The Ambassador of Burundi, H.E. Ms. Isabelle Ndahayo

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The Ambassador of Burundi, H.E. Ms. Isabelle Ndahayo

On March 6, 2024, Her Excellency Ms. Isabelle Ndahayo, the Ambassador of the Republic of Burundi to the Kingdom of the Netherlands presented her letters of credence to His Majesty Willem Alexander, King of the Netherlands, marking the beginning of her tenure as Ambassador.

Ms. Ndahayo’s professional journey is an example of dedication to public service. Her career spans various roles, each contributing to her profound understanding of political, diplomatic, and community affairs. Prior to her appointment as Ambassador, she served as the Head of the Office in charge of Political and Diplomatic Affairs in the Office of the Prime Minister in Burundi.

Her tenure as the Minister of East African Community Affairs from October 2017 to June 2020 further solidified her expertise in regional cooperation and integration efforts. As an Honorable Member of The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), where she chaired the Standing Committee on Agriculture, Tourism, and Natural Resources from 2012 to 2017, Ms. Ndahayo played an important role in shaping policies aimed at fostering sustainable development and enhancing regional cooperation within the East African Community.

Before her diplomatic and political roles, Ms. Ndahayo held key positions in capacity building and community development initiatives. As the Director of the Department of Training and Capacity Building of local actors in the Ministry of Local Development, she spearheaded efforts to empower grassroots communities and enhance their participation in local governance structures. Additionally, her volunteer work in various NGOs during her time as a refugee reflects her deep-rooted commitment to community service and social justice.

Burundian Ambassador, H.E. Ms. Isabelle Ndahayo, on her way to Noordeinde Palace.

Ms. Ndahayo’s academic background complements her extensive professional experience. A University Degree holder in Management from Cooperative College Moshi, United Republic of Tanzania, she has continuously sought to expand her knowledge and skills through research and academic pursuits.

Her research on “Donor agencies in poverty reduction” and “Management and Marketing” underscores her dedication to addressing socio-economic challenges and promoting sustainable development strategies. Furthermore, her participation in seminars and training programs on environmental assessment, project management, and security issues highlights her proactive approach to staying abreast of contemporary issues and emerging trends in global affairs.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Ms. Ndahayo is fluent in multiple languages, a skill that undoubtedly facilitates her diplomatic engagements and fosters effective communication with diverse stakeholders.

As she assumes her role as Ambassador of Burundi to the Netherlands, Ms. Isabelle Ndahayo brings with her a wealth of experience, a steadfast commitment to service, and a vision for advancing bilateral relations and promoting Burundi’s interests on the global stage.

The Ambassador of the Royal Kingdom of Thailand, H.E. Mr. Asi Mamanee

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The Ambassador of the Royal Kingdom of Thailand, H.E. Mr. Asi Mamanee

Ambassador H.E. Mr. Asi Mamanee, the Ambassador of the Royal Kingdom of Thailand, presented his letter of credence to HM King Willem Alexander of the Kingdom of the Netherlands on March 6, 2024. Ambassador Mamanee a diplomat with a wealth of experience, has traversed the globe representing the Kingdom of Thailand with honor and distinction. His journey is one of dedication, perseverance, and excellence.

Born with a keen interest in international affairs, Ambassador Mamanee embarked on his academic journey by earning a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs with Second Class Honors from Thammasat University. Building upon this foundation, he pursued further studies, obtaining a Master of Public Administration from the prestigious University of Southern California in the United States.

In 1992, Ambassador Mamanee commenced his career in diplomacy by joining the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand as a Third Secretary in the Latin America Division, Department of American and South Pacific Affairs. From serving as a Consul at the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Vancouver to assuming roles as a Minister-Counsellor in Kathmandu and The Hague, Ambassador Mamanee has left an indelible mark in various capacities.

Notable milestones during his tenure include his service as a Director in both the South Asia Division, the Africa Division, as well as Consul-General in Hong Kong where he played an important role in enhancing Thailand’s diplomatic engagements in these regions.

Ambassador Mamanee ‘s dedication to fostering international relations and advancing Thailand’s interests has been recognized through numerous decorations and honors. In 2003 and 2008, he was conferred the Knight Commander (Second Class) titles of the Most Noble Order of the Crown of Thailand and the Most Exalted Order of the White Elephant, respectively, acknowledging his outstanding service to the nation. Furthermore, his contributions have been lauded with prestigious awards such as the Chakrabarti Mala Medal in 2017.

In February 2024, Ambassador Asi Mamanee assumed the role of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ambassador Mamanee  is married to Mrs. Ittha Mamanee.

ICC judges issue arrest warrants against Sergei Ivanovich Kobylash and Viktor Nikolayevich Sokolov

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ICC judges issue arrest warrants against Sergei Ivanovich Kobylash and Viktor Nikolayevich Sokolov

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.

Farewell Celebration for Judge Piotr Hofmański, President of the International Criminal Court

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Farewell Celebration for Judge Piotr Hofmański, President of the International Criminal Court

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.

Celebration of the International Mother Language Day in the Netherlands 2024

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Celebration of the International Mother Language Day in the Netherlands 2024

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.

Wonderful Things -Tutankhamun : The Boy King, his Tomb and Treasures by Lucia Gahlin

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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:

https://theartssociety.org/the-hague

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.

Situation in Ukraine: ICC judges issue arrest warrants against Sergei Ivanovich Kobylash and Viktor Nikolayevich Sokolov

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Situation in Ukraine: ICC judges issue arrest warrants against Sergei Ivanovich Kobylash and Viktor Nikolayevich Sokolov

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.

Decade of Cinematic Excellence: The Amsterdam Spanish Film Festival 2024

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Decade of Cinematic Excellence: The Amsterdam Spanish Film Festival 2024

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.

French ambassador on his inaugural visit to the State Chancellery

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French ambassador on his inaugural visit to the State Chancellery

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.

For further information 

Government of The Saarland: https://www.saarland.de/stk/DE/aktuelles/medieninfos/medieninfo/2024/pm_2024-02-23-franzoesischer-botschafter-zum-antrittsbesuch-stk.html

India-Netherlands Entrepreneurs Forum 2024: Fostering Collaboration and Innovation

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India-Netherlands Entrepreneurs Forum 2024: Fostering Collaboration and Innovation

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.

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