Thursday, 18 January 2024, Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt: Premier Dr. Reiner Haseloff received a delegation from the Lithuanian Parliament at the State Chancellery.
The conversation discussed, among other things, possibilities for deepening economic cooperation. Premier Haseloff praised the trusting exchange and welcomed the expansion of bilateral relations.
The parliamentarians, led by the deputy chairman of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania, Vytautas Mitalas, visited Saxony-Anhalt from 16-18 January 2024. They met, among others, members of the State Assembly and representatives from science and the media. The focus was on topics such as economic and energy policy, cultural exchange, promoting democracy and opportunities for cooperation. The delegation was accompanied by the Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to Germany, Ramūnas Misiulis.
Tuesday, 30 January 2024, Munich, Free State of Bavaria, Germany: Premier Dr. Markus Söder spoke with the Ambassador of the State of Israel, Prof. Ron Prosor, and subsequently with the Ambassador of the United States of America, Dr. Amy Gutmann, about ongoing topics of foreign and security policy. The bilateral meetings were held ahead of the 60th Munich Security Conference (MSC) to be held between 16-18 February 2024.
Premier Dr. Markus Söder said as per statement provided by the Bavarian State Chancellery: “We keep in touch with the world and are closely networked. Bavaria is closely connected to the USA and Israel. We are friends and partners and stand firmly together. We work together for security in a world that is becoming increasingly uncertain.”
Dr. Markus Soder and Dr. Amy Gutmann.
Bavaria as a strong partner and decades-long host of U.S. Armed Forces. Germany, Bavaria and the USA stand shoulder to shoulder on common goals such as shared security, combating antisemitism & intolerance and their continued efforts to foster free and democratic societies.
Images by Bavarian State Chancellery/Bayerische Staatskanzlei
Thursday, 8 February 2024, Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany: Pemier Dr. Reiner Haseloff received the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, HE Ronald van Roeden, for his inaugural visit to Magdeburg.
The 66-year-old ambassador joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands in 1985 after studying geography at the University of Utrecht. After various positions in the ministry itself and in his country’s missions abroad, he was most recently ambassador and deputy permanent representative to the EU in Brussels from 2017 to 2021. Previously, he was Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 2013 to 2017. He has been accredited as an ambassador in Germany since 1 September 2021. Van Roeden is married and has three children.
The Netherlands is one of Saxony-Anhalt’s most important trading partners. The close economic cooperation also includes, among other things, investments by Dutch companies in Saxony-Anhalt. For example, in July 2023, the Dutch high-tech company Sioux Technologies, which develops strategic solutions for international high-tech companies, announced its 20 million euro investment project in a research and development center in Barleben. The project is expected to create over 300 jobs.
There is also a close cultural connection between the Netherlands and Saxony-Anhalt. The Dutch ambassador had already visited Oranienbaum Palace last summer on the occasion of its 350th anniversary.
Amidst the geopolitical repercussions of ongoing war in Ukraine, the Eurasian connectivity is again in focus. It does not only fall on the consideration of Arctic pathways (as a cheaper and increasingly reliable way to connect norther/Atlantic flank of Europe with the Far East and other premium production spots of Asia). Recent considerations, though less present in contemporary western literature, are thoroughly examining different land corridor on the largest landmass of our planet.
This is how the so-called Middle Corridor has witnessed reinvigorated interest of both scholars and industry. This corridor, encompassing Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Türkiye, has gained prominence as an alternative land route between Europe and the People’s Republic of China. The disruption caused by the war to the Northern Corridor which passes through sanctioned Russian and Belarusian territories, has highlighted the Middle Corridor’s significance which has the potential to diminish Russia’s influence in the region.
The following analysis will briefly elaborate on the Eurasian connectivity and the background to different approaches and interests behind them.
In our globally interconnected world, roads are the arteries of economic progress. Thus, recent incidents, such as attacks by the Yemeni Houthis on cargo ships in the Suez Canal, emphasize the critical importance of secure transportation routes. As global attention pivots, the spotlight now converges on the Central Asian region—an important nexus able to interlink diverse corners of the world. In a period characterized by ever-increasing geopolitical tensions, the emergence of the Middle Corridor, as an alternative to established trade norms, isn’t merely an economic prospect – it is a transformative force that can switch powers and roles.
Throughout history, bridging the gap between Asia and Europe has been a persistent global interest – to enable or to prevent in its few possible modes (land or sea, warm sea – cold sea). The Northern Corridor, once a main land trade route, is experiencing a decline due to geopolitical tensions and Russia’s actions in Ukraine polarizing the world. The road under Russian control is losing its appeal for the west (at least for the time being), exacerbating the need for alternative and more stable pathways. North-South Corridor which was largely analyzed by the IFIMES researcher Lorenzo Somigli is another important road connecting Europe and East Asia.
Yet the Middle Corridor weaves a transformative thread that passes through strategic countries like Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, offering numerous economic opportunities. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in their last year publication concluded that the Central Trans-Caspian Network (CTCN) that goes through Southern Kazakhstan is the most sustainable alternative for establishing a connection between Asia and Europe (2023).
The interest in this transport route lies, first of all, in the potential opportunity to reduce the time in which goods can be delivered from East Asia to Europe, which will be only twelve days. In comparison, the Northern Corridor takes nineteen days to complete, while the traditional sea pathway through the Indian Ocean takes up to thirty-seven days (Jafarova, 2023).
Within this changing geopolitical terrain, the transformation in how Central Asia interacts with the global community has become a topic of considerable change and fascination. The Middle Corridor is not a mere choice, it is rather a necessity for countries that seek to broaden trade associations while mitigating geopolitical risks while benefiting all actors. The Middle Corridor is an opportunity to change the trade patterns in the whole of Eurasia while redefining established spheres of influence.
Source: Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik, 2022
EU: Elevating Diplomacy
In the past year, there has been a significant upraise in diplomatic meetings that underscore the heightened interest of the European Union in boosting ties with Central Asian countries. Examples include Emmanuel Macron from France visiting Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan (Vock, 2023), along with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier hosting Central Asian leaders to bolster diplomatic relations (Euractiv, 2023), as well as introducing such policies as Hungarian “Open to the East” (Toth, 2023). Dependent on Chinese supplies, the EU sees the Middle Corridor as an alternative that will substitute the Northern Corridor. Furthermore, besides counteracting Russian dominance in the region, the corridor aligns with the EU’s broader strategy of engagement with resource-rich Central Asia, offering energy security and diversified supply chains. The region is rich in natural resources that include fossil fuels and minerals. The concern is of the highest importance to the European countries, especially in light of the ongoing energy crisis stemming from reliance on Russian energy supplies (Cam, 2023), further emphasized by the European REPowerEU Plan, which aims to shift away from dependence on Russian sources and transition towards green energy alternatives (so far more a political vision than an attainable goal). On top of that, energy and minerals are playing an important role in the development of the EU and Central Asian relations. During the first official visit of French President Emmanuel Macron, alongside President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, they made a shared declaration to enhance trade and collaboration in nuclear energy and minerals (Teslova, 2023).
Following the groundwork on Polar security, demography, economy and transport of prof. Anis H. Bajrektarevic as well as the fundamental analysis of the railroad infrastructure in Eurasia’s east and southeast by the WIIW Director Dr. Mario Holzner, numerous European investors have already displayed their considerable interest in the project. For example, Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) together with Pasifik Eurasia presented one more solution for the Middle Corridor that will be a connecting point for Asia and Europe, which is Köseköy Terminal (Zhang, 2023). Meanwhile, the EBRD is planning to invest over US$100 million into Kazakh railways (Usov, 2022).
China: Strategic Investments and Commitments
Central Asia finds itself situated between two major powers, Russia and China, both of which significantly influence the region’s policies. From Beijing’s strategic standpoint, the Middle Corridor offers to China a trade route which does not crosses Russian proper. China’s attraction to the Middle Corridor stems from the prospect of accessing global markets and expanding influence in Central Asia, a region historically marked by competition between Moscow and Beijing.
According to the analysis of a Senior IFIMES/DeSSA researcher, Dr. Maria Smotrytska, it can be claimed to be a part of the Chinese “Belt and Road” initiative, which is why the strategic value of the Middle Corridor prompts significant Chinese investment in the logistics infrastructure. The recent China-Central Asia summit in Xi’an at the heads of states/governments level underscores China’s commitment to maintaining and strengthening its dominant economic role in the Central Asian region (Devonshire, 2023). Moreover, Chairman Xi, in his speech said that China will support the construction of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, as well as increase the capacity of railway container terminals along the China-Europe route. The discussions during the summit also included regional matters such as visa exemption between Kazakhstan and China, the construction of a fourth branch of the gas pipeline in Turkmenistan, and the construction of a new railway in Uzbekistan. The outcomes of these discussions contribute directly to the development and viability of the Middle Corridor by addressing key aspects of connectivity, trade facilitation, and regional cooperation. Throughout history, China predominantly utilized Kazakhstan and Russia for its shipments. However, in the aftermath of the war outbreak and the enforcement of sanctions, rail transit between China and the EU via the northern corridor in Russia experienced a 34% decline in 2022 (Zhang, 2023).
Türkiye: A Strategic Hub and Cultural Ties
Türkiye is the European end of the Middle Corridor and at the same time, it is a country whose interest in it surpasses any other actor. It has strategically prioritized the Middle Corridor in its foreign policy for Central Asia as it is perceived as an avenue to strengthen economic bonds and enhance its strategic standing in the region. Türkiye shares a common heritage with the Central Asian region and therefore is inclined to play a more active and influential role in the region, seeking to strengthen cultural, economic, and political ties with its Turkic-speaking counterparts. The combination of Pan-Turkic sentiments and pragmatic foreign policy objectives contributes to Türkiye’s active participation in the Middle Corridor. It started in 2013 with the agreement on the Trans-Caspian International Transportation Route Development. Acknowledging its importance, such projects as the Marmaray undersea railway, the Eurasia Tunnel, and the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge are already completed.
In the meantime, Ankara is building strategic alliances with Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan in their connectivity initiatives. The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) includes the Central Asian region and Türkiye plays an important role in the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route. The Turkic World Vision-2040 recently adopted by the OTS aims to integrate member states into regional and global supply chains through the Middle Corridor.
Current Dynamics: Toward Enhanced Competitiveness
The Middle Corridor is represented by states between which the Caspian Sea is located, and here cargo is transshipped through tankers. That is, cargo is unloaded at the ports of Aktau or Kuryk, then reloaded onto ferries, delivered to Baku, and from Baku by rail sent towards Georgian ports or Türkiye. In Georgian ports, they are again loaded onto ferries and delivered by sea to the countries of the Balkan Peninsula. The current situation forces the participating countries of the Middle Corridor to take several measures to increase the competitiveness of this route. In response to that, nations took a course of action engaging in active negotiations to harmonize tariffs and streamline bureaucratic procedures.
In early March of 2022, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia agreed to enhance soft infrastructure by aligning regulations and lowering tariffs for transit cargo (Azertag, 2022). The Organization of Turkic States has played a crucial role in boosting the efficiency and competitiveness of the Middle Corridor through its initiatives as well. Türkiye itself has taken steps to streamline cargo shipments to southern Europe, introducing new high-speed trains and establishing a quadrilateral coordination council and rail transportation working group with Bulgaria, Serbia, and Hungary (Bovenizer, 2023). This initiative represents a crucial component in establishing the European segment of the Middle Corridor.
During the 20th Transport Sector Coordinating Committee (TSCC) meeting with delegations of all countries in the Middle Corridor and their strategic partners in the face of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), EBRD, Eurasian Fund for Stabilization and Development (EFSD), International Road Transport Union (IRU), and World Bank objectives for the 2024 work program were set under the CAREC Transport Strategy 2030. The main topics of discussion centered around the expansion of the physical capacity of the transport routes, the inclusion of new ports, ferries, and trains, as well as the enhancement of soft infrastructure to decrease the time of shipment. The need for developed infrastructure is rising as in 3 months, from January to March of 2022, only through the Middle Corridor, 266.300 tons of cargo was transited, which is 123 percent higher than in 2021 (Sharifli, 2022).
Conclusion:
Ideologists and advocates of the Middle Corridor push the idea that it is relevant due to the actions of Moscow in Ukraine, which allegedly interrupted the supply chains through the territory of Russia and Belarus from China to Europe. It would be wrong to associate the investments in the alternative route only with war and sanctions. Every local or external actor has its own interest – political, strategic, security and economic, short-mid and long term.
The EU and the United States have long been interested in alternative transport routes bypassing Russian and Belarusian territories to push Moscow and Minsk out of global trade flows. Taking into account the ongoing war in Ukraine, the US and the EU have even more incentives to do so. China made a major contribution to the creation and development of railway communication with Europe as it wanted to reduce its dependency on the narrow Strait of Malacca which can be closed by the US.
Implementing all the required enhancements will make the Corridor a faster and cheaper alternative. The Middle Corridor requires an increase in capacity, more advanced technologies, enhanced soft infrastructure, and optimization to ensure meeting its competitive lead times, transit costs, and efficiency. After all, in the world of increased ‘binary categorizations’ (Bajrektarevic, 2022), de-escalation would mean more middle ground, more listening, finally more inclusion. If so, the Middle Corridor should not be necessarily seen as an alternative to the Northern one. If we are serious on ‘de-binarisation’ and on greening of this planet, we have to accept obvious: the world’s largest landmass is huge enough for more than one, even two corridors. And, they should complement, not exclude or compete one another.
About the author: Zhuldyz Ramazanova, is an information Officer at the International Institute IFIMES.
References:
Azertag. (2022). The First Trilateral Meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Transport of Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Kazakhstan Took Place, URL. Accessed 04/01/2024.
Bajrektarevic, A. (2010). The Melting Poles: Between Challenges And Opportunities, Addleton Academic Publishers, New York
Bovenizer, N. (2023). Final Phase Begins on Turkey-Bulgaria High-Speed Railway, URL. Accessed 07/01/2024.
Cam, E. (2023). Europe’s Energy Crisis: Understanding the Drivers of the Fall in Electricity Demand, URL. Accessed 06/01/2024.
Devonshire, C. (2023). The China-Central Asian Summit Begins In Xi’an, URL. Accessed 09/01/2024.
EBRD. (2023). Sustainable transport connections between Europe and Central Asia, URL. Accessed 14/01/2024.
Euractiv. (2023). Scholz to Host Central Asian Leaders to Boost Ties, URL. Accessed 03/01/2024.
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Teslova, E. (2023). French President in Kazakhstan on 1st Official Visit, URL. Accessed 07/01/2024.
Toth, G. (2023). Hungary’s “Opening to the East” Policy, URL. Accessed 06/01/2024. Usov, A. (2022). EBRD Invests KZT 50 Billion in Kazakhstan Railways Bond, URL. Accessed 14/01/2024.
Vock, I. (2023). Why France’s Emmanuel Macron is Courting Central Asia, URL. Accessed 07/01/2024.
Zhang, G. (2023). China-EU Rail Freight: A Highly Sensitive Market, URL. Accessed 10/01/2024.
The Embassy of Pakistan, The Hague organized a seminar to mark ‘Kashmir Solidarity Day’ on 05 February 2024.
The speakers included Mr. Ali Raza Syed, Chairman Kashmir Council European Union, Mr. Johannes Karel Gaasbeek, a prominent Dutch Lawyer, Prof. Dr. Tahir Abbas, Chair of Radicalization Studies at the Institute of Security and Global Affairs, Leiden University, The Hague, and Ambassador of Pakistan to the Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Suljuk Mustansar Tarar.
Prof. Dr. Tahir Abbas, Chair of Radicalization Studies at the Institute of Security and Global Affairs, Leiden University.
The seminar was attended by a large number of participants including representatives of NGOs, academia, university students and community members.
The speakers highlighted the historical, political, legal, human, peace and security dimension of Jammu and Kashmir dispute. They also emphasized the negative implications of India’s unabated unilateral actions in IIOJK.
Mr. Ali Raza Syed
Mr. Ali Raza Syed highlighted key junctures of UN’s involvement in Jammu & Kashmir dispute and efforts by the UN to resolve the dispute, which were thwarted by India. Syed spoke at length about the current situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK). He highlighted the atrocities by Indian authorities and violation of human rights in IIOJK.
He urged the international community to play its role in peaceful and just settlement of Kashmir dispute in the light of UN resolutions.
Mr. Johannes Karel Gaasbeek.
Mr. Johannes Karel Gaasbeek condemned Indian occupation forces for illegal detention of Kashmiri lawyers, journalists and activists, and for suppressing the voice of journalists and human rights activist. He asked the international community to play its role in peaceful and just settlement of Kashmir dispute in the light of UN resolutions.
Professor Dr. Tahir Abbas highlighted sufferings of Kashmiri people. He declared human rights violations in IIOJK, a big challenge to the conscience of the international community. He elaborated the consequences of India’s unilateral actions on the peace and security in the region. He said that over the years, numerous reports have emerged from Kashmir alleging widespread arbitrary detentions, severe restrictions on basic civil liberties and freedoms, and the frequent use of excessive military force against civilians. Ignoring, dismissing, or accepting the immense civilian suffering in Kashmir over decades would be the most profound betrayal of our shared ethical values and humanity.
Kashmir Solidarity Day 2024, Embassy of Pakistan The Hague.
Speaking at the occasion, Ambassador Suljuk Mustansar Tarar reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support to the just struggle of Kashmiri people for realization of their inalienable right of self-determination. He highlighted security and human rights situation in IIOJK since India’s illegal actions of 05 August 2019. He said that Indian Supreme Court’s decision of 11 December 2023 could not absolve India of its international obligations under the UN Security Council resolutions. He condemned Indian government’s use of Hindutva ideology to subjugate Kashmiris. He reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions and wishes of the Kashmiri people.
The special messages by the President, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister on ‘Kashmir Solidarity Day’ were also read out to the participants. The participants were also shown a short documentary on the current plight of the Kashmiris in IIOJK.
El pasado 14 de diciembre, el Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores de Chile, Alberto van Klaveren, realizó una visita oficial a Países Bajos, ocasión en la que sostuvo una intensa agenda de actividades.
En el marco de su viaje a Europa para participar en la firma del Acuerdo Marco Avanzado (AMA) entre Chile y la Unión Europea, así como en la conmemoración de los 75 años de la Declaración Universal de Derechos Humanos, el secretario de Estado estuvo en La Haya donde se reunió con su par Hanke Bruins-Slot, así como con distintas autoridades de los organismos judiciales internacionales y otros, con sede en esta ciudad.
El encuentro con la ministra Bruins-Slot permitió relevar la fortaleza de la relación bilateral, así como los principios y valores compartidos por ambos países, como el fortalecimiento de la democracia, la promoción y protección de los derechos humanos, la libertad de expresión, y el libre comercio. Asimismo, permitió resaltar la coincidencia de intereses en temas tanto bilaterales, regionales como multilaterales.
Dentro de los temas tratados durante la conversación, las autoridades destacaron la firma del AMA, que modernizó el Acuerdo de Asociación vigente desde 2003 con la Unión Europea y que permitirá profundizar el diálogo conjunto y establecer una actualización de los temas políticos y de cooperación, junto con hacer frente a los nuevos desafíos del comercio internacional.
La ministra además agradeció el gesto de Chile de entregar la medalla de reconocimiento a la solidaridad internacional, a 11 neerlandeses que se destacaron por su apoyo a refugiados chilenos tras el Golpe Militar y por su apoyo a la causa de los derechos humanos y de la recuperación de la democracia.
Otro de los temas destacados durante el encuentro fue la transición energética y energías limpias. En ese contexto, ambas autoridades coincidieron en lo prioritario de desarrollar esta área, así como la oportunidad de cooperar, destacando el memorándum de entendimiento con el Puerto de Rotterdam para establecer un mecanismo de colaboración por el hidrógeno verde.
Respecto de la situación en Medio Oriente concordaron, tal como ha sido la postura histórica de Chile, en la solución de dos Estados, Palestina e Israel, viviendo en paz, con fronteras seguras y reconocidas internacionalmente, de conformidad con las resoluciones de Naciones Unidas. Cabe destacar que Chile presentó, junto a México, un escrito de remisión ante la Corte Penal Internacional (CPI) respecto de la situación en Palestina, con el objetivo de reforzar la investigación de los presuntos crímenes de guerra y crímenes de lesa humanidad ocurridos en Gaza, Cisjordania, Jerusalén Este e Israel, ilícitos contemplados en el Estatuto de Roma. Igualmente, conversaron sobre la guerra en Ucrania, en ese sentido, el canciller reiteró el apoyo de Chile a ese país frente a la guerra de agresión de Rusia, tal como lo ha manifestado el Presidente Gabriel Boric.
El Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores de Chile, Alberto van Klaveren en su encuentro con la vicepresidenta de la Corte Penal Internacional (CPI), Luz del Carmen Ibáñez.
Agenda en La Haya
Durante su paso por la ciudad sede del gobierno de Países Bajos, el ministro Alberto van Klaveren pudo reunirse con las autoridades de los principales organismos de carácter judicial con sede en La Haya para conocer los principales desafíos a los que se enfrentan estas instituciones y renovar el apoyo de Chile a la labor que realizan.
En su encuentro con la vicepresidenta de la Corte Penal Internacional (CPI), Luz del Carmen Ibáñez el canciller hizo hincapié en el compromiso de Chile con el rol de la CPI, el cumplimiento del derecho internacional de los derechos humanos y del derecho internacional humanitario. Chile ha participado en tres remisiones a esta corte: la Situación en Venezuela 1, Ucrania y de la situación en Palestina.
También sostuvo encuentros con el secretario general de la Corte Permanente de Arbitraje, Marcin Czepelak y con la presidenta de la Corte Internacional de Justicia, Joan Donoghue.
Además, visitó la Comisión Internacional sobre Personas Desaparecidas ocasión en la que se interiorizó del trabajo que esta institución realiza desde 1996 para colaborar con gobiernos y entidades de todo el mundo, para abordar la cuestión de las personas desaparecidas como consecuencia de conflictos armados, violaciones de los derechos humanos, catástrofes, delincuencia organizada y migración irregular.
En junio de 2008, la ICMP y el Ministerio de Justicia de Chile firmaron un acuerdo para prestar asistencia técnica en la identificación de víctimas de desaparición forzada desde la década de 1970. Desde entonces, la ICMP ha colaborado en las pruebas de ADN de más de 2.400 muestras de referencia y cerca de 200 muestras post mortem de personas desaparecidas, y ha prestado asistencia en el cotejo y la consulta de ADN.
The Hague, 26 January 2024, the Ambassador of the Plurinational State of Bolivia, H.E. Mr Roberto Calzadilla Sarmiento, celebrated the National Day of Bolivia with a modern performance “Memory & Belonging” by the artist Pablo Alanes, who put on a dazzling performance in a live video projection with sound ambience, a resemblance of the powerful inner energy that pups up during the Bolivian Carnaval. The following dances were performed: Diablada, Morenada, Caporal, and Llamerada, to name a few.
The Plurinational State of Bolivia Ambassador, Roberto Calzadilla Sarmiento gave an elaborate explanation of what the name Plurinational State of Bolivia signifies. An extract of his welcome remarks and explanation follows.
Celebration 15th Anniversary of the Plurinational State of Bolivia.
Bolivia became independent in 1825 and is only 2 years away from its Bicentenary in 2025.
The new Political Constitution of the Plurinational State of Bolivia was approved 15 years ago with more than 61% support from the Bolivian people, in a historic referendum held on January 25, 2009, which marks the beginning of a new path based on plurality, inclusion and respect for our diversity. We cannot take back even one step all that we have advanced thanks to the struggle of our peoples and our social organizations.
Every 22nd January we celebrate this new phase that constitutes the date of re-foundation of our State; a Plurinational State; that seeks deepening democracy, capable of solving the problems of the and that takes into account the new rights and values our nations and the expansion of political rights.
The new constitution recognizes all 36 indigenous nations with theirs cultures, languages and rights, bringing us all together with our similarities and differences. Diversity and Plurinationality is our identity today and our sense of belonging within a great and diverse society, organized around our nation and our ancestral communities.
During this last 15 years a Democratic and Cultural Revolution process of change of the old colonial and signorial State, is developing. The economic and social asymmetries produced by the neoliberal model, led to popular and social struggle for a more inclusive State and society without hierarchies and real democracy.
The bases for a new horizon and a new organization of the State have been laid; one of Social Unity and plurality of Law; a free, independent, sovereign, democratic, intercultural, and decentralized State with autonomies, founded on political, economic, legal, cultural and linguistic pluralism.
With a model aimed at improving the quality of life and Living Well for all Bolivians, articulating state, private, social, cooperative, and community economic organizations to ensure comprehensive development through the equitable redistribution of economic surpluses in social, health and education policies, and in reinvestments in productive economic development.
The State took over the leading role in our economy, controlling and redistributing the economic surplus that was once externalized. We regained sovereignty of our strategic natural resources which were nationalized.
Celebration 15th Anniversary of the Plurinational State of Bolivia
As of today, despite an adverse international setting we have recorded a positive growth of 3.5% for 2022 and 2.21 in 2023. Nominal GDP increased to 44,315 Millon. Public investment 4,274US Millon. Reduction of social asymmetries is part of our policy and extreme poverty went from 14% in 2020 to 11% in 2021 Despite unprecedented international crisis affecting the entire world, Bolivia has one of the lowest inflation rate in the region, with a percentage of 3.6% recorded
Our national exports, among others, natural gas, silver, zinc, lead, tin, gold, quinoa, soybeans, lithium carbonate and potassium chloride sales reached almost 13 billion dollars, attaining record levels.
We are also focusing our efforts to strengthen new industries for the generation and process of our raw materials. Bolivian Lithium State Company Bolivia has started industrializing its 23 mill tones of Lithium reserves. And recently YLB signed various agreements for the construction of two lithium carbonate plants, with Direct Extraction technology with an investment of more than 3 billion dollars. We are open also for new investments in the sector.
Today, our Plurinational State of Bolivia turns 15 years, and we joyfully celebrate working irreversibly towards a fairer country, free of racism and a more equitable and inclusive society. We are strengthening the culture of life, dialogue, pluralism, peace and social justice.
We are witnessing war, war complicity, barbaric events, death and terrible human tragedy, international crimes, genocide, devastations, racism therefore the Bolivian State is condemning this breaches of international security and peace that is affecting us in our conscience of humankind.
This is why the Plurinational State of Bolivia together with South Africa, Bangladesh, Comoros and Djibouti presented a referral the International Criminal Court for investigations and fight against impunity in Palestine.
We appreciate the historic action taken by South Africa in bringing an action against the State of Israel before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding Israel’s violations of its obligations under the Genocide Convention towards the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Bolivia, committed to peace and justice and a signatory to the Genocide Convention, has appreciated and recognized that South Africa has taken an historic leadership in defense of the Palestinian people, a contribution to the international community clamoring for respect for the lives of the Palestinian people. We would have liked that the ICJ issued today a ceasefire decision in Gaza, but an important step and message has been given.
We considers the use of dialogue and negotiations in the framework of international Law and we condemn war, and war of aggression as a mean of resolving differences that affect peace and stability.
We are aware that our plurinationality is our greatest wealth and strength we are confident in the search for common good, the path of stability peace and hope.
With these sentiments we see this time as an opportunity to rethink the way we relate to each other, that marks our relationships that we are trying to build, based on values of cooperation, complementarity and reciprocity moving forward towards the Living Well of all. Jallala.”
The celebratory party was well-attended, and a Bolivian string trio provided the music and entertainment for the guests, who danced to Bolivian tunes.
Tuesday, 16 January 2024, Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany: AmCham Germany hosted its first New Year’s Gala Reception of the season in Düsseldorf, capital of Germany’s most populous federal state.
Speakers included Premier of North Rhine-Westphalia, Hendrik Wüst; U.S. Consul General Pauline Kao; AmCham Germany President Simone Menne; and Regional Chapter Chairs Theresa Winkels and Frank Jørgensen joined members from North Rhine-Westphalia in ringing in the New Year together in the spirit of transatlantic partnership and friendship.
Opening the evening, Theresa Winkels, Chapter Chair, pointed out the difference we can all make in the special year 2024.
AmCham Germany President Simone Menne continued by emphasizing how this will be another year of disruptive transformation. In light of these challenges, it is essential that we look for global solutions, as nationalism and protectionism are not the answer. AmCham Germany and its members share common values such as human rights, democracy and free speech. After all, AmCham Germany is a melting pot of members coming from different cultures, backgrounds and companies. Menne encouraged our members to remain optimistic and take initiative rather than waiting for challenges to be resolved on their own.
U.S. Consul General Pauline Kao subsequently invited guests to imagine the year 2025 and work together to fulfill their goals until then. She pointed out that our partnership is based on three pillars: security, prosperity and shared values, and also placed transatlantic relations in a geopolitical context with the war in Ukraine and Gaza. Furthermore, she touched on the importance of 2024 for major elections in many countries around the world, and also highlighted the opportunities presented by the NRW-USA Year. In closing, U.S. Consul General Kao refered to two quotes by Martin Luther King Jr.: “Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope” and “the time is always right to do the right thing.”
In his keynote speech, Premier Hendrik Wüst underscored the importance of transatlantic partnership and the important role that U.S. companies play in North-Rhine Westphalia. “North Rhine-Westphalia and the United States are closely linked with each other,” says Wüst. “We are faced with the same big challenges: The transition to green industry, the strengthening of security and defence policy and the struggle against antisemitism. Together, we are filling the transatlantic relations with life. This is what the NRW-USA Year 2023/2024 represents.”
Picture’s caption: F.l.t.r.: Chapter Chair Theresa Winkels; U.S. Consul General Pauline Kao; Premier Hendrik Wüst; AmCham Germany President Simone Menne; Chapter Chair Frank Jørgensen – Photo Copyright: Amcham Germany, Michael Lübke
The Raoul Wallenberg Centre for Human Rights (RWCHR) has taken a significant step towards seeking justice for victims and holding perpetrators accountable following the tragic events on October 7th. On that day, over 1,200 persons, hailing from diverse nationalities and backgrounds, were taken captive by Palestinian terrorists from HAMAS. The RWCHR’s presentation of a legal landmark brief at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague marks an important moment in the pursuit of accountability for human rights violations.
The brief, comprising over 1000 pages of evidence and legal analysis along with accompanying video evidence, meticulously outlines the commission of war crimes and crimes against humanity by Palestinian terrorists. These crimes include but are not limited to hostage-taking, enforced disappearance, torture, and rape. The RWCHR’s efforts aim to support ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan KC in his investigation and provide compelling evidence for the issuance of arrest warrants.
Irwin Cotler, the RWCHR Founder and International Chair, emphasized the significance of this initiative by highlighting that the perpetrators not only target Jews but also hold Palestinians, peace activists, and humanitarians hostage. He asserts that these actions undermine peace and our common humanity, emphasizing the imperative of holding the perpetrators criminally accountable.
Leading the charge in this historic endeavor is Brandon Silver, the RWCHR’s Director of Policy and Projects, renowned for his expertise in international human rights law. Silver’s past successes include aiding in the release of hostages and political prisoners globally, underscoring his commitment to justice and human rights.
The RWCHR’s international legal team, spearheaded by Barrister Michelle Butler of Matrix Chambers and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP, brings extensive experience in international criminal law to the table. Butler, with her expert understanding of ICC proceedings, along with former top anti-terrorism prosecutors from the US Department of Justice at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP, ensures a robust legal strategy.
In collaboration with the Families of Hostages and Missing Persons Forum, an Israeli civil society association representing the interests of the hostages, the RWCHR’s endeavor underscores the collective pursuit of justice. Together, they aim to bring perpetrators to account and provide solace to victims and their families in the face of heinous acts of violence.
In a grandiose affair, Ambassador Jian Tan warmly welcomed over 400 guests to the Embassy of China in The Hague for a magnificent celebration heralding the arrival of the Year of the Dragon. The event, held on the 8th of February, was a dazzling display of Chinese culture, with vibrant colors, mesmerizing dancers, and captivating music filling the wide-ranging room. The atmosphere was brimming with joy and positive energy as attendees from diverse backgrounds, including members of the Chinese diaspora, Dutch society, government officials, ambassadors from almost every country and representatives from the diplomatic corps at large, gathered to commemorate the auspicious occasion.
Addressing the gathered audience, Ambassador Tan shared his excitement for the upcoming Year of the Dragon, a symbol representing success, growth, progress, and abundance in Chinese culture. He emphasized the significance of the dragon as a legendary creature, revered as a totem of Chinese heritage and symbolizing strength and wisdom. Ambassador Tan highlighted the auspicious nature of the dragon, contrasting it with interpretations in some Western cultures.
The Year of the Dragon – Celebrating at the Embassy of China in The Hague. February 8, 2024
The Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year, holds profound importance in Chinese tradition. Ambassador Tan underscored two key aspects of the festival: family reunion and the spirit of hope and renewal. He elaborated on the massive scale of the Spring Festival travel rush, where billions of trips are made as people across China reunite with their families, reinforcing bonds and rejuvenating spirits for the year ahead.
“People are expected to return to their hometown and get-together with family members, to renew the bond.” he said.
“Starting from Jan 26 to March 5 this year, for a period of 40 days, we call it Spring Festival travel rush, 9 billion passenger trips are being made, the largest human migration on earth. What a scale! I am sharing the number, not to intimidate, but to impress.”
Expressing his optimism for the Year of the Dragon, Ambassador Tan outlined his expectations for China’s high-quality development, emphasizing ongoing reforms, increased openness, and integration into the global economy. He cited examples such as foreign investors now having full ownership rights in certain sectors and visa-free arrangements to promote tourism and enhance international understanding.
Ambassador Tan stated “China will continue to reform deeper and open wider, getting more connected with the rest of the world, and hopefully, more integrated into the global economy. One case in point is that foreign investors can now have 100% ownership of the banking and insurance companies they set up in China. Another concrete example: 2024 is a visa free year for citizens from the Netherlands and some other countries visiting China for a stay within 15 days. This is a unilateral arrangement.”
Celebrating the Year of the Dragon. February 8, 2024. Embassy of China in The Hague.
High-quality development also means environmental-friendly. According to the International Energy Agency, over the past several years, China accounts for more than half of the newly installed renewable energy capacity globally.
“Our economic growth rate last year was 5.2%, making 30% contribution to global growth, a true engine.”
Celebrating the Year of the Dragon 2024.
Furthermore, Ambassador Tan articulated his hopes for the continued growth of Sino-Dutch relations, commemorating President Xi Jinping’s visit to the Netherlands in 2014, now the 10th anniversary of the “open and pragmatic partnership for comprehensive cooperation.” Despite challenges, he highlighted the Netherlands as a crucial partner for China-EU cooperation, expressing eagerness to collaborate with the new Dutch government.
In his address, Ambassador Tan also extended wishes for peace, development, and cooperation in the new year, acknowledging the global challenges ahead. He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing shared issues such as climate change and international conflicts, advocating for a renewed focus on humanity and a shared future.
China Spring Festival celebration 2024
As the festivities continued, guests were treated to a lavish Chinese buffet, further enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. Conversations flowed freely, and well-wishes were exchanged late into the night, marking the conclusion of a truly magnificent celebration.
In closing, Ambassador Tan raised a toast to peace, development, and cooperation, celebrating the enduring friendship between the peoples of China and the Netherlands and wishing all attendees a Happy Spring Festival and abundant blessings in the Year of the Dragon. With its vibrant festivities and profound messages of hope and unity, the Spring Festival at the Embassy of China in The Hague was a enormous success, symbolizing the spirit of joy, prosperity, and cultural exchange.
