On 5 March 2024, Pre-Trial Chamber II of the International Criminal Court, composed of Judge Rosario Salvatore Aitala, Presiding, Judge Tomoko Akane and Judge Sergio Gerardo Ugalde Godinez issued warrants of arrest for two individuals, Mr Sergei Ivanovich Kobylash and Mr Viktor Nikolayevich Sokolov, in the context of the situation in Ukraine for alleged crimes committed from at least 10 October 2022 until at least 9 March 2023.
Mr Sergei Ivanovich Kobylash, born on 1 April 1965, a Lieutenant General in the Russian Armed Forces, who at the relevant time was the Commander of the Long-Range Aviation of the Aerospace Force, and Mr Viktor Nikolayevich Sokolov, born 4 April 1962, an Admiral in the Russian Navy, who at the relevant time was the Commander of the Black Sea Fleet, are each allegedly responsible for the war crime of directing attacks at civilian objects (article 8(2)(b)(ii) of the Rome Statute) and the war crime of causing excessive incidental harm to civilians or damage to civilian objects (article 8(2)(b)(iv) of the Rome Statute), and the crime against humanity of inhumane acts under article 7(1)(k) of the Rome Statute. There are reasonable grounds to believe they bear individual criminal responsibility for the aforementioned crimes for (i) having committed the acts jointly and/or through others (article 25(3)(a) of the Rome Statute), (ii) ordering the commission of the crimes, and/or (iii) for their failure to exercise proper control over the forces under their command (article 28(a) of the Rome Statute).
The two warrants of arrest were issued following applications filed by the Prosecution. Pre-Trial Chamber II considered that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the two suspects bear responsibility for missile strikes carried out by the forces under their command against the Ukrainian electric infrastructure from at least 10 October 2022 until at least 9 March 2023. During this time-frame, there was an alleged campaign of strikes against numerous electric power plants and sub-stations, which were carried out by the Russian armed forces in multiple locations in Ukraine.
Pre-Trial Chamber II found that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the alleged strikes were directed against civilian objects, and for those installations that may have qualified as military objectives at the relevant time, the expected incidental civilian harm and damage would have been clearly excessive to the anticipated military advantage.
Pre-Trial Chamber II also considered that the alleged campaign of strikes qualifies as a course of conduct involving the multiple commission of acts against a civilian population, pursuant to a State policy, in the meaning of Article 7 of the Statute. As such, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the suspects also bear responsibility for the crime against humanity of ‘other inhumane acts […] intentionally causing great suffering, or serious injury to body or to mental or physical health’, as per article 7(1)(k) of the Rome Statute.
The content of the warrants is issued ‘secret’ in order to protect witnesses and to safeguard the investigations. However, mindful that conduct similar to that addressed in the present situation, which amounts to violations of international humanitarian law, is alleged to be ongoing, the Chamber considers that public awareness of the warrants may contribute to the prevention of the further commission of crimes. Therefore, Pre-Trial Chamber II considers it to be in the interest of justice to authorise the Registry to publicly disclose the existence of the warrants, the name of the suspects, the crimes for which the warrants are issued, and the modes of liability.
For further information on the situation in Ukraine, check here.
The Embassy of Poland in The Hague was filled with an air of celebration and appreciation on February 22, 2024, as diplomats, judges, and officials gathered to bid farewell to Judge Piotr Hofmański, President of the International Criminal Court (ICC). This event marked the conclusion of Judge Hofmański’s nine-year term as a judge and his impactful three-year tenure as the President of the ICC. Among the esteemed guests were ambassadors, judges from various international courts, the prosecutor, the registrar, and other dignitaries.
H.E. Ms. Margareta Kassangana, Ambassador of Poland and Dr Ekaterina Trendafilova, President of the Specialist Chambers.
H.E. Ms. Margareta Kassangana, Ambassador of Poland, welcomed the attendees with warmth and gratitude. In her opening speech, she acknowledged the significance of bidding farewell to a remarkable person who had served with distinction and honor. She expressed the sentiment that farewells are never easy, particularly when saying goodbye to someone of Judge Hofmański’s caliber—a great judge, a wonderful man, and an outstanding representative of Poland on the international stage.
Addressing Judge Hofmański directly, Ambassador Kassangana highlighted the accolades he had received from Polish authorities, emphasizing that his election to such a prestigious position within the international justice system was a prove to both his personal accomplishments and the success of Polish diplomacy. She commended Judge Hofmański’s dedication to judicial work and his unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of justice and accountability, even in the face of adversity.
H.E. Ms. Margareta Kassangana delivering her remarks.
Throughout his tenure as President of the ICC, Judge Hofmański navigated unprecedented challenges, including attacks against the institution and its officials. Ambassador Kassangana praised his resilience and leadership in maintaining the Court’s independence and impartiality, despite external pressures. She underscored the importance of Judge Hofmański’s contributions to the ongoing mission of the ICC and expressed hope for his continued involvement in international affairs in the future.
In addition to honoring Judge Hofmański’s professional achievements, Ambassador Kassangana extended heartfelt gratitude to his family, particularly his wife Ewa and their daughters, for their unwavering support during his tenure. She recognized the sacrifices they had made and acknowledged their role in Judge Hofmański’s success.
As the formal proceedings drew to a close, Ambassador Kassangana presented Judge Hofmański with a token of appreciation from the Polish embassy, symbolizing the fond memories of his time in The Hague. She concluded her speech by inviting guests to enjoy the evening’s festivities, including a spread of delicious Polish cuisine, and expressed her gratitude to all who had gathered to honor Judge Hofmański’s legacy.
A commemorative event at Leiden University, campus Den Haag
By Roy Lie Atjam
On 21 February 2024, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in the Netherlands celebrated International Mother Language Day at the Leiden University campus in The Hague. The event was attended by Ambassadors and Diplomats from several embassies including Argentina, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Costa Rica, Colombia, Egypt, Greece, India, Italy, Morocco, Norway, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Kosovo, Switzerland, Sri Lanka, Serbia, the Philippines, Yemen, and Ukraine, who proudly displayed their national flags.
H.E. M. Riaz Hamidullah, Ambassador of Bangladesh
The commemoration was not only attended by Dutch officials, academics, and researchers, but the diversity of the 21 participating countries also indicated that it was not solely a Bangladeshi event. However, the occasion subtly projected Bangladesh’s values and history.
Before the International Mother Language Day commemoration, an open poster competition was held for students and youth across the Netherlands. The competition invited the submission of posters, digital flyers, or other images that depicted the theme of “Harmony in Diversity.” A student from Rotterdam won the contest with the creative design, and was awarded.
Children from the Chinese school Leiden, International Mother Language Day 2024.
A total of 120+ people attended the commemoration of International Mother Language Day. Among them were 12 Ambassadors who took part in a spontaneous language quiz, the four winners receiving a memento replica of the Shaheed Minar.
Speakers at the event included Prof. Mark Rutgers, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at the University, Ms. Kathleen Ferrier (Chair of the Dutch UNESCO Commission), and Mr. Rabin S Baldewsingh (National Coordinator against Discrimination and Racism in the Netherlands). They discussed the importance of mother languages and multilingualism in modern times and societies. Additionally, two University researchers explored the topics of cultural diversity and multilingualism, while Dr. Federico Gobbo from the University of Amsterdam spoke about the significance of Esperanto. The event also featured an engaging presentation on the growing importance of Sign Language.
Ms. Kathleen Ferrier, Chair of the Dutch UNESCO Commission. International Mother Language Day 2024.
The program commemorating International Mother Language Day lasted about two hours. The dynamic program featured various performances, such as poetry recitals, songs, and dances, from students, children, and performers representing different countries, including the Netherlands, China, India, Italy, Yemen, Puerto Rico, Ukraine, Spain, Kosovo, Bolivia, and Morocco. The performances highlighted the linguistic and cultural diversity of the audience, and was streamed live on the Embassy’s Facebook page.
Among the highlights of the program was the timeless song, “Amar Bhaier Rokte Rongano Ekushe February”, performed by a Bangladeshi artist, Tanjina Tama, and members of the Embassy.
Bangladesh choir, International Mother Language Day 2024
On International Mother Language Day 2024, a solemn floral wreath laying ceremony was held at the permanent International Mother Language Memorial in Zuider Park, The Hague. At the ceremony, H.E. Ambassador M. Riaz Hamidullah, staff members of the Bangladesh Embassy, their families, and members of the Bangladeshi community in the Netherlands.
The 2024 International Mother Language Day celebration was a significant milestone with 21 countries participating and 12 ambassadors in attendance, elevating the significance of the day to a superior level. Finally, refreshments and Bangladeshi snacks were served to conclude the day.
We invite you to join us for a live lecture given by Lucia Gahlin on ‘Wonderful Things -Tutankhamun: The Boy King, his Tomb, and Treasures’ in the Warenar on Tuesday 12th March 2024 at 20.00 hrs.
In 2022, we celebrated the 100th anniversary of one of history’s most astounding archaeological discoveries: Howard Carter’s excavation of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922.
The mere mention of this boy-king conjures images of ancient splendour and intrigue. In this lecture Lucia Gahlin invites us to explore the fascinating intricacies of the tomb’s design and decoration, nestled in the Valley of the Kings. From the breathtaking gold funerary mask to the meticulously crafted board games, you will be transported
back in time to marvel at the exquisite treasures and captivating artistry that adorn the walls of this extraordinary burial site. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of ancient Egypt’s mysteries with Lucia Gahlin’s illuminating lecture.
Embark on an enduring journey through ancient Egypt with Lucia Gahlin, a seasoned Egyptologist with a wealth of experience. From delving into Egyptian museums to leading excavations, Lucia’ s expertise runs deep. Now, she is focused on sharing her wealth of knowledge through captivating lectures. With a prestigious background as an Honorary Research Associate at University College London’s Institute of Archaeology and teaching Egyptology at various UK universities, Lucia’s insights are unparalleled. Currently based at London’s Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology, Lucia also leads exhilarating tours to Egypt, bringing the wonders of the ancient world to life. Her profound contributions to the field shine through in her acclaimed publications, including Egypt: gods, myths, religion.
Lucia’s esteemed positions, including Former Director of Bloomsbury Summer School at UCL and Chair of the Friends of the Petrie Museum, reflect her unwavering dedication to advancing our understanding of ancient Egypt. Join us for an enlightening experience as Lucia Gahlin unravels the mysteries of this captivating civilization!
All are warmly invited to seize this unique opportunity and participate in person for an enriching experience. For those unable to attend the Warenar in person the lecture will also be broadcasted via Zoom webinar, allowing remote participation for registered attendees.
Don’t miss this enlightening opportunity. Secure your spot today and prepare for an engaging journey through history!
To register for this lecture, please visit our website at:
Please ensure that you register before Monday, 11 March 2024. The Warenar doors open at 19.15 hrs.The lecture will commence at 20:00 on Tuesday, 12 March. For non-members, the guest fee for attending one lecture is €15. Membership fees for the entire season, which includes access to 8 lectures and other activities, are €75 for individuals and €140 for couples. Half-year memberships are also available at €37.50 for individuals and €70 for couples. Students are eligible for a half-price membership.
Today, 5 March 2024, Pre-Trial Chamber II of the International Criminal Court (“ICC” or “Court”), composed of Judge Rosario Salvatore Aitala, Presiding, Judge Tomoko Akane and Judge Sergio Gerardo Ugalde Godinez issued warrants of arrest for two individuals, Mr Sergei Ivanovich Kobylash and Mr Viktor Nikolayevich Sokolov, in the context of the situation in Ukraine for alleged crimes committed from at least 10 October 2022 until at least 9 March 2023.
Mr Sergei Ivanovich Kobylash, born on 1 April 1965, a Lieutenant General in the Russian Armed Forces, who at the relevant time was the Commander of the Long-Range Aviation of the Aerospace Force, and Mr Viktor Nikolayevich Sokolov, born 4 April 1962, an Admiral in the Russian Navy, who at the relevant time was the Commander of the Black Sea Fleet, are each allegedly responsible for the war crime of directing attacks at civilian objects (article 8(2)(b)(ii) of the Rome Statute) and the war crime of causing excessive incidental harm to civilians or damage to civilian objects (article 8(2)(b)(iv) of the Rome Statute), and the crime against humanity of inhumane acts under article 7(1)(k) of the Rome Statute. There are reasonable grounds to believe they bear individual criminal responsibility for the aforementioned crimes for (i) having committed the acts jointly and/or through others (article 25(3)(a) of the Rome Statute), (ii) ordering the commission of the crimes, and/or (iii) for their failure to exercise proper control over the forces under their command (article 28(a) of the Rome Statute).
The two warrants of arrest were issued following applications filed by the Prosecution. Pre-Trial Chamber II considered that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the two suspects bear responsibility for missile strikes carried out by the forces under their command against the Ukrainian electric infrastructure from at least 10 October 2022 until at least 9 March 2023. During this time-frame, there was an alleged campaign of strikes against numerous electric power plants and sub-stations, which were carried out by the Russian armed forces in multiple locations in Ukraine.
Pre-Trial Chamber II found that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the alleged strikes were directed against civilian objects, and for those installations that may have qualified as military objectives at the relevant time, the expected incidental civilian harm and damage would have been clearly excessive to the anticipated military advantage.
Pre-Trial Chamber II also considered that the alleged campaign of strikes qualifies as a course of conduct involving the multiple commission of acts against a civilian population, pursuant to a State policy, in the meaning of Article 7 of the Statute. As such, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the suspects also bear responsibility for the crime against humanity of ‘other inhumane acts […] intentionally causing great suffering, or serious injury to body or to mental or physical health’, as per article 7(1)(k) of the Rome Statute.
The content of the warrants is issued ‘secret’ in order to protect witnesses and to safeguard the investigations. However, mindful that conduct similar to that addressed in the present situation, which amounts to violations of international humanitarian law, is alleged to be ongoing, the Chamber considers that public awareness of the warrants may contribute to the prevention of the further commission of crimes. Therefore, Pre-Trial Chamber II considers it to be in the interest of justice to authorise the Registry to publicly disclose the existence of the warrants, the name of the suspects, the crimes for which the warrants are issued, and the modes of liability.
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,Saarbrücken, 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. “We have been a role model for cross-border friendship and cross-border solutions for 60 years,” said Rehlinger. “This 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.”
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.
“I was very pleased to visit Premier Anke Rehlinger here in Saarbrücken, 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,” said Ambassador François Delattre as per statement linked below.
Delattre arrived on Thursday to visit the Dillinger Hütte with Minister of Economy Jürgen 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 Saarbrücken’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 – 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 Chocolate”.
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”.
Manuel Palacios Quintero of the Bocatoreña Cocoa Cooperative said: “We are dedicated to exporting the cocoa produced for over 70 years by our cooperative with more than a thousand members. We have been complying with European organic cocoa standards for many years. It is a native cocoa from the Bocas del Toro region in Almirante, ideal for those who are looking for beans cultivated by native indigenous peoples such as the Ngobe- Buglé”.
Panama at CHOCOA 2024
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 “golden frog”, 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 Chiriquí, 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 hotel’s values. In these monthly written pieces, there is a focus on their values and their approach to our international clients. This year’s focus is on the new events concept ‘Now We’re Talking’. 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 …[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. I’d like to think that because our team is comfortable in their role and especially with each other, it truly doesn’t 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 WE’RE 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 you’re 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 it’s 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?
it’s 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.
