Border Crossing a New DM’s Diplomatic Academic Chapter
By John Kennedy Stewart.
International Relations and Academic diplomatic researcher.
When a publication like Diplomat Magazine -conceived by and for diplomats since June, 2013- achieves such a great success, when from Paris an international organization and diplomats contact Diplomat Magazine to help them emulate the same concept in France, one can realize how proud diplomats and volunteers behind Diplomat Magazine can feel. Not to say its 60,000+ and increasing readers of Diplomat Magazine in The Netherlands and around the world!!
As per Diplomat Magazine’s publisher says, its initial policy and feature also lies on the academic-research sections known as “Breaking News”, “Diplomatic Pouch”, and the ambassadorial blog at the top of the Web site where ambassadors and dignitaries are regularly invited to write. Moreover, in addition to these sections, in order to benefit the entire diplomatic corps, international organizations, the academia and the public in general, a new academic diplomatic chapter has been added to that list of monthly columns of Diplomat Magazine, called BORDER CROSSING (BC), edited by renowned international affairs & diplomatic researchers volunteering for Diplomat Magazine.
We invite you to take a look at our home page “Diplomat Magazine Production” section, or simply browse http://issuu.com/diploflying/docs/bordercrossing-ole_odgaard/1 to access Border Crossing. BC Publisher Eugene Matos De Lara (alumni of the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Civil Law and international relations researcher), editors and contributing writers will gather soon in Ottawa, Canada to officially launch Border Crossing in collaboration with Diplomat Magazine. After checking out Diplomat Magazine’s first printed version launched in November, 2014, http://issuu.com/yumipepijnudo/docs/binnenwerk_dm_small it is impressive to read who are its contributing writers, the rich content of the articles, the quality of its graphic design and last but not least the brilliant idea to combine a diplomatic magazine as an event diplomatic organizer, first of its kind in the Netherlands.
“A media leader covering a wide range of diplomatic events…one of the most important feature of the magazine it that it is edited and published for diplomats, a useful tool that facilitates our daily professional work” wrote about Diplomat Magazine on its introductory letter H.E. Carlos Jose Arguello, Ambassador of Nicaragua, Dean of the Diplomatic corps in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Note: Border Crossing was officially launched in Ottawa on 31st, January, 2015 at the impressive Chateau Laurier Hotel, besides the Rideau Canal and Canadian Parliament Hill.
IOM Annual Embassy Reception 2015
By Roy Lie A Tjam
The International Organization for Migration, IOM hosted their annual Embassy reception at the Carlton Ambassador Hotel on Thursday 29 January 2015.
A review issued by the IOM is hereto attached.
TRQN Volunteers Presenting Humanitarian Assistance Work During IOM NL Yearly Embassy Reception
At its annual New Year’s Reception in The Hague IOM informed guests about its work and established or renewed relations. The reception was well-attended by representatives from Embassies, Consulates and the Dutch government.
IOM highlighted its role in global emergency crises, focusing on vulnerable mobile populations or communities requiring assistance. Zhian Sarraj, medical doctor and Nesar Ahmad Seddiqi, Orthopedic Traumatologist, briefed the audience about their work in emergency situations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Both doctors participate in IOM’s Temporary Return of Qualified Nationals Project. They work and live in the Netherlands but return temporarily to their countries of origin to transfer their knowledge and offer practical training on the spot. In some countries their assignment can lead to their involvement in emergency situations.
Northern Iraq, overwhelmed by internally displaced people and Afghanistan, still facing instability and security incidents, are in need of acute medical assistance.
Both doctors offered their help. Dr. Sarraj worked with a team of the Kurdistan Medical Charity Foundation (KMCF) to provide medical assistance in refugee camps. Her work in northern Iraq was shown in a clip of the documentary Surprising Europe, to be shown of Dutch national TV.
Professor Seddiqi trained orthopedic surgeons of the Sardar Daud Khan and Shah Ghazi Amanullah Khan Hospitals in Kabul. Prof. Seddiqi showed the audience how he introduced new techniques to treat limb injuries as a consequence of landmines and bomb attacks, aimed at a complete reintegration in society. Both doctors stressed the importance of their specific skills in combination with their cultural background.
With projects such as TRQN, IOM develops the potential of the diaspora for the benefit of their native country. The project aims to contribute to sustainable development and reconstruction of nine target countries.
Doctor Zhian Sarraj and Doctor Nesar Ahmad Seddiqi.
IOM highlighted its role in global emergency crises, focusing on vulnerable mobile populations or communities requiring assistance. Zhian Sarraj, medical doctor and Nesar Ahmad Seddiqi, Orthopedic Traumatologist, briefed the audience about their work in emergency situations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Both doctors participate in IOM’s Temporary Return of Qualified Nationals Project. They work and live in the Netherlands but return temporarily to their countries of origin to transfer their knowledge and offer practical training on the spot. In some countries their assignment can lead to their involvement in emergency situations.
Northern Iraq, overwhelmed by internally displaced people and Afghanistan, still facing instability and security incidents, are in need of acute medical assistance.
Both doctors offered their help. Dr. Sarraj worked with a team of the Kurdistan Medical Charity Foundation (KMCF) to provide medical assistance in refugee camps. Her work in northern Iraq was shown in a clip of the documentary Surprising Europe, to be shown of Dutch national TV.
Professor Seddiqi trained orthopedic surgeons of the Sardar Daud Khan and Shah Ghazi Amanullah Khan Hospitals in Kabul. Prof. Seddiqi showed the audience how he introduced new techniques to treat limb injuries as a consequence of landmines and bomb attacks, aimed at a complete reintegration in society. Both doctors stressed the importance of their specific skills in combination with their cultural background.
With projects such as TRQN, IOM develops the potential of the diaspora for the benefit of their native country. The project aims to contribute to sustainable development and reconstruction of nine target countries.
VI President of Zambia elected
By Duke Michael of Mecklenburg.
On 23 January 2015, Edgar Lungu became the sixth President of Zambia after a close voting.
Mr Lungu is a former Minister of Defence, and prior to that held the post of Minister of Justice. He heads the Patriotic Front party. His win was the closest call in Zambian presidential voting history hitherto.
Zambia is a stable democracy, and the voting procedures are deemed to be free and fair by international standards. Now it is up to President Lungu to find, and expand ways to further increase economic performance to guarantee the flourishing of Zambia’s future.
Diplomat Magazine wishes a lot of successes to President Lungu!
India’s Republic Day in The Hague
On the picture H. E. Rajesh Prasah Ambassador of India and Jozias van Aartsen mayor of The Hague.
The Embassy of India in The Hague organized two events on January 26th, 2015 to celebrate the 66th Republic Day of India. Both began on Monday morning with a flag hoisting ceremony, followed by the National Anthem, at the Gandhi Centre in the presence of H.E. Mr. Rajesh Nandan Prasad, Ambassador of India, the staff of the Embassy of India, and distinguished guests.
Inside the Gandhi Centre’s main hall, H.E. Mr. Prasad read the President of India’s inspiring national address. A rendition of patriotic songs followed. Tea and refreshments were served to the attendees, including diplomats, dignitaries, and members of the Indian diaspora.
In the evening, the Embassy of India held a reception in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, The Hague. Guests were treated to a video of the Republic Day parade in Rajpath, New Delhi and the Tabla Ensemble with Lenneke van Staalen on the violin. The evening function attracted a significant audience; over two hundred and fifty people enjoyed this exceptional occasion.
For complete set of pictures, please open:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/121611753@N07/sets/72157650570138000/
In addition, to mark the Republic Day, the Embassy of India organized an Indian Food Festival at the Hotel Crowne Plaza in collaboration with said hotel and the India Tourism office in Amsterdam. This is the first India Food Festival of its kind and scale held in The Hague to popularize authentic Indian cuisine.
Renowned master chefs Shri. Prat Kumar and Shri. Arjun from prestigious five star hotels in India were present The festival started on January 23rd and concluded on January 26th.
History of India’s Republic Day
Republic Day is one of three national holidays in India, the other two being Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti. Republic Day is celebrated in New Delhi with a grand military parade, which starts at the Raisina Hill near the majestic Rashtrapati Bhawan, and continues along the Rajpath past India Gate.
The Prime Minister of India lays a floral wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti to honour the unknown soldiers. Then, the President’s Bodyguards on horseback escort the President of India to Rajpath where he joins other dignitaries to hoist the National flag. After, the National Anthem is sung and a 21 gun salute is sounded in honour of the flag.
Medals and awards of bravery are presented by the President to soldiers, civilians, and children. During the military parade, the President, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, takes the salute. The parade consists of multiple military regiments, vehicles, and Special Forces and is followed by tableaux exhibiting different cultural aspects of the various states and union territories of India.
The parade traditionally ends with acrobatics by the motorcycle units of the Armed Forces and a flypast by the Indian Air Force jets.
The Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi are broadcast nationwide by radio, television, and online live stream. It should be noted that all capitals of the different states have their own celebrations. The Republic Day celebration ends three days later on the evening of January 29th with ‘Beating the Retreat’, which is performed by the bands of the three military branches: the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force
In addition, to mark the Republic Day, the Embassy of India organized an Indian Food Festival at the Hotel Crowne Plaza in collaboration with said hotel and the India Tourism office in Amsterdam. This is the first India Food Festival of its kind and scale held in The Hague to popularize authentic Indian cuisine.
Renowned master chefs Shri. Prat Kumar and Shri. Arjun from prestigious five star hotels in India were present The festival started on January 23rd and concluded on January 26th.
History of India’s Republic Day
Republic Day is one of three national holidays in India, the other two being Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti. Republic Day is celebrated in New Delhi with a grand military parade, which starts at the Raisina Hill near the majestic Rashtrapati Bhawan, and continues along the Rajpath past India Gate.
The Prime Minister of India lays a floral wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti to honour the unknown soldiers. Then, the President’s Bodyguards on horseback escort the President of India to Rajpath where he joins other dignitaries to hoist the National flag. After, the National Anthem is sung and a 21 gun salute is sounded in honour of the flag.
Medals and awards of bravery are presented by the President to soldiers, civilians, and children. During the military parade, the President, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, takes the salute. The parade consists of multiple military regiments, vehicles, and Special Forces and is followed by tableaux exhibiting different cultural aspects of the various states and union territories of India.
The parade traditionally ends with acrobatics by the motorcycle units of the Armed Forces and a flypast by the Indian Air Force jets.
The Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi are broadcast nationwide by radio, television, and online live stream. It should be noted that all capitals of the different states have their own celebrations. The Republic Day celebration ends three days later on the evening of January 29th with ‘Beating the Retreat’, which is performed by the bands of the three military branches: the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force Liberation The Hague & Hilton close partnership
Photo: Frits Huffnagel, Chairman RG Ruijs Foundation and Jolijn Zealanders, Hotel Manager Hilton The Hague .
The Liberation Hague has partnered with Hilton The Hague. Frits Huffnagel, president of the organizing RG Ruijs Foundation, made the announcement that Hilton The Hague will provide the upcoming anniversary edition for the first time an exclusive VIP Lounge for the present captains of industry, politicians, sponsors and NGO’S.
Celebrating 70 years of liberation
Jolijn Zealanders, Hotel Manager at Hilton The Hague, is proud of the collaboration: “On 5 May, we celebrate that we live in freedom in the Netherlands. May 5 is also a day to reflect on the importance of freedom and to realize that freedom is fragile. For that reason we have decided to make this year the Liberation Hague embrace and facilitate the organization with a fully catered VIP Lounge for all organizations like us to celebrate 70 years of liberation! ”
For more information: www.bevrijdingsfestivaldenhaag.nl
Bemba et al. case: ICC Presidency constitutes Trial Chamber VII
On 30 January 2015, the Presidency of the International Criminal Court (ICC) constituted Trial Chamber VII, which will be in charge of the Central African Republic’s case of The Prosecutor v. Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo, Aimé Kilolo Musamba, Jean-Jacques Mangenda Kabongo, Fidèle Babala Wandu and Narcisse Arido.
Trial Chamber VII is composed of Judge Olga Herrera Carbuccia (Dominican Republic), Judge Robert Fremr (Czech Republic) and Judge Chile Eboe-Osuji (Nigeria).
On 11 November 2014, Pre-Trial Chamber II partially confirmed the charges of offences against the administration of justice for Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo, Aimé Kilolo Musamba, Jean-Jacques Mangenda Kabongo, Fidèle Babala Wandu and Narcisse Arido and committed the five suspects to trial.
The Chamber found there were substantial grounds to believe that the suspects committed offences against the administration of justice in connection with witnesses’ testimonies in the case of The Prosecutor v. Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo.
The offences, all allegedly committed between the end of 2011 and 14 November 2013 in various locations, would include corruptly influencing witnesses by giving them money and instructions to provide false testimony, presenting false evidence and giving false testimony in the courtroom, all perpetrated in various ways including by committing, soliciting, inducing, aiding, abetting or otherwise assisting in their commission.
Might by Amos Ben-Tal | OFFprojects
By Nicole Pierre.
I recently had the privilege of attending a rehearsal of the group OFFprojects who will be taking part in the CaDance Festival and was completely blown away by the way in which the piece awakened my senses and curiosity. Following the rehearsal, the dancers and choreographers were kind enough to talk to the attendees about the upcoming performance.
Located in the heart of The Hague’s cultural center, the CaDance Festival, a festival for modern contemporary dance, proposes a variety of premiers and special festival projects from already known, as well as upcoming, choreographers. The festival which starts on January 30th will have as its closing act, on February 13th and 14th, a particularly intriguing performance: Might by choreographer/musician Amos Ben-Tal and his group OFFprojects. The piece will be performed at the Theater aan het Spui in the center of The Hague.
Seven exceptional dancers from different nationalities will capture your attention as they move and intermingle through a maze of walls, constantly changing the space which is visually accessible to the audience. The experience for each spectator therefore proves to be uniquely different as the dancers appear and disappear, exhibiting different relationships and non-verbal dialogues. The performance is a sensual trip that explores notions of individuality and one’s personal space, thus bringing each individual face-to-face with pertinent questions about perspective and intimacy.
More information about the CaDance Festival and OFFprojects: Performance info: Might by Amos Ben-Tal | OFFprojects Cadance Festival / Theater aan het Spui Friday, February 13, 21:00 Saturday, February 14, 19:30 Tickets: €18 (€16 for online reservations)
Reservations: www.cadance.nl / 070 3637540
Bangladesh, land of opportunities
On the picture, H.E. Sheikh Mohammed Belal Bangladesh, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.
Bangladesh is a land of opportunity: Dutch investors share experience in the Investment Seminar on Bangladesh in the Netherlands. Bangladesh is a land of opportunity and enthusiasm. This was the recurrent theme that was echoed by a good number of Dutch investors in an investment seminar held in The Hague yesterday (28 Jan 2015). Bangladesh Embassy in The Hague hosted a seminar titled: “Bangladesh: Opportunities and Best Practices” organized in collaboration with Nyenrode University of the Netherlands.
Dutch investors were unanimous in their appreciation for the entrepreneurial spirit and high level of enthusiasm and commitment they happily witnessed in the people of Bangladesh. The investors, it seems, anchored their attention to Bangladesh as a “land of untapped potential with huge market size of its own.”
According to them, Bangladesh is slowly but surely emerging as the gateway to South Asia given its geostrategic location with both China and India on either side of her border.
Mr. Andre Nijhof of Nyenrode acted as the moderator of a lively panel discussion. Mr. Peter Van Bergen, proprietor of Budgetview and Impel IT solutions highlighted that he found the commitment of the people of Bangladesh as highly praiseworthy. Mr. Vicenta Ariza, representative of Maruboshi Europe BV in Bangladesh was very candid to say that he found “commitment” and “enthusiasm” of people of Bangladesh unparallel and his company would like to continue business with Bangladesh in the long run.
Professor Desiree, Associate Dean of Degree Programs at Nyenrode University reaffirmed their commitment to continue its partnership with Bangladesh as a country, in her words “represents the future of Asia”. Mr. Rene Beerepoot of RVO made a presentation on Dutch assistance for firms to expand their business in Bangladesh.
Overall mood of the audience was highly in favor of more investment and business with Bangladesh. Dutch investors in Information Technology, Logistics, waste management, water management, business consultancy etc participated in the event. Besides the business community, representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, CBI, RVO, PUM, Schiphol Airport, BangladeshNext have also attended the seminar.
Chinese navy ship visited the Netherlands
By Duke Michael of Mecklenburg.
On Monday 26th of January, the Dutch Chinese Young Entrepreneurs invited the Diplomat Magazine to a very special occasion. It was the first time in Dutch history that a Chinese navy ship travelled to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
After the two Chinese vessels arrived at the port of Rotterdam, they were open to visitors. During the opening ceremony, the scenery was covered with an ensemble of Chinese and Dutch flags, while both parties’ official representatives gave speeches.
In order to support and organise this very special event, the Chinese Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Chen Xu and his embassy staff were present as well. The Diplomat Magazine would like to thank all organisers for this exceptional occasion. In addition, we wish all the best to the Chinese Embassy and the Navy of Peoples Republic of China.
In order to support and organise this very special event, the Chinese Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Chen Xu and his embassy staff were present as well. The Diplomat Magazine would like to thank all organisers for this exceptional occasion. In addition, we wish all the best to the Chinese Embassy and the Navy of Peoples Republic of China. Armed assailant enters the Netherlands Public Broadcasting (NPO) building
By Mete Erdurcan.
On the evening of Thursday January 29th an armed assailant entered the building of the Netherlands Public Broadcasting and threatened the staff with a gun.
The assailant was dressed in formal wear, and demanded a few minutes of live broadcast on the 8 o’clock evening news. It was unclear what the goal of the assailant was, and on behalf of which group he operated.
He stated that he represented a hacker group, also stating that there were explosives. The letter that the assailant brought contained the statement that he worked together with five plus ninety-eight hackers and that in case the NPO would not give their full cooperation, they would ignite 8 heavy bombs containing nuclear material. The demands were as follow:
- the building will not be entered by the police
- the broadcast will not be interrupted or slowed down
- the broadcast will not be subtitled