On the picture H.E. Bruce Koloane, Ambassador of South Africa to the Netherlands.
The Hague, â February 15, 2017 âThe South African Film Festival, hosted by the South African Embassy in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry will run from 24-25 February 2017 with a closed screening and premiere of the feature length feature, âNoem my Skollieâ or âCall me Thiefâ on 24 February 2017.
Written by John Fredericks and directed by David Max Brown, âSkollieâ is a crime/drama set in the 1960âs based on the true story of a young man who ends up in jail and uses his gift for storytelling to barter his status with the prison gangs. On his release from prison he is roped into a murder trial and faces the hangmanâs noose alongside his childhood friends.
Four young boys on the cusp of manhood form a gang. The leader Abraham, raises his status in jail by captivating the hardened gangsters with his gift for storytelling and becomes the “prison cinema” whilst his childhood friend becomes the concubine of a gang boss. On their release ‘ABâ unites with his childhood sweetheart and aims to give up on his gang friends but they rope him into a crime for which they all face the hangman’s noose. Based on the life of the scriptwriter and set on the Cape Flats in the 1960âs.
The film was South Africaâs official entrant for the 89th edition of the Oscars in the Best Foreign language category and grossed substantial; earnings on the local cinematic scene in South Africa.
On 25 February, âAyandaâ, a movie by Sara Blecher which received generally positive reviews upon release and won a Special Jury citation at the 2015 Los Angeles Film Festival would be open for public viewing, free of charge.
In addition, two full length documentaries, Letters to Zohra as well as Leaving Mandela Park would also be aired.
âLetters to Zohraâ, by Henna Renfurm, directed by Saskia Vredeveld, tells the story of an unlikely revolutionary. Born into a middle class Indian family in South Africa, young Ahmed Kathrada sides with the oppressed black majority in the 1950’s. Arrested and convicted for high treason, he is sentenced to life imprisonment on Robben Island, together with Nelson Mandela. On the island, ‘Kathy’ and ‘Madiba’ become more than just friends: They become family. Ahmed Kathrada spent 26 years in prison. Following his release in 1990, he was elected to serve as a member of parliament, and becameformer President Mandela’s political advisor.
âLeaving Mandela Parkâ is an interesting documentary that focuses on the dreams of children who reside in Cape Townâs informal settlements. It tells the story of children with a unique drive to escape their socio-economic circumstances and in this regard music and dance becomes a focal point. The documentary was directed by Saskia Vredeveld.
The Mission has identified the South African film industry as one of the key industries that could be promoted in the Netherlands. It is thus proposed that a South African Embassy Film Showcase be held in January 2017.
The South African film industry contributes about R3; 5 billion annually to South Africaâs Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provide employment for more than 25 000 people.
In recent years, both South African feature and documentary films have won worldwide acclaim and the country has become a popular attraction for foreign audio visual production companies.
In addition to this, the film industry has been singled out in the National Development Plan (NDP) as a key sector for development as it could possibly generate even more income that could create jobs.
The Dutch film industry has been growing in recent years, in part to generous government support that has enabled it to develop a sophisticated film production industry and a keen interest in South Africa.
There remain room for a significant presence of South African films in Dutch cinema theatres and to this end it provides a unique opportunity for growth in the Netherlands.
Should you be interested in attending one or all three of the public screenings on 25 February 2016, please R.S.V.P to Mr Lindsay Louis/Ms Roxanne Martinho at;
info.thehague@dirco.gov.za/ martinhor@dirco.gov.za/ louisl@dirco.gov.za
Venue: Korzo Theatre, Prinsestraat 42, Prinsestraat, 2513 CE Den Haag, Netherlands
Time: 12- 7 pm
Timetable
24 February 2017
Closed screening for industry experts and VIP guests of âNoem my Skollieâ
25 February 2017
Ayanda                                   : 12:00-13:45 (Maximum 80 attendees)
Letters to Zohra                      : 14:15-15:15 (Maximum 80 attendees)
Leaving Mandela Park : 15:30-16:40 (Maximum 80 attendees)
On the picture H.E . Alireza Jahangiri, Ambassador of Iran to the Netherlands.
On the occasion of the 38th Anniversary of the Islamic Republic of Iran, H.E. Ambassador Alireza Jahangiri delivered a statement on 10 February 2017 during a commemorative event organised by his embassy.
Statement by H.E. Dr. Alireza Jahangiri, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
‘It is indeed my honor to welcome all distinguished guests who are present here today, on the occasion of the 38th anniversary of the victory of the glorious Islamic Revolution of Iran, which is our national day.
At the outset, for the sad demise of Ayatullah Hashemi Rafsanjani, the late former president and head of the expediency council of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the recent mishap of a building collapsing in Tehran which resulted in the death of a group of my compatriots, specially, several brave firefighters, may I announce one minute silence?
Following the shocking 2016 elections and referendums, the year 2017 is the year of landmark elections here and there. In May 2017, we have presidential election in Iran. Dr. Rouhani’s government has tried over the last three and half years to improve sustained cooperation with international community, in order to eliminate past misunderstandings. Signing the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and 5+1 and the will to implement it fully, is a good evidence for this approach which resulted in abolishment of the six UN Security Council sanction resolutions.
H.E. Mr Saywan Sabir Mustafa Barzani, Ambassador of Irak and Ambassador Jahangiri.
JCPOA as the miracle of interaction dialogue and diplomacy has resulted in removing the attempts for securitization of Iran in international community, as well as enhancing the comprehensive and balanced relations between Iran and other countries around the globe and engaging Iran, as the trusted and influential major player in the region, in international negotiations for solving the regional and international crisis..
Having recognized the flourishing capacity of Iranâs trade and economic prosperity the international community has been instrumental in taking a comprehensive approach to strengthening economic relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The Ambassador of Malaysia, H.E. Ahmad Nazri Yusof, Ambassador Alireza Jahangiri and spouse Maray Jahangiri and the spouse of ambassador of Malaysia, Syarizan Adzlinda Mohd Zin
In this trend, I would like to point out that the historical relations between Iran and The Netherlands has entered into a new phase during last three years. Several high ranking delegations have been exchanged between two countries in 2016, including the visit of Foreign Minister Zarif, Vice-President and head of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization and Minister of Agriculture to the Nehterlands, and the visit of Minister of Economic Affairs, and Minister of Infrastructure and Environment to Tehran, who were accompanied by hundreds companies which have had good results for both countries.
Launching online appointment scheduling and e-visas at our consulate have been a resounding success for ease-of-travel to Iran and are being further liberalized. New direct flight connections by KLM, in addition to Iran Air, have enhanced connectivity, and thus, tourism is booming.
The Netherlands was Iranâs fourth largest trading partner in the European Union in 2016. However, we should do more in 2017 in order to enhance our existing good relations even further and to cooperate in combating global challenges which threaten all of us including extremism, terrorism and, Takfiri mentality.
Islamic Republic of Iran, as the most affected country from terrorist activities, and as a pioneer for combatting terrorism is ready to cooperate with international community in this regard.
During the year 2016, we have tried to play our significant role in international organizations that their headquarters are here in The Hague, especially the OPCW. I hereby thank the presence of all members of International Organizations, including Ambassador Ahmet Uzumju, the Director General of the OPCW.’
After delivering his remarkable speech, Ambassador Jahangiri thanked his guests and invited all to enjoy a great selection of Persian dishes.
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 worldÂŽs 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.
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 yesterdayâs 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 NĂșñez, 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, Cubaâs new ambassador to the Netherlands, H.E. Soraya Alvarez NĂșñez, organised a reception to celebrate the 58th anniversary of the Cuban Revolution â which is officially and historically celebrated on the 1st of January every year.
Ambassador Soraya Alvarez NĂșñez , 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 NĂșñez 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 NĂșñez also paid homage to the departed leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro. A resume of what she said in her discourse follows:
âI 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 worldâ.
From left to right Mr. Edwin Abath, Director of the Department of External Relations for Aruba, H. E. Mrs. Soraya Alvarez NĂșñez, 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.âFidelâs 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 dayâ.âWith 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 aspectsâ.  .â   âThe 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%. âHowever; 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.ââIn 2017, it is expected that the GDP will grow 2% and great importance is placed in the need to boost foreign investment.ââIn 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.â H. E. Mrs. Soraya Alvarez NĂșñez, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba in the Kingdom of the Netherlands and H.E Mrs. Eunice Eisden, Minister Plenipotentiary for Curacao.âLikewise, 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 outlinedâ.âUnder the maxim âPromoting the sustainable development of the Greater Caribbean,â 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 timeâ.Â
âOther 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 RodrĂguez 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 Malmiercaâ.âIn 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 peoplesâ.âIt 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 societiesâ.âFinally, 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.â
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 NĂșñez 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
The Netherlands was Iranâs fourth largest trading partner in the European Union in 2016. However, we should do more in 2017 in order to enhance our existing good relations even further and to cooperate in combating global challenges which threaten all of us including extremism, terrorism and, Takfiri mentality.
Islamic Republic of Iran, as the most affected country from terrorist activities, and as a pioneer for combatting terrorism is ready to cooperate with international community in this regard.
During the year 2016, we have tried to play our significant role in international organizations that their headquarters are here in The Hague, especially the OPCW. I hereby thank the presence of all members of International Organizations, including Ambassador Ahmet Uzumju, the Director General of the OPCW.’
After delivering his remarkable speech, Ambassador Jahangiri thanked his guests and invited all to enjoy a great selection of Persian dishes.
âThere 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.â
âI 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.â
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: âThis evening is not only about food, it is about the Hungarian way of living.â
âIt 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.â
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 âBitterballenâ filled with paprika cream and goulash, canapĂ© with ham from Mangalitsa pork, canapĂ© 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 
Â
âThe 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%.Â
âHowever; 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.â
âIn 2017, it is expected that the GDP will grow 2% and great importance is placed in the need to boost foreign investment.â
âIn 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.â
Â
âIn 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 peoplesâ.
âIt 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 societiesâ.
âFinally, 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.â
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 NĂșñez and Mr. Eduardo Morales are welcomed.
