north in retaliation for attacks by armed Islamist fighters. In its statement, the CSC said the Voice of America and BBC Africa broadcasts constituted “disinformation likely to discredit the Burkinabe army.” 

In an April 26 statement, Voice of America said that it “stands by its reporting” and “intends to continue to fully and fairly cover activities in the country.” A BBC spokesperson told CPJ that “the suspension reduces BBC’s ability to reach audiences with independent and accurate news” and it will continue to report on the region in the public interest and without fear or favor.

Burkina Faso is ruled by a military regime led by Ibrahim Traoré, who seized power during a September 2022 coup amid an insurgency by Islamist armed groups.

Previously, Burkinabe authorities suspended several international media outlets for reporting on military misconduct allegations and in November sought to conscript two journalists into the military.

Reached via a messaging application, Blahima Traoré, CSC’s general secretary referred CPJ to the CSC’s decision and did not elaborate further.

Published by https://hrwf.eu

Armenian Foreign Minister’s Commitment to ICC and Regional Cooperation

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Armenian Foreign Minister’s Commitment to ICC and Regional Cooperation

By Dr. Lorenca Bejko

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia plays a crucial role in the country’s relationship with international organizations, including the International Criminal Court (ICC). As a member of the ICC, Armenia is committed to upholding the principles of the Rome Statute, which aims to prevent the most serious crimes that concern the international community, strengthen the rule of law in the international community, and achieve more universality of the ICC

The official ceremony dedicated to the membership of Armenia in the International Criminal Court (ICC) took place on February 8, 2024, at the ICC headquarters in The Hague. The ceremony marked Armenia’s accession as the 124th signatory of the Rome Statute, the ICC’s founding document. The event included the raising of the Armenian flag, congratulatory remarks by the President of the ICC, Mr. Piotr Hofmański and the President of the Assembly of States Parties to the ICC, Ms. Päivi Kaukoranta, and a statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan.

In this context, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Ararat Mirzoyan, emphasized the importance of preventing the most serious crimes, strengthening the rule of law in the international community, and achieving more universality of the ICC during the official welcoming ceremony dedicated to Armenia’s membership in the ICC

During the ceremony, Mirzoyan emphasized Armenia’s priorities and expectations regarding its membership in the ICC, which are in line with universal principles of democracy, the rule of law, and the fight against impunity. He also highlighted the importance of preventing the most serious crimes, strengthening the rule of law in the international community, and achieving more universality of the ICC.

Mirzoyan also highlighted the importance of the ICC’s role in crime prevention and ensuring fair and impartial justice processes for peaceful resolution of conflicts, especially in the context of the South Caucasus region, where Armenia has faced continued aggressions, heinous atrocity crimes perpetrated against Armenians, and ethnic cleansing.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia also discussed the measures undertaken and further steps necessary towards the implementation of the Rome Statute, emphasizing the close cooperation with the Assembly of States Parties to the ICC.

This cooperation is crucial for ensuring that the ICC can fulfill its mandate to investigate and prosecute individuals responsible for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression.

In a separate meeting with Päivi Kaukoranta, the President of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, Mirzoyan discussed the measures undertaken and further steps necessary towards the implementation of the Rome Statute. Kirakosyan, the Representative of Armenia on international legal issues, presented the details of the steps initiated in the direction of harmonizing the legislation of the Republic of Armenia with the Rome Statute.

The ceremony was attended by the ICC Prosecutor General, representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in The Hague, from about 60 diplomatic representations, the President of the Association of Journalists, as well as other guests.

The membership of Armenia in the ICC is a significant step towards the establishment of an international judicial system that ensures punishment for persons who have committed genocide and other serious crimes. Armenia has been an initiator and pioneer in the processes of prevention and condemnation of the crime of genocide, both within the framework of the United Nations and other international organizations and forums.

The ICC’s role in crime prevention and ensuring fair and impartial justice processes for peaceful resolution of conflicts is significant. In the context of the South Caucasus region, where Armenia has faced continued aggressions, heinous atrocity crimes perpetrated against Armenians, and ethnic cleansing, the ICC has real potential to prevent any further escalation and atrocities, becoming a milestone towards stability and sustainable peace in the region.

Armenia’s commitment to the ICC and the shared vision of a world where justice prevails and the dignity of every individual is protected will be an active member of the Court and will significantly contribute to the works of the Assembly of the States Parties. Together, the international community moves forward in solidarity, bound by the ideals of the Rome Statute, as they strive for a future defined by fairness and the rule of law.

Enhancing Trade and Cooperation: Meeting Between Armenian and Dutch Foreign Ministers

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Enhancing Trade and Cooperation: Meeting Between Armenian and Dutch Foreign Ministers

By Dr. Lorenca Bejko

The Foreign Minister of Armenia, Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan, visited the Netherlands for a working visit in February 2024. During his visit, he had several significant meetings that focused on strengthening Armenia’s bilateral relations with the Netherlands, expanding the Armenian-Dutch bilateral agenda and political dialogue, and discussing the perspectives of cooperation in various directions, including for further strengthening Armenia’s resilience.

Mirzoyan met with H.E. Mr. Marcin Czepelak, the Secretary-General of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, to discuss the functioning of the Permanent Court of Arbitration and the possibilities of interaction between Armenia and international judicial bodies, including the PCA. They also exchanged views on the general security situation in the South Caucasus and the existing challenges.

Mirzoyan also met with Mr. Raymond de Roon, the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives (Parliament) of the Netherlands, and members of the committee representing the majority of parliamentary parties. During the meeting, Mirzoyan noted that Armenia is on the path of democratic reforms and presented to the parliamentarians Armenia’s vision on establishing stability and peace in the region and the efforts undertaken in that direction.

He emphasized the key principles of the Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization process, including the importance of unequivocal respect for territorial integrity and inviolability of borders.

The Foreign Affairs Minister of Armenia with Ms. Hanke Bruins Slot, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands during a team meeting.

Mirzoyan had a meeting with Ms. Hanke Bruins Slot, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, where they discussed issues on the agenda of the Armenia-EU partnership and emphasized the importance of the continuous development of cooperation in various directions, including for further strengthening Armenia’s resilience.

During a round-table discussion at the Clingendael Institute of International Relations, H.E. Viktor Biyagov, Ambassador of Armenia to the Netherlands, Armenian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan, from Clingendael, Mr. Tony van der Togt and Niels Drost.

Mirzoyan also participated in a round-table discussion at the Clingendael Institute of International Relations, where he presented the current security situation in the South Caucasus and the peculiarities of the normalization process of the Armenia-Azerbaijan relations. He emphasized the need for unequivocal recognition of territorial integrity and ensuring maximum clarity for further delimitation process based on the Alma-Ata Declaration and the most recent maps of the USSR General Staff.

The President of the Assembly of States Parties to the ICC Ms. Päivi Kaukoranta, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan. and the President of the ICC Mr. Piotr Hofmański.

Finally, Mirzoyan had a meeting with the President of the International Criminal Court Piotr Hofmański, where they exchanged views on issues related to the implementation of the Rome Statute, the court’s founding document. Mirzoyan emphasized that Armenia, as a country that has been facing the severe consequences of impunity in the region, is well aware of the imperative to combine efforts in order to fight against continuous impunity and prevent crimes against humanity.

Overall, Mirzoyan’s visit to the Netherlands was significant in strengthening Armenia’s bilateral relations with the Netherlands, expanding the Armenian-Dutch bilateral agenda and political dialogue, and discussing the perspectives of cooperation in various directions, including for further strengthening Armenia’s resilience.

Dismantling Pakistani-led migrant smuggling network in Romania, Italy and Austria

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Dismantling Pakistani-led migrant smuggling network in Romania, Italy and Austria

Authorities in Romania, Italy and Austria have dismantled a criminal network that abused work visas to smuggle over 500 Pakistani, Bengali and Egyptian migrants to various EU Member States. In total, 12 suspects have been formally identified and will be charged during an action day with the active support by Eurojust and Europol. Eurojust also assisted in setting up and financing a joint investigation team (JIT) into the case.

The migrant smuggling network advertised its services online, but members of the organised crime group (OCG) based in Pakistan also recruited migrants locally. The criminal network started its activities in January 2021 and operated until recently. In the EU, the OCG operated from Romania, Italy and Austria and is estimated to have earned at least EUR 1 million with their illegal activities.

The smugglers obtained Romanian work visas for the migrants through a series of linked companies set up for this purpose, and placed them in Bucharest and Brasov. From there they were transported to the border area near Timisoara, from where they were further trafficked to Italy, Austria and Germany. These onward journeys were either by guided passage on foot across the border or in lorries.

Investigations were launched in Romania in August of last year and identified 15 suspects and 5 enterprises set up for the smuggling activities. During the action day, a total of 29 places have been searched and an estimated value of EUR 146,000 in cash was seized.

Eurojust not only assisted in setting up the JIT between Romania, Italy and Europol, but also provided additional cross-border judicial support during the action. Europol provided elaborate analytical support and operational cooperation and facilitated the exchange of information.

The operation on the ground was carried out at the request of and by the following authorities:

Romania: Directorate for Investigation of Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) – Brasov Territorial Structure; Brasov Bureau for Combatting Organised Crime

Austria: Public Prosecution Office Salzburg; State Criminal Police Office Salzburg

Italy: Public Prosecution Office of Udine; Carabinieri, Special Operational Group of Udine Anti-Crime Unit

Panama Gastronomic Festival

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Panama Gastronomic Festival

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Ambassador of Panama H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman hosted a Panamanian gastronomic festival featuring food specialities of her country Panama. It was a two-day festival that took place in The Hague on 18-19 April 2024.

Ambassador Elizabeth Ward Neiman entertained fellow ambassadors from Argentina, Chili, Cameroon, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Greece and Curacao, along with high representatives from ICC, ICJ, IOM, business persons, and public servants to name a few. The Food Festival was open to members of the public by reservation via Leo’s International Flavors.

Thomas Kortleve, General Manager of Royal Leonardo Royal Hotel The Hague.

Ambassador Ward Neiman delivered her welcome address, she was introduced by Mr Thomas Kortleve, General Manager of Leonardo Royal Hotel The Hague, who recently returned from a fabulous and revealing visit to Panama. He very much appreciated the architecture of the old city and of course the Panamanian cuisine.

The Ambassador stated in her speech “It is an honor and a privilege for me, as the Ambassador of Panama to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, to address you tonight during the Panama Gastronomic Festival. Today, we gather to celebrate Panama´s culinary diversity and showcase its offerings as a tourist destination, an investment hub, and, of course, a gastronomic paradise.

Panama Embassy team.

Panamanian cuisine is a living reflection of our history, culture, and diversity. Combining indigenous, African, European, and Asian influences with the fresh and exotic ingredients that characterize our land, each dish you savor will tell a unique and delicious story.

From sancocho to ceviche, from coconut rice to patacones, our cuisine is a sensory journey that brings people together around the table.

Ambassador Ward Neiman and Chef Roberto Torres.

For tonight´s meal, renowned Panamanian chef Roberto Torres´s creativity stands out.  Roberto has prepared a unique menu that blends tradition with innovation, while taking our palates on a journey through Panamanian cuisine. His culinary talent and his passion for local ingredients are undeniable.

However, Panama is not only a gastronomic destination but also a country filled with breathtaking landscapes, a rich history and a vibrant culture. Additionally, it offers a conducive environment for investment and business growth. With a solid economy, a strategic and safe location, and a welcoming business atmosphere, Panama stands as an ideal destination for those seeking new opportunities.

I want to commend the work of our co-hosts, the Consulate General of the Panamanian Merchant Marine in Rotterdam.

This consulate plays a crucial role in facilitating services related to navigation under the Panamanian flag, ensuring compliance with the highest international standards of safety and maritime regulation.

Traditional San Blas Mola Art exhibited at Leonardo Royal Hotel During the Panama Food Festival.

I also wish to express my gratitude to Diplomat Magazine and to the Leonardo Hotel for their help in organizing this event which allows us to share our gastronomic culture with you. Their continued support to the diplomatic community as well as their commitment to excellence is invaluable.

Last, but never least, I mention special words of appreciation to the embassy team who are the backbone of everything we do.

H.E. Mr. Philippe Couvreur, ICJ Judge and the Ambassador of Argentina, H.E. Mr. Mario Oyarzabal.

The Gastronomic Festival is more than just a celebration of food; it is a tribute to Panamanian identity and hospitality. I invite all of you now to explore the flavors of Panama and enjoy our traditional dances, while you admire our typical dress, the pollera.

Long live Panamanian gastronomy, and the friendship between Panama and the Netherlands!”

Panama stands out. Green diplomacy, is an interesting concept. Panama, known for its tourism, investment opportunities, and gastronomy, is also a country that takes climate change seriously. In 2021, Panama produced 82% of its electricity from renewable resources, setting an example for other governments around the world. Panama is leading the way in conserving carbon sinks while transitioning to clean energy.

Ambassador Ward Neiman, with H.E. Mr. Antonio Polosa, IOM Chief of Mission and Ms. Fyfy Djeradi, Secrétariat,ICJ.
Panama Food Festival 2024

At the dinner, Ambassador Ward Neiman, who was elegantly dressed in red and had a friendly smile, chatted with guests at each table. She even made a second round, this time introducing Chef Roberto Torres.

The three-course menu consisted of ceviche in yellow leche de tigre, seabass, cheese empanada, and more for the starter. The main course was duo de Caribe, which included escabeche, pork belly, and roasted chicken. For dessert, guests enjoyed sweet corn cake, coffee-chocolate mousse, caramelized pineapple with lemon sorbet. Beverages served at the dinner included red, white, and rose wines, as well as a choice of Zombie Cocktail and pineapple-coconut juice before the dinner.

Minoska Ramirez and Julian Perez-Urriola from Panama Conjunto Folclorico, Bailes y Tradiciones de Berlin.

The event also featured a display of typical Panamanian outfits, as well as a dance performance by the group Conjunto Folclorico Panama, Bailes y Tradiciones de Berlin. The performers, Julian Perez-Urriola and Minoska Ramirez, put on a dazzling show.

The evening was further animated by a constant flow of lively Panamanian tunes. Overall, the Panamanian gastronomic festival was impressive, combining indigenous, African, European, and Asian influences with fresh and exotic ingredients. It catered to different tastes, appealing to food lovers and foodies alike.

All in attendance enjoyed the gastronomic festival.

The Curacao Experience Ambassadors Edition 2024 Expressions of Gratitude

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The Curacao Experience Ambassadors Edition 2024 Expressions of Gratitude

By Roy Lie Atjam

On April 10, a group of ambassadors who participated in The Curacao Experience – Ambassadors Edition 2024, gathered at Leonardo Royal Hotel The Hague to express their gratitude and extend their congratulations to H.E. Minister Plenipotentiary Carlson Manuel for his outstanding coordination and creation of an amazing atmosphere throughout the visit.

“We  would also like to extend our appreciation to all stakeholders involved in organizing this successful and delightful voyage.”

Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, Diplomat Magazine’s Publisher, Curacao Minister, Carlson Manuel, the Ambassador of Colombia, H.E. Ms. Carolina Olarte Bácares and the Ambassador of Moldova, H.E. Mr. Veaceslav Dobîndă.

The attendees were treated to a video presentation of the “Curacao Experience -Ambassadors Edition 2024” displaying over a hundred pictures taken during the trip. The video was accompanied by music from renowned artist Izaline Calister and other performers. Minister Manuel was presented with a gift on behalf of the participants, an apple from Royal Delft. An apple was chosen as it is an ancient symbol of good health. Besides the Royal Delft apple, several personal gifts were presented to the Minister. As a courtesy, Diplomat Magazine offered Minister Manuel with a 3-layer cake in the tricolour of Curacao, by Marta Orban along with a degustation of  Punche Crema, a typical beverage of Curacao.

Minister Manuel thanked the Ambassadors for their loyal participation. He went on to thank his staff for their mega contribution. Further, he also thanked Diplomat Magazine for their preparatory work.

H.E. Ms. Carolina Olarte Bácares,Ambassador of Colombia.

The celebration highlighted powerful speeches by H.E. Ambassador Carolina Olarte Bácares of Colombia and H.E. Ambassador Veaceslav Dobîndă of Moldova. Their impactful words left a lasting impression on the occasion.

An extract of the delivery by Ambassador Carolina Olarte-Bácares of Colombia. “Dear Minister, dear Carlson, I have the pleasure and honor to address to you a few words of gratitude on behalf of the group of ambassadors and attendees of the Curacao Experience.

Curacao and Diplomat Magazine Team together with the ambassadors of Colombia and Moldova with Minister Carlson Manuel.

We have organized this meeting to express our thankfulness to you and to your entire team, for organizing the trip to your wonderful island, and especially for the interest and warmth with which you prepared the program and welcomed us.

We would also like to express our appreciation for the participation of the authorities at the highest level, with whom we had the opportunity to interact, such as the Governor, the Prime Minister and several of the cabinet ministers, as well as a significant number of civil servants and experts.

All of them provided rich presentations with insightful information and analysis, and in that regard, we want to highlight particularly the moderation of the various panel discussions. Their professionalism is another example of the current consistency and the great future that Curaçao has.

Ambassadors, spouses, Diplomat Magazine and Curacao team all attending the event.

The way in which every detail was taken care of, from the smallest to the largest, allowed us to see the industriousness and dedication of your team, whom we also thank. Yet, we want to make a very special acknowledgement of a person, Kirina, who truthfully deserves the award of providing all the solutions and the attentions.

We had the chance to notice the great number of sponsors that the Curacao event had. Hence, we would like to specially ask you to let them know about our full appreciation. Today, we can do this to Diplomat Magazine, for which we also want to thank the support provided by her director, Mayelinne De Lara, who helped us and is part of the organization of today`s event.

Since returning, we’ve discussed Curaçao among ourselves and colleagues, processing information and generating new ideas. In sum, this ambassadors experience in Curaçao has been a success from our point of view, and we hope that more people will be able to live it.”

H.E. Mr. Veaceslav Dobîndă , Ambassador of Moldova.

The next speaker was, Ambassador Veaceslav Dobîndă of Moldova. In part he stated “Dear Carlson, Kirini, Jessica, Excellencies, Friends, Kalibambeya!It is a great privilege and honor to express on behalf of the team of ambassadors all the gratitude for the professionalism and hospitality that we all benefited from during “The Curacao Experience – Ambassadors Edition 2024“.

I can say without hesitation that it was an extraordinary experience that combined a comprehensive agenda and knowledge about the unique environment, history, business and investment opportunities, academic projects, and exceptional tourism infrastructure.

On the other hand, the efforts of your team, together with the perfect weather conditions and the kindness of the people, made our joint meeting a real success, both in terms of form and content. Certainly, now Curacao has become a splendid future destination for many of us, but also for our colleagues, friends, and family members.

H.E. Ms. Carolina Olarte Bácares,Ambassador of Colombia, H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica, Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, Diplomat Magazine’s Publisher, H.E. Mr. Agustín Vásquez Gómez, Ambassador of El Salvador and H.E. Mr. Juan Duran, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic.
H.E. Ms Elizabeth War Neiman, Ambassador of Panama and Minister Carlson Manuel.

We enjoyed the whole range of positive emotions, in terms of the Papiamento language, multiculturalism, art, simplicity and originality, delicious food, Curacao cocktails and of course the fascinating local people. And if you allow me, I will also add live music and dance.

We are extremely grateful for your generosity and in this way, we reciprocate our gratitude and friendship to you, supplemented by wishes for peace, prosperity, creativity, and well-being.

Dear Carlson, please accept our highest consideration for this unforgettable experience and we would like to reiterate once again that we are proud and lucky to have met you and your tireless team!”

Minister Manuel envisages organising similar voyages to Curacao in the near future. The reception was a resounding success, and all attendees left in high spirits.

Minister Carlson Manuel, we all say, masha danki!

Indonesia Ready to Lead Water Governance Transformation at the 10th World Water Forum

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Indonesia Ready to Lead Water Governance Transformation at the 10th World Water Forum

JAKARTA, April 23, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – The Indonesian government, according to the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR), believes that the 10th World Water Forum in Bali will be able to generate political consensus among participating heads of state, and achieve the agreements necessary to address the global climate challenge.

The World Water Forum (WWF) is the largest gathering in water sectors involving various stakeholders, and is co-hosted by the World Water Council and a host city. Held every three years, it has been taking place since 1997, with participants from politics, multilateral institutions, academia, civil society and the private sector.

The Government of the Republic of Indonesia will host the 10th World Water Forum in Bali from 18–25 May 2024. The National Organizing Committee (NOC) is chaired by the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut B. Pandjaitan, while the Minister of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR), Basuki Hadimuljono, will serve as Daily Chairperson.

This year’s Forum will be attended by numerous heads of state, with several former world leaders expressing their intention to be present, considering it necessary to attend. These include the former Presidents of Chile, Hungary, Slovenia, Malawi, Sri Lanka, and Costa Rica. The former Prime Ministers of Belgium, Korea, and Bhutan will also be present.

Written by TR/Elvira Inda Sari/WW, ANTARA: https://en.antaranews.com.

Mois de la Francophonie

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Mois de la Francophonie

Par Alexandra Paucescu

La soirée inaugurale du Mois de la Francophonie, sous le slogan « Francophonie sans frontières », s’est tenue à la Résidence du Canada le 1er mars 2024.

Cet événement a constitué un rendez-vous incontournable dédié à la présentation de la diversité culturelle de sept pays qui avaient organisé des espaces spécifiques : la Belgique, la Croatie, la Côte d’Ivoire, le Maroc, la Roumanie, le Sénégal et la Tunisie. Présents lors de la soirée d’inauguration du Mois de la Francophonie, notamment les ambassadeurs de la Pologne, de la France, et du Rwanda.

Dans chaque espace dédié à l’un des sept pays, il y avait de l’artisanat et d’autres expressions artistiques, des plats typiques ainsi que des desserts, des vins, thés et boissons aux fruits. La Roumanie a également offert des vins exquis qui ont égayé l’événement.

L’Ambassadeur du Canada, S.E. M. Hugh Adsett, l’Ambassadeur de Tunisie, S.E. M. Skander Denguezli, l’Ambassadeur Mamadou Bamba Hanne, Représentant Permanent de l’OIF auprès de l’Union Européenne, et l’Ambassadeur Geneviève Brisson, Déléguée Générale du Québec à Bruxelles, étaient présents pour cette occasion.

La soirée a été embellie par la présence de la violoniste Mme Murielle Lemay, qui a obtenu son baccalauréat en musique de la prestigieuse université McGill de Montréal et a approfondi ses études en violon au Conservatoire Royal de Liège, puis en composition au Conservatoire Royal de Bruxelles. Le guitariste M. François Thomas Sagne, diplômé du Conservatoire régional de Chambéry et du Conservatoire Royal de Bruxelles, a accompagné Murielle. Thomas Sagne explore les univers musicaux en allant du jazz à la fusion, en passant par la musique contemporaine et expérimentale.

La violoniste Mme Murielle Lemay et le guitariste M. François Thomas Sagne en plein performance.

L’Ambassadeur Brisson a eu une pensée pour le décès de l’ancien Premier Ministre du Canada Brian Mulroney et a indiqué que le drapeau sera mis en berne à la Délégation Générale du Québec.

Elle a également souligné sa satisfaction d’être présente afin de célébrer ensemble avec les partenaires du GAF l’appartenance à la Francophonie et la richesse des liens qui unissent, bien au-delà de la langue.

l’Ambassadeur de Tunisie, S.E. M. Skander Denguezli.

L’Ambassadeur de Tunisie, Skander Denguezli, a prononcé un discours chaleureux au début de l’événement.

“Rappelons que la langue française rassemble aujourd’hui plus de 321 millions de locuteurs à travers le globe, dont 225 millions en font un usage quotidien. Elle est la 5ème langue mondiale par le nombre de ses locuteurs et la seule, avec l’anglais, à être présente sur les cinq continents. La Tunisie, l’un des pays fondateurs de la Francophonie, a accueilli le 18ème Sommet de l’OIF, organisé à Djerba en novembre 2022, qui a coïncidé avec le cinquantième anniversaire de la création de la Francophonie.

La Tunisie accorde une attention constante et particulière au développement du projet francophone, vecteur d’amitié, de solidarité et de coopération entre ses membres. Le prochain Sommet, le 19ème, sera ouvert le 4 octobre 2024 à la Cité Internationale de la Langue Française à Villers-Cotterêts. Dès à présent, je souhaite à nos amis français tout le succès pour cette prochaine édition dans l’intérêt commun de tous les membres de la famille francophone.”

L’Ambassadeur a remercié tous ceux qui ont contribué à l’organisation des différentes activités du Mois de la Francophonie, notamment le groupe de travail au niveau des missions diplomatiques, la Représentation Permanente de l’OIF à Bruxelles, l’Alliance Française de La Haye, l’Institut Français et le Lycée Vincent van Gogh.

Madame Geneviève Brisson, Déléguée Générale du Québec à Bruxelles et ’Union Européenne à Bruxelles et SEM Mamadou Bamba Hanne, Représentant Permanent de l’OIF auprès de l’Union Européenne à Bruxelles.

Le programme du Mois de la Francophonie au niveau du GAF comporte principalement les activités suivantes : la projection de courts-métrages francophones de Côte d’Ivoire, de France, du Maroc, de Suisse, du Sénégal, de Tunisie et du Québec au cinéma Filmhuis à La Haye, ouverte au Corps Diplomatique ainsi qu’au grand public ; et une réception offerte par le Bureau de l’OIF à Bruxelles.

l’Ambassadeur Mamadou Bamba Hanne, Représentante Permanente de l’OIF auprès de l’UE, est également intervenue à cette occasion avec une petite et significative allocution. L’événement a été une autre démonstration de la bonne coopération entre les pays francophones et de son importance dans le monde.

Your Gateway to Success in the Netherlands

Diplomat Magazine
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Your Gateway to Success in the Netherlands

Erez Corporate Services proudly stands as one of the first entities licensed by the Dutch Central Bank under the Trust Offices Supervision Act (Wtt) in 2004. With an impressive 25 years of experience, it has evolved from a family business into a trusted name in the industry.

‘Clients aren’t just clients to us; they’re family’, they say.

Erez Corporate Services offers an international in-house team of experienced professionals and supporting auditors, tax advisors, lawyers or notary officers through their extensive network. Among the clients are both national and international holdings, finance and royalty companies and foundations as well as trading companies and special purpose entities.

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Sustainable client relationships are the foundation of their success. ‘Expertise matters, and at Erez, it’s a cornerstone of our service’.

From EMEA countries and Asia to North and South America, clients worldwide benefited from Erez Corporate Services. Situated in Hilversum, near Amsterdam, and conveniently close to Schiphol International Airport, they are accessible, with professionals fluent in Dutch, French, English, German, Russian and Hebrew, making sure that you feel like you are in very good hands.

Erez Corporate Service has also the knowledge and experience to guide you to establish or expand your business internationally, while fully benefiting from the stability, EU membership, favorable tax rates and treaties with over one hundred countries that the Netherlands offers.

For contact information

Harry Blik

Erez Corporate Service B.V.

Koninginneweg 31
1217 KR  Hilversum  
The Netherlands
+31 35 621 8282

info@erez.nl

www.erez.nl

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