The historic Italian statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which holds great religious importance, has been returned to Italy from the Netherlands with judicial support from Eurojust. The religious artefact was stolen in 2014 from a church in Pastena on the Amalfi Coast and later bought by a Dutch collector. The Agency assisted the Italian authorities with the rapid execution of a European Investigation Order (EIO) to arrange for its return to the Pastena parish.
The historic Italian statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which holds great religious importance, has been returned to Italy from the Netherlands with judicial support from Eurojust. The religious artefact was stolen in 2014 from a church in Pastena on the Amalfi Coast and later bought by a Dutch collector. The Agency assisted the Italian authorities with the rapid execution of a European Investigation Order (EIO) to arrange for its return to the Pastena parish.
Monday, 4 December 2023, Bonn, NRW, Germany: The Franco-German Parliamentary Assembly held a session in the city of Bonn presided jointly by the Speaker of the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag), Bärbel Bas as well as the Speaker of the French National Assembly, Yaël Braun Pivet.
The session’s focus on educational issues brought the incumbent Plenipotentiary for German-French Educational and Cultural Cooperation Anke Rehlinger (Premier of the Saarland) to the podium as well as the French Minister of National Education and Youth Affairs, Gabriel Attal. The French Ambassador in Germany François Delattre was likewise in attendance. Other topics discussed included the European approach to Middle Eastern diplomacy, in particularly the engagements undertaken by the German and French diplomacies. The implementation of EU directives into German and French national legal frameworks were likewise raised.
The Franco-German Parliamentary Assembly consists of 100 members, including 50 members of the German Bundestag and 50 members of the French National Assembly, who are supposed to meet alternately in Germany and France at least twice a year. The inaugural session took place on Monday, March 25, 2019, under the leadership of Bundestag President Dr. Wolfgang Schäuble and President of the National Assembly, Richard Ferrand, in Paris. The basis for this institutionalized parliamentary cooperation is the Franco-German Parliamentary Agreement, which was adopted by the National Assembly on March 11, 2019, and by the German Bundestag on March 20, 2019. The parliamentary agreement is the result of intensive discussions by the Franco-German working group, established for this purpose on January 22, 2018, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Franco-German Cooperation (Élysée Treaty).
Tuesday, 12 December 2023, Berlin-Tiergarten, Germany: The Embassy of Azerbaijan in Germany organized a grand event at the Azerbaijan Cultural Center in Berlin, dedicated to the memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev. The event was attended by representatives of German state institutions, foreign ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, cultural and art figures, as well as members of the Azerbaijani, Turkish, and other communities living in Germany, with nearly 300 guests in total.
At the beginning of the event, a one-minute silence was observed in memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev.
100 years Heydar Aliyev – Picture by Embassy of Azerbaijan in Germany
Speaking at the event, the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Germany, Nasimi Aghayev, highlighted the significant and invaluable services of National Leader Heydar Aliyev in laying the foundation for modern Azerbaijani statehood. He noted that thanks to his efforts, civil conflict in Azerbaijan was prevented, stability was restored, and the country gradually embarked on the path of development. The Ambassador emphasized that the establishment of Azerbaijan’s independent statehood and the formation of a balanced foreign policy are associated with the name of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, and this policy is successfully continued by President Ilham Aliyev, resulting in the restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty throughout the entire country.
As part of the event, a portrait of Heydar Aliyev, painted by the young Azerbaijani artist Günay Shams, who resides and works in Germany, was presented. The artist provided information about the factors that inspired her to create this artwork.
Following the speeches, a concert was held featuring performances by the “Rain Virtuosos,” a chamber orchestra led by Anar Ibrahimov, a renowned Azerbaijani conductor, violinist, and composer based in Germany. The orchestra performed compositions by well-known Azerbaijani and European composers.
This event in Berlin paid tribute to the memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and celebrated his contributions to Azerbaijan’s modern history and its relations with Germany.
Two days ago, on 16 December 2023, three young Ukrainians could be sent back home from Russia, through the mediation of Qatar. This happened within the framework of the action plan of the President of Ukraine “Bring Kids Back UA”. Two Ukrainian teenagers, a 15-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl, could be taken out of the territories occupied by Russia and reunited with their mother. Another one was taken out of Russia through Georgia. This was reported on Telegram by Dmytro Lubinets, the Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights, who at the same time recalled that any information related to the deportation of children could be shared with him through various channels: hotline 0 800 50 17 20 – within Ukraine, 044 299 74 08 – for calls from abroad, e-mail: hotline@ombudsman.gov.ua.
On 16 October 2023, Qatar announced that four children from the age of two to the age of 17 years had been reunited with their families in Ukraine. The two-year old child had been deported from the region of Zhytomyr at the age of six months. Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs facilitated the accommodation of the children and their families in their embassy in Moscow during the operation. Their staff accompanied them to their destination, ensuring their safety, comfort and well-being. The trip was organized with several modes of transport, including a diplomatic convoy, a train, and a private charter plane through Qatar.
It is during a visit to Ukraine in July 2023 by Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani that Qatar agreed to a Ukrainian request to mediate with Russia on the return of children to their immediate families.
About the magnitude of the deportation of Ukrainian children
Since the beginning of the full-scale military invasion of the Ukraine, the Russian Federation has been carrying out forced mass displacement and deportation of Ukrainian children who, under various circumstances, were separated from both parents, other relatives or legal representatives, without providing the opportunity to return to the territory of permanent residence or reunite with family members.
The exact number of deported children cannot be established due to the ongoing full-scale aggression, difficult access to the temporarily exact number of deported children, it is impossible to establish the occupied territories, and the failure of the Russian side to provide reliable information.
According to the Russian Federation Commissioner for Children’s Rights Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia has “accepted” about 4.8 million Ukrainian residents on its territory since the start of the “Special Military Operation” (full-scale invasion war on Ukraine) and more than 700,000 are children. The Commissioner of the President of Ukraine for the Rights of the Child Daria Herasymchuk said that this figure is purposefully overstated by Russia which describes the operation as “evacuation and rescue of children” behind which the reality is the illegal forceful displacement of hundreds of thousands of children from the occupied territories.
So far, Ukraine has collected personal data on only 19,546 deported children. These are only children whose data – names, circumstances of deportation – have been established, so this figure does not fully reflect the real scale of deportation. Their number continues to grow.
These children have become hostages of the war as they are under the rule of the enemy, who is constantly trying to Russify them.
On 1 September 2023, the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Dmytro Lubinets, said that there is currently confirmation of the adoption of 386 Ukrainian children who were deported by the Russian Federation to its territories.
On 17 March 2023, the Pre-Trial Chamber of the International Criminal Court in The Hague issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Commissioner for Children’s Rights Maria Lvova-Belova for the war crime of unlawful deportation of population and unlawful transfer of population from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation, in prejudice of Ukrainian children.
The last three children repatriated on 16 December 2023. (Source: Instagram).
Qatar was the first international partner to return Ukrainian children
At the beginning of autumn 2023, Ukraine launched the implementation of the Project «Bring Kids Back UA», which is a comprehensive action plan that unites the efforts of all Ukrainian authorities, other states, international and non-governmental organizations for the return to their homeland of all Ukrainian children who were illegally deported by Russia.
As noted by Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets, during the full-scale war, Ukraine received many proposals from our international partners regarding the repatriation of Ukrainian children but the first country to be successful was Qatar.
According to him, this issue was debated at the forum in Jeedah (Saudi Arabia) in early August 2023. The Qatari authorities managed to persuade the Kremlin to return Ukrainian children, without putting forward any conditions that would relate to the national interests of Ukraine.
Commenting on the cooperation with Ukraine about the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani said: “Qatar mediates in various conflicts that are taking place not only in this region, but even beyond that. This is the basis of our country’s foreign policy and that’s the main element we’re concentrating on. We see this as the contribution of a small country to international peace and security.”
On December 4th, the Ambassador of Panama to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, H.E. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, presided over the celebration of the National Day of Panama in The Hague. The event brought together members of the diplomatic corps, international organizations, academics, friends of Panama, and Panamanians, marking the 120th anniversary of the birth of the Republic with a reception characterized by solemnity, solidarity, and patriotism.
In her address, Ambassador Neiman commemorated the courage, determination, and indomitable spirit of the Panamanian people, recognizing the historic events that shaped the nation’s identity and paved the way for independence and sovereignty. She highlighted key moments in Panama’s history, such as its proclamation of independence from Spain on November 28th, 1821, and the significant chapter on November 3rd, 1903, when the country separated from Colombian rule to assert absolute independence.
National Day of Panama 2023
Reflecting on these historical milestones, the Ambassador emphasized the Panamanian people’s ability to unite for a better future grounded in hard work, cultural diversity, and a shared commitment to achieving great goals. “Today, Panama stands out as a friendly, safe, vibrant, and continuously growing country with a thriving economy based on innovation and openness to the world.”
The Ambassador acknowledged the importance of international collaboration, particularly with the host country, the Kingdom of The Netherlands. “Over the past three years, bilateral agreements between national agencies, universities, and medical research centers have strengthened ties. The import of Panamanian products and Dutch investments continues to grow, exemplified by the repatriation of 343 pieces of pre-Hispanic cultural heritage, a historic return for both the Netherlands and Central America.”
Milciades Castillo Gonzalez, Head of Commercial Section, Jorge Corrales Hidalgo, Attache, Ambassador Ward Neiman and Renato Famiglietti Moreno, Second Secretary.
The Ambassador expressed gratitude for the contributions of Panamanians residing abroad, emphasizing their power, commitment, and love for Panama as crucial elements in strengthening cultural ties and contributing to the country’s development.
“On this special day, Panama reaffirms its allegiance to the principles of freedom, democracy, peace, and justice that have guided its history. The Ambassador extended National Day greetings to all Panamanians and friends, celebrating the rich history, diversity, and greatness of the country.”
Before the short award ceremony, Ambassador Neiman thanked sponsors, including Air Europa, Leonardo Hotel, and Diplomat Magazine, for their support. She then proceeded to recognize two special individuals from Panama and the Netherlands who have made significant contributions to Panama’s development or left a positive imprint on the country in the past year.
“Chef Roberto Torres, who provided the evening’s food, received recognition for his culinary contributions, promoting Latin gastronomy creatively at the renowned restaurant SELVA in Amsterdam. Vincent Westmass, a dedicated promoter of Panama and a friend of the Embassy, was acknowledged for his efforts in collecting rare Panamanian literature and cultural artifacts, as well as organizing tours to remote areas, promoting tourism among the Dutch.”
Panama Embassy’s team, first row Jorge, Johanna, Milciades, Sheila, Renato. Second row, Roberto Torres, Vincent Westmass and Ambassador Ward.
The Ambassador concluded the ceremony with a heartfelt appreciation for her Embassy team, recognizing Milciades, Renato, Jorge, Sheyla, and Johanna as the committed backbone behind the Embassy’s achievements. The evening closed with a round of applause for all those involved.
North Rhine-Westphalia’s Minister of Federal, European and International and Media Affairs Nathanael Liminski laid the foundation for new collaborations during his four-day trip to the USA. He was accompanied by the US Consul General in Düsseldorf, Pauline Kao. In the place where 13 families from Krefeld once founded the first German settlement in the USA, Minister Liminski initiated a new partnership with the non-governmental organization “Launch of Philadelphia” and signed a corresponding declaration in the presence of the former Mayor of Philadelphia, Dr. Wilson Goode.
“On the occasion of our NRW-USA Year, we want to further intensify transatlantic school exchanges and focus on socially disadvantaged students. Currently, there are already nearly 100 school partnerships between North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and the USA. They contribute to expanding horizons and fostering friendships. We want to make this opportunity available to even more young people in the future,” explained Minister Liminski.
Minister Liminski also agreed with the Governor of New Jersey, Phil Murphy, to exchange administrative experiences. “Especially in the energy sector, there is a lot we can learn from each other. This applies to the topic of hydrogen as well as the speed of planning and approval procedures. That’s why we want to strengthen the collaboration between our administrations,” Minister Liminski stated. Furthermore, Governor Murphy and Minister Liminski reached an agreement to enhance cooperation in exchange programs during vocational training, especially for companies with locations in both New Jersey and North Rhine-Westphalia.
Minister Liminski and Consul General Kao also met with the Secretary of Economic Development of Pennsylvania, Rick Siger, North Rhine-Westphalia’s partner state. Within the framework of the renewed Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between North Rhine-Westphalia and Pennsylvania in 2022, Minister Liminski identified specific areas of collaboration with Secretary Siger. They agreed to collaborate in the fields of hydrogen and vocational training. “Pennsylvania and North Rhine-Westphalia are strong industrial regions facing similar challenges. We have found concrete formats to learn more from each other on the path of transformation,” Minister Liminski stated. In Pennsylvania’s capital, Harrisburg, the delegation visited the company Phoenix Contact, which has its roots in Blomberg, Lippe.
Minister Nathanael Liminski: “North Rhine-Westphalia and the USA share a close and longstanding friendship. To inject new momentum into this relationship, we have declared the NRW-USA Year 2023/2024 under the theme ‘A perfect match.’ Our trip to the United States of America also served this goal. I have personally experienced the richness of our special connection to the USA in many places, and together with our partners, we have developed ideas to deepen this close friendship.”
Consul General Pauline Kao: “This packed four-day trip has convinced me more than ever that the people of North Rhine-Westphalia and the United States are deeply and enduringly connected, and it is indeed a ‘perfect match.’ It was especially moving to stand in the place where one of the original 13 families from Krefeld settled in Germantown, Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy. The relations between NRW and the USA are rooted not only in shared history and values but also offer numerous opportunities for concrete cooperation in various areas. When we join hands, we will further strengthen the transatlantic community, which is needed more than ever today.”
UN institutions in Bonn
Minister Liminski: “The North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) state government is convinced of the need to strengthen the UN Bonn location with its 26 resident UN organizations and to further enhance the international visibility of the federal city. During my conversation with UN Deputy Secretary-General Melissa Fleming, Liminski emphasized that our state is ready to support the establishment of additional UN organizations along the Rhine.
Furthermore, Minister Liminski conveyed the desire for Bonn to be utilized even more extensively by the United Nations as a conference venue. Liminski stated, “In this regard, too, we are prepared to offer support, particularly in terms of security and logistics.”
Congratulations to German Winners at the International Emmys
As the Minister of Media Affairs, Liminski also attended the International Emmy Awards ceremony in New York. “With four German nominations and the victory of the Netflix series ‘Die Kaiserin’ in the Drama Series category, we can be very pleased from a German perspective. These productions showcase Germany’s significant role as a film and media location with their diversity,” said the Minister.
He used both the event and meetings before and after the International Emmys to engage in discussions with media professionals from both Germany and abroad. “We have explored forward-thinking opportunities for deeper collaboration with US film producers and platforms like Amazon and Netflix, and we are bringing back important insights to NRW,” Minister Liminski added.
Background on North Rhine-Westphalia and the USA
With more than 1,700 companies, the USA is one of the most important foreign trade partners for North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and ranks among the largest foreign investors in the state. The official launch of the current NRW-USA Year took place on June 22 with an opening event commemorating the 247th Independence Day of the United States of America.
To celebrate Romania’s National Day, Ambassador Lucian Fătu hosted an extraordinary concert at Theater Diligentia in The Hague. The event showcased the exceptional talents of Romanian musicians Liviu Prunaru, a violinist from the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra in Amsterdam playing a 1694 Stradivarius and the soloist with the Romanian Radio Orchestra, Gabriel Croitoru, performing on a Guarnieri violin that previously belonged to composer George Enescu engaging in a unique duel. Pianist Horia Mihail accompanied them, creating a memorable trio.
Romanian violinists Liviu Prunaru and Gabriel Croitoru.
The concert, organized by the Embassy of Romania and supported by the Romanian Cultural Institute, drew a diverse audience, including members of the diplomatic corps, international organizations, the diaspora, and Dutch friends of Romania. The duel between the Stradivarius and Guarnieri resulted in a masterful performance, with Prunaru, Croitoru, and Mihail presenting a magnificent program featuring works by Bach, Enescu, Rahmaninov, Kreisler, Poldini, Halvorsen, Vieuxtemps and Bazzini. The audience, captivated by the magical sounds of these unique instruments, applauded enthusiastically, prompting multiple encores.
Following the concert, an animated reception provided an opportunity for guests to discuss and compare their appreciation for the two exceptional violins. The musicians engaged with the audience, fostering a friendly and warm atmosphere.
H.E. Philippe Couvreur ICJ, Mr. Alexandru Ion Steriu, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Romania, H.E. Mr. Jožef Drofenik, Ambassador of Slovenia, H.E. Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, Ambassador of Rwanda, H.E. Mr Greg French, Ambassador of Australia, H.E. Ms. Marisol Agüero, Ambassador of the Republic of Peru, H.E. Lucian Fatou, Ambassador of Romania, H.E. Mr. Viktor Biyagov,
Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia, the Ambassador of Ukraine, H.E. Mr. Oleksandr Karasevych, H.E. Mr Askar Zhumagaliyev, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ambassador of Costa Rica, H.E. Arnoldo Brenes Castro.
Ambassador Fătu, in his address, reflected on Romania’s National Day and highlighted the country’s historical journey since the World Wars. He also addressed the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, emphasizing Romania’s solidarity and active support for its neighbor. “Regrettably, this year my remarks must once again address the security and humanitarian crisis created in our immediate neighborhood by the illegal, unprovoked, and unjustified war of aggression waged by the Russian Federation against Ukraine. Today, we stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes to defend the principles embodying the values shared by European and NATO members.”
The ambassador underscored the robust relationship between Romania and the Netherlands, emphasizing the multifaceted role of Romania in addressing the crisis in the region. He acknowledged the support of the Netherlands and other partners in establishing Romania as a pillar of stability on NATO’s eastern flank. “However, that’s not the full dimension of Romania’s multi-faceted role in addressing the crisis. Since the war began, under the framework of the refugee response plan, more than 4.9 million border crossings to Romania have been recorded. Currently, 150,000 Ukrainian refugees enjoy temporary protection in my country.”
H.E. Mr. Askar Zhumagaliyev, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan
and the Ambassador of Ukraine, H.E. Mr. Oleksandr Karasevych.
Ambassador Fătu expressed Romania’s solidarity with the Republic of Moldova and other aspiring EU members, advocating for their accession negotiations. “We stand in solidarity and active support with the Republic of Moldova, one of the worst-hit regional collateral victims of this conflict by proportional size.”
He also condemned terrorist attacks and supported diplomatic efforts for peace in conflict regions. “We support and welcome the recommendation for EU accession negotiations for Moldova, Ukraine, Bosnia, and Herzegovina.”
H.E. Mr. Vusi Madonsela, Ambassador of South Africa and H.E. Mr. Diarrassouba Mifougo Youssouf, Ambassador of Cote d’Ivoire.
The ambassador concluded his remarks by recognizing the human dimension of Romanian-Netherlands relations and expressing gratitude to honorary consulates for bridging the gap between the two societies.”
To conclude my remarks, let me recognize tonight the human dimension of the Romanian-Netherlands relations, inspired by common values and aspirations, forming the bedrock of our multifaceted, sectoral cooperation. Every Romanian professional, student, and academic living here for longer or shorter periods, and every Romanian tourist visiting this country, feels connected to Dutch society and proud to be recognized as an EU citizen with equal rights and obligations.”
Madame Andrea Teunissen, Honorary Consul of Romania in Rotterdam and Liviu Prunaru, first concertmaster of the Concertgebouw orchestra in Amsterdam.
The concert, sponsored by Damen Holding BV, Ventune BV, Van de Waart Solicitors, was a fitting way to celebrate Romania’s National Day in the city of peace and justice.
The Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court held its twenty-second session from 4 to 14 December 2023 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
The Assembly was attended by States Parties, Observer States, the Court, international and regional organizations as well as non-governmental organizations. The Assembly held its General debate, enriched by the participation of ministers, international organizations and representatives of non-governmental organizations.
The Assembly held two thematic plenary sessions: one on cooperation and one on the Review of the International Criminal Court and the Rome Statute system. Numerous side events were held during the session. The Assembly adopted eight resolutions by consensus on the following topics: cooperation; the Review of the International Criminal Court and the Rome Statute system; the 2024 budget of the Court; amendments to the Rules of Procedure and Evidence; an amendment to article 39 of the Rome Statute; the implementation of a tenure policy; the election of members of the Committee on Budget and Finance; and the “omnibus” resolution which, inter alia, included the adoption of a due diligence procedure for candidates for elected officials of the International Criminal Court.
The Assembly elected six new judges for a term of nine years. – Ben-Mahfoudh, Haykel, Group of African States (Tunisia), list B, male; – Damdin, Erdenebalsuren, Group of Asia-Pacific States (Mongolia), list A, male; – Guillou, Nicolas, Group of Western European and Other States (France), list A, male; Twitter: @PASPKaukoranta For further information on the Assembly of States Parties, please e-mail to asp@icc-cpi.int – Hohler, Beti, Group of Eastern European States (Slovenia), list A, female; – Motoc, Iulia Antoanella, Group of Eastern European States (Romania), list B, female; – Paek, Keebong, Group of Asia-Pacific States (Republic of Korea), list A, male. List A judges have established competence in criminal law, while List B judges have competence in relevant areas of international law, such as international humanitarian law as well as human rights law.
The Assembly also elected six members of the Committee on Budget and Finance for a three-year mandate starting on 1 January 2024: Ms. Sanyu Awori (Kenya), Mr. Werner Druml (Austria), Mr. Fawzi Gharaibeh (Jordan), Ms. Mónica Sánchez Izquierdo (Ecuador), Ms. Elena Sopková (Slovakia), and Mr. Jun Yamada (Japan). In addition, the Assembly adopted a resolution to increase the number of seats on the Committee on Budget and Finance from twelve to seventeen, as of 1 January 2025, distributing the seats among the five regional groups in the following manner: African States, four seats (two additional seats); Asia-Pacific States, three seats (one additional seat); Eastern European States, three seats (one additional seat); Group of Latin American and Caribbean States, three seats (one additional seat); and Western European and Other States, four seats (same number of seats).
The Assembly adopted the 2024 programme budget of the Court with appropriations totalling € 187,084,300 and a staffing level of 972. The Assembly decided that its twenty-third session will be held from 2 to 7 December 2024 in The Hague. Further information about the session can be found at the website of the Assembly.
The Indonesian Embassy in the Hague held the Eastern Indonesia Festival on Saturday, December 2nd , 2023, at De Broodfabriek, Rijswijk, the Netherlands.
After last year’s success with the Indonesia Festival 10-11 December 2022 with more than 10,000 visitors, this year’s event has a special theme for Eastern Indonesia. This is not without reason.
Diaspora from among Eastern Indonesian communities, such as Maluku, Manado, Nusa Tenggara, and Papua, are the largest Indonesian diaspora groups in the Netherlands. However, the exposition has so far not been optimal, both in terms of social, cultural, economic, including culinary and creative industries. For this reason, the Indonesian Embassy in the Hague this year organized an event aimed at not only promoting but also serving as a communication and collaboration platform for Eastern Indonesian community groups.
“This Eastern Indonesia Festival is dedicated to provide a forum or a place for our brothers and sisters from the Eastern Indonesia diaspora community that enables them to meet each other, stay in touch, share and also show traditions and potential, be it traditional arts, culinary, and social cultural values. Living scattered in various regions in the Netherlands, here they can gather in reunion, and more importantly maintain the preservation of culture and traditions among the younger generation,” said the Indonesian Ambassador in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mayerfas.
Fifa Bunji cultural group
The festival was inaugurated on the sound of tifa beat made together by the Indonesian Ambassador accompanied by a number of representatives of the Eastern Indonesia diaspora community. Also present on stage was the Deputy Mayor of Rijswijk, Armand van de Laar. He expressed his appreciation over the spirit of togetherness of the Indonesian diaspora who have always been active in promoting their culture in the Netherlands.
The 2023 Eastern Indonesia Festival presents art performances as well as bazaars for food, beverages, and various MSME products.
Lima Diti Group – Indonesia
The event was held from 10:00 to 22:00, full of various interesting performances. The ‘Badansa dan Badendang’ stage is lively with entertainment, including: traditional dances of the Tanimbar Islands by Lima Diti group; a variety of dances from Maluku by Maropi Perowano and Sanggar Group Bina Budaya Moar – Holland; Sasando music by Amor Frans and Maureen Dumais, Tifa music by Culturegroup Tifa Bunji, traditional clothing performances of Malacca, Belu, Manggarai, Maumere, and Nagekeo by Bintang Timur.
In addition, visitors also crowded the front area of the stage and danced to songs performed by renowned bands such as Black Brothers and The Tuning, as well as well-known artists Roy Tuhumury and Yosina Roemajauw. The lineup of performers of more than 100 people are all the Eastern Indonesian diaspora in the Netherlands.
‘The Indonesian diaspora in the Netherlands is among the largest overseas. While in the Netherlands itself, diaspora groups from Eastern Indonesia has the biggest number. This is an asset that we need to optimize, promote, and continue to build as the strength of the nation. We need to involve them actively to support the promotion and strengthening of Indonesia’s positive image,” said Ambassador Mayerfas on the sidelines of his activities visiting the festival stands.
Around the stage, there is a ‘Mari Makang’ area where visitors can satisfy their longing for the taste of Eastern Indonesian food and drinks that are quite rare and not easy to find even though there are more than 420 Indonesian restaurants in the Netherlands. Papeda and Pindang Ikan Kuning, Sago Sep with Papaya leaf dish, sweet potato Olso Ikan Rica or chicken RW, and red bean ice are some of the various unique and exotic dishes offered at 11 culinary stands.
On the other side, there are 14 stands that offer a variety of MSME products from snacks, spices, to traditional clothes and handicrafts in the ‘Pasar Balanja’ area. The festival is also used to provide exposition opportunities for a number of community associations including SOEs, such as Indonesia Diaspora Network Netherlands (IDN-NL), Stichting Pelita, and BNI. In addition, as a media partner, IndoMe Podcast, a Dutch-language podcast platform targeting the audience of Dutch citizens of Indonesian descent, also opened a stand and did a coverage and interviews during this event.
The persistent rain, snow and subzero temperatures did not dampen the enthusiasm of the visitors. Thousands of them amassed the Bakerij I hall of the Broodfabriek enjoying the 2023 Eastern Indonesia Festival.
Eurojust has assisted the German and Italian authorities in a coordinated action against large-scale money laundering through the fake long-term rental of mainly luxury cars. Seven suspects were arrested across the two countries for using a car hire agency to launder the proceeds of drug trafficking, extortion and illegal betting for other criminals. The enterprise has been seized in addition to a real estate complex and nearly one hundred mainly luxury vehicles.
The criminal network primarily used a German-registered car rental agency, which rented out over 150 vehicles for periods of three to four years to customers in Italy. Via fake long-term rental contracts, German-registered luxury cars were delivered to the Italian clients, who paid for their monthly instalments with the proceedings of criminal activities. The arrested suspects are linked to the camorra mafia-type criminal organisation in Italy.
Both the judiciary in Germany and Italy started investigations into the case in 2019, with Eurojust enabling close cooperation between the authorities involved in the same year. This led to the setting up of a joint investigation team (JIT) in 2020, with the financial and organisational support of Eurojust. Six coordination meetings were also held to prepare for the action day this week.
Furthermore, the Agency assisted with the execution of European Arrest Warrants and freezing certificates. In addition to the arrests and the seizing of the vehicles and car hire agency, 14 German bank accounts totalling EUR 142 000 were frozen. EUR 25 000 in cash has also been seized, together with jewellery and watches. One Italian bank account has been seized, as well.
The operations were carried out at the request of:
Germany: Public Prosecutor’s Office of Cologne, with the support of the Customs Investigation Office Stuttgart, Police Headquarters Cologne and Tax Investigation Office Cologne
Italy: Public Prosecutor’s Offices of Cagliari and Naples, with the support of Guardia di Finanza Commands of Cagliari and Naples
