Getting to know Ireland

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Getting to know Ireland

By Alexandra Paucescu

On April 11, members of the Diplomatic Spouses Association in The Hague were invited to join a special event at the Irish Ambassador’s residence, hosted by his lovely wife, Mrs.  Kevin Doris Ejon.

Diplomatic spouses, Getting to know Ireland

Under the theme ‘Getting to know Ireland’ the event provided a comprehensive overview, including a presentation on Irish dance by a former World Dancing Champion based in New York, as well as discussions on Irish food and Irish tourism, followed by a tasteful luncheon.

Throughout the event, Mrs. Ejon’s dedication, natural openness and big friendly smile made the gathering truly extraordinary. As a journalist who worked for Norwegian broadcasting and the BBC, presented her own radio program at one point and have also worked in film and documentary industry, she certainly has the experience in dealing with such occasions.

During the lunch Kevin presented a Q&A section.

‘Music, dance, poetry and conversation are in the Irish DNA. Irish dancing has been evolving and been popular for centuries. But in 1994 it went global. During the Eurovision song contest in Ireland in 1994 the interim act was called Riverdance. It lasted for 7 minutes and took the world by storm. The rest is history as is said! Irish dancing became a world phenomenon and today there are schools across the world. Irish dance plays a major role in promoting Ireland and indeed many millions have been introduced to Ireland through dance.’ (Kevin Doris Ejon)

Niall O’Leary, former World Irish Dancing Champion spoke on the history of dance and also performed some Irish dances for the enchanted audience. The former World Dancing Champion delivered an outstanding presentation on how Irish dance became famous worldwide, showcasing his extensive career in promoting dancing. Guests absolutely enjoyed his exclusive and energetic performance.

Niall O’Leary, former World Irish Dancing Champion.

Laura Crowley, from the Irish Food Board, then discussed the private-public partnership promoting the quality of Ireland’s food exports to Europe. Guests savored wonderful fresh oysters, sampled various Irish products available in Dutch supermarkets and indulged in a delicious lunch made entirely from Irish products.

Next, Jackie Keogh, a representative from Tourism Ireland for over 20 years, delivered a fantastic presentation packed with numerous tips, convincing everyone that their next trip should be to Ireland.

Nela Colin, the spouse from Bosnia & Herzegovina Ambassador, presenting an Irish products basket.

Mrs. Ejon told us: ‘someone visiting Ireland should know that it is one of the friendliest countries in the world, also one of the most beautiful, full of cultural and historical opportunities. I love the people most. I was getting on the bus at Dublin Airport recently and the bus driver said to me “welcome home missus” and I thought “Yes this is a place I love”.’

It was a lovely event which for sure made us all curious and eager to put Ireland on our traveling list.

Thank you, Ireland and to our lovely host of the day!

Ongoing Breaches of the Genocide Convention in the Darfur Region of Sudan

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Ongoing Breaches of the Genocide Convention in the Darfur Region of Sudan

Special Message from Irwin Cotler

When I was a parliamentarian and Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, I used every means – both inside and outside of parliament – to mobilize political will to arrest the first genocide of the 21st century, launched in Darfur in 2003.

I could never have anticipated that the calls to action that I shared twenty years ago in parliament, at Save Darfur Rallies, and in international forum would apply equally today, and would resonate so painfully and tragically.

Our Centre’s comprehensive report demonstrates in chilling detail that the same perpetrators of genocide twenty years ago – now under the flag of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) – are committing genocide against the Masalit people and non-Arab tribes in Darfur.

Our report is a wake-up call for the international community and puts the genocidaires and their sponsors on notice that they will be held accountable. It provides the substantive legal framework for justice and accountability for international institutions, NGOs, governments, parliaments, and courts to act upon.

Twenty years ago, the international community at least acknowledged the genocidal atrocities, though it utterly failed to take the necessary action to prevent them. Today, one can only feel shocked – if not betrayed – by the ongoing level of indifference and impunity in the face of another genocide that is being effectively silenced and sanitized.

The responsibility to prevent, punish, and put an end to genocide is not a policy option, but an international legal obligation of the highest order.

The prevailing culture of indifference, impunity, and complicity enabled the current escalation of mass atrocities to reach the point of genocide. But today, we can no longer look away and say we do not know.

We now know, and we must act.

Irwin Cotler

International Chair, RWCHR

Former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

Published by Raoul Wallenberg Center for Human Rights

We remember

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We remember

By H.E. Mr. Vladimir Tarabrin, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Kingdom of the Netherlands

The Great Patriotic War – as the part of the World War II, spanning from 1941 to 1945, is called in Russia – was not merely a military conflict, but a profound struggle for survival, identity, and the future of the whole world. On June 22, 1941, when Nazi Germany invaded the Soviet Union, it opened one of the bloodiest chapters in human history. However, the powerful and heavily-armed war machine of the Wehrmacht came face to face with the enormous force of the Soviet people, united by the will and determination to protect their motherland.

From the very beginning the leadership of Hitler’s Germany made no illusions about the true goals of their “Drang nach Osten” – the enslavement and complete extermination of the people who lived on the territory of the Soviet Union. The resources — both human and material — that were mobilized in the USSR to stop Nazism were immense. About 27 million Soviet people lost their lives on the frontlines, in German captivity, perished of starvation and bombings, in ghettos and Nazi concentration camps. Some researchers even estimate that the total losses of the Soviet Union exceeded 30 million people. To put it in perspective, the USSR lost 1 in 7 of its citizens, while Britain, for example, lost 1 in 127 and the United States lost 1 in 320. That is the reason why we cannot be idle observers to the marches commemorating Nazi collaborators in Baltic states (whom they proudly call patriots) or the standing ovation in honour of the SS 14th Waffen Division veteran in the Canadian parliament.

The Great Patriotic War

Our country certainly remembers and honors the Allies’ contribution to the defeat of Nazi Germany. Without the deliveries of aid under the Lend-Lease program, the battle of El Alamein, the Allied air raids aimed at destroying the industrial centers of the Third Reich, and the landing in Normandy, the victory would be much more difficult.

However, in recent years we have witnessed attempts by a number of countries to minimize the role of the Soviet Union in the WWII. We refuse to tolerate this. It was the heroes of the Red Army that took their last battle in the encirclements of 1941, fought for every house in Sevastopol and Stalingrad, launched tank attacks at Prokhorovka and Kharkov, liberated not only Soviet cities, but also Bucharest, Belgrade, Warsaw, Budapest, Vienna and Prague and finally stormed Berlin.

Beyond those famous battles, the Siege of Leningrad stands out as a harrowing testament to the suffering and endurance of the Soviet people. For nearly 900 days the city was encircled by enemy forces, subjected to relentless shelling and severe food shortages. The resilience of Leningrad’s citizens reflects the indomitable spirit of the Soviet people. More than a million citizens died as a result of what was essentially genocide perpetrated by the Wehrmacht on our soil. We can’t let that fade into oblivion.

H.E. Mr. Vladimir Tarabrin, Ambassador of Russia.

79 years have passed since the end of that terrible war. However, today many European politicians seem to have forgotten what that victory cost us. We see memorials to fallen Soviet soldiers being demolished in many European countries, streets and squares being named in honor of Nazi collaborators and criminals.

Against the background of this dismal trend, measures to preserve the memory of the heroic deeds of Soviet soldiers seem all the more valuable. We appreciate the efforts of those Dutch people who contribute to the work of the Soviet War Cemetery in Leusden (next to the Amersfoort Rusthof cemetery). The remains of 865 war victims from the Soviet Union are buried there, including 101 prisoners from Amersfoort concentration camp. Currently, the work is underway to construct a museum of the Soviet War Cemetery. And next year we hope to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory there.

I would like to say that today the legacy of the Great Patriotic War continues to shape the Russian national identity, reminding our current and future generations of the resilience and sacrifice that ensured the survival of our country as well as the whole Europe. Unfortunately, time passes and we see less and less living veterans of the War. This makes the preservation of the memory of that tragic period of utmost importance. Ignoring the lessons of history inevitably leads to a heavy reckoning. That is why the Russian Federation will firmly uphold the truth based on documented historical facts. And we will vehemently defend an honest and unbiased account of the events of that terrible war.

Ursula von der Leyen’s political and financial support to Cypriot president Nikos Christodoulidis

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Ursula von der Leyen’s political and financial support to Cypriot president Nikos Christodoulidis


By Eleni Vasiliki Bampaliouta

The two high-ranking politicians were invited to Athens on the occasion of the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the New Democracy ruling party with Kyriakos Mitsotakis as president and prime minister.

For understandable reasons and in view of the upcoming negotiation with Lebanon, Nicosia is publicly keeping a fishy silence about what was discussed at the Athens meeting. A government source stated that the discussion moved along two axes: firstly, the plan prepared by the EU to act “very specifically” in supporting Cyprus to stop migration flows and secondly, as to the conclusion regarding the messages that would be conveyed by the Nikos Christodoulidis in the leadership of Lebanon. The latter is considered to be of outstanding political importance as what Beirut heard will not just be positions of Cyprus but positions with which the EU now also agrees. After all, the matter will be transferred to the forthcoming informal Council of the EU.

Equally important, however, if not more important, is the economic dimension. The same source emphasized that the President of the Commission went to Athens extremely prepared with regard to the issue of financial support which could be given in the context of an agreement with the Lebanese officials to comply with the existing agreement to stop the flows. At the same time, there will be such support in the direction of Cyprus, which is finding it difficult to cope in terms of resources and structures for the Syrians who are already on the island.

Nicosia seems completely satisfied with the attitude of the President of the Commission and the fact that the same source emphasized the excellent atmosphere in which the meeting took place is indicative of this.
He particularly emphasized Nicosia’s gratitude for the support of Athens and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis personally in this effort, who declared that “Greece and Cyprus are one”.

Ursula von der Leynen, Christodoulidis- Mitsotakis and Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens.

Generous financial package


It is a mostly economic package that is expected to be generous so that Lebanon – which already receives large sums from the EU for stemming the flows – will accept the deal. For weeks, Beirut has appeared to be flouting the existing deal to pressure the EU for more money – it has collected more than €2.5bn in recent years – resulting in flows of refugees and other Syrians living on the ground of Lebanon to reach unprecedented proportions. Cyprus is certainly not in a position to manage them since the accommodation facilities for political asylum seekers have been overcrowded for a long time, and the climate in society is dangerously sharpening again, throwing water to the mill of the extreme and especially the extreme right.


The authorities are now talking about a slow-burning bomb ready to explode


In this climate, the government of Cypriot President Mr. Nikos Christodoulidis is trying on the one hand to put pressure on Lebanon, and on the other hand to convince the European Union to intervene, mainly on an economic level by increasing aid to Lebanon. In case of failure of the consultations, the return of Syrians to Syria itself with boats that will be made available by Cyprus is not excluded, as Lebanon, despite the existing agreement, refuses to accept returns to its territory.

In fact, in one of these attempts, a warship of the Lebanese military prevented the Cypriot authorities from driving back one of the vessels that had attempted to reach the coast of Cyprus. Reports in Cypriot newspapers that in the event that things reach an extreme point Nicosia will declare some areas as emergency zones with all that entails, are considered untrue as Cyprus is not in a position to do so unilaterally.


It was preceded by Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to Cyprus a few weeks ago


On March 7, the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, visited Cyprus and met the President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulidis. The two politicians traveled from Bucharest where they attended the European People’s Party Summit. In the evening the President of the Republic of Cyprus hosted a dinner in honor of the President of the Commission at the Presidential Palace. According to the sources of the presidency, among the topics that concerned them at the dinner were the maritime corridor for the provision of humanitarian aid to Gaza and their planned visit to the port of Larnaca, the current situation in Cyprus and immigration.


Ursula von der Leyen is proud of Nikos Christodoulidis

Ursula von der Leyen expressed her pride for the leaders who belong to or are close to the European People’s Party, including President Christodoulides, referring to the initiative for humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip, in her speech before the plenary session of the EPP conference, on which was expected to confirm her candidacy for a second term in the Presidency of the Commission on behalf of the European centre-right.

Mrs von der Leyen referred successively to the achievements of a series of leaders from the EPP to demonstrate that “this is the leadership of the EPP”, as a “party of the people” which “brings results to the issues that concern the world”. In particular, the President of the Commission said that she is proud of Mr. Christodoulidis “for his leading role in increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza and for bringing economic development to Cyprus”. As Mrs. Von der Leyen pointed out, she is proud, among others, of Donald Tusk “for bringing back the rule of law in Poland”, for Kyriakos Mitsotakis “for bringing Greece back to the path of success”, and Andrej Plenkovic for Croatia’s entry into the Eurozone and the Schengen area.

Also, she said she was proud of, among others, Karl Nehammer for dealing with irregular immigration in Austria, Peteri Orpo for Finland’s entry into NATO, as well as Roberta Metzola for her capable leadership in the European Parliament. In her speech, Ms. Von der Leyen spoke at length about the values of the EU, noting that the EPP promoted the European vision from the beginning. Referring to conditions internationally, he spoke of a dangerous world, where an “alliance of dictators” is on the rise, and where Russia continues its effort to eliminate Ukraine in a war that remains more intense than ever, and also referred to the war in Gaza, the destabilization of the Middle East, and the distortion of international competitiveness by China and others, while inside the EU “Putin’s friends” try to rewrite history and spread hatred.

Mrs. von der Leyen spoke of challenges from the extreme right and the extreme left and added that the EPP will stand for a strong and secure, peaceful and prosperous Europe. He referred to the successive crises of the pandemic, the threat of economic recession and climate change and how unity has helped the EU move forward.



Immigration in the countries of the European Union


In relation to immigration, he said that the EU had achieved results by strengthening Europe’s borders, and added that the EU would continue to respect its international obligations in relation to human rights, but that Europeans would decide who comes to Europe and who does not. the organized networks of traffickers. As he said, he understands why citizens are worried about the future, but he emphasized that after successive crises the EU managed to cope, noting that the common market is Europe’s safe harbor. In this context, he referred to the need to strengthen competitiveness and the transformation of the European Green Deal into an economic, social and industrial agreement.

Specifically on energy, he noted that the EU has resisted Putin’s energy blackmail, now producing more energy from renewable sources than from gas. He emphasized that “unlike others, we support pragmatic solutions, not ideological ones”, since, as he underlined, “there is no competitive economy without climate protection and there is no climate protection without a competitive economy”. Competitiveness, he continued, goes through the reduction of bureaucracy but also increased attention for small and medium-sized enterprises in the EU.

Referring to agricultural policy, she noted the challenges faced by farmers as prices are rising and volatile. “A young man told me that sometimes they are forced to sell their products at prices below the cost of production,” he added, noting that this is unacceptable. In relation to Ukraine, he reiterated that this is the most urgent security issue and referred to the war crimes in Bucha, the abduction of children and the death of Navalny, stressing that Putin will be brought to justice and that a court awaits him in The Hague.
He stressed that Russia is destroying infrastructure, but not destroying the dream of a free and prosperous Ukraine within the EU, which also lives in Georgia, Moldova and the Western Balkans.

TUM hosts Uzbek-German symposium

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TUM hosts Uzbek-German symposium

Thursday, 11 April 2024, Munich, Free State of Bavaria: The Technical University of Munich (TUM) hosted a symposium on the topic “New stages of cooperation between Uzbekistan and Germany in the fields of education, science and industry”.

The event was organized by the Ministry of Preschool and School Education of Uzbekistan and the University of “New Uzbekistan” in cooperation with “TUM International GmbH” of the Technical University of Munich.

The symposium was attended by the Ministry of Energy from Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan Airways, Almalyk Mining and Metallurgy Combine, Navoi Mining and Metallurgy Combine and renowned industrial companies from Germany such as Siemens AG, Knorr-Bremse, Airbus, Deloitte, IT4IPM and Linde as well as leading scientists and experts in the field education, science and innovation from universities in both countries partook.

The Uzbek delegation of was led by the Minister of Preschool and School Education of Uzbekistan Hilola Umarova who also took part in the event.

The main goal of the symposium is to present the results and achievements of the New University of Uzbekistan, founded in June 2021 by decree of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to become acquainted with the results of successful cooperation between the universities of our country and the Technical University of Munich and to identify new promising innovations in the field of education and science.

Hilola Umarova, Minister of Preschool and School Education of Uzbekistan.

The conference was opened by the Honorary President of TUM, Prof. Wolfgang A. Hermann, the Minister for Preschool and School Education of Uzbekistan Hilola Umarova and the Managing Director of “TUM International GmbH” Friederike Hettinger. The speakers spoke about the role of education in shaping modern society, about the prospects for innovation and development in the field of education, about the experience of introducing modern methods and technologies in the educational process, as well as about the tasks and prospects of mutual cooperation.

It was noted that the University “New Uzbekistan” is becoming a living example of reforms in education aimed at modern standards and innovations. The prospects for expanding cooperation between the universities of the two countries were also discussed, in particular the establishment of effective connections with scientific institutions and industrial companies in Bavaria.

As part of the event, lectures were given by leading scientists and specialists from both universities. Particular attention was paid to trends in science, education and production, promising projects, exchange of experiences, expansion of cooperation and establishment of new contacts.

Vice Rector for Academic Work of the University “New Uzbekistan” Bahadir Akhmedov provided detailed information about the extensive reforms in the education system using the example of the university.

The Uzbek-German symposium has developed into an important platform for intellectual exchange and the development of innovative ideas in science, education and business.

For further information 

Ministry of Preschool and School Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan: https://uzedu.uz/en/leaders/1

TUM: https://tum-international.com/en/german-uzbek-symposium-11th-april-2024/

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Image by Ministry of Public Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan 

Embassy of India in The Hague Hosts ‘CHALO INDIA’ Tourism Promotion Event

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Embassy of India in The Hague Hosts ‘CHALO INDIA’ Tourism Promotion Event

The Embassy of India in The Hague recently organized an interesting tourism promotion event titled ‘CHALO INDIA’ on March 21, 2024, at Hotel Van der Valk in Wassenaar. This event projected India as an attractive tourist destination by showcasing different aspects of Indian culture and history like yoga, spirituality, culinary delights, aligning with the vision set forth by the Hon’ble Prime Minister for the advancement of Indian tourism. 

The event, held in a hybrid format, facilitated the participation of speakers and resource persons from India, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of India’s tourism potential. Among the distinguished attendees were approximately 25 persons, including 20 tour operators operating within the Netherlands who actively promote India as a premier tourist destination to their clientele. Her Excellency Mrs. Reenat Sandhu, the Ambassador of India to the Netherlands, inaugurated the proceedings with her opening remarks, extending a warm welcome to all participants. In her address, she emphasized the important role of the Indian diaspora, comprising over 32 million individuals worldwide, in championing Indian tourism as cultural ambassadors.

Ms. Sudeshna Mukherjee, India Marketing Officer, addressing the participants.

Despite India’s status as home to some of the world’s most fascinating destinations, it currently captures only a fraction of global tourist spending, a fact that underscores the imperative for concerted efforts to unlock its full tourism potential. Ambassador Sandhu shed light on the ‘Chalo India’ campaign, spearheaded by Prime Minister Modi, which aims to galvanize public participation in promoting tourism, with a special emphasis on engaging the Indian diaspora. She delineated India’s robust tourism strategy, underscored by infrastructure development initiatives and a commitment to enhancing quality standards, while showcasing the nation’s wealth of UNESCO World Heritage sites and diverse tourism offerings.

Attendes to India tourisme promotional event.

 During the event, officials from the Embassy of India provided valuable insights into various types of tourist visas, OCI services, and group tourism facilitations, elucidating the ease of travel to India for prospective visitors. A highlight of the event was an exclusive presentation by Ms. Jyoti Mayal, President of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), who delved into India’s economic outlook, air connectivity between India and the Netherlands, and the burgeoning trend of hosting destination weddings in India.

Ms. Mayal underscored the vast opportunities for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and spiritual tourism in India, painting a compelling picture for potential investors and travelers alike. Following Ms. Mayal’s presentation, Mr. Aniruddh Gupta, Assistant Manager – Tourism at Invest India, provided a succinct overview of investment opportunities in India’s burgeoning tourism sector. Mr. Gupta elucidated a comprehensive 25-year roadmap for India’s economic growth, positioning India as a formidable economic powerhouse by the year 2047. His insights, coupled with an interactive Q&A session, facilitated a dynamic exchange of ideas among participants. 

Indian Ambassador greeting the participants.

The event culminated in a stimulating roundtable discussion, characterized by constructive feedback and brainstorming sessions, wherein participants proffered invaluable suggestions on enhancing India’s positioning as a prominent tourist destination. 

The day drew to a close with a networking session, offering attendees a platform to engage with seasoned professionals from the tourism industry and fostering meaningful connections. Participants were encouraged to share their feedback and suggestions via email, further enriching the discourse on India’s tourism potential.                 

The Hague Commemorates

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The Hague Commemorates
The city of The Hague was also hit hard in the Second World War. Each district has its own history; every resident has his or her own stories. To get to know these stories and each other better, Huis voor de Stad is once again organizing a city-wide commemoration of the dead this year.

On Saturday, May 4, everyone is welcome at ‘The Hague Commemorated’ in the Grote Kerk.

Reflecting on precious freedom

Wietske Verkuyl, program manager Huis voor de Stad: “In 2021, together with various organizations in The Hague, we decided to revive an old tradition: an annual commemoration meeting in the Grote Kerk, where we talk to each other, share stories and experiences, commemorate war victims and reflect on the preciousness of freedom. Every year since then, the responses and increasing visitor numbers show how important it is to come together during this period. And relevant, unfortunately, given the current war situation in various places around the world. We hope to offer visitors comfort and connection on this day.”

Talking about exclusion

Prior to the commemoration meeting, Dialoog in The Hague is organizing a dialogue around the theme ‘Creeping exclusion’ from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The Second World War was characterized by premeditated large-scale, gradual and systematic exclusion of population groups, motivated by ideology and racism. During the dialogue, attendees engage in small group discussions, sharing stories and experiences around the theme.

Young people make short films and works of art

Wendy Meijer, initiator of Dialoog in The Hague: “We think it is important that we pay attention to the systematic exclusion of groups, then and now. Unfortunately, exclusion is still the order of the day. By talking to each other and sharing experiences, we learn from the past and become stronger in the present. In March, in preparation for May 4, a dialogue meeting was organized with twenty-two students from Segbroek College, who entered into discussions with elderly people who experienced the war themselves or who experienced the consequences of the war up close.

Based on these dialogues, a short film was made and the young people presented works of art around the theme. Both the short film and the works of art can be seen during the May 4 commemoration in the Grote Kerk.”   Global program The Hague Commemorates in the Grote Kerk: Word of welcome by mayor Jan van Zanen; Music by the Ural Cossack Choir and the Ukrainian Orchestra Uzory; Inspiring interview with Hanneke Gelderblom; Lecture by John Dunkelgrün, author of the book ‘Where should I go’; Recitation of poem by a student from the Sorghvliet Gynnasium; Musical recitation on piano by a student from Segbroek College; Connecting peace ritual.

The Hague Commemoration program starts at 6:00 PM and lasts until 7:00 PM. The doors open at 5:30 PM. After the memorial meeting, all visitors are invited for a joint walk to Carnegie Square, where the wreath-laying ceremony and two minutes of silence will take place.  

To register You can register for the dialogue and the commemoration meeting via the website www.huisvoordestad-denhaag.nl or by sending an email tokantoor@grote-kerk.nl .

The Hague Commemoration is a joint initiative of the Grote of Sint-Jacobskerk Foundation, Dialogue in The Hague, the Segbroek College, the Sorghvliet Gymnasium, the Prinsjesdag Celebration Foundation, the Protestant Church in The Hague, the Hague Community of Churches, The Hague Connecting Initiatives and Kleurrijk Segbroek and the National Remembrance Foundation The Hague.

Africa Works! ’24 is about green industrialization: Made in Africa!

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Africa Works! ’24 is about green industrialization: Made in Africa!

The African continent is showing strong economic growth. But where is the ‘Made in Africa’ label? The sixth edition of NABC ‘s conference Africa Works! is about Africa’s green industrialization.

Africa Works! was first organized in 2012 by the Netherlands-African Business Council (NABC) and has since grown into the largest Africa-focused business conference in the Benelux, with between 250 and 400 participants per day in recent years. Africa Works! is therefore the place for the Netherlands and Africa to meet. Business delegations are expected from Angola, Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana, Angola and Sierra Leone, among others.

“Africa’s Green Industrialization (Made in Africa) is the theme we have chosen for this edition,” says Núria Vlonk-Cunha Soares, deputy Managing Director of NABC and project leader of Africa Works! “When Africa wants to take the next step in its development then more products must be manufactured locally.”

The main theme of Africa’s green industrialization includes three sub-themes: circular food production, renewable energy and sustainable agrologistics. The focus is on green solutions that aim to decouple economic growth from damage to the environment.

Africa Works! takes place on April 23 at the KIT (Royal Tropical Institute) in Amsterdam. During the conference we listen to inspiring keynote speeches and participants can attend workshops, an investor session (dragons den style) and country sessions (including opportunities in Angola, Ethiopia and Nigeria). In addition, there will be a roundtable discussion on financing Africa’s green industrialization.

During the opening session we will hear from a number of Keyonte speakers who are coming to Amsterdam for the conference. These include Kazeem Olanrewaju, CEO of the (Microcredit) bank Alert Group in Nigeria and Simon Davis, who set up a company that has developed electric trucks for the African market.

We also hear from Amany Asfour, president of the Africa Business Council, Lara van Druten, the CEO of Waste Transformers (who has made a system for converting waste into energy commercially deployable) and from the Dutchman Thijs Boer, who as a student went to Rwanda for research into potatoes and now runs a chips factory with 60 employees in the East African country.

Africa Works’ 24

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The Benefits of Academic Exchange

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The Benefits of Academic Exchange

By H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, Ambassador of Panama to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

As Ambassador of Panama to the Kingdom of The Netherlands, establishing mutually benefitting relations between Dutch universities and their Panamanian counterparts was one of my objectives within the bilateral agenda.  The purpose of this was to initiate academic collaboration ranging from the exchange of teaching methodology, knowledge, professors, students, amongst other opportunities.

Although it sounds like a simple task, there were many challenges along the way!  First of all, identifying and achieving contact with the correct person within the selected Dutch universities.  Secondly, prompting their interest to consider the collaboration.  Thirdly, connecting the appropriate counterpart in Panama.  Following this, the Embassy coordinated and participated in the subsequent virtual meetings until a well-defined and agreed project was reached.  This was, and is, followed by periodic contact to provide support between the actors if and when necessary.

During the COVID pandemic, a limiting factor to tend patients was the availability of the respirators.  Collaboration between Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) and the Universidad Especializada de las Américas (UDELAS) was achieved to create a COVID respirator which would serve as an international prototype.  One of the four produced was sent to Panama for UDELAS to continue with the process seeking medical approval and patenting.

True momentum started with a friend in Panama sharing the contact information of a Dutch who is well connected in both the logistics and the academic sectors. With his assistance, a virtual round table with 5 Dutch universities and 5 Panamanian universities and training centers was coordinated.  This took months of preparation in addition to personally visiting each Dutch university as well as numerous conversations with the Panamanian counterparts.  The effort paid off since it resulted in a successful round table with a focus in logistics.   However, it would take many more months of following up before any concrete results were produced. 

The first agreement signed was between the Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RUAS) and the Universidad de Santa María la Antigua (USMA).  Although the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has not been implemented as expansively as expected, it’s a matter of time before it is.  The agreement between Fontys University of Applied Sciences and the Universidad Tecnológica de Panamá (UTP) followed with the assistance of the Dutch Embassy in Panama. 

Other mutually benefitting MoU´s in the final stages of coordination are between Panama´s Science, Technology and Innovation Institute (SENACYT) and University of Groningen, University of Leiden, and Wageningen University.  Also in process are two others between UTP and University of Groningen and University of Leiden. 

Although more complex and requiring much more time, conversations with the directors of the School at Sea program have been ongoing with the vision of implementing a similar program for students from Panama to the Netherlands.

Beyond the MoU´s that are already signed and those that are in the review process in respective legal departments, there are many success stories that are worth mentioning! 

To list a few:

Mats Ruwe, a student from Wageningen University (WUR) did his master´s thesis project with Riba Smith Supermarket chain, a large family-owned business that produces, processes, packages, distributes, and exports products. The project, “The decision making-dynamics of a perishable CPG-nanostore supply chain” consisted in optimizing the supply chain logistics of direct distribution to convenience stores around Panama in order to minimize stockouts, minimize waste and increase sales. Months of work was done in The Netherlands before his departure to Panama for two weeks on site.

Rosanne Bartholomeus, from Utrecht University, did her master´s thesis with Reef2Reef Foundation living in Portobelo, Colón for 6 months while researching the degradation of coral reefs and applying restorative interventions to enhance resilience against local and global stressors. Her comprehensive research was shared with the foundation and has been essential to their ongoing restoration efforts.  In addition, because of her work in Panama, Rosanne was selected to be a youth speaker at the Our Ocean Conference held in Panama in 2023.

Raf Verdaasdonk and Valentijn Elsman from WUR followed Rosanne´s footsteps with Reef2Reef doing their master´s research thesis with coral reefs as well. Their focus was in two areas respectively: 1.  the predation by fireworms and slugs and the negative effect it has on coral planting projects and 2. the planting techniques in a natural environment that allow us to increase survival.

An internship for Tessa de Wilde, from Saxion University, with Electron Investment S.A. (EISA), in the hydroelectric sector was agreed at the end of March.  Tessa will be traveling to Panama in July 2024 to initiate her work in civil engineering while focusing on the sustainability of the natural reservoir.

At Saxion University, in conjunction with Instituto de Innovación Agropecuario (IDIAP), a class project just concluded.  The study utilized data provided by IDIAP to explore ways to increase drought and flood resiliency in the La Villa River in Panama from a Dutch perspective.  Upon culmination of the project, Nout Lindenschot and Daan Smits, two of the four students who worked on it, delivered the results to IDIAP and to the Embassy during a personal presentation of the suggested recommendations.  Further collaborative activities are already being discussed to since both actors have benefitted greatly.

Between INDICASAT and University of Groningen (RUG), joint research is being conducted on a new medication for the treatment of patients with tuberculosis.  These findings will change the course of tuberculosis treatment globally.

Just recently, WUR initiated two class projects with challenges presented by MiAmbiente (the Panama Ministry of Environment) that focus on finding nature based sustainable solutions for the consequences of the predicted sea-level rise in regions in Panama.  The data to be used is provided from previous research.

With Leiden University, there are many ongoing projects within the archeology department.  Categorizing, documenting and packaging the 343 pieces of cultural heritage repatriated to Panama was done in conjunction with a specialized packaging company and students.  Numerous archeological explorations to the indigenous part of the Darien jungle, guided by Natalia Donner, a lecturer at Leiden University, have been done with Leiden´s graduate students.  Two Panamanian students are currently doing their doctorate work in archeology at Leiden.

Although the Embassy will continue seeking new opportunities, based on the proven success of mutual benefits, the road has been paved to further expand collaboration. 

With each new cooperative effort, we improve the process making it smoother, especially for the travelling students.  Prior to the Dutch students´ departure to Panama, we invite them to the Embassy, and brief them on topics such as Panama´s culture, gastronomy, public transportation, attire, places to visit, visa issues, amongst others.  A brochure has been elaborated that contains summarized vital information which we update based of students´ feedback when they return. For those students coming from Panama to the Netherlands we designed a brochure with information that would be helpful prior to their arrival; this we  shared with the Dutch Embassy in Panama since that would be a point of contact prior to their journey to The Netherlands.

In a globalized world, it is through the exchange of information and related experiences that we can learn from each other and advance more efficiently for the benefit of all.

Argentina Reaffirms Support for Israel Amidst Security Concerns in Triple Border

Diplomat Magazine
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Argentina Reaffirms Support for Israel Amidst Security Concerns in Triple Border

In a resolute stance, the Argentine government has reiterated its unwavering support for Israel while expressing deep concern over security challenges in the Triple Border region.

This affirmation comes in the wake of a high-level meeting chaired by President Javier Milei, with the presence of the Israeli Ambassador to Argentina, H.E. Mr. Eyal Sela. The meeting, convened urgently amidst escalating tensions, saw the Chief of Cabinet, Nicolás Posse, presenting a confidential document prepared by the Federal Intelligence Agency (AFI). Ambassador Sela provided crucial insights into recent Iranian attacks, shedding light on their modus operandi.

President Milei, who cut short his international tour and decided to suspend his visit to Denmark to address the pressing issues at hand, promptly called for an emergency session of his cabinet. The meeting, lasting just under an hour and a half, delved into sensitive areas such as Defense and Intelligence, with special reports presented by Nicolás Posse.

In response to the heightened security threats, the Argentine government has taken proactive measures, raising the alert level in various parts of the country, particularly in the Triple Border region. The move underscores the administration’s commitment to safeguarding national security and fostering robust international partnerships, particularly with allies like Israel.

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