By Roy Lie A Tjam.
On the 118th Anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence, H.E. Mr. Jaime Victor B. Ledda, Ambassador of the Philippines and his wife Gina beautifully outfitted in a Filipino mestiza dress, cordially welcomed their guests. The turnout was superb, with large numbers of guests attending the event at the Marriott Hotel in The Hague to celebrate Kalayaan 2016.
The celebration took place on the 8th June 2016, a lovely sunny summer day. Among the guests were Ambassadors, dignitaries and friends. Ambassador Ledda explicitly welcomed colleagues who are observing the month of Ramadan.
Ambassador Ledda has reasons to be elated as the Philippine economy is thriving and a new President has been elected. Furthermore, the Philippines hosted the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in 2015. As for 2017, the Philippines envisage to chair and host the ASEAN, including the summits, on the occasion of the association’s 50th anniversary.
For additional Marian van Noort’s pictures, please open the following link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/121611753@N07/albums/72157667046895513
A resume of Ambassador Jaime Victor B.Ledda’s remarks follows hereafter.
On this day, we commemorate the collective stand our forefathers took to break free and fight for self-rule, resulting in the triumphant birth of the Filipino nation and our people’s independence. We continue the work of our heroes, and against every adversity and challenge, we grow stronger as a nation, united by our selfless love of our country and the strong sense of duty to ensure a brighter future for generations to come.
This year, the Philippines enters a new chapter in governance following the successful and peaceful conduct of the national elections that saw 80% of the voting population exercise their right to vote and elect a new President, and Vice President, legislators and local government officials.
Mrs Ginba Ledda, Ambassador Ledda and H.E. Janet Lowe, Ambassador of New Zealand.
The Philippine economy continues to perform very well. In the first quarter of this year the economy posted a 6.9% growth and maintained its standing as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, with forecasts of growth in 2016 of 6.8 to 7.8%.
Since 2013, the Philippines have been rated investment grade by credit ratings agencies – Standard & Poor’s, Fitch Ratings, Moody’s Investor Service. Foreign direct investments reached a record high in 2015 at over 6 billion dollars, an increase of 31.2% the previous year.
Through targeted programs aimed at improving education, health and poverty eradication, today, growth in the Philippines is more shared and more inclusive, allowing more Filipinos to live with the dignity that he or she deserves. Poverty incidence is now down by more than 2% at 26.3% from eight years ago.
The Philippines and the Netherlands mark a milestone in 2016 with the commemoration of the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, and the 150th anniversary of consular relations. Our relevant agencies, particularly our respective embassies, are holding commemorative activities for this year in Manila and in The Hague.
Mrs leena Salim Moazzan, Pakistan’s Ambassador spouse and H.E. José De Bouza Serrano, Ambassador of Portugal.
Trade has been an integral part of the relations and has flourished over time. The Netherlands is a top 15 trading partner of the Philippines and, significantly, the 3rd largest source of foreign direct investments in the past 10 years. The Netherlands was the number one foreign investor in 2015 (33% of total FDI) and likewise in 2012. Dutch companies have made great contributions in enhancing economic relations and have been invaluable in nurturing people-to-people ties.
Bilateral relations have also been strengthened over the years with exchanges of timely, high-level official visits, which include that of Her Majesty Queen Maxima in July 2015 to Manila, and the visits to the Netherlands of then-Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert del Rosario, Health Secretary Janette Garin and Agrarian Reform Secretary Virgilio delos Reyes.
At this moment, the Philippine government wishes to honor an exemplary Dutch couple who, through their organization the Heetens Helpgood Center Philippines (HHCP), have left an indelible mark on the lives of Filipinos through various community development initiatives for the past 25 years.
Today, by virtue of Executive Order 236 and with authority from the President of the Republic of the Philippines, I am pleased and honored to present the Order of the Golden Heart to Mr. Joannnes Antonius Maria “Jo” Schoorlemmer and Mrs. Geertruida Maria Paulina “Truus” Opgenoort Schoorlemmer of the Heetens Helpgood Center Philippines. The Order of the Golden Heart gives official recognition to Filipino or foreign citizens who have rendered distinguished services or given noteworthy monetary or material aid, encouragement to the campaign for the amelioration and improvement of the moral, social and economic conditions of the Filipino masses, and for volunteerism in the service of the Filipino masses.
H.E. Carlos Herrera, Ambassador of Peru, Mrs Tatiana Delvalle, Ambassador of Panama’s spouse, H.E. H.E. Aida Luz Santos de Escobar, Ambassador of El Salvador and spouse Mr Frank Escobar.
Let me conclude my remarks by inviting all of you to join me in a toast to the good health of Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III and H.M. King Willem Alexander and to the enduring friendship and prosperity of the Philippines and the Kingdom of the Netherlands and to all our dear colleagues and partners in the international community.
May we all have peace and friendship, health and wealth.
Thank you and Mabuhay!
A Ceremony of Merit for the Ambassador of Greece, Teresa Paraskevi Angelatou.By Viviana Knorr.
A much awaited day for the Diplomatic community happened on 10 June, as the Ceremony of Merit for H. E. Ms Teresa Paraskevi Angelatou, Ambassador of the Republic of Greece to the Kingdom of the Netherlands was held from 15:30 to 16:30 at Carlton Ambassador Hotel in The Hague.
In his welcoming speech Mr Roy Lie, Master of Ceremony for Diplomat Magazine recognised Ms Paraskevi Angelatou efforts for her contribution in enhancing the bilateral ties between her country and The Kingdom of the Netherlands, and in gratitude for her support to the Diplomatic Community and Diplomat Magazine by presenting the Certificate of Merit.For additional Kim Vermaat’s pictures, please visithttps://www.flickr.com/photos/121611753@N07/albums/72157667003626534H. E. Ms Teresa Paraskevi Angelatou, Ambassador of the Republic of Greece.
The Certificate of Merit is Diplomat Magazine’s official recognition to parting Ambassadors.
“Today, we honour Her Excellency H.E. Ms Paraskevi Angelatou, Ambassador of the Republic of Greece, an esteemed member of the vibrant diplomatic corps in the Netherlands. She was posted to represent her country at a challenging time and did a remarkable job both serving the interests of Greece and garnering support for the uneasy path that her compatriots had to pursue. Her Excellency successfully carried on the responsibilities during the Greek chairmanship of EU bringing more visibility and respect to her country …” H.E. Ms Dziunik Aghajanian, Ambassador of Armenia.
On the picture, Czech Republic Ambassador, H. E. Ms Jana Reinišova, the Ambassador of Poland, H.E. Jan Borkowski, Ambassador of Albania Adia Sakiqi and Latvia Ambassador, HE Mrs Ilze Ruse.́
Her Excellency was accompanied by Ambassadors from Albania, H.E. Adia Sakiqi, Cameroon, H. E. Mrs Odette Melono, Poland, H. E. Mr. Jan Borkowski, Romania HE Mrs. Ireny Comaroschi , Malta H. E. Mr. Joseph Cole, Slovakia H. E. Mr Roman Bužek, Czech Republic H. E. Ms Jana Reinišová, Latvia, HE Mrs Ilze Ruse, Sweden, H.E. Mr. Per Holmströmv, Lebanon, Ms. Abir Ali, Kosovo, Vjosa Dobruna, Burundi, Vestine Nahimana, Chile, H.E. Maria Teresa de Jesus Infante Caffi, and the honour speaker for the day the Ambassador of Armenia, H.E. Ms Dziunik Aghajanian.H.E. Ms Dziunik Aghajanian together with the Ambassador of Poland, H.E. Jan Borkowski.
The National Anthem of Greece proceeded that of the Netherlands for Ambassador of Armenia take the floor immediately for her speech.
“Ms Paraskevi Angelatou warmth together with her expertise has made her an invaluable interlocutor and a good friend who will be missed —together with her Greek temperament”, stressed her friend H.E. Ambassador Aghajanian, adding the humorous touch to the memorable moment.
Dr Mayelinne De Lara, Publisher of Diplomat Magazine, then awarded the Certificate of Merit to Her Excellency.
Ambassador of Malta H.E. Joseph Cole and Ms Abir Alir, Chargée d’affairs of the Embassy of Lebanon.“It was certainly a challenging time. Combined with our regular volume of work wiht the follow up of all European countries agenda it was not easy, everyone was waiting for us to accomplish the task. At the end we survived, and the Netherlands as the host country was willing to help mine. I’m glad that the work was well done, now my last task is the upcoming Presidential visit to the Netherlands. … but also I could not leave without recognising other welcoming group I met in the Netherlands, such as the “Ladies Ambassadors”. Her Excellency Teresa Paraskevi Angelatou enthusiastically remarked: “Whenever you are in search of extra sun, I will be in Tunisia as the next Greek Ambassador. Thank you for your friendship”, addressed Ambassador Paraskevi to her diplomatic colleagues at Carlton Ambassador Hotel.
Appetisers accompanied the short reception that followed.
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Mr Manolis Arvanitis, Director General of Diplomatic Card, H.E. Odette Melono, Dean of the African Diplomatic Corp and Ambassador of Cameroon and H. E. Mr Roman Bužek Ambassador of Slovakia.
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On 9-10 June 2016, Judge Silvia Fernández, President of the International Criminal Court (ICC), is visiting the Republic of Finland to meet with high level officials and highlight the importance of mutual cooperation in the fight against impunity for mass crimes. On 9 June 2016, ICC President Fernández met with the President of the Republic of Finland, H.E. Sauli Niinistö, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, H.E. Timo Soini, and members of the network specialising in human rights in foreign policy. During her visit, Judge Fernández delivered a keynote speech at a seminar on “The International Criminal Court – the Past, the Present and the Future”, organised by the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The seminar was also addressed by Foreign Minister Soini, former ICC judge Erkki Kourula, Minister Elisabeth Rehn, former Chair of the ICC Trust Fund for Victims, and Ambassador Marja Lehto, Senior Expert at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The event was attended by senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, judges, civil society and media.“Accountability is essential for addressing past crimes but also an essential element of prevention. We have to demonstrate that there are consequences for those who commit genocide, crimes against humanity. It is our duty to do our utmost to provide justice to victims of such acts”, said President Fernández at the seminar. The ICC President also thanked Finland for its support to the Court and added that ”this country has gone beyond its strict duties under the treaty in offering voluntary cooperation to the Court and making significant donations to the Trust Fund for Victims”.In his concluding remarks at the seminar, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, H.E. Timo Soini, said: “The goal of ending impunity for the most serious international crimes is high on the agenda of the Finnish Foreign Policy […] Without the feeling that justice is being done, peace and stability are hard to sustain. An effective system of international and national justice can also have a preventive function. It stands as a reminder to all those contemplating to commit such crimes that their actions will not be tolerated”.On 10 June 2016, the ICC President is scheduled to meet with the Minister of Justice and Employment of Finland, H.E. Jari Lindström, as well as representatives of the judicial system. The President’s visit to Finland highlights Finland’s support to the Court and the joint efforts deployed in the fight against the impunity of the perpetrators of the most serious crimes that affect the international community as a whole. Finland signed the Rome Statute on 7 October 1998 and ratified it on 29 December 2000. On 30 December 2015, Finland ratified the Kampala amendments to the Rome Statute on the crime of aggression and article 8. It has also ratified the Agreement on Privileges and Immunities and passed cooperation legislation with the Court. Furthermore, Finland is one of only eight States Parties to have concluded a framework agreement with the Court on the enforcement of sentences.The ICC investigates and, where warranted, tries individuals charged with the gravest crimes of concern to the international community: genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. The Court is participating in a global fight to end impunity, and through international criminal justice, the Court aims to hold those responsible accountable for their crimes and to help prevent these crimes from happening again.
The Hague Ethical Guidelines, facilitated by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to guide the responsible practice of chemistry under the Chemical Weapons Convention, have inspired the creation of a new Global Chemists’ Code of Ethics. The new global code was drafted by 30 scientists from 18 countries who gathered in Kuala Lumpur at a workshop funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Chemical Security Programme and organised by the American Chemical Society. “The Global Chemists’ Code of Ethics is the first international code to be drafted using the key elements outlined in the Hague Ethical Guidelines,” said Dr Kabrena Rodda, Technology and Policy Integration Specialist at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in the United States, who co-organised the initiative to draft the new code. “As a result, the code retains the high degree of flexibility that exists in The Hague Ethical Guidelines, so it can be adapted to a country’s local context as needed, while still addressing each of the key elements outlined in the Guidelines.” OPCW Director-General Ahmet Üzümcü welcomed this development. “The OPCW is working hard to promote a culture of responsible scientific conduct,” Üzümcü said. “The Hague Ethical Guidelines are intended to inspire future ethical codes. The fact that they served as a basis for the new Global Chemists’ Code of Conduct fully demonstrates their vitality and utility.”
By Roy Lie A Tjam.
H.E. Ambassador Elpidoforos Economou opened a photo exhibition with the theme, Famagusta: A European Ghost Town at Humanity House The Hague on Monday 6 June 2016. This exhibition has traveled around Europe and elsewhere and is now for the first time on displayed in The Hague
Ambassador Elpidoforos Economou welcoming and thanking fellow Ambassadors, diplomats, Humanity House, Walk of Truth, Dutch officials and other invitees for supporting the exhibition.
A special word of thanks went to Municipality of Famagusta, let by the elected Mayor of the City, Mr. Alexis Galanos and the members of the Municipal Council Mr. Hadjikakou and Mr. Berros.
Ambassador Economou embarked on highlighting the plight of the people of Famagusta.
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He stated:
‘At a time when the international community faces immense humanitarian crises which provoke an unprecedented number of refugees, the painful story of Famagusta demonstrates that displacement and the violations of human rights of the refugees can last for decades when those responsible are not held accountable for their actions. And there can be no doubt who is responsible for turning Famagusta, the once most prosperous city of Cyprus, into the ghost city of today, abandoned to the elements of nature and the ravages of time. The UN Secretary General in his Reports on the United Nations Operation in Cyprus, including the most recent of January 2016, stresses, and I quote, that “the United Nations continues to hold the Government of Turkey responsible for the status quo in Varosha” [end of quote], the area to the south of Famagusta which is sealed off by the Turkish occupation army since August 1974. ‘
The next speaker is the founder of “Walk of Truth” Mrs. Tasoula Chatzitofi, with a moving testimony, shared her personal experiences as a refugee from Famagusta, As a teenage girl she, her parents and siblings had to flee their hometown. She finally landed in the Netherlands in 1980.Furthermore; she spoke about her struggles to repatriate stolen cultural treasures from occupied Cyprus.
In his remarks, Mayor Alexis Galanos said that all refugees must return to Famagusta, now occupied by the Turkish army, adding that his vision is to see Famagusta becoming a prosperous city again.
The Mayor said that the Cyprus problem is a European one and a solution must be found the soonest that will contribute significantly to promoting security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Glannis Koutis, playing the oud/vocalist and violinist Prodromos Baklatizis.
A musical performance by Glannis Koutis, playing the oud/vocalist and Prodromos Baklatizis, the violin was part of the program.The performance was entirely dedicated to Famagusta. The function concluded with a viewing of the exhibition and a reception in the roof garden of the Humanity House,
The Government of the Republic of Cyprus has made a proposal which is still on the table for the return of the city to its lawful inhabitants under UN auspices. The proposal includes the use of the port of Famagusta by the Turkish Cypriots for direct trade under the supervision of the European Union.
Unfortunately, the Government of Turkey has not reacted positively to this proposal and continues to hold the city as a hostage away of its citizens showing a complete disrespect for international humanitarian law and continues to violate the human rights of the people of Famagusta.
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On the picture H.E. Bert Koenders Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands presenting the Kingdom’s canditature for a UN Security Council seat, Minister Ploumen in the background. The reception was held at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs in The Hague. Photography by Henry Arvidsson. See Diplomat Magazine most recent printed version: https://issuu.com/diploflying/docs/dm.summer.2016
On the first day of Ramadan, Ambassadors credited to the Netherlands came to The Hague to join the Minister of Foreign Affairs for a special meeting. H.E. Minister Bert Koenders set forth in a memorable speech his government’s approach to diplomacy, partnership and the intention of the Netherlands to be part of the UN Security Council.
Ambassadors not only from The Hague but from Brussels and London too listened attentively to Minister Koenders’ brilliant and enthusiastic dissertation about the Netherlands’ Security Council candidature for the period 2017 – 2018. He emphasised in particular the Dutch nation’s effectiveness, flexibility and pragmatism in the service of the international community, considering the interests of all countries, big and small.
H.E. Minister Bert Koenders listening to H.E. Ms. Rahma Salih Elobied Salih Ambassador of the Republic of the Sudan. Also on the picture the Ambassadors of Benin, Spain, Uruguay and India.
“Today I hope to tell you about our candidature, but also I want to hear from you about your own expectations. This is a sincere personal position and also an official decision – to represent not only ourselves but to represent you,” explained Minister Koenders. The Kingdom of the Netherlands, a UN member with roots in both Europe and the Caribbean, has extensive, proven experience in diversity and dialogue.
“We are living in a particularly significant time,” continued Minister Koenders. “We have an enormous amount of issues that we need to solve together. More than ever, diplomacy is at the forefront of the action and more than ever we have to find solutions as a whole. Today’s greatest challenges do not stop at our national borders; in our day they can only be addressed successfully with a commitment to global governance and the existing multilateral system.”“The major challenges facing the world, regarding the protection of civilians, women and children, migration, water, security and peace, can be only addressed from a global perspective, and the UN is the only system equipped to do it. The UN is not perfect; more work needs to be done to reach a further balance, to make the UN more representative and inclusive. We need to work on reforms, but the United Nations is the only global organisation for achieving peace and stability. It has the power and legitimacy to bring all parties to the table and the Netherlands will successfully contribute to that.”
Making reference to Dutch culture and customs, the Minister went on: “We are not mysterious people, we are often very direct, we can be frank and a little blunt at times. But we mean well and we stick to our promises.” The Minister described the Dutch as defenders of democracy and reliable partners, able to address international issues, ready to listen to the proposals of others and able to build solid partnerships with other countries. The country is focused on bringing back to the UN agenda the fundamental problems of the world with the pragmatic solutions everybody needs.
Dutch Foreign Affairs Minister H.E. Minister Bert Koenders presenting to the Head of Missions the Kingdom of the Netherlands canditature for a UN Security Council seat. The reception was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in The Hague, the Netherlands.H.E. Bert Koenders Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands presenting the Kingdom’s canditature for a UN Security Council seat. The reception was held at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs in The Hague.“We need new and smart coalitions and networks committed to taking the lead and finding creative solutions, without losing sight of the legitimacy broad participation brings. New and smart alliances are what the Kingdom of The Netherlands can offer, and I believe that’s where our candidacy distinguishes itself. We are serious about partnerships and about putting people first,” said the Minister.
The Kingdom’s ability to work in a multicultural arena is a natural competence, due in part to the Kingdom extending from Europe to the Caribbean to incorporate Curaçao, Aruba and St Maarten.
The Dutch and Caribbean people of the Kingdom are also intimately related to water. As Minister Koenders put it: “Water has helped shape our identity. Water connects people. Water is the basis, the source of all growth. But water doesn’t stop at borders, and when there’s too little or too much of it, water can be a great challenge.” The Minister noted that as with all global issues, managing water cannot be done by states unilaterally. It takes cooperation and long term vision, along with innovation, research, strength and perseverance.
“Through our history with water, we have learned to form bonds, to look beyond borders and build partnerships. Water is both our Kingdom’s strongest asset and its biggest challenge. Our Kingdom is surrounded by water on almost all sides,” the Minister added. “Water connects all countries in our Kingdom. Since the new constitutional order of 10 October 2010, the Kingdom of the Netherlands consists of four autonomous countries: the Netherlands, Aruba, Curaçao and St Maarten. Together, we are one UN Member State.”
The Dutch campaign for a seat on the UN Security Council is based on partnership, transparency and inclusiveness. As Minister Koenders noted, the values of peace, justice and development are integral to how the Dutch see the world.
“Why those three, together? For a simple reason: Development without peace is impossible. Peace without justice is untenable. And justice without development is no use to anyone.“Building lasting peace requires robust and long-term mandates. Since 1947, we have contributed over 125,000 personnel to more than 60 UN and UN-mandated peacekeeping operations around the world. We will continue our work to make peace operations more effective. First and foremost, we need more cooperation, and we need better cooperation, on the ground and between headquarters, between countries, regional organisations and local actors. Partnerships are crucial for us.“We can only achieve lasting and sustainable peace by promoting cohesion between diplomacy, defence and development. We support a strong focus on prevention, early warning and addressing the underlying causes of conflict. Particular attention is needed for the position of women and children in conflict.”
The Netherlands is one of the few countries in the world focused on building and promoting an international legal order. An increase in UN interaction with the International Court of Justice and other international organisations in The Hague will be a key priority of the Netherlands’ tenure on the Security Council.
“We will not lose sight of the fact that only 15 countries are members of the Security Council, while 178 are not. I pledge we will continue to be an approachable partner, now, after the election date, throughout a possible membership and after.” UN elections will be held on June 28.
H.E. Mr Hiroshi Inomata, Ambassador of Japan, H.E. Mr. Jonghyun Choe Ambassador of the Republic of Korea and H.E. Mr. Taher Hanafi Farahat Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt.Photography by Henry Arvidsson.
Rapport sur la stratégie d’achèvement des travaux du TPIY : Allocution du Procureur, Serge Brammertz, devant le Conseil de sécurité de l’ONULe Procureur, Serge Brammertz, a présenté aujourd’hui devant le Conseil de sécurité de l’ONU le 25e rapport de son bureau sur la stratégie d’achèvement des travaux, couvrant la période allant du 16 novembre 2015 au 15 mai 2016. Dans son allocution, il a fait le point sur les derniers procès en première instance et en appel ouverts devant le Tribunal, la coopération des États avec le Tribunal, et la coopération régionale en matière de poursuites pour crimes de guerre dans les pays de l’ex Yougoslavie.
Le Procureur a commencé son allocution en exposant l’état d’avancement des derniers procès en première instance et en appel menés devant le Tribunal, signalant que dans l’affaire Mladić, la présentation du réquisitoire et de la plaidoirie était prévue pour l’automne prochain et que dans l’affaire Hadžić, le Bureau du Procureur avait demandé qu’il soit mis fin à la procédure engagée contre l’accusé.
À propos de la coopération des États avec le Tribunal, le Procureur a regretté que « la Serbie se soit écartée de la voie de la pleine coopération avec le Tribunal ».
De même que le Président du Tribunal, le Procureur a rendu compte au Conseil de sécurité que la Serbie manquait depuis un an et demi à son obligation d’exécuter les mandats d’arrêt délivrés à l’encontre de trois personnes accusées d’outrage au Tribunal. Il a fait observer que, pendant l’actuelle phase finale des travaux du Tribunal, la coopération des États demeurait essentielle pour que celui ci puisse mener son mandat à bonne fin.
Le Procureur a également fait savoir au Conseil de sécurité que la tendance positive observée précédemment dans la coopération régionale était « apparemment en train de s’inverser ». « Un trop grand nombre de responsables politiques et d’autres personnalités publiques nient des vérités bien établies, ravivent les tensions ethniques et recourent aux slogans nationalistes du passé », a t il ajouté. Selon lui, si les dernières années ont connu de nombreuses évolutions positives dans le domaine de la justice pour les crimes de guerre tant sur le plan national que sur celui de la coopération régionale, la situation politique dans toute la région évolue actuellement dans la direction contraire.
En conclusion, le Procureur a confirmé que le transfert des responsabilités du TPIY vers le MTPI se poursuivait comme prévu par le Conseil de sécurité dans ses résolutions, et affirmé que son Bureau continuerait à suivre et à soutenir l’activité des tribunaux nationaux chargés de juger les crimes commis en ex Yougoslavie. Enfin, le Procureur s’est dit convaincu qu’afin de soutenir les efforts déployés sur le plan national en vue d’obtenir justice pour les crimes de guerre, il était important que son bureau partage l’expérience qu’il avait acquise et les enseignements qu’il avait tirés en la matière.
On the picture, H. E. Ambassador Aida Luz Santos de Escobar.Welcoming Ceremony for El Salvador as ICC new State PartyBy Viviana Knorr.
On Thursday 2 June at the International Criminal Court in The Hague the delegation of El Salvador headed by H. E. Ambassador Aida Luz Santos de Escobar, solemnly welcomed the audience to the remarkable event where the President of the International Criminal Court, Judge Silvia Fernández de Gurmendi congratulated El Salvador for its decision to join the Rome Statue.
The ceremony was held in the presence of the President of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), H.E. Sidiki Kaba, ASP Vice-President H.E. Álvaro Moerzinger, many ICC Judges and representatives of the Office of the Prosecutor and Registry. The ceremony was also attended by Ambassadors from Latin American and Caribbean countries accredited to the Netherlands.
For additional Kim Vermaat’s pictures, please open the following link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/121611753@N07/albums/72157666689137464
H. E. Ambassador Aida Luz Santos de Escobar, Ambassador of El Salvador, Judge Silvia Fernandez de Gurmendi, President of the International Criminal Court and the President of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), H.E. Sidiki Kaba.“There is a lesson to learn from these experiences. It is thanks to the active support of the 124 parties that our system has succeeded although we still need further support to achieve its global mandate”, stressed Judge Fernández de Gurmendi after adding that “A new chapter begins for El Salvador today” in reference to its participation in the assemblies and “where the nation would be playing an imperative role.”
H. E. Minister Sidki Kaba, President of the Assembly of States Parties, remarked further that “in bringing the number of States Parties to 124, El Salvador’s accession takes us closer to universality but also reminds us that we must step up our efforts to ensure that the Rome Statute family continues to grow.”The Ambassador of Senegal, H.E. Maymona Diop Sy and H.E. Maria Teresa de Jesus Infante Caffi, Ambassador of Chile.
A special edition of the Rome Statue was then presented by Judge Silvia Fernández de Gurmendi to H. E. Aida Luz Santos de Escobar preceded by a video message from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of El Salvador, H. E. Hugo Martinez where he expressed his fond wishes of peace and justice to continue promoting democracy in the Human Rights to avoid above all further barbaric acts that have shadowed our history.
In the closing speech, El Salvador’s Ambassador H. E. Aida Luz Santos de Escobar highlighted that the privilege her country has is even greater “for being the first one to be welcome in the International Criminal Court new installations in The Hague.”Mr. Agustin Vazquez Gemez, Minister Counsellor at the Embassy of El Salvador, H.E. Juan Jose Quintana Aranguren, Ambassador of Colombia and the Ambassador of Panama Willys Delvalle Velasco.“To count on a place in the city of justice and peace has been a goal leading to strengthen the effectiveness and the governing procedures of the instance”, H. E. Mrs. Santos de Escobar added to her closing words not without expressing her Mission’s permanent commitment to the ICC’s work as the newest Statue Party as well as their intention to continue efforts to achieve full universality of the Rome Statute.
A celebratory reception immediately followed.
H.E. Piragibe Dossantos Tarrago. Ambassador de Brazil, H.E Haifa issami Madah, Ambassador 0f Venezuela and Gabriel Aguilera Peralta, Ambassador of Guatemala.
On the picture Dr. Olga Galiardo Azzarello, H.E. Francesco Azzarello and H.E. Ankie Broekers-Knol, president of the Senate. By Roy Lie A Tjam.
On Wednesday, June 1st, 2016, H.E. Francesco Azzarello Ambassador of Italy in the Netherlands invited fellow Ambassadors, friends, the Italian diaspora and many others to celebrate Italy’s Republic Day (Festa Della Republica) with him.
This day marks the founding of the Italian Republic 70 years ago.
For additional Hester Dijsktra’s pictures, please open the following link:https://www.flickr.com/photos/121611753@N07/albums/72157666889216414H.E. Francesco Azzarello Ambassador of Italy welcome H.E. Mr. Abdulaziz Abdullah Abohaimed Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The actual date is June 2nd.The response to the invitation has been outstanding as diplomats and guests packaged the residence until late. It was Ambassador Azzarello’s last Republic Day celebration as Head of Mission in The Hague.
He will be leaving the Netherlands very soon. Interesting to note the Italian Embassy participates in a European Police cooperation, aimed at working closer in tackling issues as international human trafficking, illegal migration, drug trafficking. Etc.
Ambassador Azzarello and H.E. José De Bouza Serrano, Ambassador of Portugal.
Upon leaving the reception, guests could select from a number of interesting Italian publications including a cookbook “Pure Italian Cuisine” by Roberto’s –Terra, 1001 Italiani Storiae Storie di Italian nei Paesi Basi by Daniela Tasca, realized by the Embassy of Italy in cooperation with the Italian MFA and International cooperation.
Festa della Republica, The Hague
A resume of Ambassador Jaime Victor B.Ledda’s remarks follows hereafter.
On this day, we commemorate the collective stand our forefathers took to break free and fight for self-rule, resulting in the triumphant birth of the Filipino nation and our people’s independence. We continue the work of our heroes, and against every adversity and challenge, we grow stronger as a nation, united by our selfless love of our country and the strong sense of duty to ensure a brighter future for generations to come.
This year, the Philippines enters a new chapter in governance following the successful and peaceful conduct of the national elections that saw 80% of the voting population exercise their right to vote and elect a new President, and Vice President, legislators and local government officials.
The Dutch campaign for a seat on the UN Security Council is based on partnership, transparency and inclusiveness. As Minister Koenders noted, the values of peace, justice and development are integral to how the Dutch see the world.
“Why those three, together? For a simple reason: Development without peace is impossible. Peace without justice is untenable. And justice without development is no use to anyone.
“Building lasting peace requires robust and long-term mandates. Since 1947, we have contributed over 125,000 personnel to more than 60 UN and UN-mandated peacekeeping operations around the world. We will continue our work to make peace operations more effective. First and foremost, we need more cooperation, and we need better cooperation, on the ground and between headquarters, between countries, regional organisations and local actors. Partnerships are crucial for us.
“We can only achieve lasting and sustainable peace by promoting cohesion between diplomacy, defence and development. We support a strong focus on prevention, early warning and addressing the underlying causes of conflict. Particular attention is needed for the position of women and children in conflict.”
The Netherlands is one of the few countries in the world focused on building and promoting an international legal order. An increase in UN interaction with the International Court of Justice and other international organisations in The Hague will be a key priority of the Netherlands’ tenure on the Security Council.
“We will not lose sight of the fact that only 15 countries are members of the Security Council, while 178 are not. I pledge we will continue to be an approachable partner, now, after the election date, throughout a possible membership and after.” UN elections will be held on June 28.
H.E. Piragibe Dossantos Tarrago. Ambassador de Brazil, H.E Haifa issami Madah, Ambassador 0f Venezuela and Gabriel Aguilera Peralta, Ambassador of Guatemala.
