The Appointing Authority, Ambassador Lars-Gunnar Wigemark, after having received the recommendations of the independent Selection Panel, appointed six new Judges to the Roster of International Judges (Roster) in accordance with Article 28(4) of the Law on Specialist Chambers and Specialist Prosecutor’s Office (Law).
The Judges, Mr Gilbert Bitti (France), Mr Daniel Fransen (Belgium), Mr Fergal M. Gaynor (Ireland), Ms Romina Incutti (Italy), Ms Nina H.B. Jørgensen (Norway), and Mr Roumen H. Nenkov (Bulgaria) join the 17 Judges currently on the Roster.
The Appointing Authority further appointed Judge Antonio Balsamo and Judge Nenkov specifically to serve as Judges on the Specialist Chambers of the Constitutional Court (SCCC) and appointed Ms Incutti to serve as reserve Judge of the SCCC. Per his request, Judge Roland Dekkers is no longer a Judge of the SCCC, but remains on the Roster, allowing him to be assigned to any other Chamber other than the SCCC.
President Trendafilova warmly welcomed the new Judges and stated that she looks forward to working together with them and the other Judges on the Roster toward the efficient and effective fulfilment of the mandate of the KSC.
The 5th World Media Summit (WMS) convened in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China from December 1st to 7th, 2023
The World Media Summit is a premium global media exchange and coordination platform. It was jointly launched in 2009 by a group of globally renowned media organisations, including Xinhua News Agency, the Associated Press and Reuters.
This year’s Summit focuses on “Boosting Global Confidence, Promoting Media Development.”
Representatives from 197 mainstream media outlets, government agencies, think tanks, diplomatic missions to China, and international organisations participated in the summit, along with government officials and heads of media outlets worldwide. The editor of Diplomat Magazine in The Hague, the Netherlands, also participated in this August gathering of top-level media outlets. In 2023, Diplomat Magazine proudly celebrates its 10th anniversary and culminates the year with outstanding participation in the 5th World Media Summit event.
This photo, taken on Dec. 3, 2023, shows Guangzhou’s 5th World Media Summit (WMS) opening ceremony.
Xinhua News Agency President Mr Fu Hua Delivers Key-note Speech at 5th World Media Summit.
During the World Media Summit (WMS) opening ceremony, Mr Fu Hua, the president of Xinhua News Agency, delivered the keynote speech. Fu Hua emphasised the value of confidence, stating that it is more valuable than gold when facing difficulties. He believes that confidence is a keyword for global media leaders, as historical development, civilisation prosperity, and human progress require the media to foster unity and boost confidence.
The summit’s theme was “Boosting Global Confidence, Promoting Media Development.” Attendees discussed extensively how to contribute media power to construct a brighter future. Fu Hua noted that the WMS is essential for media communication and cooperation between countries. Therefore, efforts should be made to improve this multilateral mechanism and utilise it fully. This can be achieved by tapping into the potential for cooperation, innovating collaboration models, and expanding cooperation channels.
Mr Fu Hua also stated that Xinhua News Agency will enhance communication and consultation processes with media organisations from various countries. They will work together to construct and utilise the summit mechanism to promote media development and boost global confidence. In his discourse, he hopes that this initiative will help to build consensus and strengthen development trust, uphold objectivity and truth to enhance media’s credibility and deepen exchanges and collaboration to contribute to building an open, inclusive, clean and beautiful world that enjoys lasting peace, universal security and shared prosperity.
Mr Fu Hua said confidence is a crucial word for global media leaders in his keynote speech at the 5th World Media Summit opening ceremony.
During the World Media Summit (WMS), Mr Hu Heping, the Executive Deputy Head of the CPC Central Committee Publicity Department, delivered a speech at the opening ceremony. He emphasised that the summit is an essential occasion for media professionals across the globe and the world media community.
Mr Hu Heping hopes that media outlets worldwide will uphold fairness and justice, fulfil their responsibilities, strengthen cultural exchanges, promote mutual learning among civilisations, deepen practical cooperation, and strive for mutual benefit and win-win results. He believes these efforts will contribute wisdom and strength to community building, leading to a shared future for all humanity. Mr Hu Heping remarked that the 5th WMS is a grand event for the global media circle and calls on media outlets to stay unbiased, promote mutual learning between civilisations, and deepen pragmatic cooperation to contribute their wisdom and strength to building a community with a shared future for humanity and building a better world.
Guangdong Governor Mr Wang Weizhong said in a speech that the World Media Summit is an essential platform for understanding China. Media outlets are welcome to visit Guangdong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area to witness and tell stories about China’s development.
Delegates attend the opening ceremony of the 5th World Media Summit in Guangzhou.
UN Undersecretary-General Melissa Fleming and other guests also delivered speeches at the ceremony. They agreed that as humanity faces many global challenges, we can only boost confidence and build a shared future by deepening communication and strengthening cooperation. A document titled “Joint Statement for the 5th World Media Summit“ was released at the opening ceremony and plenary session. During the summit, attendees discussed human development and security, new technological opportunities and challenges, media and market in the new era and other topics of common concern. They also visited several places in the provinces of Guangdong and Yunnan and holded exchanges.
The 5th World Media Summit, co-hosted by Xinhua News Agency and the Guangdong- and Yunnan provincial governments – December 2 to 8 2023 in Guangzhou and Kunming
Delegates talk during Guangzhou’s 5th World Media Summit (WMS) opening ceremony.
Delegates talk during the opening ceremony of the 5th World Media Summit.
Addenda
An overview of participating media outlets in the 5th World Media Summit
Associated Press
AFP
Teheran Times
Jordan’s state-run Petra news agency.
Prensa Latina News Agency
News Ghana
TASS
Egypt State Information Service
Philippine News Agency (PNA). PNA and Xinhua signed a news cooperation agreement in 1978, indicating a longstanding healthy relationship between the two sides.
Iraqi Media Network
ALJAZEERA MEDIA NETWORK
Lebanon
Reuters(Sue Brooks) values friendly relations with Xinhua News Agency and is willing to deepen exchanges with Xinhua in areas such as media application of new technologies and strengthen cooperation under the framework of the World Media Summit. The two organizations are both initiators of the World Media Summit and members of the summit’s preasidium.
Barbados
Telam, Argentina’s official news agency
Qatar News Agency (QNA)
TV BRICS, among others.
On December 2, Fu Hua, Executive Chairman of the World Media Summit and President of Xinhua News Agency, met in Nansha, Guangzhou, with Ahmed Said, President of Qatar News Agency, who was in China to attend the 5th World Media Summit.
Testimonials and observations from attendees at the Xinhua Summit
The summit aims to stimulate refashioning the international media order in the 21st century. Xinhua News Agency suggests the current “international media order” is unfair, and we must “get all media from different countries and regions involved in news reporting in an equal way.” We need “comprehensive, objective and accurate news reporting,” but one goal of such coverage should be “eradicating the chasms, splits and gaps between different civilisations.”
“Media is very important, even more than we maybe can realise now. So, it is very important to spread the right and proper information, not misinformation,” said Igor Mekina, Director and editor in Chief Insajder.com, Slovenia.
When media discuss media and, news becomes the news
At the 5th World Media Summit, media professionals discussed various challenges and opportunities the industry faces. The veteran Indian journalist Mr Narasimhan Ram, Director of The Hindu Publishing Group (1878) made several noteworthy contributions to the WMS. “Professional journalism he says, which is based on fact-checking, accuracy, and integrity, will triumph over the rubbish information we see all around”. The industry faces many challenges, including the ongoing conflict between the Russian Federation and the Ukrainian Republic, as well as the Gaza conflict between the State of Israel and Hamas, which has created a deep divide across the globe.
Additionally, the current border dispute between the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, particularly over the oil-rich Essequibo region, is another topic of concern. During the proceedings, various opinions were shared, including:
“To tweet or not to tweet has become the modern Shakespearean dilemma for individuals.”
“The main role of media in the new coming age is to verify information.”
“It’s amazing what technology can do and scary at the same time.”
This photo, taken on Dec. 3, 2023, shows the opening ceremony of the 5th World Media Summit.
World Insights
Chinese modernisation is inspiring for the world, say participants at the World Media Summit. Participants at the fifth World Media Summit in the Chinese cities of Guangzhou and Kunming shared their insights about Chinese modernisation, saying it is inspiring for the world.
Participants noted that the summit allows them to personally experience China’s approach to modernisation, its people-centred philosophy and its emphasis on innovation.
To see is to believe
The participants from various regions, including the Middle East, Latin America, Africa, the Caribbean and Europe, agree that the best way to know China’s development is to “see with your own eyes.”
Mohamad Malli, press centre manager of the Lebanese Ministry of Information, said he used to know China from reading as a poor country with poverty-stricken people.” But when I come and see with my own eyes, I find you have clean and good nature, polite and educated people,” he said.
General manager of Grupo Multimedios (Mexico) Guillermo Franco Gallegos has a similar view, saying that people will know whether the China they watched on TV, read about in the newspaper, or heard about from others is true after seeing it by themselves.
“If I didn’t come here, I wouldn’t know that it is a great civilisation,” said Peter Tata Mabu, deputy managing editor of Cameroon News and Publishing Corporation.
Janna Tolstikova, CEO of TV BRICS, said, “This kind of event (the fifth World Media Summit) brings opportunities for participants to see with their own eyes what’s happening here.”
People Centred
A key hallmark of Chinese modernisation is its commitment to people-centred development, prioritising its citizens’ well-being, empowerment and quality of life.
“The key element of that modernisation in China is what can be referred to as a people-centred modernisation, people-centred development,” said Mark Levine, an American professor at the Minzu University of China.
The economy and societal development are essential, but it all starts with improving Chinese people’s lives and living conditions, Levine said.
This photo, taken on Dec. 3, 2023, shows the opening ceremony of the 5th World Media Summit.
Martin Jacques, a renowned British scholar, said that China’s modernisation, which is people-oriented, “seeks to humanise modernity, to put people’s needs and interests before narrow material gain, to prioritise people’s spiritual needs above those of narrow consumerism.”
“The prosperity of a society is inseparable from the well-being of its people, which is the most crucial issue,” said Zafar Uddin Mahmood, president of the Understanding China Forum, a Pakistan-based think tank.
The fact that China has nearly lifted 800 million rural individuals out of poverty is the best proof of the people-centred philosophy of Chinese modernisation. And now, China is embarking on a new journey towards constructing a modern socialist country.
Innovation Driven
Citing the development of trains, construction, and autonomous vehicles, Chun Wai Wong, the Malaysian National News Agency chairman, said Chinese modernisation is advancing tremendously. “Every time I come to China, it’s an eye-opener for me,” he said.
China can modernise at such a fast pace because the country sticks to an innovation-driven strategy. The tour to Huawei village and Tencent headquarters on the sidelines of the summit organised by Xinhua News Agency left a profound impression on the participants.
Delegates talk during Guangzhou’s 5th World Media Summit (WMS) opening ceremony.
Jose Juan Sanchez, chief of Brazil’s financial and agricultural information provider CMA Group, said that he was deeply impressed by the rapid pace of China’s technological development and its substantial support for talent.
Echoing Sanchez, Khalid Mubarak SH S Al-Shafi, editor-in-chief of The Peninsula Newspaper, said, “This is my second visit to China. I am amazed by the technological advancement and significant development.”
“The world needs to know a real Africa and a real China and how they cooperated to benefit people on both sides. The China-Africa cooperation in various aspects has set a good example for the whole world, so as African media, we do have a story to tell,”
The WMS serves as an essential platform for African media outlets to interact with their counterparts across the globe.
It is of great importance that media outlets in China and the Arab world introduce each other objectively and impartially, while the Western media “mostly adopt biased and non-positive views on the Arab countries and China,” said Ahmed Sallam, former undersecretary of Egypt’s State Information Service.
Highlighting media’s increasingly significant role in building relationships between countries and fostering dialogue between states, the CEO of TV BRICS said, “It is the work of the media that allows us to ‘build bridges’ between countries and entire civilisations, to introduce them to each other, to unite and bring them together.”
Journalists work during Guangzhou’s 5th World Media Summit (WMS) opening ceremony.
A Malaysian observer has said that designed to harm China’s position on the global stage, the anti-China narrative peddled by the West to international audiences exposes the ignorance of those seeking to undermine the country’s peaceful rise. Unable to understand or accept China’s economic and social achievements in recent decades, the West, through its extensive media dominance, has turned to attacking China and its peaceful developments, Chandran Nair, founder and CEO of the Global Institute for Tomorrow, told Xinhua in an interview.
The idea that Western media are run by independent, impartial people who speak only truth to power is an illusion. We need more non-Western sources and readers who are more informed about global issues so they don’t fall prey to the current propaganda war,” Nair said.
Roy Lie-Atjam is a seasoned editor at Diplomat Magazine who has observed numerous technological advancements during his visit. Originally from the Netherlands, Lie-Atjam is confident that his readers’ opinions about China were flawed. He aims to give his readers a more precise portrayal of China by dispelling their previous misconceptions. (Shenzhen News Group)
The historic Italian statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which holds great religious importance, has been returned to Italy from the Netherlands with judicial support from Eurojust. The religious artefact was stolen in 2014 from a church in Pastena on the Amalfi Coast and later bought by a Dutch collector. The Agency assisted the Italian authorities with the rapid execution of a European Investigation Order (EIO) to arrange for its return to the Pastena parish.
The historic Italian statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which holds great religious importance, has been returned to Italy from the Netherlands with judicial support from Eurojust. The religious artefact was stolen in 2014 from a church in Pastena on the Amalfi Coast and later bought by a Dutch collector. The Agency assisted the Italian authorities with the rapid execution of a European Investigation Order (EIO) to arrange for its return to the Pastena parish.
Monday, 4 December 2023, Bonn, NRW, Germany: The Franco-German Parliamentary Assembly held a session in the city of Bonn presided jointly by the Speaker of the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag), Bärbel Bas as well as the Speaker of the French National Assembly, Yaël Braun Pivet.
The session’s focus on educational issues brought the incumbent Plenipotentiary for German-French Educational and Cultural Cooperation Anke Rehlinger (Premier of the Saarland) to the podium as well as the French Minister of National Education and Youth Affairs, Gabriel Attal. The French Ambassador in Germany François Delattre was likewise in attendance. Other topics discussed included the European approach to Middle Eastern diplomacy, in particularly the engagements undertaken by the German and French diplomacies. The implementation of EU directives into German and French national legal frameworks were likewise raised.
The Franco-German Parliamentary Assembly consists of 100 members, including 50 members of the German Bundestag and 50 members of the French National Assembly, who are supposed to meet alternately in Germany and France at least twice a year. The inaugural session took place on Monday, March 25, 2019, under the leadership of Bundestag President Dr. Wolfgang Schäuble and President of the National Assembly, Richard Ferrand, in Paris. The basis for this institutionalized parliamentary cooperation is the Franco-German Parliamentary Agreement, which was adopted by the National Assembly on March 11, 2019, and by the German Bundestag on March 20, 2019. The parliamentary agreement is the result of intensive discussions by the Franco-German working group, established for this purpose on January 22, 2018, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Franco-German Cooperation (Élysée Treaty).
Tuesday, 12 December 2023, Berlin-Tiergarten, Germany: The Embassy of Azerbaijan in Germany organized a grand event at the Azerbaijan Cultural Center in Berlin, dedicated to the memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev. The event was attended by representatives of German state institutions, foreign ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, cultural and art figures, as well as members of the Azerbaijani, Turkish, and other communities living in Germany, with nearly 300 guests in total.
At the beginning of the event, a one-minute silence was observed in memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev.
100 years Heydar Aliyev – Picture by Embassy of Azerbaijan in Germany
Speaking at the event, the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Germany, Nasimi Aghayev, highlighted the significant and invaluable services of National Leader Heydar Aliyev in laying the foundation for modern Azerbaijani statehood. He noted that thanks to his efforts, civil conflict in Azerbaijan was prevented, stability was restored, and the country gradually embarked on the path of development. The Ambassador emphasized that the establishment of Azerbaijan’s independent statehood and the formation of a balanced foreign policy are associated with the name of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, and this policy is successfully continued by President Ilham Aliyev, resulting in the restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty throughout the entire country.
As part of the event, a portrait of Heydar Aliyev, painted by the young Azerbaijani artist Günay Shams, who resides and works in Germany, was presented. The artist provided information about the factors that inspired her to create this artwork.
Following the speeches, a concert was held featuring performances by the “Rain Virtuosos,” a chamber orchestra led by Anar Ibrahimov, a renowned Azerbaijani conductor, violinist, and composer based in Germany. The orchestra performed compositions by well-known Azerbaijani and European composers.
This event in Berlin paid tribute to the memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and celebrated his contributions to Azerbaijan’s modern history and its relations with Germany.
Two days ago, on 16 December 2023, three young Ukrainians could be sent back home from Russia, through the mediation of Qatar. This happened within the framework of the action plan of the President of Ukraine “Bring Kids Back UA”. Two Ukrainian teenagers, a 15-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl, could be taken out of the territories occupied by Russia and reunited with their mother. Another one was taken out of Russia through Georgia. This was reported on Telegram by Dmytro Lubinets, the Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights, who at the same time recalled that any information related to the deportation of children could be shared with him through various channels: hotline 0 800 50 17 20 – within Ukraine, 044 299 74 08 – for calls from abroad, e-mail: hotline@ombudsman.gov.ua.
On 16 October 2023, Qatar announced that four children from the age of two to the age of 17 years had been reunited with their families in Ukraine. The two-year old child had been deported from the region of Zhytomyr at the age of six months. Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs facilitated the accommodation of the children and their families in their embassy in Moscow during the operation. Their staff accompanied them to their destination, ensuring their safety, comfort and well-being. The trip was organized with several modes of transport, including a diplomatic convoy, a train, and a private charter plane through Qatar.
It is during a visit to Ukraine in July 2023 by Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani that Qatar agreed to a Ukrainian request to mediate with Russia on the return of children to their immediate families.
About the magnitude of the deportation of Ukrainian children
Since the beginning of the full-scale military invasion of the Ukraine, the Russian Federation has been carrying out forced mass displacement and deportation of Ukrainian children who, under various circumstances, were separated from both parents, other relatives or legal representatives, without providing the opportunity to return to the territory of permanent residence or reunite with family members.
The exact number of deported children cannot be established due to the ongoing full-scale aggression, difficult access to the temporarily exact number of deported children, it is impossible to establish the occupied territories, and the failure of the Russian side to provide reliable information.
According to the Russian Federation Commissioner for Children’s Rights Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia has “accepted” about 4.8 million Ukrainian residents on its territory since the start of the “Special Military Operation” (full-scale invasion war on Ukraine) and more than 700,000 are children. The Commissioner of the President of Ukraine for the Rights of the Child Daria Herasymchuk said that this figure is purposefully overstated by Russia which describes the operation as “evacuation and rescue of children” behind which the reality is the illegal forceful displacement of hundreds of thousands of children from the occupied territories.
So far, Ukraine has collected personal data on only 19,546 deported children. These are only children whose data – names, circumstances of deportation – have been established, so this figure does not fully reflect the real scale of deportation. Their number continues to grow.
These children have become hostages of the war as they are under the rule of the enemy, who is constantly trying to Russify them.
On 1 September 2023, the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Dmytro Lubinets, said that there is currently confirmation of the adoption of 386 Ukrainian children who were deported by the Russian Federation to its territories.
On 17 March 2023, the Pre-Trial Chamber of the International Criminal Court in The Hague issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Commissioner for Children’s Rights Maria Lvova-Belova for the war crime of unlawful deportation of population and unlawful transfer of population from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation, in prejudice of Ukrainian children.
The last three children repatriated on 16 December 2023. (Source: Instagram).
Qatar was the first international partner to return Ukrainian children
At the beginning of autumn 2023, Ukraine launched the implementation of the Project «Bring Kids Back UA», which is a comprehensive action plan that unites the efforts of all Ukrainian authorities, other states, international and non-governmental organizations for the return to their homeland of all Ukrainian children who were illegally deported by Russia.
As noted by Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets, during the full-scale war, Ukraine received many proposals from our international partners regarding the repatriation of Ukrainian children but the first country to be successful was Qatar.
According to him, this issue was debated at the forum in Jeedah (Saudi Arabia) in early August 2023. The Qatari authorities managed to persuade the Kremlin to return Ukrainian children, without putting forward any conditions that would relate to the national interests of Ukraine.
Commenting on the cooperation with Ukraine about the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani said: “Qatar mediates in various conflicts that are taking place not only in this region, but even beyond that. This is the basis of our country’s foreign policy and that’s the main element we’re concentrating on. We see this as the contribution of a small country to international peace and security.”
On December 4th, the Ambassador of Panama to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, H.E. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, presided over the celebration of the National Day of Panama in The Hague. The event brought together members of the diplomatic corps, international organizations, academics, friends of Panama, and Panamanians, marking the 120th anniversary of the birth of the Republic with a reception characterized by solemnity, solidarity, and patriotism.
In her address, Ambassador Neiman commemorated the courage, determination, and indomitable spirit of the Panamanian people, recognizing the historic events that shaped the nation’s identity and paved the way for independence and sovereignty. She highlighted key moments in Panama’s history, such as its proclamation of independence from Spain on November 28th, 1821, and the significant chapter on November 3rd, 1903, when the country separated from Colombian rule to assert absolute independence.
National Day of Panama 2023
Reflecting on these historical milestones, the Ambassador emphasized the Panamanian people’s ability to unite for a better future grounded in hard work, cultural diversity, and a shared commitment to achieving great goals. “Today, Panama stands out as a friendly, safe, vibrant, and continuously growing country with a thriving economy based on innovation and openness to the world.”
The Ambassador acknowledged the importance of international collaboration, particularly with the host country, the Kingdom of The Netherlands. “Over the past three years, bilateral agreements between national agencies, universities, and medical research centers have strengthened ties. The import of Panamanian products and Dutch investments continues to grow, exemplified by the repatriation of 343 pieces of pre-Hispanic cultural heritage, a historic return for both the Netherlands and Central America.”
Milciades Castillo Gonzalez, Head of Commercial Section, Jorge Corrales Hidalgo, Attache, Ambassador Ward Neiman and Renato Famiglietti Moreno, Second Secretary.
The Ambassador expressed gratitude for the contributions of Panamanians residing abroad, emphasizing their power, commitment, and love for Panama as crucial elements in strengthening cultural ties and contributing to the country’s development.
“On this special day, Panama reaffirms its allegiance to the principles of freedom, democracy, peace, and justice that have guided its history. The Ambassador extended National Day greetings to all Panamanians and friends, celebrating the rich history, diversity, and greatness of the country.”
Before the short award ceremony, Ambassador Neiman thanked sponsors, including Air Europa, Leonardo Hotel, and Diplomat Magazine, for their support. She then proceeded to recognize two special individuals from Panama and the Netherlands who have made significant contributions to Panama’s development or left a positive imprint on the country in the past year.
“Chef Roberto Torres, who provided the evening’s food, received recognition for his culinary contributions, promoting Latin gastronomy creatively at the renowned restaurant SELVA in Amsterdam. Vincent Westmass, a dedicated promoter of Panama and a friend of the Embassy, was acknowledged for his efforts in collecting rare Panamanian literature and cultural artifacts, as well as organizing tours to remote areas, promoting tourism among the Dutch.”
Panama Embassy’s team, first row Jorge, Johanna, Milciades, Sheila, Renato. Second row, Roberto Torres, Vincent Westmass and Ambassador Ward.
The Ambassador concluded the ceremony with a heartfelt appreciation for her Embassy team, recognizing Milciades, Renato, Jorge, Sheyla, and Johanna as the committed backbone behind the Embassy’s achievements. The evening closed with a round of applause for all those involved.
North Rhine-Westphalia’s Minister of Federal, European and International and Media Affairs Nathanael Liminski laid the foundation for new collaborations during his four-day trip to the USA. He was accompanied by the US Consul General in Düsseldorf, Pauline Kao. In the place where 13 families from Krefeld once founded the first German settlement in the USA, Minister Liminski initiated a new partnership with the non-governmental organization “Launch of Philadelphia” and signed a corresponding declaration in the presence of the former Mayor of Philadelphia, Dr. Wilson Goode.
“On the occasion of our NRW-USA Year, we want to further intensify transatlantic school exchanges and focus on socially disadvantaged students. Currently, there are already nearly 100 school partnerships between North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and the USA. They contribute to expanding horizons and fostering friendships. We want to make this opportunity available to even more young people in the future,” explained Minister Liminski.
Minister Liminski also agreed with the Governor of New Jersey, Phil Murphy, to exchange administrative experiences. “Especially in the energy sector, there is a lot we can learn from each other. This applies to the topic of hydrogen as well as the speed of planning and approval procedures. That’s why we want to strengthen the collaboration between our administrations,” Minister Liminski stated. Furthermore, Governor Murphy and Minister Liminski reached an agreement to enhance cooperation in exchange programs during vocational training, especially for companies with locations in both New Jersey and North Rhine-Westphalia.
Minister Liminski and Consul General Kao also met with the Secretary of Economic Development of Pennsylvania, Rick Siger, North Rhine-Westphalia’s partner state. Within the framework of the renewed Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between North Rhine-Westphalia and Pennsylvania in 2022, Minister Liminski identified specific areas of collaboration with Secretary Siger. They agreed to collaborate in the fields of hydrogen and vocational training. “Pennsylvania and North Rhine-Westphalia are strong industrial regions facing similar challenges. We have found concrete formats to learn more from each other on the path of transformation,” Minister Liminski stated. In Pennsylvania’s capital, Harrisburg, the delegation visited the company Phoenix Contact, which has its roots in Blomberg, Lippe.
Minister Nathanael Liminski: “North Rhine-Westphalia and the USA share a close and longstanding friendship. To inject new momentum into this relationship, we have declared the NRW-USA Year 2023/2024 under the theme ‘A perfect match.’ Our trip to the United States of America also served this goal. I have personally experienced the richness of our special connection to the USA in many places, and together with our partners, we have developed ideas to deepen this close friendship.”
Consul General Pauline Kao: “This packed four-day trip has convinced me more than ever that the people of North Rhine-Westphalia and the United States are deeply and enduringly connected, and it is indeed a ‘perfect match.’ It was especially moving to stand in the place where one of the original 13 families from Krefeld settled in Germantown, Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy. The relations between NRW and the USA are rooted not only in shared history and values but also offer numerous opportunities for concrete cooperation in various areas. When we join hands, we will further strengthen the transatlantic community, which is needed more than ever today.”
UN institutions in Bonn
Minister Liminski: “The North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) state government is convinced of the need to strengthen the UN Bonn location with its 26 resident UN organizations and to further enhance the international visibility of the federal city. During my conversation with UN Deputy Secretary-General Melissa Fleming, Liminski emphasized that our state is ready to support the establishment of additional UN organizations along the Rhine.
Furthermore, Minister Liminski conveyed the desire for Bonn to be utilized even more extensively by the United Nations as a conference venue. Liminski stated, “In this regard, too, we are prepared to offer support, particularly in terms of security and logistics.”
Congratulations to German Winners at the International Emmys
As the Minister of Media Affairs, Liminski also attended the International Emmy Awards ceremony in New York. “With four German nominations and the victory of the Netflix series ‘Die Kaiserin’ in the Drama Series category, we can be very pleased from a German perspective. These productions showcase Germany’s significant role as a film and media location with their diversity,” said the Minister.
He used both the event and meetings before and after the International Emmys to engage in discussions with media professionals from both Germany and abroad. “We have explored forward-thinking opportunities for deeper collaboration with US film producers and platforms like Amazon and Netflix, and we are bringing back important insights to NRW,” Minister Liminski added.
Background on North Rhine-Westphalia and the USA
With more than 1,700 companies, the USA is one of the most important foreign trade partners for North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and ranks among the largest foreign investors in the state. The official launch of the current NRW-USA Year took place on June 22 with an opening event commemorating the 247th Independence Day of the United States of America.
To celebrate Romania’s National Day, Ambassador Lucian Fătu hosted an extraordinary concert at Theater Diligentia in The Hague. The event showcased the exceptional talents of Romanian musicians Liviu Prunaru, a violinist from the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra in Amsterdam playing a 1694 Stradivarius and the soloist with the Romanian Radio Orchestra, Gabriel Croitoru, performing on a Guarnieri violin that previously belonged to composer George Enescu engaging in a unique duel. Pianist Horia Mihail accompanied them, creating a memorable trio.
Romanian violinists Liviu Prunaru and Gabriel Croitoru.
The concert, organized by the Embassy of Romania and supported by the Romanian Cultural Institute, drew a diverse audience, including members of the diplomatic corps, international organizations, the diaspora, and Dutch friends of Romania. The duel between the Stradivarius and Guarnieri resulted in a masterful performance, with Prunaru, Croitoru, and Mihail presenting a magnificent program featuring works by Bach, Enescu, Rahmaninov, Kreisler, Poldini, Halvorsen, Vieuxtemps and Bazzini. The audience, captivated by the magical sounds of these unique instruments, applauded enthusiastically, prompting multiple encores.
Following the concert, an animated reception provided an opportunity for guests to discuss and compare their appreciation for the two exceptional violins. The musicians engaged with the audience, fostering a friendly and warm atmosphere.
H.E. Philippe Couvreur ICJ, Mr. Alexandru Ion Steriu, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Romania, H.E. Mr. Jožef Drofenik, Ambassador of Slovenia, H.E. Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, Ambassador of Rwanda, H.E. Mr Greg French, Ambassador of Australia, H.E. Ms. Marisol Agüero, Ambassador of the Republic of Peru, H.E. Lucian Fatou, Ambassador of Romania, H.E. Mr. Viktor Biyagov,
Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia, the Ambassador of Ukraine, H.E. Mr. Oleksandr Karasevych, H.E. Mr Askar Zhumagaliyev, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ambassador of Costa Rica, H.E. Arnoldo Brenes Castro.
Ambassador Fătu, in his address, reflected on Romania’s National Day and highlighted the country’s historical journey since the World Wars. He also addressed the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, emphasizing Romania’s solidarity and active support for its neighbor. “Regrettably, this year my remarks must once again address the security and humanitarian crisis created in our immediate neighborhood by the illegal, unprovoked, and unjustified war of aggression waged by the Russian Federation against Ukraine. Today, we stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes to defend the principles embodying the values shared by European and NATO members.”
The ambassador underscored the robust relationship between Romania and the Netherlands, emphasizing the multifaceted role of Romania in addressing the crisis in the region. He acknowledged the support of the Netherlands and other partners in establishing Romania as a pillar of stability on NATO’s eastern flank. “However, that’s not the full dimension of Romania’s multi-faceted role in addressing the crisis. Since the war began, under the framework of the refugee response plan, more than 4.9 million border crossings to Romania have been recorded. Currently, 150,000 Ukrainian refugees enjoy temporary protection in my country.”
H.E. Mr. Askar Zhumagaliyev, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan
and the Ambassador of Ukraine, H.E. Mr. Oleksandr Karasevych.
Ambassador Fătu expressed Romania’s solidarity with the Republic of Moldova and other aspiring EU members, advocating for their accession negotiations. “We stand in solidarity and active support with the Republic of Moldova, one of the worst-hit regional collateral victims of this conflict by proportional size.”
He also condemned terrorist attacks and supported diplomatic efforts for peace in conflict regions. “We support and welcome the recommendation for EU accession negotiations for Moldova, Ukraine, Bosnia, and Herzegovina.”
H.E. Mr. Vusi Madonsela, Ambassador of South Africa and H.E. Mr. Diarrassouba Mifougo Youssouf, Ambassador of Cote d’Ivoire.
The ambassador concluded his remarks by recognizing the human dimension of Romanian-Netherlands relations and expressing gratitude to honorary consulates for bridging the gap between the two societies.”
To conclude my remarks, let me recognize tonight the human dimension of the Romanian-Netherlands relations, inspired by common values and aspirations, forming the bedrock of our multifaceted, sectoral cooperation. Every Romanian professional, student, and academic living here for longer or shorter periods, and every Romanian tourist visiting this country, feels connected to Dutch society and proud to be recognized as an EU citizen with equal rights and obligations.”
Madame Andrea Teunissen, Honorary Consul of Romania in Rotterdam and Liviu Prunaru, first concertmaster of the Concertgebouw orchestra in Amsterdam.
The concert, sponsored by Damen Holding BV, Ventune BV, Van de Waart Solicitors, was a fitting way to celebrate Romania’s National Day in the city of peace and justice.
The Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court held its twenty-second session from 4 to 14 December 2023 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
The Assembly was attended by States Parties, Observer States, the Court, international and regional organizations as well as non-governmental organizations. The Assembly held its General debate, enriched by the participation of ministers, international organizations and representatives of non-governmental organizations.
The Assembly held two thematic plenary sessions: one on cooperation and one on the Review of the International Criminal Court and the Rome Statute system. Numerous side events were held during the session. The Assembly adopted eight resolutions by consensus on the following topics: cooperation; the Review of the International Criminal Court and the Rome Statute system; the 2024 budget of the Court; amendments to the Rules of Procedure and Evidence; an amendment to article 39 of the Rome Statute; the implementation of a tenure policy; the election of members of the Committee on Budget and Finance; and the “omnibus” resolution which, inter alia, included the adoption of a due diligence procedure for candidates for elected officials of the International Criminal Court.
The Assembly elected six new judges for a term of nine years. – Ben-Mahfoudh, Haykel, Group of African States (Tunisia), list B, male; – Damdin, Erdenebalsuren, Group of Asia-Pacific States (Mongolia), list A, male; – Guillou, Nicolas, Group of Western European and Other States (France), list A, male; Twitter: @PASPKaukoranta For further information on the Assembly of States Parties, please e-mail to asp@icc-cpi.int – Hohler, Beti, Group of Eastern European States (Slovenia), list A, female; – Motoc, Iulia Antoanella, Group of Eastern European States (Romania), list B, female; – Paek, Keebong, Group of Asia-Pacific States (Republic of Korea), list A, male. List A judges have established competence in criminal law, while List B judges have competence in relevant areas of international law, such as international humanitarian law as well as human rights law.
The Assembly also elected six members of the Committee on Budget and Finance for a three-year mandate starting on 1 January 2024: Ms. Sanyu Awori (Kenya), Mr. Werner Druml (Austria), Mr. Fawzi Gharaibeh (Jordan), Ms. Mónica Sánchez Izquierdo (Ecuador), Ms. Elena Sopková (Slovakia), and Mr. Jun Yamada (Japan). In addition, the Assembly adopted a resolution to increase the number of seats on the Committee on Budget and Finance from twelve to seventeen, as of 1 January 2025, distributing the seats among the five regional groups in the following manner: African States, four seats (two additional seats); Asia-Pacific States, three seats (one additional seat); Eastern European States, three seats (one additional seat); Group of Latin American and Caribbean States, three seats (one additional seat); and Western European and Other States, four seats (same number of seats).
The Assembly adopted the 2024 programme budget of the Court with appropriations totalling € 187,084,300 and a staffing level of 972. The Assembly decided that its twenty-third session will be held from 2 to 7 December 2024 in The Hague. Further information about the session can be found at the website of the Assembly.
