By John Dunkelgrün

On Sunday, May 25th, the annual Memorial Day commemoration at Margraten took on a profound and poignant significance. This year marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II—a milestone underscored by the ongoing conflict that has erupted into the first full-scale war between European nations since that time. As we are continually confronted with shocking images of the war in Gaza, this occasion resonates even more deeply.

Margraten is the only American war cemetery in the Netherlands, one of just 26 in Europe. Within its solemn grounds lie the graves of 8,826 American soldiers, alongside a wall engraved with the names of 1,722 fallen heroes whose remains were never recovered. This sacred site is meticulously maintained by the American Battle Monuments Commission, embodying a profound respect for those who sacrificed everything for their country.

The village of Eijsden-Margraten holds the distinction of being the first Dutch community liberated on September 12, 1944. In the immediate aftermath of the fighting, fallen soldiers, including many Americans who died in subsequent battles in Germany, were laid to rest in temporary graves. The scale of the losses was so great that able-bodied residents of Margraten and the surrounding area were called upon to assist with the burials.

Among those involved was an American officer who entrusted Mr. Jef van Laar, a local resistance worker, with the care of his nephew’s grave. Inspired by this gesture, many other community members began to adopt and tend to specific graves, fostering a sense of connection and responsibility.

In February 1945, this grassroots initiative was formalized with the establishment of the Burger Comité Margraten USA Begraafplaats, aimed at ensuring that every grave was adopted by local families. Remarkably, even before Memorial Day 1946, all graves had been embraced by the community. Over time, the committee evolved into the Stichting Adoptie Graven Amerikaanse Begraafplaats Margraten, continuing its vital mission of honoring and remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice. What is truly remarkable is that this deep sense of care has been passed down through generations. Families not only tend to the graves but also often maintain contact with the families of the fallen soldiers. Today, this noble work is carried on by third and even fourth generations.

The recent ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including His Majesty King Willem-Alexander, Prime Minister Dick Schoof, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Mr. Marcus Micheli, and ambassadors from the U.K., Canada, New Zealand, Poland, and even Germany, among many others. All speakers emphasized that freedom is not for free; it requires dedication and, at times, sacrifice to uphold. There were heartfelt expressions of gratitude towards the United States for its role in liberating our country, acknowledging the bravery of young men who, sometimes having never even heard of the Netherlands, came to fight and, in far too many cases, gave their lives for our freedom.

However, a pressing question lingered in everyone’s mind: What would unfold today? The hesitation of the U.S. in supporting Ukraine, situated on the border of NATO countries and the European Union, has profoundly unsettled European nations, particularly those not affiliated with either of these blocs. Several speakers underscored the shared values that bind the United States and Europe, but one couldn’t help but wonder if this special bond is showing signs of strain.

The ceremony concluded with a poignant flyover featuring a WWII bomber, a Spitfire, and a formation of F-35s, executing a ‘Falling Away’ maneuver to honor fallen airmen.

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Hague, 8th May 2025. The Leonardo Royal Hotel Den Haag Promenade and Diplomat Magazine, hosted the Diplomatic Gala 2025.

The gala served to celebrate ongoing collaboration between the Diplomatic Corps, Diplomat Magazine and Leonardo Royal Hotel. Scores of Ambassadors and diplomats attended the gala. 

The Diplomatic Gala 2025, as the inaugural event of its kind, achieved significant success by providing a platform for meaningful interactions and facilitating networking opportunities within a welcoming  atmosphere.

In their feedback the Ambassadors  expressed their appreciation and enjoyment by describing the gala as a prestigious, gathering that without doubt, was the finest event we have had the pleasure of attending – in terms of the quality of participation, the elegance of the setting, the music, the colour, and the sheer grandeur.

Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, the publisher and founder of Diplomat Magazine, delivered the following welcome remarks: “Tonight, we celebrate our collaboration and unwavering commitment as we move into a year filled with opportunities, solutions, and achievements.

In a world where the values of freedom, justice, and dignity are increasingly challenged, the role of diplomacy becomes critical.

We must confront the growing obstacles, including the rampant spread of disinformation, with steadfast unity in our dedication to truth and the principles that bind us as a global community. Every step we take, no matter how small, brings us closer to a future where justice and freedom prevail.

Let us take this moment to acknowledge our accomplishments and the hope that continues to inspire us all. Thank you for being here tonight. Enjoy the wonderful evening!”

Mr Thomas Kortleve, Leonardo Royal Hotel’s General Manager was the next speaker, he stated.

“Excellencies, distinguished guests, good evening, on behalf of the Leonardo Royal Hotel Den Haag Promenade, it is my distinct honor and pleasure to welcome you all to this special gala event.

I am Thomas Kortleve, the General Manager of this esteemed hotel, which has proudly served as a diplomatic hub since its opening in 1971.

As many of you know, this event is a substitute for our beloved annual Herring Party—a cherished tradition that we sadly cannot hold this year due to the NATO Summit taking place in The Hague. While we will miss the familiar flavors and festive spirit of that occasion, tonight’s gala presents us with a unique opportunity to celebrate together in a more elegant and equally warm setting.

This evening is, above all, a tribute to collaboration—the valuable partnership between our hotel and the distinguished diplomatic community in The Hague.

It is your loyalty, continued trust, and support that make events like this possible. More than just professional relationships, we recognize the genuine partnerships that have developed between our teams and many of you here tonight. In a world where diplomacy and dialogue are more vital than ever, the Leonardo Royal Hotel is honored to serve as a welcoming space for international exchange and hospitality.

We remain committed to providing the highest standard of service and creating an environment where our shared values of respect, cooperation, and excellence can flourish.

Once again, thank you for your loyalty, presence, and ongoing support. We hope you enjoy this evening filled with culinary delights, celebration, and meaningful connections. Here’s to continued partnership and many more memorable moments together.”

The Red Carpet 2025 Diplomatic Gala triumphed, creating a remarkable platform for Ambassadors to connect and collaborate in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

On 7 April 2025, the Rwandan community in the Netherlands, together with friends of Rwanda, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of the Dutch government, gathered in Amsterdam to commemorate the 31st anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. The annual event is a solemn occasion to honour the victims, express solidarity with the survivors, and reaffirm the global commitment to combating genocide ideology and denial.

The commemoration began with a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial site in Beatrixpark, followed by a formal ceremony attended by dignitaries and officials. Among the speakers were Mr. Joseph Rutazihana, President of IBUKA-Netherlands; Madam Touria Meliani, Deputy Mayor of Amsterdam; and Madam Anneke van Dijk, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Justice and Security of the Netherlands. Each expressed messages of remembrance, resilience, and hope.

Speaking on behalf of the Embassy of Rwanda, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Mr. Jean Hugues Mukama delivered a powerful address highlighting the significance of remembrance and the global imperative to act against genocide ideology.

“We are presented with the opportunity to honour the memory and pay tribute to the countless men, women, and children who fell victim to this senseless and abominable crime,” he said. “We also honour the memory of those Rwandans who resisted the call to genocide and paid the ultimate price for that courage.”

Mr. Mukama reminded the audience that the genocide was not spontaneous, but rather the culmination of decades of hate and divisive ideology. He underscored the importance of confronting denial and historical revisionism, which continues to spread in parts of Europe, including the Netherlands and Belgium.

“This disgraceful activism seeks to shield well-known genocide fugitives and at the same time mislead the public with baseless claims of a double genocide,” he warned. “It is deplorable that reputable media houses have fallen to this narrative.”

Rwanda’s remarkable journey of recovery was a central theme. From the ashes of devastation, the country has become a model of resilience, reconciliation, and renewal.

“Despite the trauma, fear, and distrust, Rwandans chose to carry the burden of reconciliation,” Mr. Mukama said. “It is this determination that continues to guide our path to building a new Rwanda… a better one. One that does not discriminate, humiliate, divide, or dehumanize its children.”

He paid tribute to the Dutch government for its early and enduring support of Rwanda’s justice system, particularly in extraditing and prosecuting genocide fugitives.

“The Kingdom of the Netherlands was among the first to offer a helping hand and played a critical role in putting Rwanda’s judiciary back on its feet,” he said. “Rwanda is grateful for this shared value, and I reaffirm our commitment to continue this constructive cooperation.”

Addressing ongoing regional threats, Mr. Mukama drew attention to rising hate speech and violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly against Tutsi communities, perpetrated by the FDLR and their allies.

“These well-known crimes, reminiscent of 1994, are met with international indifference,” he stated. “We must ensure that ‘Never Again’ is not just a slogan, but a call to action.”

As the ceremony concluded, Mr. Mukama offered a heartfelt tribute to survivors of the genocide:

“Very few in this world will ever grasp the extent of the suffering you endured. Yet, despite this, you have demonstrated great courage, sacrifice, dignity, and resilience. This gives us the strength to continue the fight for justice, for the preservation of memory, and for the unity of the Rwandan people.”

Twibuke Twiyubaka – Remember, Unite, and Renew.

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Hague, Friday, May 9, 2026. The Ambassador of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Ms. Caroline Kitana Chipera, warmly welcomed guests to a festive reception in honor of National Union Day. “This special day highlights the values of unity and cooperation, reminding all of us how important it is to come together to achieve our shared goals. It encourages the wonderful people of Tanzania to uphold solidarity and peace in their communities. National Union Day celebrates the beautiful union of the island of Zanzibar and Tanganyika. This historic partnership was inspired by the great vision of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and Abeid Amani Karume, rooted in principles of equity, self-reliance (Ujamaa), and mutual respect for one another.”

In her welcome speech, Ambassador Kitana Chipera stated the following:

“Ambassador Jelte van Wieren, Director for Sub-Sahara Africa,  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, Mr. Salvatory Mbilinyi, Director, Department of Diaspora of the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, United Republic of Tanzania, Ms. Stijn Janseen, Special envoy for the Horn of Africa and Head of Division, East and Southern Africa, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, all representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Excellencies, distinguished guests, a very good evening to you!

To my Tanzanian colleagues, Wakati tunaanza kwa kumshukuru Mwenyezi Mungu kwa kutujalia uhai na baraka zake kukutana katika siku hii muhimu, Nawasilimu kwa jina la Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania.

“It is with great honour, and on behalf of the Government and the People of The United Republic of Tanzania, I extend a very warm welcome to you all as we gather this evening to commemorate the 61st anniversary of the Union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar. In Tanzania, we would say, Karibuni sana. Director Jelte, and all representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, I am humbled and grateful that you have taken time, a midst your busy schedules, to join us and grace this important occasion to Tanzania. Your presence here this evening is a clear testament to the enduring commitment you hold towards strengthening the cordial and long-standing diplomatic relations between the United Republic of Tanzania and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

We gather with pride and reverence to mark a moment that forever altered the course of our nation’s history. April 26th, 1964, is not just a date on the calendar, it is a defining chapter in Tanzanian story. It is the day when two sovereign nations, Tanganyika and Zanzibar came together in unity, hope, and purpose, to form the United Republic of Tanzania. The country we proudly call our home.

This union was not just a political agreement; it represented a bold vision and an expression of shared values and mutual respect. In a world still healing from colonial divisions, Tanzania emerged as a beacon of solidarity and partnership. Our founding leaders, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere and Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume, carved their names in history not for personal gain, but for their lasting legacy of unity, peace, and patriotism. Their wisdom and dedication laid the foundation for the nation we hold dear today. From Zanzibar to Mainland Tanzania, our diversity—encompassing 120 tribes and two major religions, Christianity and Islam—is a source of strength. Our cultures, Kiswahili language, and traditions unite us, fostering a commitment to cooperation and inclusive. These principles underpin our national journey. Today, we see the benefits of unity in our economic growth, social progress, gender equity, and good governance.

According to an IMF report released in April 2025, our inflation has fallen to 3.3%, down from 4.9% last year, while our GDP growth has reached an impressive 5.9% in the past quarter. These figures not only underscore the resilience of our economy but also reflect the Sixth Government’s steadfast commitment to reforms that support an inclusive and prosperous future for all Tanzanians. Our democracy continues to deepen under the visionary leadership of Her Excellency, President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan. Through the 4Rs philosophy of Reconciliation, Resilience, Reform, and Rebuild, Tanzania has cultivated a more participatory and peaceful political culture. This renewed spirit of dialogue, championed by the Sixth-Phase Government, reaffirms our commitment to democratic principles and national harmony, which are crucial as we approach the upcoming general elections later this year.

For over six decades, our two nations have fostered a relationship built on mutual respect, shared values, and genuine collaboration. The Netherlands has stood beside Tanzania as a steadfast development partner, contributing meaningfully to key sectors such as agriculture, water, health, education, infrastructure, energy, and trade.

The Netherlands ranks among the top ten countries with significant investments in Tanzania, a reflection of the confidence and commitment Dutch partners continue to place in our nation. Over 100 Dutch companies including Philips, Heineken, KLM, Unilever, Ballast Nedam, ZF DEVCO, Rabobank, BAM, Shell,  just to mention a few, have been actively engaged across diverse sectors in Tanzania. There are also a number of Dutch Tour Operators as well NGOs doing great work in Tanzania, working closely with the Government. These partnerships are not only driving economic progress, but also strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our peoples.

Director Jelte, It may be recalled that, among the points in the journey of our cordial  diplomatic relations took place when our then Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, paid a working visit to the Kingdom of the 5 Netherlands in November 2023 and during that landmark visit, he held constructive bilateral talks with his counterpart the then Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands. As a result of the meaningful discussions and commitments made, we have witnessed notable surge in interest from Dutch companies seeking to invest in or expand their operations in Tanzania. Just this past March, the Embassy together with the Tanzania Investment Centre and the Netherlands–Africa Business Council successfully organized a multi sectoral Trade and Investment Mission to Tanzania. The mission further cemented our shared commitment to fostering sustainable, and mutually beneficial economic partnerships.

Since such high-level exchanges are vital in advancing our shared priorities and deepening strategic collaboration, as we build on these promising developments, we are very much looking forward to a return visit to Tanzania by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, of the Netherlands.

Under the visionary leadership of Her Excellency President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, I assure you that these bonds of friendship and collaboration will not only endure but will continue to flourish, anchored in trust, shared prosperity, and global solidarity.

Equally, I would be remiss if I did not take this opportunity to recognize your invaluable contribution, and that of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, in nurturing and advancing the enduring ties between our nations. Through its various institutions including the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), Invest International, NUFFIC/OKP, the Netherlands–Africa Business Council (NABC), and through a number Dutch universities, the Ministry has played a pivotal role in supporting impact, long-term partnerships.

These collaborations have transcended institutions and empowered individuals and communities, driving inclusive development and mutual prosperity. The Dutch commitment to knowledge-sharing, innovation, and private-sector engagement has enriched our cooperation and brought our two nations closer together, both in purpose and practice.

It is also my great pleasure to recognize representatives of some of the Dutch Companies that have chosen to invest in our country. We sincerely thank you for your confidence in our nation,our people and our future. We see you not just as investors, but as valued partners in our journey towards sustainable development and inclusive growth. Your investments have created jobs, transferred knowledge, stimulated innovation and strengthened our economic foundation. My Government remains committed to fostering a stable, transparent and welcoming environment for all who wish to contribute to our progress because we believe, together we are building a future shared success.

Thank you for believing in our country

It is with great honour and deep respect, that I would like to extend heartfelt congratulations to His Majesty King Willem-Alexander on the occasion of his 58th birthday, celebrated on 26 April this year. We join the people of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in marking this joyous occasion and wish His Majesty continued good health, happiness, and fulfillment in his service to this great nation.

To my fellow Tanzanians residing in the Netherlands, you remain an essential and cherished part of our national fabric. The responsibility to safeguard the Union, uphold our shared values, and contributing to the building of our nation rests with each and every one of us, home and abroad. Let us carry forward the timeless ideals of unity, patriotism and brotherhood that defined the birth of our Union and continue to guide us on our national journey.

Let our being here as “Tanzanians” continue to symbolize unity, hope, and determination. Let us teach our children the meaning of our Union, not just as a historical fact, but as a living lesson in the power of unity and the promise of collective destiny. May we always stand together as one people, one nation, and one future. Importantly to remember is that, while in the Netherlands, you are the reflection of Tanzania and Tanzanians.

Please keep holding high that Flag

Our distinguished guests, Let me pause here to recognize with appreciation my colleagues at the Embassy and the Tanzanian diaspora community through their leaders who have worked tirelessly with the Embassy to make this event memorable. Among other activities, I believe you have taken time to taste Tanzanian Food prepared by Tanzanian ladies in the diaspora.

Happy Union Day! Asanteni sana. Dank u wel. Thank you so much.”

Ambassador Jelte van Wieren, Director for Sub-Sahara Africa, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, also delivered an address.

Looking back, Ambassador Caroline Kitana Chipera joyfully celebrated the 61st anniversary of Tanzania National Union Day  with a vibrant two-day event in The Hague and Rijswijk was truly a memorable occasion filled with joy and connection.