The Amsterdam Spanish Film Festival (ASFF) proudly announced the commencement of its much-anticipated 10th-anniversary edition, commemorating a decade of immersing the heart of Amsterdam in the enchanting world of Spanish and Latin American cinema.
Set to commence on Friday, March 15th, 2024, at 20:30, the festival invites enthusiasts to partake in a special screening of “CALLADITA” (The Quiet Maid) at the prestigious Tuschinski movie theatre in Amsterdam. The director of “CALLADITA” Miguel Faus, graces the event as a special guest to introduce his creation.
Moreover, the launch event promises an exclusive preview of the full program slated for the 10th edition of the Amsterdam Spanish Film Festival, unveiling an array of cinematic treasures to be savored by audiences.
Virginia Pablos, the visionary founder of ASFF, expresses her elation regarding this significant milestone, stating, “Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Amsterdam Spanish Film Festival is a momentous occasion for us. Over the past decade, we have seen the festival evolve into a platform that celebrates the rich tapestry of Spanish and Latin American cinema, and we are excited to share this milestone with our audience.”
Pablos acknowledges the unwavering support of funders, supporters, volunteers, and the audience, attributing the festival’s success to their collective dedication.
Tickets for this unparalleled cinematic experience are now available for purchase via the festival’s official website.
About “CALLADITA” (The Quiet Maid): “CALLADITA” (The Quiet Maid) unfolds the tale of Ana, a recent immigrant from Colombia, who assumes the role of a maid in a luxurious mansion inhabited by a wealthy family of art dealers during their summer retreats. Ana’s laborious days are cloaked in silence, devoid of a formal contract, with the promise of decent conditions at summer’s end, provided she maintains discretion. However, an encounter with Gisela, a neighboring household employee, unveils a reality far removed from her initial expectations. Ana embarks on a journey of self-discovery and revelry amidst the scenic backdrop of Costa Brava, defying the constraints imposed upon her. Director Miguel Faus, hailed by the renowned entertainment magazine Variety as one of the ten Spanish filmmakers to watch, intricately crafts a narrative that captivates and resonates with audiences worldwide.
About Amsterdam Spanish Film Festival: The Amsterdam Spanish Film Festival is embarking on its 10th anniversary in 2024, the festival remains steadfast in its mission to foster cultural exchange and appreciation for Spanish-language films. For further details and updates, visit the official ASFF website.
Friday, 23 February 2024,SaarbrĂŒcken, The Saarland, Germany: The French Ambassador to Germany, François Delattre, visited the Premier of the Saarland and Plenipotentiary for Franco-German Cultural Relations, Anke Rehlinger, in the State Chancellery.
It was the first visit by Delattre, who has been France’s ambassador to Germany since 2022. Delattre and Rehlinger not only discussed the role of the Saarland in German-French relations, but also spoke about cross-border cooperation between Germany and France as a driving force for future European policy. Rehlinger and Delattre agreed, especially in the European election year and after such drastic events as Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, unity and cohesion at the European level is needed. âWe have been a role model for cross-border friendship and cross-border solutions for 60 years,â said Rehlinger. âThis applies to the Saarland and the greater region as well as to Germany and France. This role model function needs to be further strengthened and filled with life. Education and culture are the best enablers here – they promote understanding and interest and pave the way for cooperation on other topics. I am pleased to have a committed partner at my side in the French ambassador for the common Franco-German cause.â
In addition to education and culture, the cross-border development of the hydrogen economy was also at the center of the conversation, as was the Olympic Games taking place in Paris this summer.
âI was very pleased to visit Premier Anke Rehlinger here in SaarbrĂŒcken, with whom we already work very closely, as well as her employees. As everyone knows, Saarland, with its French strategy, the headquarters of the French Chamber of Commerce in Germany, the Franco-German University and the very close cross-border economic integration with the Moselle department and the entire Grand Est region, is a role model for the German federal states -French relationship. In addition, Anke Rehlinger, as representative for German-French cultural relations, is at the forefront of our joint commitment to ensure that the language of our partner is taught more in Germany and France in order to enable our young people to get to know each other even better and to relate to each other to become the driving forces behind building our common future. Thank you, Anke Rehlinger, for your commitment,â said Ambassador François Delattre as per statement linked below.
Delattre arrived on Thursday to visit the Dillinger HĂŒtte with Minister of Economy JĂŒrgen Barke. This was also about the transformation of the steel industry through hydrogen. Later in the day, Delattre met with Premier Anke Rehlinger, the head of the State Chancellery and European representative David Lindemann and the German ambassador to France, Stephan Steinlein. Steinlein was also a guest at the State Chancellery for discussions.
In advance of his official inaugural visit and conversation with the Premier of the Saarland, Delattre also visited State Assembly Speaker Heike Winzent and SaarbrĂŒcken’s Mayor Uwe Conradt on Friday.
On the morning of February 27, 2024, the Marriott Hotel in The Hague buzzed with anticipation as entrepreneurs of Indian origin and non-resident Indians (PIO/NRI) gathered for the inaugural India-Netherlands Entrepreneurs Forum. Organized by the Embassy of India in The Hague, this event marked a significant stride in bolstering ties between the Indian diaspora and the Netherlands, fostering collaboration, sharing experiences, and promoting cultural affinity.
Networking Session at the India-Netherlands Entrepreneurs Forum 2024.
The forum, a brainchild of the Embassy of India, received robust support from the Diaspora Engagement Division of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, along with various India-Netherlands business agencies, associations, and organizations.
Aimed at providing a platform for PIO/NRI entrepreneurs, it aimed to facilitate networking, share insights, and explore opportunities in the Dutch entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Embassy team responsible for organizing the event India-Netherlands Entrepreneurs Forum 2024
With approximately 150 attendees, comprising established entrepreneurs and aspiring individuals eager to delve into the entrepreneurial landscape, the event promised a wealth of knowledge exchange and networking prospects. Participants came prepared to share their experiences, learn from industry stalwarts, and forge meaningful connections.
The forum commenced with the voice of Indian classical vocalist Sushmita Guha Thakurta, who regaled the audience with a Bollywood mashup. Amidst the soulful melodies, attendees eagerly awaited insights from distinguished speakers and stakeholders.
Experience sharing by established entrepreneurs during the Panel Discussion.
The Ambassador of India to the Netherlands, H.E. Mrs. Reenat Sandhu, inaugurated the event, underlining the forum’s significance in advancing bilateral economic relations. She underscored India’s economic trajectory, emphasizing the pivotal role of the Indian diaspora in fostering India’s development. The Ambassador highlighted avenues for collaboration, including priority sectors such as water, agriculture, health, and burgeoning domains like AI and green hydrogen.
Keynote speaker Ms. Wampie Libon, Director of the International Enterprise Department at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, elucidated the vast opportunities available for Indian entrepreneurs in the Netherlands. Emphasizing the supportive business ecosystem and the scope for public-private partnerships, Libon encouraged entrepreneurs, particularly women, to leverage the conducive environment for innovation and growth.
Select PIO/NRI businesses showcasing /displaying their products/services in the exhibition area during the event.
Mr. Martijn Croon from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency delved into the practical aspects of starting a business in the Netherlands, shedding light on governmental support, innovation initiatives, and visa schemes tailored for startups and scale-ups. His insights provided attendees with tangible strategies to navigate the Dutch entrepreneurial landscape effectively.
A highlight of the forum was the panel discussion featuring eminent Indian entrepreneurs in the Netherlands, including Mr. Vipin Moharir, Mr. Manu Katyal, and Mr. Rohan Grover. Moderated by Ms. Prachee van Brandenburg, the panelists shared invaluable insights gleaned from their entrepreneurial journeys, stressing the importance of networking and cultural integration for business success.
Question & Answer Session at the event.
The event also showcased the role of organizations like the Netherlands India Chamber of Commerce & Trade and the Indian Business Chamber in promoting commercial interests and facilitating networking opportunities for Indian businesses in the Netherlands.
With a special focus on empowering women entrepreneurs, the forum witnessed active participation from women speakers and budding entrepreneurs, fostering discussions on personal fulfillment, professional success, and the importance of skill development.
Moreover, select PIO/NRI businesses had the opportunity to showcase their products and services, further amplifying networking prospects and fostering collaboration.
Some women entrepreneurs with the Ambassador at the event
India-Netherlands Entrepreneurs Forum 2024
As the day drew to a close, attendees departed with a sense of fulfillment, having engaged in fruitful discussions, forged new connections, and gained valuable insights into the entrepreneurial landscape of the Netherlands.
For the First Time, Panama Participated in the 12th Edition of Chocoa 2024, together with Six Cocoa and Specialty Chocolate Producers, Traders and Processors.
Amsterdam, February 2024 â In 2024, Chocoa stood out as one of the events of Amsterdam Cocoa Week, where high-profile initiatives such as the annual meeting of the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) Partnership and the prestigious Cacao of Excellence award ceremonies took center stage, consolidating Amsterdam as the epicentre of the cocoa sector. With the attendance of 2,500 professionals including cocoa producers, machinery manufacturers, processors and chocolatiers and more than 7,000 consumers, the Authority for Investment Attraction and Export Promotion (PROPANAMA), in conjunction with six Panamanian companies, participated in the trade exhibition for the cocoa sector in order to highlight the high quality of Panamanian cocoa and the diversity of the exportable supply with its value-added products.
Johanna Landman, in a stunning national Panamenian dress, Pollera de Gala, and H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, Ambassador of Panama with Yesilca Caballero of PROPANAMA and chocolate company representatives.
These renowned Panamanian chocolate companies, leaders in the creation of authentic cocoa delicacies, joined forces in Amsterdam to bring the quality and diversity of national products to the highest level. Among them are: Oro Moreno, Chocolates Bocao, Forest Finance Panama S.A., Kokoa del Istmo, Kotowa Chocolates Victoria and the unique Cooperative of Multiple Services Cacao Bocatoreña, R.L.
PROPANAMA’s head of exports, Yelsica H. Caballero, emphasized that this type of participation increases exports in value, volume and quality through trade promotion and the development of export markets by opening new market niches and strengthening trade relations.
Textually Caballero said: “The main objective of PROPANAMA is to make known to the international community the high quality of cocoa through the tasting of the cocoa powder, chocolate bars, and cocoa liquor as well as introduce the products available to multiple consumers. In addition to the presence of 6 brands, the authority promotes other companies that have the items in the country through the use of a bar code. The intention is to open markets and connect so that companies can have different types of buyers and international connections, educate, update and train through the extensive program of alternative events offered by the fair. Value-added products such as cocoa liquor are also promoted, and the intention is to diversify”.
Panamanian chocolates.
Caballero also stressed that “this project not only promotes companies that comply with the international certifications required by the European Union. Locally, we are strengthening positive actions and support to the cocoa sector, such as the report of the cocoa value chain, with strategic allies such as FAO. In addition, through national partners such as MIDA and MICI, we are developing training programs and strengthening actions to position the sector in international markets. That is why several of these companies in situ have certifications. For example, the cooperative represented here, with more than 70 years of existence and more than 1419 members, are cocoa producers and they comply with this certification. In addition, we have Forest Finance, which has the organic green bean. We are diversifying because we are also promoting companies that transform the product. In addition to cocoa liquor, we have natural organic bars such as those of Victoria Chocolateâ.
During CHOCOA 2024, Panamanian companies dedicated part of their efforts to captivate visitors through customized stands, each one representing the unique identity of the brand. The inauguration of the stand was attended by the Panamanian Ambassador to the Netherlands, H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward, who pledged to continue supporting this initiative. The diplomatic authority commented: “as the Panamanian Embassy in the Netherlands we will do everything necessary as follow-up to this tour to further demonstrate that the cocoa from Panama and the cocoa products have an extraordinary quality. We will coordinate meetings with the companies that are interested in the products exhibited. It is a great honor to be here accompanying the Panamanian companies”.
Jaime Perez from Bocao also commented on his expectations for this fair: “Panamanian cocoa stands out for its floral notes. Our roasting focuses on highlighting the natural caramelized flavors of cocoa. We work with cocoa from the Bocas del Toro area and we want, as has happened with coffee, for the fermentation processes to give a greater added value to Panamanian cocoa. For Chocoa 2024 we brought our single origin bars, chocolate covered coffee and cashew nuts because we also want to help rescue this local fruit”.
Regarding the allies he would like to find in Chocoa, he said: “We would like to get a distributor who can introduce our products to stores in Holland and the rest of Europe. We would also like to find chocolate enthusiasts to try our chocolate because Panama is a novelty in the world of fine chocolate”.
Yoshiris Peña, director of the company Oro Moreno said: “This year, for the first time, Panama participates in this fair. Therefore, we have brought our collection of iconic chocolates such as coriander, passion fruit, and pineapple. We also have the collection of designs with our fauna, the golden frogs. We do the “Bean to bar” process and our raw material is 100% Panamanian. Our chocolates do not contain preservatives, they are filled with fruits and our most iconic chocolates are with coriander, also the Panamanian pineapple, cashew seeds and lemon that are really delicious. For us, it is not only about making chocolate but also about representing the biodiversity of Panama. That is why we produce the âgolden frogâ, in danger of extinction”. Regarding her expectations with this fair Peña said: “I would love to meet many people interested in our products and for them to taste our chocolates. I would also like to taste and learn from other chocolatiers”.
The diversity was evidenced by the presence of both consolidated export companies and those seeking to expand, highlighting the richness of Panamanian chocolate.
Jan Fockele, from Forest Finance, presented the award-winning fine organic cocoa produced in the Bocas del Toro region. Nearly 30 years ago, the company began reforesting biodiverse mixed forests in the regions of ChiriquĂ, Veraguas and Darien. This activity was expanded with the reforestation of a 180-hectare cocoa agroforestry project. Now that the project is becoming increasingly productive, they are looking to attract international customers for the cocoa produced in this area, already awarded the bronze “Cacao of Excellence” in 2021. Jan Fockele was satisfied with the meetings held: “There is great interest in this extraordinary cacao and we have been able to inspire many chocolate producers to bet on this bean”.
Also, the Panamanian delegation disclosed tools to boost the promotion of Panamanian chocolate on its way to export through the correct classification of the sector. The work agenda included strategic meetings with associations, allies, experts in innovative processes and trainers of trends in cocoa and chocolate, thus seeking to strengthen the international impact of the participating companies, bring international cooperation and strengthening the sector.
Panama’s participation in Chocoa 2024 reflected the country’s firm commitment to excellence in cocoa and chocolate production. Beyond the global showcase offered by the event, this incursion highlighted Panama’s determination in the constant search for business opportunities and strategic alliances at the international level. In short, Chocoa 2024 became a unique scenario to showcase the quality and diversity of Panamanian chocolate products on the world stage.
The Leonardo Royal Hotel Den Haag Promenade is represented by both new and more experienced employees working together with passion as one team, to deliver great service and to depict the hotelâs values. In these monthly written pieces, there is a focus on their values and their approach to our international clients. This yearâs focus is on the new events concept âNow Weâre Talkingâ. It revolves around creating on-going conversations and a spark amongst attendees. It offers endless possibilities to get inspired and connected, with instant personal communication before, during and after your event. Therefore, we would also like to share some background information about the employees with you. Allow us to introduce you to âŠ[Nick Kiebert]
Nationality: Dutch
Function: Front Office Supervisors
Department: Front Office
Introduction
When did you start working at the Promenade Hotel?
I started working here in the summer of 2021 as a front office receptionist.It is a very comfy hotel, despite its grand look from the outside. When I walked into the lobby I was amazed at how they were able to make such a large building feel cozy and welcoming.
What makes the Promenade Hotel suitable for welcoming people from all around the world?
We have a large, diverse, and inclusive team ready for service at any time of the day. Iâd like to think that because our team is comfortable in their role and especially with each other, it truly doesnât matter where someone is from as everyone can feel at ease in our hands!
Which diplomatic event has been most memorable for you, so far, at the Promenade Hotel?
I believe this must be one of the national days of the embassies. I truly enjoy seeing all the people socialize with one another and seeing the many nationalities from all around the globe.
What international aspects do you see reflected along your daily duties and the work environment?
There are plenty of interactions throughout the day with different cultures. A major part of my day consists of communicating with different guests that have different cultural habits and wishes. Another major international aspect of this hotel is its location. In the heart of the embassy district, we are able to welcome many ambassadors and international organizations. These people have not only traversed the world but are also here to partake in meetings and events that might change the shape of the world.
NOW WEâRE TALKING!
The core values of the new concept are fun, surprising, genuine and connect.
Using your own words, how would you describe the new events concept?
This concept is a straightforward idea, but a great amount of fun! Through classic and new games we try to engage our guests to interact with one another in a fun and less serious matter (unless youâre competitive, then you do you!).
What do you find the most exciting or fun part of your current role within the Promenade hotel?
Everyday is so vastly different. Either itâs a different guest request, technical issues that require solving or just someone who would like to reminisce about the history of this hotel. It is really in the small things for me, but at the end of the day when someone strolls in or out of the hotel with a large smile on their face, my day is also made.
When was the last time someone surprised you or when you surprised someone?
Today actually! We have started with this thing called guest of the day; this is the act of upgrading someone in their room category with some extra little surprises. I told the guests about this and the immediate smile is so gratifying.
What is something about which you can always be genuinely passionate or enthusiastic?
itâs a little geeky but I really love nature documentaries. Seeing wildlife in their natural habitat or the habitat itself always cheers me up and leaves me mesmerized. Life can be overwhelming from time to time and watching a documentary like that (preferably with David Attenborough) can really put things in perspective for me.
Connect with us! What is a piece of advice you would like to share with us?
This world is already serious enough at times, please take some time to enjoy life. May it be big or small, make it something precious for yourself and if possible, for others as well. Take some time.
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It is estimated that over half a billion adults play chess regularly, that is equivalent to over ten per cent of Worldâs adult population. The game emerged from the Indian sub-continent in the sixth century CE. In the following centuries not only had the game spread throughout Eurasia but by 1500 CE it had morphed into the international form that we know today. Its spread was facilitated by the movement of armies but, more than that, through the cultural exchange that characterised the ancient silk roads.
The origins of chess lie in the game of Chaturanga, which means âfour partsâ. The four players would each command one army division, which would occupy its own corner of the board. Each division comprised five infantry, three cavalry, one chariot and one elephant. Unfortunately, no written records of the moves of the individual pieces or the rules of the game exist, but there were probably considerable local variations. Around 600 CE the game also became known in Persia. The story is that the Indian ambassador challenged the Persians to figure out the rules of âchessâ. Buzurjmihr, a wise Persian minister, was the one to succeed within the time limit set.
Buzurjmihr masters the game of chess (c. 1300)Detail from Shahnama, Aga Khan Museum , Toronto, Canada
The Persians adapted the game in several ways. They set up the sixteen pieces at opposite ends of the 8×8 board. he King and his advisor to be placed side-by-side in the centre, flanked by elephants, knights and the rook (ârukhâ in Persian meaning âchariotâ). In front of them were the infantry. They also established the moves. The two pieces that deviate most from today were that the elephants could only move two squares diagonally, and the advisor only one move in any direction. The game spread throughout the Persian empire and, after the triumph of Islam, it followed in the shadow of the armies.
Chess arrived in China sometime in the eighth century CE, probably brought by Buddhist monks. The Chinese also adapted the game. They increased the board to 9×10 with a âcelestial riverâ, running across the centre of the board. They added an advisor to the other side of the King. In the front line they had five infantry, and two cannons ahead of each of the cavalry. The further change was that the pieces were placed on the intersecting lines rather than in the squares themselves.
Chinese officials playing chess (1319)Detail from a mural in Low Guangsheng Temple, Hong Tong County, Shanxi, China.
Chess first spread into Europe as the Islamic armies conquered large swathes of the Iberian Peninsula and, later, conquered Sicily and established footholds in Italy. The game was probably carried North into Scandinavia by the Viking, sailing down the Volga and Dnieper rivers to trade with Baghdad, and from there into Britain and Northern Europe. Once in Europe, the rules shape of the game began to change. By the 11thcentury, the Kingâs advisor had become his queen, and the elephants had mutated into bishops (rumour has it that the shape of the tip of an elephantâs tusk resembled a bishopâs mitre). The board became chequered (though not always black and white) and the pieces themselves became more figurative.
An Arab and a Crusader playing chess (1282)Detail from Libro de los Juegos, Monastery Library of St. Lorenze del Escorial, Madrid, Spain
It was now that the game began to change towards the âinternationalâ game we know today. Having been introduced, the queen and bishop increased in power. The restriction of only two moves diagonally was removed for the elephant/bishop and the queen could move unlimited in straight lines in any direction, making her the most powerful piece on the board. Later still, because these changes had made it too easy to capture the King, âcastlingâ was introduced. This allowed the rook/castle could switch position, giving the King more defensive options.
The initial alignment of the chess board (1496)From Luis de Lucena, âRepeticiĂłn de amores; Arte de ajedrezâ, Biblioteca Nacional de España, Madrid, Spain.
All that was needed was someone to codify the rules. The oldest surviving copy dates from the end of the 15thcentury entitled âRepetition of Loves and the Art of Chessâ. The book outlines all the rules, contains descriptions of 150 games and describes some of the most famous opening strategies, such as âthe Kingâs gambitâ.
By then the game had spanned the entire Eurasian continent and had percolated down the social classes. Anyone with a stick to scratch some lines in the earth and a pocket full of coins or a few stones could play. It became a metaphor for vicissitudes of the game of everyday life, and a certainty that it would all, one day, come to an end. It was about this time that images of Death, the ultimate victor in the game of life, inviting himself to the chess table.
Death joins a game of chess (15th century)Copper-plate engraving. Kunsthalle, Hamburg, Germany.
The exhibition, âChess along the Silk Road, 600-1500CEâ, contains thirty sets of artifacts (pictures and chess pieces) from nineteen libraries and museums located in ten different countries. It is now open in a brand new, modern exhibition space.
Amidst the dynamic shifts of the global landscape, Pakistan a nuclear power country, finds itself at a crucial juncture, navigating the complexities of international relations and strategic partnerships. The recently concluded 4th International Workshop for Leadership and Security (4th IWLS), organized by the Institute for Strategic Studies, Research and Analysis (ISSRA) at the National Defence University (NDU) Islamabad, provided a platform for insightful discussions on Pakistan’s position in the world today.
One of the key themes explored during the workshop was the “Evolving Global and Regional Order,” which saw experts from the United States, China, and Pakistan sharing their perspectives on the changing dynamics of international relations.
Mr. Michael Kugleman, Director of the Wilson Center’s South Asia Institute, offering insights from the United States, shed light on President Biden’s efforts to counter the influence of China and Russia, particularly in the wake of ongoing conflicts such as the war in Ukraine. He highlighted the shifting focus of US foreign policy towards Asia, emphasizing economic re-dollarization initiatives and efforts to rebuild institutions like the World Bank.
Dr. Li Li, Senior Research Officer and Deputy Director of the Institute of International Relation at Tsinghua University in China, emphasized the importance of unrelenting globalization and China’s commitment to a multipolar and inclusive world order. She cautioned against the pitfalls of a bipolar focus, stressing the need for cooperation rather than competition between the US and China.
From Pakistan’s perspective, analysts Ambassador Zamir Akram and Dr. Maria Sultan, Director of South Asia Strategic Stability Institute, discussed the challenges posed by US support for India, particularly in the context of transnational relations. The country finds itself at a crossroads, seeking to balance its security interests with its economic aspirations. Despite some disruptions in its relations with the US, Pakistan is increasingly looking towards China as a strategic partner, leveraging initiatives such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to enhance connectivity and economic development.
Participants at the 4th International Workshop for Leadership and Security (4th IWLS), organized by the Institute for Strategic Studies, Research and Analysis (ISSRA) at the National Defence University (NDU) Islamabad, Pakistan. Photography by NDU.
Moreover, Pakistan’s stance on issues such as the Israel-Palestine conflict underscores its commitment to upholding international law and principles of justice. The unwavering support from the US to Israel has strained relations with Islamic countries like Pakistan, prompting a reevaluation of traditional alliances and a call for greater adherence to the principles of the United Nations.
As the workshop concluded, it became evident that Pakistan’s role in the world today is shaped by a complex interplay of geopolitical, economic, and security considerations. The country’s ability to navigate these challenges while staying true to its principles will determine its trajectory in an increasingly interconnected and multipolar world.
In essence, the 4th IWLS provided a forum for critical reflection and dialogue, highlighting Pakistan’s evolving role in shaping the global order and reaffirming its commitment to promote cooperation and stability on the world stage.
Advances in international cooperation with the implementation of the National Search Plan
Between February 13 and 17, the Minister of Justice and Human Rights of Chile, Luis Cordero Vega, representing President Gabriel Boric Font, visited the Netherlands, during which he had an important agenda of meetings and activities.
The main instance considered the signing of the Ljubljana – The Hague Convention on International Cooperation in the Investigation and Prosecution of the Crime of Genocide, Crimes against Humanity and War Crimes. In addition to that, he held meetings with high authorities of international organizations and the government of the Netherlands and closed with a keynote talk on the National Search Plan (PNB) at the University of Leiden.
In the presentation, the minister addressed the relevance of the PNB, as a fundamental pillar in Chile’s human rights policy, an event attended by academics, students, diplomats, and representatives of international organizations.
The Hague, February 14th 2024
Signing conference ljubljana in peace palace
Photo Valerie Kuypers
He noted that: “it represents the most significant effort in the area of ââhuman rights in Chile, bringing together institutions and experts in a large-scale multidisciplinary task”, highlighting the inter-institutional effort deployed by the State of Chile to clarify the circumstances of disappearance and/or death of victims of forced disappearance.
In his meeting with the Director General of International Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Pascalle Grotenhuis, key issues regarding access to justice and the fight against transnational organized crime were discussed, reinforcing bilateral ties and exploring areas of possible work collaborations.
International Criminal Court ICC
On his state tour to the headquarters of the Dutch government, the national authority met with representatives of the International Criminal Court (ICC) headed by the President of the Court, Judge Piotr HofmaĆski, a space that was used to discuss issues such as strengthening commitment of Chile with the Court, judicial cooperation and Chile’s support for the policies of the ICC Prosecutor’s Office on childhood and gender crimes.
Added to this were the advances in the implementation of the Rome Statute and its amendments, and the cooperation and complementarity between the ICC and national justice systems. The meeting highlighted Chile’s commitment to multilateralism, international law and justice, and the peaceful resolution of controversies, aligning with Chile’s foreign policy priorities that promote human rights, especially in the relationship with children and women.
Signing of the Ljubljana – The Hague Convention
As part of his visit, the Minister of Justice and Human Rights, Luis Cordero, representing the President of the Republic, Gabriel Boric Font, attended the signing of the Ljubljana – The Hague Convention, which represents an important advance in the fight against impunity and the protection of human rights at a global level.
The Ljubljana – Hague Convention is the result of more than a decade of negotiations, establishing a crucial framework for the investigation and prosecution of crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity, war and other international crimes, marking a milestone in the global effort to eradicate impunity and safeguard human rights worldwide.
âAfter 25 years of the last Convention signed for the prosecution of these crimes, which was the creation of the International Criminal Court, a Convention was signed again that was discussed for more than 10 years and whose purpose is to ensure that States are effective in the investigation and above all in the protection of victims of crimes against humanity. For Chile, it is not only a responsibility to have signed it, but it is within the context of the investigation of these crimes and its policy regarding reparation for crimes of the dictatorship,â said Minister Luis Cordero.
The Ljubljana – The Hague Convention, adopted in Slovenia and signed in the Netherlands, seeks to intensify cooperation between nations for the prosecution of the most serious crimes that affect humanity. Chile, already committed from its early stages as a signatory to the “MLA-Initiative”, played a crucial role in drafting the treaty, along with countries such as the Netherlands, Canada, Slovenia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This convention not only clearly defines international crimes, but also establishes a framework for cooperation between States for their investigation and prosecution.
