The Embassy of the Argentine Republic is pleased to inform about 3 calls for tenders launched by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Productive Innovation (MINCYT).
1). Innovation in Aquaculture
Surveys conducted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) show that in 2014 aquaculture accounts for more than 50% of total world fish supply. The demand arising from this sector grows at an approximate rate of 10% per year, but the supply only grows at 7%.
In 2015, the production reached 101 million tons. Unlike catch fisheries, it has practically not increased since 1985. According to FAO reports, Argentina has the largest extension of sea suitable for aquaculture production purposes in Multi-trophic Integrated Aquaculture Farms; in turn, it highlights the potential of our country for Aquaculture production.
The Project Innovation in Aquaculture focuses on the design, development and installation of an Integrated Multi-trophic Marine Farm; in other words, the cultivation of several species in sea. This initiative seeks to offer solutions for the production of animal protein in a sustainable way, by means of R&D&I.
In this farm, steelheads, Macrocystis algae and blue mussels -or other similar species- will be grown, while working in the study, repopulation and possible fattening of groundfish. This project will have a great benefit to the sector, as it will be the first project of its kind in South America and one of the few in the world; being unique in considering the study and value addition of native benthic species and development of the value chain.
The selection of the Puerto Almanza, Tierra del Fuego zone, is based on:
1.Proximity to the airport and port as distribution points for the products for export or domestic market.
2.Unique place with remarkable conditions not only for capturing blue mussel seeds but also for fattening and growth.
3.Proximity to a high quality freshwater source in communication with the sea coast.
4.Space with optimal tide and harbour conditions for marine production.
Argentina has marine resources, marketing and production capabilities to develop a responsible and worldwide production.
We are confident that the path of food production must be guided by sustainability and based on genuine resources and capabilities. The call is open until 21 March 2017 , to know more visit this page: http://www.agencia.mincyt.gob.ar/frontend/agencia/convocatoria/388.
2). Technology for the national production of satellites
Argentina, like the world´s leading countries with advanced spatial planning, should be able to build and launch its own Satellites.The path to mastering this technology pushes the limits of the scientific, technical and industrial fields to attain high levels of excellence that have a positive impact on other sectors. Given the characteristics of the space sector -in terms of high technological risk and high associated investment- the public sector should promote actions to facilitate greater involvement of the private sector, thus promoting not only the creation of a balanced development ecosystem but also knowledge generation.
The results of the application of new technologies in countries that develop spatial activities, have promoted high added value developments in their production chain. Argentina ranks among the countries that face the challenge of positioning themselves as spatial countries, while aiming at the growth and creation of new companies.
In this line, the National Committee for Space Activities (CONAE) is implementing the National Spatial Plan, targeting the development of technology related to space activities, which is essential to enable the access to information and technological advance to increase the productivity and competitiveness of social, economic and productive sectors of the country, promote the development of national industry, and expand its scope of participation at the international level.
The strategic project Technology for national production of satellites aims at supporting the National Spatial Plan, by promoting the growth of SMEs specialized in the sector and generating new scientific, technological and industrial knowledge.
The initiative seeks to improve capacity building for the development of national parts of satellites through:
The promotion of specific scientific knowledge of the satellite sector.
The development of experimental prototypes that serve as the basis of knowledge for the subsequent final production in the satellite sector:
o Gimbal
o CPU Module for on-board computer
o Input/output module for on-board computer
o pyro-mechanical detonators and actuators
o batteries
This intervention has high strategic and logistic value, since the substitution of imports and independence from market timing for procurement purposes, will cause a spill over effect in other industrial and productive areas by enhancing the diversification of each development. The call is open until April 3rd, 2017 , to know more visit the following page:http://www.agencia.mincyt.gob.ar/frontend/agencia/convocatoria/387.
3). Technology applied to predicts disasters
According to the Office of Disaster Risk Reduction of the UN, in the last 20 years, 90% of global disasters were caused by floods, storms, heat waves and other climate-related events.
Argentina is no exception: since 1950 to date the 10 natural disasters which had a violent impact on the country are mostly related to climate disasters. Storms in Argentina have serious social and economic impacts both in agricultural regions and in urban and suburban areas. Floods, hail, electrical activity, bursts and tornados are common phenomena in the Argentine territory.
Advancing from the alert after observing a phenomenon in the radar to the alert after a prediction based on the storm scale, requires three fundamental pillars, which must be built on cutting-edge technological infrastructure:
Adequate observational information.
Quality numerical forecasts.
Mathematical tools that facilitate the assimilation of the observations in numerical models and probabilistic forecasts.
Improving response time allows mobilizing a greater number of resources to the possible affected areas, and therefore has a smaller impact on the population. This project intends to continue developing a tool that may be used to generate short-term numerical forecasts of the evolution of deep convection in the atmosphere.
This Call has the following aims:
To develop a technological platform that facilitates supplying forecast services by means of high-resolution arrays (5 km or more) throughout Argentina (basic infrastructure and numerical modelling system).
Incorporate technologies applied to communication and visualization of meteorological data, forecasts and real-time and operative alerts (alert and communication platforms and systems).
Develop capacities related to forecast systems by means of high-resolution arrays (training and research strategies).
Greater precision in the forecasting of severe weather events and early warning of these phenomena issued to the productive and/ or social sectors is essential for decision making in order to promote production and minimize associated losses.
The call is open until 21 March 2017, to know more visit this page: http://www.agencia.mincyt.gob.ar/frontend/agencia/convocatoria/388.
Ambassador András Kocsis, at the opening ceremony. By Djoeke Altena.
On February 5th the Hungarian community in the Netherlands gathered at the Hungarian Corner in The Hague for its opening.
The Hungarian Ambassador H.E. András Kocsis, opened the restaurant by ribbon-cutting-ceremony where he spoke the following words:
“There are two types of people here with us tonight: Dutch who love Hungary and Hungarians who love The Netherlands. We have one thing in common, we all love Hungarian food. Upon until now, if I wanted a nice Hungarian dish I simply stayed at home, because my wife is a great cook herself as well. But now it is great to see that we have also another opportunity, which is here in the hearth of The Hague.” “I can honestly tell you, because I have been living here in The Hague since 2012, that we have been waiting for this moment for a long time. Everything looks great, and I have no doubt that you will be successful in your restaurant. It is a good sign that there are so many people present here tonight. To cut it short, I wish you all the best and I also want to congratulate you because I know how hard you have worked for this. Thank you once again for presenting to The Hague a little Hungary.”
After the ceremonial opening the guests were able to enjoy live Hungarian music, dances and delicious treats. In the words of co-owner Marco van den Boomgaard: “This evening is not only about food, it is about the Hungarian way of living.” “It is about giving, sharing and loving traditions. This is a great way to not only present to you Hungarian food but also dances and live music.”
The performing musicians were Marcsi Banda Zenekar and The Hague Hungarian choir (Hagai Magyar Enekkar). Csaladi Neptanc Egyuttes performed traditional Hungarian dances.
The chef prepared delicious Hungarian treats, some of which were inspired by the Dutch cuisine. Guests were able to taste “Bitterballen” filled with paprika cream and goulash, canapé with ham from Mangalitsa pork, canapé with Hungarian salami and boulette from Mangalitsa minced meat and battered boulette from fish.
More information about Hungarian Corner can be found here: www.hungariancorner.nl
For additional Roy Strik’s pictures, please open the following link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/121611753@N07/albums/72157678413343262
On the picture Toni Garn, Bvlgari’s Managing Director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Lelio Gavazza and HSH Princess Lilly zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg, Bvlgari Brand Ambassador.
Berlin, Thursday, 9 February 2017 – For the opening night of the 67th Berlinale, Bvlgari hosted its exclusive “Night of the Legend” party, welcoming celebrities and VIPs to enjoy a sparkling night with legendary jewels.
Marc Zwiebler, Princess Lilly zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg and Philipp Boy.
In attendance were celebrities and German royalty such as Her Serene Highness Princess Lilly zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg, Brand Ambassador for Bvlgari, the latter’s sister, Princess Vanessa zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg, Armie Hammer, Lottie Moss, SukiWaterhouse,Toni Garn, Daniel Brühl, Clotilde di Savoia (Courau), The Princess of Venice, Giulio Berruti, Nikolai Kinski, August Wittgenstein, Marc Zwiebler, German Badminton champion, financial manager and former Olympic gymnast Philipp Boy, Falko Kremp, co-founder of Inselberg model agency, and Her Royal Highness Princess Basmah bint Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, HRH Prince Christian Ludwig of Prussia, Chatelain His High Princely Highness Alexander, The Prince of Schaumburg-Lippe, enjoying the glamorous annual event at the Soho House in Berlin-Mitte.
Guests were able to take their picture in a Happybooth (www.happybooth.de) tailored for the “Night of the Legend”.
Actor Giulio Berrutti at the Bulgari ‘Night of the Legend’ event during the 67th Berlinale International Film Festival on February 9, 2017 in Berlin, Germany.
At the party, Bvlgari Brand Ambassador Princess Lilly zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg and Bvlgari Managing Director for Germany Sandra Mohsni invited guests to discover the revolutionary design of the B.zero1 ring, as it debuts in Germany.
This iconic design piece was first inspired by the legendary Roman Colosseum, today reinterpreted by an architectural master: The B.zero1 Design Legend by Zaha Hadid. Glamorous, sensual and bold, Bvlgari’s style is unconventional and exquisite. Asserting the strong character of Italian design, Bvlgari is as the Romans do. With brazen authenticity, the vivacious Roman jeweller is larger than life.
Giulio Berrutti, Princess Lilly zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg and Armie Hammer.
During the fête, guests were able to contribute to a good cause by using the hashtag #bulgariberlinale when posting their photos.
Bvlgari pledged to convert each hashtag into a donation for its partner charity organisation, namely Save the Children. Invitees were chauffered to the location by luxurious, legendary Porsche cars. To make musical history, DJ Duo Aline & Suné from Musique Couture will provide the legendary music.
Bulgari was founded as a Roman jewellery store in 1884, and today is part of the LVMH Group. Bvlgari has become an international name of luxury design, creating magnificent pieces with artisanal Italian craftmanship. As a diversified luxury goods producer with stores in the most exclusive shopping areas in the world, Bvlgari´s portfolio ranges from jewellery and watches to accessories, fragrances and hotels.
Education can better people’s lives. Since 2009, Bvlgari has supported the world´s biggest independent child rights organization Save the Children, to give disadvantaged children access to education and opportunity for a better future.
To commemorate the partnership, Bvlgari custom-designed a popular ring and pendant collection, inspired by its iconic B.zero1 design; 70 euros of each piece sold is donated directly to Save the Children. www.bulgari.com
Pictures by Franziska Krug/Getty Images for Bulgari
Today, from a coordination centre at Eurojust, an international action against a gold laundering ring took place, led by the Italian Guardia di Finanza police and the State Prosecutor’s Office of Turin, with the support of Hungarian and Slovenian authorities, and with coordination by Eurojust. The group members are accused of being part of a criminal organisation involved in gold laundering in Italy, Hungary and Slovenia.
Gold items were first stolen in Italy, melted down by an Italian foundry, and transformed into bars. The bars were then placed on the official gold market by a Hungarian company that issued fictitious sales invoices to a second Italian enterprise. The fictitious invoices, estimated at approximately EUR 300 000 weekly, were paid by legitimate companies via international bank transfer, with the cash then withdrawn in Hungary and returned to Turin to pay the thieves. Concealed cash was transported across national borders.
During the period under investigation, the criminal organisation is estimated to have laundered close to 750 kg of pure gold, valued at approximately EUR 25 million.
At the conclusion of the police operation, 10 individuals were arrested, while only one target remains at large. At the same time, 60 house and company searches were carried out in Italy, Hungary and Slovenia. The equivalent of EUR 9 million was seized, including 20 kg of gold, EUR 200 000 in cash on one of the arrested individuals and high-value cars. Furthermore, important evidentiary items were found and seized, including those contained in a safe and in the accountancy books of the involved companies in the various countries.
This transnational investigation succeeded thanks to the efforts of the police and judicial authorities of Italy, Hungary and Slovenia. Eurojust, which followed the case since the beginning of 2016, facilitated the exchange of information and execution of mutual legal assistance requests and also hosted a coordination meeting two weeks ago to prepare yesterday’s action day and guarantee the simultaneous execution of all measures.
The National Member for Italy, Filippo Spiezia, after the conclusion of the coordination centre, said: “This case is unique. In the framework of one investigation, the crimes from which the proceeds were derived, the nature and extent of the money laundering activities, and the investment of proceeds of crime were uncovered at the same time as a result of a complex cross-border investigation.” “This success has been made possible thanks to Eurojust, which has dealt with all the judicial aspects within its competence since the beginning of the case. In this way, Eurojust has also played a proactive role in providing information to home authorities in real time to progress the case.”
Pictured H. E. Mrs. Soraya Alvarez Núñez, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and her spouse, Mr. Eduardo Morales Monteagudo.By Roy Lie A Tjam.
In the days following the presentation of her credentials to HRH King Willem Alexander, Cuba’s new ambassador to the Netherlands, H.E. Soraya Alvarez Núñez, organised a reception to celebrate the 58th anniversary of the Cuban Revolution – which is officially and historically celebrated on the 1st of January every year.
Ambassador Soraya Alvarez Núñez , had the pleasure to make the acquaintance of many of her colleague-ambassadors who came to Hotel Marriott The Hague on 2 February 2017 to felicitate her on this momentous celebration. Among them the ambassadors of Malaysia, Spain, Russia, Georgia and several others. Notable was the presence of the evenly new Haitian Ambassador Mr. Daniel Supplice, stationed in Brussels.
In her welcome remarks, Alvarez Núñez thanked the audience for accepting her invitation, subsequent to which she enumerated the successes and hurdles her beloved country, Cuba, faced during the course of 2016. Ambassador Soraya Alvarez Núñez also paid homage to the departed leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro. A resume of what she said in her discourse follows:
“I have the honor and the pride to represent in this prosperous and beautiful country the Cuban Revolutionary Government and its people who with great optimism and confidence continue to build a prosperous and sustainable model of Socialism, which foundations were laid out and developed by the Historic leader of the Cuban revolution, Fidel Castro Ruz, who worked tirelessly for a dignified and just country for the men and women of Cuba and for a dignified and fair world for the peoples of the world”.
From left to right Mr. Edwin Abath, Director of the Department of External Relations for Aruba, H. E. Mrs. Soraya Alvarez Núñez, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and her spouse, Mr. Eduardo Morales Monteagudo, Mr. Rafael Lesca Torralba, Consul of the Cuban Embassy, Mrs. Katia Aruca Chaple, Third Secretary of the Cuban Embassy and H. E. Mr. J.D.E. Yrausquin, Minister Plenipotentiary for Aruba.“Fidel’s legacy and thinking goes beyond its physical presence. The best tribute to his ideas that the men and women of Cuba can pay is to make his ideas expressed in the concept of Revolution come true every day”.“With this premise, Cuba continues to work to achieve its goals for development, to build a fairer and more human society and to exercise its Foreign Policy according to its historic position of principles in defense of peace, self-determination, and the sovereignty of the peoples, to preserve Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace, to develop economic and cooperation ties based on respect and mutual benefits with all countries. Likewise, Cuba will continue to exercise its traditional solidarity with the peoples of the world… 2016 was a year particularly emotional and intense for Cuba in all aspects”. .” “The economic performance faced financial constraints caused namely by the fall of the exports income brought about by the decrease of the price of some of our main exports, among other internal and external factors, and the substantial damages caused by the devastating hurricane that hit six municipalities in the Eastern damaging several sectors of production and services. This adverse scenario translated in a decrease of the GDP of 0.9%. “However; amidst this unfavorable environment, Cuba complies with all the obligations undertaken and the social services remain at the same levels of the years before, guaranteeing healthcare, social assistance and education to the people. In this analysis, we cannot leave out the negative effect of the economic, financial and commercial blockade imposed by the United States, which is still in force.”“In 2017, it is expected that the GDP will grow 2% and great importance is placed in the need to boost foreign investment.”“In the international arena in 2016, it is worth mentioning an unprecedented event that took place on February 12th, when the Pope Francis and His Holiness Kirill, Patriarch of All Russia met in Havana. It was the first time both religious authorities ever got together.”H. E. Mrs. Soraya Alvarez Núñez, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba in the Kingdom of the Netherlands and H.E Mrs. Eunice Eisden, Minister Plenipotentiary for Curacao.“Likewise, from April 16 to April 19, 2016, the Seventh Congress of the Communist Party of Cuba (CPC) was held. In the meeting, it was approved a Proposal for the Conceptualization of the Economic and Social Model and the guidelines for the National Plan for Development until 2030 were outlined”.“Under the maxim “Promoting the sustainable development of the Greater Caribbean,” the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) held its Summit in June 2016, which was attended by State members and associates, as well as high-level Representatives such as Prime Minister Mark Rutte, who held a cordial meeting with President Raul Castro during this time”.
“Other exchanges and visits of high level between Cuba and the Kingdom of the Netherlands also have a positive balance last year. Among them, it is worth mention the visit of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla and Bert Koenders, the mutual Exchange of visits of the Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Netherlands H.E. Mrs. Lilianne Ploumen and the Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment of Cuba H.E. Mr. Rodrigo Malmierca”.“In this same token, the high level visits in different areas such as higher education and business went smoothly and allowed identifying major opportunities for Cuba and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which has greatly contributed to the strengthening of the historic Diplomatic ties between the two countries and the increase of cooperation of mutual benefit for their governments and peoples”.“It is also worth stressing the significant increase of Dutch citizens visiting Cuba, which has also contributed to the knowledge and approach between the Cuban and the Dutch societies”.“Finally, I would like to underline the importance Cuba gives to the signature on December 12 of the Agreement to the Political dialogue and Cooperation between Cuba and the European Union, mechanism that will help enrich the historic ties existing in many areas between Cuba and the countries of the bloc, based on mutual respect and understanding.”
This memorable reception took place in a pleasant atmosphere which made it an excellent networking occasion. An authentic Cuban buffet dinner was part of the evening. With open arms, Ambassador Soraya Alvarez Núñez and Mr. Eduardo Morales are welcomed.Photography by the Embassy of Cuba in The Hague.
HIRH Archduchess Camilla of Austria-Tuscany was in Noordwijk as a guest of honour of the XLIX Wiener Ball at Huis ter Duin Grand Hotel upon the invitation of the ball’s committee.
In the company of Jonkheer Alfred Filz von Reiterdank, Archduchess Camilla was invited for a lunch by the Indonesian ambassador to the Netherlands previously posted to Austria, I Gusti Agung Wesaka Puja and the latter’s spouse. Newly appointed Director of IFIMES, HH Camilla discussed with Ambassador currents in the dialogue of civilizations. http://www.ifimes.org/en/9259
CIA Director Mike Pompeo and HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia – Picture by SPA.Friday, 10 February 2017, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: HRH Crown Prince Mohammad bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, First Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior, was honored with the George Tenet Medal, issued by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) of the United States of America in “recognition of the outstanding intelligence work in combating terrorism and his immense contributions global security for the last two decades”. CIA Director, Mr. Mike Pompeo decorated the Crown Prince with the medal during a reception in Riyadh. HRH The Deputy Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, Second Deputy Premier and Defense Minister as well as several high-ranking officials were present on the occasion. The Crown Prince and Pompeo also discussed issues of mutual concern; chiefly ways to further enhance them, especially in the security and counter terrorism fields according to the reports of the Saudi Press Agency. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef was trained in counter-terrorism and security matters by the FBI as well as Scotland Yard. Chief of Royal Court, HRH Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, HRH The Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Minister of Interior and Director Mike Pompeo, CIA – Picture by SPA.Foreign intelligence services have for a long time lauded the successful anti-terrorism programmes, and directives against religious radicalisation within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Referring to the Saudi-USA relations, The Crown Prince said that “nobody would succeed in creating friction in the historic and strategic relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the USA”.The latter matter was also discussed by HRH Princess Basmah bint Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud during a recent interview for Deutsche Welle (https://share.ard-zdf-box.de/s/IhhO2BGoeTNbYnw), that is, the fact that the Kingdom in the last two decades has been counteracting terrorism, and radicalisation through the Ministry of Interior. As a matter of fact, upon hearing of the CIA’s honour for the Saudi Crown Prince, Princess Basmah bint Saud described the heir to the throne as a “true knight of the XXI century, a scholar and a reformer”. ————————–For further information: Ministry of Interior of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: https://www.moi.gov.saCIA: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/sa.html
By Liudmyla Palamar.
Prime Minister of Ukraine H.E. Mr Volodymyr Groysman, participated in a high-level public debate in Brussels. Titled “Cheering and Steering: Ukraine Reforms Reloaded,” the event has brought together European decision-makers and civil society to discuss the democratic changes, taking place in Ukraine since the Maidan Revolution.
Organized by Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies, the public discussion fostered the dialogue on the Ukrainian reforms, as well as marked a two-year anniversary of the Center’s UkraineReforms program. The think tank has been facilitating the program to support the developments in Ukraine by empowering local civil society and offering international expertise in the implementation of sustainable reforms.
Prime Minister Groysman, who joined the debate straight after his meeting with the President of the European Council Donald Tusk, contributed to the discussion with a clear narrative, focusing on the achievements of the reforms, which are led by his government. Among the success stories, he mentioned the reformation of the national police, the structural change in the oil and gas sector, etc.
Other members of the panel, namely Andrius Kubiliusm, former Prime Minister of Lithuania, and Taras Shevchenko, Co-Chairman of the Council of the Reanimation Package of Reforms, as well as the moderator, Roland Freudenstein, warmly accepted the narrative of the Prime Minister and admitted that Ukraine has made a significant progress over the past three years. Ivan Mikloš, former Minister of Finance of Slovakia, claimed that more positive changes had taken place in Ukraine after the recent Revolution than during all preceding years of independence.
The positive flow of the conversation was balanced with the critical assessment of the existing challenges that the Ukrainian government has to address in order to ensure the sustainable implementation of the reform package. In particular, questionable fiscal system and the influence of oligarchic groups on the decision-making of the Ukrainian government were among the topics, which were raised during the debate and challenged the optimistic narrative of the Ukrainian Prime Minister.
Both parties – Ukrainian and EU officials – expressed satisfaction with the efficiency of their cooperation and emphasized the necessity to continue the implementation of the democratic reform package.
By Roy Lie A Tjam.
The staff of the Embassy of Indonesia gathered to bid farewell to their colleague, Mr. Azis Nurwahyudi of the Department of Information & Socio-cultural Affairs who has accepted a post (promotion) in the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs as Secretary to the Director-General of Information and Public Diplomacy.
This event that was complimented by music, dance and food was organized at the auditorium of the Indonesian Embassy. Present was H.E. I Gusti A. Wesaka Puja, Ambassador to take leave of the man, who is known to be a diligent, hospitable and cordial person, alongside other departing staff members.
We wish Pak Azis the very best in his promisingly long diplomatic career.
He will be greatly missed.
Pictured H.E. Alexander Shulging, Ambassador of Russia.By Sheila Turabaz.
It has become an annual tradition for the Dutch – Russian network to convene at the New Year’s Meeting organized by the Netherlands – Russian Council for Trade Promotion (NRCH) in The Hague. This year the event was jointly organized by NRCH, the Confederation of Netherlands Industry and Employers (VNO-NCW) and the Royal Association MKB Nederland for Dutch small and medium – sized companies and took place on Friday 3 February at the headquarters of VNO-NCW.
Mr. Geert Greving, Vice-Chairman of the NRCH.
The event was well attended by Dutch and Russian entrepreneurs, representatives of multinationals and the public sector. During the annual meeting, a retrospective of the past year was given along with an economic forecast for 2017.
Mr. Geert Greving, Vice-Chairman of the NRCH hosted the meeting. In his welcome address, Mr. Greving emphasized that the Council’s target is to connect the medium and small sized entrepreneurs with large enterprises and subsequently inform the government to create and maintain a consistent policy with Russia regardless of the on-going EU sanctions against Russia. Furthermore, he also mentioned that these sanctions have had serious economic consequences and that it has affected the Netherlands in particular.
Mr. Greving stressed the complexity of the current international economic environment in which the Netherlands faces fierce competition from the U.S. and China in particular. According to Mr. Greving, pragmatism is key despite the current sanctions.
H.E. MS. Renée Jones-Bos, Dutch Ambassador to Moscow.
H.E. Ms. Renée Jones-Bos, Ambassador of the Netherlands to the Russian Federation followed with a speech, in which she mentioned the longstanding historical ties between the Netherlands and Russia, the mutual interests both countries share, the current geopolitical situation and lastly, trends and developments in business relations. According to Ms. Jones-Bos, « the worst is behind » and the Russian economy is showing careful signs of recovery.
Structural reforms are necessary to make the Russian economy grow again. Despite the imposed economic sanctions that have affected the bilateral trade relations, the tide seems to be turning as cautious growth took place last year. During her speech Ms. Jones-Bos also mentioned the active involvement of the embassy in Moscow in supporting Dutch businesses and emphasized the importance of these channels even in times of different political opinions.
Laurens Jan Brinkhorst, former Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs, representatives of Dutch Foreign Ministry, Ministry of Economic Affairs, and general public.
H.E. Mr. Alexander Shulgin, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Netherlands mentioned that the unfavourable international economic environment has affected the Russian economy. However, the Russian government is proactive in structural reforms and modernizing the Russian economy.
Mr. Shulgin also injected some positivity and mentioned that Russia is becoming the most important exporter in agricultural products.
Mr. Ineke Dezentje Hamming-Bluemink Chairperson FME – CMW.
Ms. Ineke Dezentjé Hamming-Bluemink, President of the FME-CMW (the largest employers’ organization in the technology industry) and Mr. Jerke Verschoor, Director of the Nuffic Neso Russia also spoke (briefly) about Dutch – Russian business relations.
Mr. Greving concluded the meeting and a networking reception followed afterwards.
mR. Jerke Verschoor Director Nuffic Neso Russia.
“There are two types of people here with us tonight: Dutch who love Hungary and Hungarians who love The Netherlands. We have one thing in common, we all love Hungarian food. Upon until now, if I wanted a nice Hungarian dish I simply stayed at home, because my wife is a great cook herself as well. But now it is great to see that we have also another opportunity, which is here in the hearth of The Hague.”
“I can honestly tell you, because I have been living here in The Hague since 2012, that we have been waiting for this moment for a long time. Everything looks great, and I have no doubt that you will be successful in your restaurant.
It is a good sign that there are so many people present here tonight. To cut it short, I wish you all the best and I also want to congratulate you because I know how hard you have worked for this. Thank you once again for presenting to The Hague a little Hungary.”
After the ceremonial opening the guests were able to enjoy live Hungarian music, dances and delicious treats. In the words of co-owner Marco van den Boomgaard: “This evening is not only about food, it is about the Hungarian way of living.”
“It is about giving, sharing and loving traditions. This is a great way to not only present to you Hungarian food but also dances and live music.”
The performing musicians were Marcsi Banda Zenekar and The Hague Hungarian choir (Hagai Magyar Enekkar). Csaladi Neptanc Egyuttes performed traditional Hungarian dances.
The chef prepared delicious Hungarian treats, some of which were inspired by the Dutch cuisine. Guests were able to taste “Bitterballen” filled with paprika cream and goulash, canapé with ham from Mangalitsa pork, canapé with Hungarian salami and boulette from Mangalitsa minced meat and battered boulette from fish.
More information about Hungarian Corner can be found here: www.hungariancorner.nl
For additional Roy Strik’s pictures, please open the following link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/121611753@N07/albums/72157678413343262 
“The economic performance faced financial constraints caused namely by the fall of the exports income brought about by the decrease of the price of some of our main exports, among other internal and external factors, and the substantial damages caused by the devastating hurricane that hit six municipalities in the Eastern damaging several sectors of production and services. This adverse scenario translated in a decrease of the GDP of 0.9%.
“However; amidst this unfavorable environment, Cuba complies with all the obligations undertaken and the social services remain at the same levels of the years before, guaranteeing healthcare, social assistance and education to the people. In this analysis, we cannot leave out the negative effect of the economic, financial and commercial blockade imposed by the United States, which is still in force.”
“In 2017, it is expected that the GDP will grow 2% and great importance is placed in the need to boost foreign investment.”
“In the international arena in 2016, it is worth mentioning an unprecedented event that took place on February 12th, when the Pope Francis and His Holiness Kirill, Patriarch of All Russia met in Havana. It was the first time both religious authorities ever got together.”
“In this same token, the high level visits in different areas such as higher education and business went smoothly and allowed identifying major opportunities for Cuba and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which has greatly contributed to the strengthening of the historic Diplomatic ties between the two countries and the increase of cooperation of mutual benefit for their governments and peoples”.
“It is also worth stressing the significant increase of Dutch citizens visiting Cuba, which has also contributed to the knowledge and approach between the Cuban and the Dutch societies”.
“Finally, I would like to underline the importance Cuba gives to the signature on December 12 of the Agreement to the Political dialogue and Cooperation between Cuba and the European Union, mechanism that will help enrich the historic ties existing in many areas between Cuba and the countries of the bloc, based on mutual respect and understanding.”
This memorable reception took place in a pleasant atmosphere which made it an excellent networking occasion. An authentic Cuban buffet dinner was part of the evening. With open arms, Ambassador Soraya Alvarez Núñez and Mr. Eduardo Morales are welcomed.
