Smuggling migrants across the English Channels halted

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Smuggling migrants across the English Channels halted

Five High Value Targets arrested as one of the largest networks smuggling migrants across the English Channels halted

French and Belgian judicial orders executed in Germany led to 19 arrests and 26 locations raided following an over a yearlong joint investigation under Europol’s Operational Task Force Wave in an action day coordinated by Eurojust.

A large-scale operation involving law enforcement and judicial authorities from Belgium, France and Germany, coordinated by Europol and Eurojust, led to the dismantling of one of the most active networks involved in the smuggling of migrants across the English Channel in small boats. The investigation focused on an Iraqi-Kurdish network suspected of smuggling middle-Eastern and East African irregular migrants from France to the UK with the use of low quality inflatable boats. The German authorities deployed over 650 officers to the action day.

The action day on 21 February led to:

  • 19 arrests in Germany (7 under Belgian judicial order and 12 under French judicial order)
  • 5 High Value Targets (the leader and the main organisers) arrested
  • 28 locations (19 houses and 9 storage places) searched in Germany
  • Seizures include: 12 inflatable boats, 175 life vests + 81 flotation devices for children, 60 air pumps, 11 outboard mounts, 10 engines; almost 60 electronic devices, arms and several thousand euros in cash

The investigative activities, initiated at the end of 2022, identified the structure and modi operandi of this large criminal network, made up of Iraqi and Syrian nationals of Kurdish origin. The suspects, all based in Germany, organised the purchase, storage and transportation of inflatable boats for their subsequent use to smuggle migrants from the beaches near the French city of Calais towards the UK. The migrant smuggling network was highly professional. The suspects had set up their own logistical infrastructure with specific branches in charge of organising the delivery of large amounts of nautical equipment to the EU.

Drivers, who were typically active members of the criminal network, transported up to 8 boats at a time. During the transportation from Germany to France, a forerunner car secured the vehicle charged with boats, aiming to avoid police detection. The drivers were located in rest areas in Belgium because they drove the equipment to the spot at the time of departure. The investigative activities identified that the criminal network was able to facilitate up to 8 departures per night depending on the weather conditions.

Between EUR 1 000 and EUR 3 000 for a spot in a boat

The smugglers used low quality boats, mainly originating from China, transported via Turkey to Germany. The legal purpose of these boats may include fishing or sailing on rivers and city canals. When used legally, such boats would not be suitable nor safe for the transportation of more than 10 individuals. However, on average, smugglers put around 50 migrants in one of these boats. In total, the investigators have gathered evidence linking at least 55 departures that were facilitated solely by this smuggling network. The suspects collected between EUR 1 000 and EUR 3 000 per migrant for a place on the dangerous vessel. Further investigative activities are ongoing into the individuals managing the financial and money laundering activities for the criminal network. 

Migrant smuggling a continuously deadly threat

The migrant smuggling activities via small boats have continuously increased since 2019, before becoming in 2021 the most commonly used modus operandi for smuggling migrants from the EU to UK, surpassing smuggling in lorries. The criminal networks involved in the phenomenon remain extremely active, and are becoming increasingly violent while adapting their activities through the implementation of new crossing techniques. In parallel, the strengthened law enforcement measures led to a significant decrease of over 30% fewer incidents and migrants smuggled in the 2023 in comparison to 2022. In 2023, law enforcement authorities detected almost 61,000 irregular migrants attempting to cross the English Channel in small boats, compared to about 79,000 in 2022. However, during the same year, 30,000 irregular migrants (compared to over 47,000 in 2022) and 600 boats (compared to 1,100 in 2022) managed to reach the UK.

Dedicated Task Force at Europol to connect the dots

Following the successful outcome of the Operational Task Force Dune in July 2022, which led to the dismantling of the largest (at the time) network smuggling migrants from France to the UK via small boats, Europol set up a second Operational Task Force. OTF Wave targets migrant smuggling activities across the English Channel, a criminal phenomenon putting migrants’ lives at great risk. OTF Wave, coordinated by Europol, involves Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the UK. OTF Wave targets the full chain of smuggling activities – from the recruitment of migrants through to the logistical cells and up to the main organisers. The investigative activities focused on five High Value Targets, as the prosecution of these suspects is instrumental in dismantling  the criminal organisation as a whole. The dedicated Europol experts, who were fully involved in the work of the OTF, contributed to the identification of criminal connections between several national investigations.

The work of the national authorities’ members of OTF Wave was also enabled by the dedicated investigation cell (URO/CIC), set up by France and the UK, to specifically target migrant smuggling via small boats. Europol has a permanent deployment attached to this cell since its creation, in the aftermath of the tragedy unfolding in the English Channel in November 2021.  

Europol has established a dedicated financial instrument to facilitate such high-profile investigations. Under OTF Wave, Europol made over EUR 120 000 available to the participating countries to manage various aspects of their investigative work. Europol managed the overall coordination of investigative activities, while also organising over 10 operational meetings between the members of the Taskforce.

During the action day, Europol facilitated the deployment of 11 investigators from Belgium and 21 from France to several locations in Germany. In addition to these coordination activities, Europol deployed two Europol experts to the coordination centre in Cologne to assist the German authorities in cross-checking, in real time, operational information against Europol’s databases. The experts also performed digital forensics and supported the investigators in the field.

Active judicial cooperation by Eurojust to ensure compliance of legal procedure

Eurojust enabled the cross-border judicial cooperation. Three coordination meetings were organised to compile and exchange the existing information, to explore how to best cooperate without jeopardising each other’s investigations and to prepare for the joint action day. With the support of Eurojust National Desks, judicial authorities exchanged European Investigation Orders and European Arrest Warrants, and they carefully ensured that all legal instruments were in place to take action.

During the action day, the agency set up a coordination centre to facilitate the rapid cooperation between the judicial authorities. At the coordination centre, each participating country was represented by a member of its National Desk. Coordination centres provide a central hub for the real-time exchange of information during an operation, including the results of searches and interceptions. They also facilitate the quick resolution of any complex legal issues that may arise during the action.

Judicial authorities involved in the action day:

  • Belgium: Investigative Judge of West-Flanders, section Bruges; Federal Prosecutors’ Office
  • France: JIRS Lille (Interregional Specialised Jurisdiction) – Court of Lille
  • Germany: General Public Prosecutor`s Offices DĂŒsseldorf, Hamm, Köln, Naumburg; Public Prosecutor`s Office Bonn
  • Law enforcement authorities involved in the action day:
  • Belgium: Federal judicial Police of West-Flanders
  • France: French Border Police (OLTIM-Antenne de Coquelles)
  • Germany: German Federal Police (Bundespolizei)

Ireland St. Brigid Day Celebrations 2024

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Ireland St. Brigid Day Celebrations 2024

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Grote Kerk Den Haag was the site of the first St. Brigid Day celebration in the Netherlands on February 1st, 2024, which had a large turnout.

Fashion show at St. Brigid Day Celebrations 2024 in The Hague.

St. Brigid is the patron saint of Ireland and her feast day is celebrated on February 1st, which marks the beginning of spring. Since 2023, it has been recognized as a public holiday. This year, for the first time ever, St. Brigid Day was celebrated in the Netherlands.

Kilkenny Lundy School of Irish Dance – 2024 St Brigid Celebrations by the Embassy of Irelands.

Celebrating the creativity of women

The celebration of St. Brigid Day featured a fashion show and cultural show that showcased the works of Irish designers Helen Steele and Tara Garvey. The event also included performances by the Pablo Neruda Choir, harpist Rosie Murphy, and the Kilkenny Lundy School of Irish Dance. Additionally, a photo exhibit by Tourism Ireland was on display throughout the evening.

Guests at the St Brigid reception.

Who was St. Brigid. One of Ireland’s three Patron Saints, Ireland has three official patron saints, Saint Patrick, Saint Brigid and Saint Columba – also known as Saint Colmcille. However, Saint Patrick is the primary patron saint of Ireland.

Irish dances during St Brigid celebrations.

The Irish name Brigid can also be spelled Brigit or Bridget. Little is known about her life but from legend, myth, and folklore. According to tradition St. Brigid of Kildare, was born around the year 451 AD in Faughart near Dundalk, Co. Louth, and died c. 525 in Kildare.

Brigid founded the first convent in Ireland on Croghan Hill, Co. Westmeath. According to legend, Brigid travelled around the country founding convents and performing miracles.

One of the guests and H.E. Mr. JoĆŸef Drofenik, Ambassador of Slovenia.

St Brigid is accredited with first creating the unique cross which bears her name. This cross is normally hand created from rushes however occasionally straw is also used. The distinctive St. Brigid’s Cross design, made from woven rushes, is thought to keep evil fire and hunger from the homes in which it is displayed.

Saint Brigid is said to have been the one who came up with this distinct cross symbol, and that the design was inspired by the pagan sun wheel.

Harpist Rosie Murphy trio.

It is alleged that St Brigid has been venerated in the southern Netherlands for over 800 years by Dutch (farmers) in Noorbeek, Ommen, Ginneken, and Bavel through chapels, churches, and municipal coat of arms.

In his welcome speech, H.E. Ambassador Brendan Rogers  extemporaneously recounted the significance of St. Brigid, a remarkable woman priest and bishop, and the celebration of this day in recognition of women’s achievements in society.

Guests at St Brigid reception.

The fashion show was smashing, with young, innocent and unprofessional models, which added to its beauty. The same can be said for the dancers. Overall, it was a delightful celebration of the first St. Brigid Day in the Netherlands.

Photography by the Embassy of Ireland in The Hague.

Premier Malu Dreyer received the Israel’s ambassador and consul general

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Premier Malu Dreyer received the Israel’s ambassador and consul general

“Israel and Rhineland-Palatinate share an unbreakable friendship. The State of Israel is celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023. Premier Dreyer “was pleased to welcome the Israeli ambassador to the State Chancellery during the latter anniversary year and to reaffirm our good and trusting cooperation with him,” said Premier Malu Dreyer on the occasion of the inaugural visit of the Ambassador of the State of Israel in Germany, H. E. Prof. Ron Prosor.

“Rhineland-Palatinate and Israel have maintained friendly and close partnerships for many years. The focus is on international understanding, educational projects and student encounters as well as scientific and economic cooperation,” said the Premier. The country has had a business representative office in Tel Aviv since 2020. Since 1993, Rhineland-Palatinate has supported the Israeli-Arab-Palestinian meeting place Givat Haviva to promote Jewish-Arab coexistence. The 30th anniversary of the collaboration was honored with a ceremony in the State Chancellery in December 2023. Since 2018, there has been an Israel professorship at the Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz for better mutual understanding, which was founded by Premier Malu Dreyer. Since 2018, there has also been the Office of the Prime Minister’s Representative for Jewish Life and Anti-Semitism Issues.

These close partnership relationships are a good foundation for further strengthening and intensifying the friendship with Israel. “We want to continue working together on a good future, especially against the background of the terrible past,” said the Premier. These included, among other things, German-Israeli school partnerships and cultural cooperation between institutions in Israel and Rhineland-Palatinate, but also memorial work and culture of remembrance. The decisive fight against any form of anti-Semitism – as current examples have shown very clearly – remains an ongoing task for the state and society, said Premier Malu Dreyer. The current judicial reform in Israel was also a topic of discussion.

Prof. Ron Prosor has been Ambassador of the State of Israel since August 2022. Previously, he served, among other things, as Permanent Representative of Israel to the United Nations and Ambassador to the United Kingdom. He was accompanied by Talya Lador-Fresher, Consul General of the State of Israel for Southern Germany since September 2023, based in Munich.

For further information 

Government of Rhineland-Palatinate: https://www.rlp.de/service/pressemitteilungen/detail/ministerpraesidentin-malu-dreyer-empfaengt-den-botschafter-des-staates-israel-zum-antrittsbesuch

Raising our glasses to an excellent 2024

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Raising our glasses to an excellent 2024

King and Queen of the Netherlands Host Diplomatic Corps for New Year Celebration

In a gesture of international goodwill and solidarity, King Willem-Alexander and Queen MĂĄxima of the Netherlands graciously hosted the traditional New Year’s reception for the Diplomatic Corps and representatives of international organizations based in the Netherlands. The majestic event took place at the Royal Palace Amsterdam on Tuesday, January 16, marking a significant occasion early in the year for fostering diplomatic relations and cooperation.

The reception commenced with a grand procession as guests arrived at the Royal Palace, adorned in national dresses, uniforms, or elegant afternoon attire. They were received with the utmost respect and protocol, being presented to the King and Queen in the Troonzaal in order of precedence.

Following this ceremonial presentation, guests were invited to the Burgerzaal, where the King delivered a sincere speech, emphasizing the importance of nurturing strong diplomatic ties and collaboration. His words left an impression of a deep sense of responsibility towards global peace, justice, and sustainable development. In his address, the King underscored the Kingdom of the Netherlands’ commitment to active participation in international affairs, recognizing the invaluable role played by diplomats in advancing shared goals and addressing pressing global challenges.

Reflecting on the prevailing geopolitical landscape, the King expressed solidarity with regions affected by conflict and turmoil, notably highlighting the ongoing aggression in Ukraine and the suffering endured by civilians in Israel and Gaza. He stressed the imperative of finding peaceful resolutions to conflicts and reiterated the Netherlands’ dedication to working in partnership with the international community to promote stability and prosperity worldwide. “In my many conversations and meetings with you, one thing always stands out. Despite the big differences between the countries you represent, the similarities are even bigger. Each one of you is working hard to create a world in which young people can build a bright future for themselves.” He declared.

The King’s sentiments were echoed by the newly appointed Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, H.E. Ms. Sahar Ghanem, Ambassador of Yemen, who delivered her inaugural speech during this momentous gathering. With a somber acknowledgment of the challenges faced in the past year, particularly regarding international peace and security, Ambassador Ghanem called for concerted global cooperation to address crises and restore stability in conflict-ridden regions.

“We all were shocked and saddened by the catastrophic events in the Middle East, where thousands of civilians are killed and displaced, most of them are women and children.” She stated. “What is happening in the Middle East, Africa and Europe is alarming and proves that our continuous collective cooperation is essential to maintain a just and sustainable peace all over the world. What is happening across the globe is a lesson to be learned and considers as an open bleeding wound needs to be healed.”

Drawing attention to the alarming consequences of climate change, Ambassador Ghanem emphasized the urgent need for collective action to mitigate its impact and safeguard the planet for future generations. She urged diplomats to redouble their efforts in pursuit of sustainable solutions and reaffirmed their important  role in shaping a more equitable and peaceful world.

Mme. Beatriz Piza, Costa Rica spouse, Mme. Virna Mayerfas and H.E. Mr. Mayerfas, Ambassador of Indonesia, H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica, H.E. Mr. Askar Zhumagaliyev, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan and spouse, Mme Ainura Mami, Mme Amal Almasser and husband H.E. Mr. Ziad Al Atiyah, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia and spouse.

The gathering served as a reminder of the importance of diplomacy in fostering understanding, cooperation, and dialogue among nations. It encapsulated a spirit of unity and resolve as diplomats from diverse backgrounds and cultures came together to reaffirm their commitment to shared values and aspirations.

As glasses were raised in a toast to the new year, there lingered a sense of optimism and determination to confront the challenges ahead with renewed vigor and solidarity. The royal celebration underscored the Netherlands’ unwavering commitment to multilateralism and diplomacy as indispensable tools for building a brighter, more inclusive future for all. In the words of King Willem-Alexander, may 2024 be a year of progress, unity, and peace.

Finantial Institution involved in Money Laundering

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Finantial Institution involved in Money Laundering

Over 100 searches and four arrests in Latvia, Germany, France, Italy and Malta against financial institution involved in money laundering

National authorities in Latvia, Germany, France, Italy and Malta have carried out over 100 searches in a large-scale operation against a Russian-Eurasian criminal network and a Maltese-based financial institution allegedly involved in money-laundering services. Four suspects were detained during an action day supported by Eurojust and Europol. Potential suspects and witnesses were also interviewed in Latvia, Germany, Estonia and Malta.

During the actions, over 460 police officers were deployed to carry out the searches. Germany also deployed four officers to support the investigations and searches in Latvia and Malta. In addition to the arrests, various bank accounts and properties were seized.

The Maltese financial institution laundered at least EUR 4.5 million in proceedings from criminal activities since end of 2015. The total sum of laundered money could amount to tens of millions of euros. The financial institution and organised crime group (OCG) behind it offered money-laundering services via a network of fake enterprises and individuals who were registered directors, without performing any real business activities.

The OCG operated mainly from Riga and Berlin. Investigations were initiated in 2021 by the Latvian authorities after they noticed unusual money transfers from Latvia to the Maltese financial institution. Simultaneously, the German authorities had started investigations into suspicious money flows involving the same financial institution.

Eurojust supported today’s concerted action by setting up a coordination centre and establishing and funding a joint investigation team between the German and Latvian authorities. The Agency also organised five dedicated coordination meetings to prepare for the action day and assisted with the execution of European Investigation Orders in the countries involved.

On the action day, Europol deployed a money laundering expert to Latvia and set up a mobile office at Eurojust’s coordination centre to support the operation. Since December 2021, Europol has been supporting the investigation by providing operational and financial analysis and operational expertise. The Agency also supported the joint investigation team and provided financial support to the case.

Today’s operations were carried out by the following authorities:

  • Latvia: RÄ«ga Northern Prosecution Office; RÄ«ga Judicial Region Prosecution Office; 1st Unit of the Economic Crime Enforcement Department of the Central Criminal Police Department of the State Police
  • Germany: Public Prosecutor‘s Office Berlin (Staatsanwaltschaft Berlin); State Office of Criminal Investigations Berlin (Landeskriminalamt Berlin)
  • Estonia: Office of the Prosecutor General of the Republic of Estonia and Estonian Police and Border Guard Board
  • France: Public Prosecutor’s Office and Investigative Judge – Judicial Court of Nice; National Police (DIPN) Alpes-Maritimes Division (Judicial Police Nice; Research and Intervention Brigade; Financial Brigade) – Border Police
  • Italy: Public Prosecutor’s Office Rome; Guardia di Finanza, Financial Police Unit Rome (Nucleo Polizia Economica e Finanziaria di Roma)
  • Malta: Malta Police Force

Turkmenistan, UN Agencies Strengthen Partnership with Key Document Signing

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Turkmenistan, UN Agencies Strengthen Partnership with Key Document Signing

On 18 February 2024, a document signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between the ministries, departments, public organizations of Turkmenistan and the representative offices of the United Nations specialized agencies accredited in Turkmenistan including UNDP, UNFPA, and UNICEF.

During the ceremony, the following 22 documents were signed concerning cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United Nations in the fields of economy, health, education, mass media, as well as other important areas:

The list of documents, published on the official website of MFA Turkmenistan, is the following: 

1. 2024 Annual Work plan between the State Committee for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography of Turkmenistan, the Union of Women of Turkmenistan and the Representative Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan on the implementation of the UNICEF Country Program for Turkmenistan for 2021-2025.

2. 2024 Annual Work plan between the Prosecutor General’s Office of Turkmenistan and the Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan on the implementation of the UNICEF Country Programme for Turkmenistan for 2021-2025.

3. 2024 Annual Work plan between the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan on the implementation of the UNICEF Country Programme for Turkmenistan for 2021-2025.

4. 2024 Annual Work plan between the Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan and the Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan on the implementation of the UNICEF Country Programme for Turkmenistan for 2021-2025.

5. 2024 Annual Work plan between the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan and the Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan on the implementation of the UNICEF Country Program for Turkmenistan for 2021-2025.

6. 2024 Annual Work plan between the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and the Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan on the implementation of the UNICEF Country Program for Turkmenistan for 2021-2025.

7. 2024 Annual Work plan between the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of Turkmenistan and the Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan on the implementation of the UNICEF Country Program for Turkmenistan for 2021-2025.

8. 2024 Annual Work plan between the State Statistics Committee of Turkmenistan and the Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan on the implementation of the UNICEF Country Programme for Turkmenistan for 2021-2025.

9. 2024 Annual Work plan between the Institute of State, Law and Democracy of Turkmenistan and the Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan on the implementation of the UNICEF Country Program for Turkmenistan for 2021-2025.

10. 2024 Annual Work plan between the Office of the Ombudsman of Turkmenistan and the Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan on the implementation of the UNICEF Country Program for Turkmenistan for 2021-2025.

11. Amendments to the Project document “Strengthening the trade capacity of Turkmenistan, Phase II” between the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations of Turkmenistan and the Office of the United Nations Development Program in Turkmenistan.

12. Project document “Support to strengthening institutional and regulatory environment for financial markets development” between the Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan and the United Nations Development Programme Office in Turkmenistan.

13. Amendments to the Project document “Procurement of Medicines and Health Products for the Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCD) in Turkmenistan” between the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan and the Representative Office of the United Nations Development Program in Turkmenistan.

14. Amendments to the project document “Procurement of Health Products for the Control of Infectious Diseases in 2021-2023 for the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan” between the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan and the United Nations Development Program Office in Turkmenistan.

15. Work plan for Turkmenistan Country Component of the Regional Project on “Promoting Resilient Communities to Prevent Violent Extremism in Central Asia” between the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of Turkmenistan and the United Nations Development Program Office in Turkmenistan.

16. Amendments to the project document “Single Window for export-import operations” between the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the Representative Office of the United Nations Development Program in Turkmenistan.

17. Project document “Support to the development of a financial account to further introduce System of National Accounts 2008” between the State Committee of Turkmenistan on Statistics and the United Nations Development Programme Office in Turkmenistan.

18. Project document “Support in improving statistics of foreign trade in services, as well as in improving statistical information on the volume of passenger and cargo transportation” between the State Statistics Committee of Turkmenistan and the United Nations Development Program Office in Turkmenistan.

19. Project document “Assistance in Strengthening the Institutional Capacity of the Office of the Ombudsman of Turkmenistan” between the Office of the Ombudsman of Turkmenistan and the Office of the United Nations Development Programme in Turkmenistan.

20. Project document “Assistance in capacity building of the Central Commission for Holding Elections and Referendums in Turkmenistan” between the Central Commission for Elections and Referendums in Turkmenistan and the United Nations Development Programme Office in Turkmenistan.

21. Work plan between the State Committee of Turkmenistan on Physical Culture and Sports and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for 2024-2025.

22. Work plan between the Institute of State, Law and Democracy of Turkmenistan and UNFPA for 2024-2025. ///19 February 2024

Berlinale reception at the Representation of NRW in Berlin

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Berlinale reception at the Representation of NRW in Berlin

Traditionally, on the first Sunday of the Berlinale, the state government of North Rhine-Westphalia and the Film and Media Foundation NRW invited prominent guests to a large reception with around 1,000 guests at the representation of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia to the federal government in Berlin. The hosts were happy about the filmmakers who came from all over the world to the Berlinale.

Nathanael Liminski, Minister for Federal and European Affairs, International Affairs and Media and Head of the State Chancellery said as per statement linked below: “The Berlinale is once again the absolute highlight for international and German film this year. North Rhine-Westphalia has the backdrops, the know-how and the people to turn the big questions of our time into good films. I am pleased about the great creative potential of filmmakers from and in NRW. With the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW we have one of the strongest funding institutions in Europe. It was a particular pleasure for me to welcome the industry to the NRW Berlinale reception at the state representation together with the new managing director of the Film and Media Foundation NRW, Walid Nakschbandi. This was the right place to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the filmmakers and at the same time to establish new creative networks. I wish all film enthusiasts a good day at this year’s Berlinale.”

Opening by the Head of State Chancellery, Minister Liminski – Picture by Landesvertretung NRW, Phil Dera

Walid Nakschbandi, Managing Director of the Film and Media Foundation NRW: “Yesterday evening was a lavish celebration for the industry and showed once again that the Berlinale is unthinkable without the NRW reception. We are an important meeting place, a sought-after stage for creatives and networkers from North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, Europe and internationally. My thanks go to Media Minister Nathanael Liminski, together with the state we organized our event for the 21st time. I would also like to thank State Secretary Dr. Mark Speich, his great team in the state representation and, last but not least, my wonderful team in DĂŒsseldorf and Berlin. We are looking forward to an inspiring second half of the Berlinale and an exciting film year in 2024 – with a large proportion ‘made in NRW’, bien sĂ»r.”

In addition to the numerous guests, the teams from the eleven NRW Berlinale films were also the focus of the evening. Andreas Dresen and the cast from his new film were there, among others. Dresen’s contribution “In Love, Your Hilde” (Pandora Film), supported by the Film Foundation, celebrated its acclaimed world premiere on Saturday, February 17th. Also the teams of the competition entries by Matthias Glasner, “Die” (Port au Prince) with Corinna Harfouch and Lars Eidinger in the main roles and “Des Teufels Bad” (Heimatfilm) by Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala with, among others, Anja Plaschg celebrated in the state representation.

For further information 

Representation of NRW to the German Federation: https://www.land.nrw/pressemitteilung/baerenstark-1000-gaeste-aus-film-und-politik-der-nrw-landesvertretung

NRW Film and Media Foundation: https://www.filmstiftung.de/events/nrw-empfang-2024/

Reception for the corps consulaire accredited in Bavaria

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Reception for the corps consulaire accredited in Bavaria

Monday, 19 February 2024, Bavaria’s Minister of European Affairs Eric Beißwenger, together with the Head of the Bavarian State Chancellery, State Minister Dr. Florian Herrmann, welcomed the consular corps to a New Year’s reception in the dome hall of the Bavarian State Chancellery.

State Chancellery Minister Dr. Florian Herrmann said about the ocassion: “The wide range of consular representations in Bavaria shows: We are at home in the world and the world in Bavaria. The consular location is the largest outside of Berlin and represents the diversity of our country . We value the consuls as the first point of contact for the many bilateral issues that concern us. It is the excellent cooperation that creates the special spirit in Bavaria. Thanks to the consulates, which are indispensable bridgeheads from Bavaria to the whole world .”

French General Consul, Corinne Pereira da Silva, Minister Eric Beiswenger. Picture by Bavarian State Chancellery.


Each consulate is headed by a consul. They represent the interests of the citizens of the sending state, carry out official acts and maintain contact with the host country Bavaria in the political, economic and cultural areas.

There are 44 general and 72 honorary consulates in Bavaria. With 116 consular representations, the Free State is the largest consular location in Germany.

The entirety of all consular representatives is referred to as the consular corps. It is headed by a Doyen and a Secretary General.

For further information 

Bavarian State Chancellery: https://youtu.be/QTwq5GJuszE

Uzbekistan – HCCH Joint Event Building Bridges

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Uzbekistan – HCCH Joint Event Building Bridges

Roundtable on Democratic Transformations in Uzbekistan

By Roy Lie Atjam

On February 14, 2024, the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the Kingdom of Belgium and The Hague Conference on Private International Law jointly organized a Roundtable event titled “Building Bridges: Roundtable on Democratic Transformations in Uzbekistan” in The Hague.

The event was organised as part of the visit of an Uzbek delegation headed by Mrs Svetlana Artykova, Deputy Prosecutor General of the Republic of Uzbekistan, to the Netherlands.

The conference was held at the Permanent Bureau of the HCCH and was attended by a diverse group of individuals including politicians, parliamentarians, businesspersons, lawmakers, public servants and the representatives of media.

Mrs Svetlana Artykova, Deputy Prosecutor General of the Republic of Uzbekistan and Dr Christophe Bernasconi, Secretary General of the HCCH.

Dr Christophe Bernasconi, Secretary General of the HCCH, moderated and co-hosted the Round table, delivering a captivating introduction.

Dr Bernasconi briefed the audience on the outcomes of his several visits to Uzbekistan in recent years and the transformations he had witnessed during his participation as an international observer in the parliamentary and presidential elections in 2019-2023, as well as the nationwide referendum last year.

The keynote speakers included Mrs Svetlana Artykova, Deputy Prosecutor General of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Mr Kairat Abdrakhmanov, OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, Mr Jahongir Abdurasulov, Member of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, Mr Ali Marossi, Managing Partner of the Hague Centre for Law and Arbitration (HCLA), Mr Gayrat Fazilov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the Kingdom of Belgium and others.

The participants of the event were informed about the key directions of the “New Uzbekistan“ reform strategy, the core and significance of the updated Constitution and the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy, as well as the priorities of the multifaceted mutually beneficial cooperation with the European Union, in particular with the Netherlands.

The head of the Uzbek delegation Mrs. Svetlana Artykova in her speech paid special attention to disclosing the main directions of large-scale reforms aimed at ensuring human rights and freedoms, transparency of public administration, gender equality, development and strengthening of civil society institutions.

Roundtable on Democratic Transformations in Uzbekistan at the HCCH.

Mrs. Artykova provided a detailed overview of the legal and social transformations in the country, steps taken to establish a robust, independent judicial system, and emphasized Uzbekistan’s commitment to consistently pursue irreversible democratic reforms.

Mr. Kairat Abdrakhmanov, OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, welcomed the transformational processes taking place in Uzbekistan under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and expressed confidence that they would further enhance the well-being of society and strengthen social cohesion in the country and beyond.

“Uzbekistan has created conducive environment for all and equal opportunities for the effective participation of people in public life. During my last visit to Uzbekistan, I witnessed how the commitment of the Uzbek authorities to OSCE principles and values is bringing tangible results in the area of social cohesion and diversity within the country” stressed OSCE High Commissioner.

Mr. Jakhongir Abdurasulov, Member of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in his speech elaborated on budget reforms in Uzbekistan with the active participation of the public.

The participants were particularly interested in the launch of the Open Budget project, which represents a unique experience in allocating budget funds based on the real needs of the population.

Mr. Ali Marossi, Managing Partner of The Hague Centre for Law and Arbitration (HCLA), delivered a presentation on “New Horizons: How Uzbekistan’s Legal Reforms are Shaping Business Excellence. He analysed in detail the global significance of legal reforms in Uzbekistan. It was emphasised that the country’s evolving legal framework is strategically aimed at encouraging business innovation and attracting investment, creating fertile ground for economic growth.

The speaker noted that since 2016, the President of Uzbekistan has initiated a number of large-scale judicial, economic and arbitration reforms that have fundamentally changed the business environment in the country and laid the foundation for the active attraction of foreign investment.

According to Mr. Marossi, the Law on Investments of 2020 and the Law on International Commercial Arbitration of 2021, adopted in Uzbekistan, encouraged the attraction of foreign direct investment, provided better protection for investors, strengthened the arbitration system and brought the national legislation in line with international standards.

Uzbekistan Democratic Reforms round table at HCCH in The Hague.

Ambassador Gayrat Fazilov underlined that the implementation of large-scale reforms and democratic transformations in Uzbekistan under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev contributed to the intensification of country’s ties with European countries and the EU.

The Ambassador noted that the European Union supports the good-neighbourly regional strategy of Uzbekistan and the principles of independent, open, pragmatic and peace-loving foreign policy of the New Uzbekistan.

It was noted that the EU is a priority and reliable partner of Uzbekistan in promoting irreversible reforms and strengthening state institutions and civil society. Ambassador Fazilov emphasized that the Leadership of Uzbekistan is pursuing a course of rapprochement of the country and the region with the EU in all spheres from trade, investment and transport to cultural and humanitarian ties, mobility and people-to-people contacts.

It was emphasized that in recent years the relations between Uzbekistan and the EU have acquired a special dynamic and reached an unprecedented high level. The Ambassador informed the participants on the intensive bilateral and regional exchanges at the highest and high level between Uzbekistan and the EU in recent years.

The Uzbek delegation also touched upon the agenda of the Uzbek-European cooperation, as well as expressed hope for the early signing of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Uzbekistan and the EU, and the successful holding of the first ever EU-Central Asia summit in Uzbekistan in 2024.

The Building Bridges: Round Table on Democratic Transformations in Uzbekistan has been a success.

Premier Ramelow received Cuban emissary Juana MartĂ­nez GonzĂĄlez

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Premier Ramelow received Cuban emissary Juana MartĂ­nez GonzĂĄlez

7 February 2024, Erfurt, Free State of Thuringia, Germany: Thuringia’s Premier Bodo Ramelow received for bilateral conversation, the Cuban Ambassador in Germany, Juana MartĂ­nez GonzĂĄlez, in office since 7 April 2022. 

Ramelow belongs to the Left parliamentary group, which has spoken out in favor of more trade and scientific cooperation with Cuba. The export volume between the Free State and Cuba has fallen from around 5 million euros in 2012 to 586,000 euros in 2021. 

There are already initial collaborations in the field of medicine and biotechnology between the TU Ilmenau and the Friedrich Schiller University Jena with universities in Cuba. In the sports and tourism industry, however, there has so far been no exchange.

In the cultural sector, there have been repeated performances by Cuban musicians at the Rudolstadt Festival in the past. According to the data, Cuban students rarely go to Thuringia – only one to three were enrolled at a Thuringian university between the winter semester 2012/2013 and the winter semester 2021/2022.

For further information 

Government of Thuringia: https://staatskanzlei-thueringen.de/medienservice/veranstaltungsberichte/detailseite/ministerpraesident-bodo-ramelow-50ddaf2b6d031c981aabe43421f8e0a0

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