125th Anniversary Proclamation Philippine Independence: cooking demo

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125th Anniversary Proclamation Philippine Independence: cooking demo

Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan – Freedom Future History

By Roy Lie Atjam

Here are the welcome remarks by the Hon. Dr Rena Cristina Koa-Malaya at the cooking demonstration of Filipino Chefs Rolando and Jacqueline Laudico on 16 June 2023.

“On behalf of the Philippine Embassy team and the  Ambassador, I welcome all of you to today’s cooking demonstration and luncheon, which will let you experience Filipino culture and heritage through food.”

Filipino Chefs Rolando and Jacqueline Laudico

On-site cooking demonstrations are a great way to show off easy and delicious recipes featuring foods from one’s country. Demos are a good way to promote or highlight less common preparation methods.

Chefs Jacqueline and Laud demonstrated the preparation of Bistek Tagalog (seared beef tenderloin steak in pepper sauce served on sinangag garlic rice wrapped in bok chol topped with grilled onions) which incorporated locally -The Hague purchased ingredients. Also on show was the preparation of the dessert Suman(sticky rice cake layered with coconut cream panna cotta).

The cooking demonstration was part of the Embassy’s commemorative activities for the 125th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence. The venue was the garden of the Embassy.

Dr Rena Cristina Koa-Malaya continued to mention that “today’s event is extra special because we are proud to feature two renowned Filipino chefs who will not only cook for us today but also introduce you and give you more insights about Filipino food and tradition.   

Although its food might be relatively less known than some of its neighbours in Southeast Asia, such as Thailand and Indonesia, the Philippines is a source of the finest food products because of exquisite ingredients nurtured by its rich soil, varied topography, abundant sunshine, and from its diverse bio and marine diversity. Philippine food showcases a symphony of flavours, enriched by various influences from its Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American heritage, to mention a few. A few years ago, Chefs Andrew Zimmern and Anthony Bourdain (yes, him too) called Filipino food the “next big thing.”

I won’t go further in explaining  Filipino food as I am sure you will have an engaging time while our chefs share their knowledge and show you how Filipino food is done. Besides, aside from being discussed, food is better experienced. 

So let me now introduce you to our chefs this afternoon. Known as the Philippines’ “power culinary couple” Chefs Rolando and Jacqueline Laudico run several sought-after food establishments in the Philippines and are known for their innovations preparing, cooking, and serving Filipino food. Over the years, they have travelled extensively around the world to introduce Filipino food to various audiences. In fact, they have just been to Brussels where they were the featured chefs for the Philippine Culinary Week of the Philippine Embassy in Belgium. Before that, they were in Milan upon the invitation of the Philippine Consulate General.

Ambassador Eduardo Jose Malaya, Chefs Rolando and Jacqueline Laudico together with chefs attending the event.

Rolando Laudico, better known as Chef Lau, is a Dean’s Lister alumnus of the Culinary Institute of America in New York and has worked in numerous restaurants in New York, France, Sydney, and the Philippines. His love and passion for Filipino food have earned him local and international praise and a chef judge stint in the Philippine edition of the global hit cooking shows “MasterChef” and “Junior MasterChef” and in the Asian Food Channel’s “The Amazing Food Challenge”. 

Jacqueline Laudico, on the other hand, started baking at the age of five and has never stopped since. She has trained French master pastry chefs and is one of the country’s internationally awarded chocolatiers. Her advocacy for her native cuisine has taken her all to numerous food festivals. She continues to develop traditional and modern Filipino bread and delicacies. Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to introduce Chef Lau and Chef Jackie.”

What a delight to have the renowned Chef Lau and Chef Jackie with us in The Hague.

The cooking  demonstration was attended by the Ambassador of Sri Lanka,  Ambassador spouses, diplomats, friends of the Philippines and other spectators.

The guests enjoyed the dynamism of the Filipino cooking performance shown in front of them and were able to experience Filipino food culture.

Bangladesh Mango Fest 2023  

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Bangladesh Mango Fest 2023  

By Roy Lie Atjam

Mangoes are hanging like green pendants on trees across Bangladesh.

Mango, sweet mango is internationally venerated at festivals, street processions, and float shows. What is the importance of Mango Festivals? The main point of the Mango Festival is the celebration of the bountiful harvest.

Various mango seasons around the world are running between April and August. Popular mango-producing countries and regions are Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, the Caribbean, and the Philippines to mention a few.

H.E. Mr. Alexander Shulgin, Ambassador of the Russian Federation, his spouse Natalia Shulgina and the ambassador of Bangladesh, H.E. Mr. Riaz Hamidullah.

Bangladesh ranks seventh in mango production globally, producing nearly a hundred indigenous mango varieties. The mango season in Bangladesh starts around end-May and ends by early August. Most of the indigenous mango varieties have been distinct for their aroma, texture, and taste thanks to the soil and climatic conditions in Bangladesh.

As many in Europe yearn for authentic, quality and tasteful tropical fruits, on 20th June 2023, Bangladesh Embassy in the Netherlands organised a MANGO FEST at Bangladesh House.

Mango Diplomacy

Since last year, Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has started mango diplomacy. Sheikh Hasina recently sent 600 kg of mangoes as a gift to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to strengthen bilateral relations. The mangoes included both the Himsagar and Langra varieties.

Mangoes have historically played a role in soothing tense political relations between countries. Examples include Jawaharlal Nehru presenting mangoes to Mao Zedong and Sheikh Hasina sending mangoes as a gift to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

To get an idea of the international veneration of mangoes, there are more than 1,200 varieties of mangoes that come in many different sizes, shapes and colours. Some are heart-shaped, round, oblong and long.

The Dinamulag Festival also known as the Zambales Mango Festival is an annual festival held in the province of Zambales in the Philippines to celebrate the bountiful harvest of the province’s mangoes. Float parades, and street dancers clad in mango-inspired costumes are part of the celebrations.

The Dutch dignitaries and diplomatic corps in attendance were struck by the aroma and taste. Someone even termed the Bangladeshi mango as the “champagne of mangoes”.

All sweet and savoury items on display were mango-made and were creatively conceived and prepared by ladies at the Embassy, starring the murabba, green mango salad, mango custard, mango yoghurt, mango cake, mango halwa, mango Phiri, green mango juice (mildly blended with spice).

Bangladesh mango testing.

Further afield in the Caribbean, particularly in the twin-island state of Trinidad and Tobago, there are also mango events. The theme for 2023 is entitled “Mango, the Super Food, for the Inner and Outer Body”.

The lyrics of a popular folk song in Trinidad and Tobago say “Mangoes, mangoes, mangoes, give meh ah penny to buy mangovert, mango teen…” which goes on to list the many varieties of mango that are found on those islands. The Network of Rural Women Producers of Trinidad and Tobago (NRWPTT) in collaboration with the Faculty of Food and Agriculture of the University of the West Indies (UWI) will launch its 17th annual mango festival in July, showcasing Trinidad and Tobago’s various mangoes (70) and their economic potential. The festival also aims to boost the local tourism sector while fostering the expansion of the mango industry.

Bangladesh mango delight.

Gia Gaspard Taylor, president of the NRWPTT, said “The fruit lovers’ affair has also received backing from the Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference in Malta and the Commonwealth Women in Government Conference in Dhaka, Bangladesh” (17-19 June 2023). The 17th Trinidad and Tobago Mango Festival will take place at the UWI on the 16th -17th of July 2023, payinghomage to the King of Tropical Fruit, the Mango!

It is alleged that a former palace chef, John Higgins, told the National Post: besides duck and chocolate cake “The Queen really enjoyed mangoes”.

The ambassador of Bangladesh and the Ambassador of Suriname, H.E. Mr. Rajendre Khargi.

Mango, some call it a symbol of the joy of life. May the 2023 mango festivals in the Philippines, India, on the island of Nevis and other venues around the world bring joy to the heart of all mango lovers.

Kudos to the Bangladesh Embassy for showcasing and highlighting mangoes from their country. It is an excellent way to bring awareness, agriculture development and goodwill to Bangladesh mango production.

The twenty-fifth Good Friday Agreement Anniversary 2023

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The twenty-fifth Good Friday Agreement Anniversary 2023

Working Together to Fulfil the Promise of Peace

By Roy Lie Atjam

The Hague. The Irish and British Ambassadors in the Netherlands, Ambassador Brendan Rogers and Ambassador Joanna Roper, along with Leiden University – Faculty of Humanities jointly hosted a panel discussion on the 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement on 25 May 2023.

Introductory speeches were delivered by Ambassador Brendan Rogers, and Ambassador Joanna Roper followed by Mr. Joost van Dieren, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands.

From left to right, Katy Radford, Bronagh Hinds, David Cooney. Picture’s credit Leiden University.

The event brought together a panel of speakers who were either involved in the negotiations which brought about the Good Friday Agreement in 1998 or who have first-hand experience of Northern Ireland and insight into the outcome of the Agreement. The participants in the panel discussions were:

David Cooney, Secretary General of Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs from 2009 to 2014, former Ambassador to the United Kingdom, and a member of the Irish Government team for the negotiation of the Good Friday Agreement.

Bronagh Hinds, a key participant in the Good Friday Agreement negotiations for the Women’s Coalition and the former Deputy Chief Commissioner of the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland.

Dr. Katy Radford, Chair of British Council Northern Ireland’s Advisory Committee and UK Electoral Commissioner with responsibility for Northern Ireland.

Dr. Joost Augusteijn of Leiden University, the foremost specialist on Irish Affairs in the Netherlands, served as moderator.

British Ambassador, H.E. Joanna Roper. Picture by Leiden University.

April 10, 2023, marked the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement (GFA) also called the Belfast Agreement. The Good Friday Agreement is both a peace agreement and the basis for a reformed and inclusive Government in Northern Ireland. The vision of the Agreement is based on hope, inclusion, power sharing, and on peace and reconciliation.

The Agreement has led to sustained peace in Northern Ireland; addressed many of the issues that underpinned conflict during the previous decades and has now become a model for addressing other entrenched conflicts across the world. This is more pertinent in a context where we have witnessed the return of major inter-state wars to the European continent.

This anniversary year is an opportunity to reflect on the Peace Process and on the progress that Northern Ireland has made over the past quarter of a century. It is also a time to celebrate what was a transformative moment for Northern Ireland and the relationships within and between the two islands.

Northern Ireland has changed over the last 25 years.  In an increasingly interconnected world, it has become more diverse, more prosperous, and more outward looking. The Good Friday Agreement challenged our assumptions of what we once thought possible. It offered a pathway to a better future and has provided the foundation for a peaceful and prosperous society. It remains, despite difficulties and challenges, the foundation for a hopeful future as we look to what the current generation of leaders and peacemakers can achieve in the next 25 years.

From left to right, Joost Augusteijn (University Leiden), Katy Radford, Joanna Roper, Brendan Rogers, Bronagh Hinds and David Cooney. Picture credit Leiden University.

 The Ambassador of Ireland recounts his experiences as he said

“I am a child of what we euphemistically call “The Troubles”. I was entering my teenage years when Belfast and other Northern cities and towns burst into flames after the simmering resentments and discrimination of a couple of generations could no longer be contained. And coming from Dundalk on the border I could not shield myself from the physical reality of a murderous, inhuman conflict being waged a few miles down the road. Some of which I witnessed.

I was a student in Dublin and less than a kilometre from the bombs that tore the centre of Dublin in May 1974, killing 26 and injuring hundreds. It’s hard to believe that in 1972, 479 people lost their lives. 79 of those were 18 years or younger. Around 50, 17 or younger.

Proportional to population size, that is the equivalent of 4,311 Dutch citizens. The Troubles claimed 3,598 lives by the time the GFA was signed. Or, again, equivalent to 32,382 Dutch citizens.

The Good Friday Agreement or Belfast Agreement signed in April 1998, brought, for all intents and purposes the conflict to an end.

We are here today, as we have reached 25 years since the GFA to reflect on what has been achieved. We are also here to dialogue on how the Agreement has continued to shape the politics of Ireland, the relationship between the two islands and how it has itself been shaped by more recent events.

Our challenge in Ireland and the UK, and with our friends further afield, is how best to ensure that the peace, prosperity and well-being tare evident in the streets of Belfast today and which remains the reality for future generations in NI and indeed on the island of Ireland.

And with that, I look forward to listening to our excellent panellists here today. At an anniversary moment such as this one, it is important to take some time to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements, while also remaining mindful that the work of embedding peace, building prosperity and ensuring that everyone has a decent life must continue every day.”

The twenty-fifth Good Friday Agreement Anniversary 2023. Picture by Leiden University.

 The Ambassador of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland echoed these sentiments by stating: –

“It is important that we hold this event together with the Irish Embassy to reflect on the last 25 years and look forward.

The anniversary marks a historic and shared achievement for Northern Ireland and the UK and Irish governments.  In the 25 years since its signing, we still share a steadfast commitment to upholding the Agreement in all its dimensions, and the peace and prosperity it brings to Northern Ireland.  The nature of life on the island of Ireland is unique and the bilateral relationship and the continued dialogue between our countries is vital to maintaining it. If the last 25 years have been about peace, then we hope the coming 25 will enable us to focus on building upon that firm foundation to achieve even greater reconciliation and economic prosperity for all communities in Northern Ireland.

The Agreement itself commits to the achievement of reconciliation, tolerance and mutual trust. Twenty-five years on, we are no less committed to this aim. Although substantial progress has been made, we recognise that there is more to be done.  But today is a moment to recognise this shared achievement that has benefitted and continues to benefit all of Northern Ireland. Twenty-five years on, the Agreement is just as important today as it ever was.”

Panel discussion on the 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement on 25 May 2023 at Leiden University. Picture by Leiden University.

The event concluded with a showing of a short film from the British Council to mark the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, which brought together twenty-five young people from across Ireland and the UK.  Capturing the voices and sentiments of those impacted by the Agreement, this group of young people reflected on the last 25 years and consider what peace has meant to them. They looked forward to the next 25 years, and highlighted their hopes for the future, building on the foundation provided by the Agreement.

Diplomats at the commemorative event were the Ambassadors of, Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Rwanda, and other representatives from the diplomatic community, academia and civil society.

“A Perfect Match”: NRW-USA Year 2023/2024

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“A Perfect Match”: NRW-USA Year 2023/2024

Thursday, 22 June 2023, Düsseldorf, NRW, Germany: The state of North Rhine-Westphalia and the United States of America are linked by a history of around 340 years. With no other region outside Europe does North Rhine-Westphalia maintain comparable relations in politics, business, science, culture and society as with the USA. The state government would like to pay special tribute to this relationship and has proclaimed 2023/2024 the NRW-USA Year under the motto “A Perfect Match”.

The official starting signal for a NRW-USA Year with diverse events, festive receptions, concerts, cinema evenings and exhibitions was given on 22 June with a kick-off event on the occasion of the 247th Independence Day of the United States of America. The two hosts, U.S. Consul General Pauline Kao and Premier of NRW Hendrik Wüst, together with US Ambassador Dr Amy Gutmann and Minister of International Affairs Nathanael Liminski, will be inviting guests to the Ständehaus K21 to mark the occasion.

Premier Hendrik Wüst said as per statement linked below: “North Rhine-Westphalia and the USA are linked by a deep and long-standing friendship. Today, our relations are more lively than ever. Things simply fit between us – and this will be celebrated in the NRW-USA Year. At the same time, we want to further raise our profile as an innovative and dynamic business location this year and work together on sustainable solutions, especially with a view to transforming our economy towards climate neutrality.”

Dr Amy Gutmann, US Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany: “When President Kennedy came to Bonn in 1963, he said words of great significance: he called Bonn the capital and centre of the free world.

For our renewed German-American partnership after the war was born here on the Rhine and Ruhr. Former enemies became loyal friends who shared common values and interests. So the official partnership between North Rhine-Westphalia and my home state of Pennsylvania fills me with particularly great joy.”

With more than 1,700 companies, the USA is one of the country’s most important foreign trade partners and one of the largest foreign investors in North Rhine-Westphalia. There are 33 city partnerships, 98 school partnerships and 290 university partnerships, all of which ensure a vital and intergenerational exchange of people on both sides of the Atlantic.

Nathanael Liminski, Minister of Federal, European and International and Media Affairs: “At the latest since Russia’s attack on Ukraine, everyone should be aware of the value of our transatlantic friendship. The NRW-USA Year offers the opportunity to further expand our economic and value partnership. We want to build a stage for the people and associations that bring the transatlantic partnership to life every day.”

Pauline Kao, US Consul General for North Rhine-Westphalia: “US-NRW relations are already so multi-faceted. American players are at home in North Rhine-Westphalia’s professional sports clubs, students from North Rhine-Westphalia deliver top performances at American universities and city partnerships such as the one between Münster and Fresno have great appeal. On this foundation, we want to lead our relations into the future together. The NRW-USA Year is for everyone! Join in, share your story, let’s create a legacy together.”

For further information 

Government of NRW: https://www.land.nrw/pressemitteilung/perfect-match-ministerpraesident-wuest-und-us-generalkonsulin-kao-geben

U.S. Consulate General in NRW: https://de.usembassy.gov/consul-general-dusseldorf/

Piedmontese president Alberto Cirio tours NRW

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Piedmontese president Alberto Cirio tours NRW

Friday, 23 June 2023, Düsseldorf, NRW, Germany: Premier Hendrik Wüst received the President of the Italian region of Piedmont and partner region of North Rhine-Westphalia, Alberto Cirio, for talks at the State Chancellery. Topics of the exchange included perspectives for further cooperation, the challenges of transforming the economy and dealing with the consequences of the Russian war of aggression on Ukraine. European Affairs Minister Nathanael Liminski also partook in the meeting.

Premier Hendrik Wüst said as per statement provided below in its native German language: “North Rhine-Westphalia and the Piedmont region have a lot in common: a long industrial history, a comparable structure of the economy and similar challenges of industrial change. We can learn and benefit from each other on key issues for the future. With President Cirio, we have agreed to continue the successful exchange of expertise on the important topics of hydrogen, artificial intelligence, autonomous driving and agriculture. In addition, we are working together to bring young people from North Rhine-Westphalia and Piedmont together – for example, through the exchange of schoolchildren.

Minister for Federal, European and International Affairs and the Media, Nathanael Liminski: “Like North Rhine-Westphalia, our partner region Piedmont lies at the heart of Europe. Our common interest is a strong European Union. With our regional partnership, we strengthen cohesion in Europe and at the same time create clear added value for both partners – by working together on future issues, cooperating in Brussels and bringing young people together.”

The Italian region of Piedmont and North Rhine-Westphalia had laid the foundation for intensive cooperation with a partnership agreement in February 2022. The Piedmont region has 4.3 million inhabitants and is the largest mainland region in Italy in terms of area, with external borders with Switzerland and France. North Rhine-Westphalia is home to over 141,300 people with roots in Italy – one in four Italians living in Germany. With a trade volume of 23.8 billion euros, Italy ranks sixth among North Rhine-Westphalia’s trading partners, ahead of Poland and after the USA. Around 400 Italian subsidiaries with 16,400 employees are based in North Rhine-Westphalia. There are 17 city partnerships, including Cologne with Turin, Unna with Pisa, Bonn with Frascati and Oberhausen with Iglesias.

On his first visit to North Rhine-Westphalia, President Alberto Cirio was accompanied by Minister for Industry Andrea Tronzano.

For further information 

Government of NRW: https://www.land.nrw/pressemitteilung/ministerpraesident-hendrik-wuest-empfaengt-den-praesidenten-von-piemont-alberto

Region of Piedmont: https://www.regione.piemonte.it/web/amministrazione/organi/alberto-cirio

Embassy of Italy in Germany Ambassador Armando Varricchio: https://ambberlino.esteri.it/ambasciata_berlino/it/

Riflessioni in Athens

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Riflessioni in Athens

By Eleni Vasiliki Bampaliouta

The Italian Embassy in Athens and the Italian Institute of Culture in Athens present the art exhibition RIFLESSIONI by Antonello Ghezzi & Christina Nakou, in the garden of the Embassy.

On June 21, the day of the summer solstice, the “Riflessioni” exhibition was inaugurated in the garden of the Italian Embassy in Athens. The exhibition is the result of the meeting between the Greek artist Christina Nakou and the artistic duo Antonello Ghezzi (Nadia Antonello and Paolo Ghezzi).

Christina Nakou, Paolo Ghezzi, H.E. Ambassador Patrizia Falcinelli and Nadia Antonello.

Through their artistic dialogue, the artists attempt to highlight the Mediterranean as a place of reflection, a place that allows us to imagine and, above all, to remain human, accepting the fact that life is full of transformations and reflections. The exhibition draws inspiration from Nuccio Ordine’s book “The Threshold of the Shadow. An introduction to the philosophy of Giordano Bruno”, where spirituality is found in nature and where a connection of the individual reason with the universal is attempted.

The reference to Narcissus, the search for light in the shadow and nature as a kingdom of transformations and reverberations, are the main elements of inspiration that underpin the presentation of the exhibition inside the Embassy garden. The works invite visitors to listen to their inner world as a reflection of the universe and to experience the garden as a peaceful place in which they can tune in, becoming an invaluable part of universal Nature.

In her works, Christina Naku draws inspiration from the Byzantine mosaics of the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia in Ravenna and from the works of the Italian architect Carlo Scarpa in Venice. In the first part of the exhibition, a series of mosaics using the technique of opus vermiculatum, (i.e. with very small mosaics) are presented that depict the refraction of light in the sea and the emergence of colors and their infinite alternations. Presented in the garden, the works invite the visitor to wander through space and time, traveling towards the second part of the exhibition dedicated to the night.

The “Little Letter to J.”, is presented between the two tall cypress trees in the garden. A small round mosaic acts as a mirror that invites the viewer to face their reflection together with the sky, recognizing the vertical axis that connects us to the universe.
In the second part of the exhibition, “Reflections of the Universe” and “Sea-Night” draw inspiration from the reflections of light on water.

At the end of the exhibition, visitors encounter the work “Reflections of the Sea”, a large-scale work designed in silver on sheets of black sheet metal that evokes the nocturnal reflections of the sea. Set in front of a dark shallow pool of water that allows light to reflect, the work meets its reflection in the water, creating a vertical axis that connects us to infinity.

With this conceptual inversion, between the bottom and the top, we arrive at the work “Shooting Stars”, a sound installation by Antonello Ghezzi. Thanks to a live broadcast of the signal coming from the Northern Cross Radio Telescope, visitors will be able to listen to sounds coming from the atmosphere and in particular to hear the shooting stars live during their visit to the exhibition. Thanks to the frequent falls of meteorites in the part of the sky that covers the Mediterranean, the two artists from Bologna, bring to Athens a machine of wishes and emphasize the need to dream and wish something for the future.
Περισσότερα για αυτό το κείμενο-πηγή

The Ambassador of Italy in Athens, H.E. Mrs. Patrizia Falcinelli, emphasized the following in her speech at the opening of the exhibition:
“The main mission of the Italian Embassy in Athens is to create opportunities for meeting and cooperation between Italy and Greece in every field. For this reason, I am particularly happy to be able to host in the garden of our Embassy the exhibition “Riflessioni”, which originates from the collaboration of the Italian artistic duo Antonello Ghezzi (consisting of Nadia Antonello and Paolo Ghezzi) with the Greek artist Christina Nakou.The exhibition combines an original approach to the ancient mosaic technique (which both Italy and Greece preserve beautifully samples), with the sound installation “ShooTng Star”, which broadcasts live sounds from the universe.

Artists Nadia Antonello and Paolo Ghezzi.

The combination of art and technology, ancient techniques and science, seems to me to best represent the current reality of our two countries which, having been friends for millennia, they both look to the future, without at the same time neglecting their privileged relationship with the immense cultural heritage that unites them.

I hope the Athenian audience will appreciate these “Reflections of the Sea and the Sky”, which prompt us to reflect on our relationship with nature and our role in the Universe along with Giordano Bruno, whose philosophy has inspired some of the works.

While Mr. Francesco Neri, Director of the Italian Educational Institute emphasized: “I am happy that the Italian Educational Institute collaborates, together with the Italian Embassy in Athens, in the organization of the exhibition “Riflessioni”. Nadia Antonello and Paolo Ghezzi are two Italian artists who have collaborated with our Institute in the past, who will present their work this year at Kalamata International Dance Festival. Christina Naku, a Greek mosaic artist, is now collaborating with them to create an original work in which they recall the sea and the stars, in the light of the cosmic contemplation of Giordano Bruno, as presented by the philosopher Nuccio Ordine in his recent book ” Threshold of the Shadow”. Their meeting produces a fascinating work that encourages visitors to seek a deeper connection with nature and its transformations. I wish this beautiful initiative good success and I hope it will be the trigger for new collaboration experiments between Italian and Greek artists”.

Short biographies of the artists

Christina Nakou
https://christinanakou.gr / https://www.transiensnostrum.com
Christina Nakou studied painting, mosaic and sculpture at the Athens School of Fine Arts. She has presented her work in individual and group exhibitions and artistic ventures in Greece, France, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Austria and Italy. Next to her visual work, she has thoroughly researched and studied ancient mosaics, traveling throughout the Mediterranean.
Her work focuses on the materiality and process of the mosaic technique, proposing an interpretation of the works as material records of the fragments of time.
In 2021 she presented her works at the Archaeological site of Ancient Messina as a dialogue with the ancient monuments. In recent years he has been collaborating with the sound performer Anna Pangalou in the artistic project Transiens Nostrum.

Antonello Ghezzi
www.antonelloghezzi.com
Antonello Ghezzi is an artistic duo formed in 2009 by Nadia Antonello and Paolo Ghezzi at the Bologna Academy of Fine Arts, where they both studied.
Their research focuses on lightness and magic.
Their works, which have seen them exhibited in many parts of the world and in very different institutional spaces, try to make fairy tales tangible. A door that only opens if you smile, soap bubbles that tear down the walls, a wishing machine with shooting stars, small sculptures between lovers, starry skies of the future. Stairs, clouds and blue beacons that – thanks to Gianni Rodari – give us the green light to fly. As if they were winged sandals or mirrors that, like Athena’s shield, help Perseus face Medusa.


Information
The exhibition is hosted in the garden of the Embassy of Italy in Athens (entrance: Sekeri, 2 – 10674 Kolonaki).
The public will be able to visit the exhibition on pre-determined days and times until July 13, 2023, subject to online registration. After the opening night, the opening hours will be as follows:

Wednesday 28 June 20.30-22
Thursday    29 June      16.30-18
Monday 3 July 10.30-12
Wednesday   5 July       20.30-22
Monday 10 July 10.30-12
Wednesday 12 July 20.30-22
Thursday 13 July 16.30-18

International Day of Yoga 2023 Celebrated with Zest in Rotterdam

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International Day of Yoga 2023 Celebrated with Zest in Rotterdam

The 9th edition of the International Day of Yoga (IDY) unfolded in grandeur at Koninginnenhoofd Quay in the Port of Rotterdam on June 21, 2023. This vibrant celebration, organized by the Embassy of India in collaboration with the Port of Rotterdam Authority and the City of Rotterdam, marked a significant event as part of the “Ocean Ring of Yoga.”

Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: Unifying Power of Yoga

The theme for this year’s IDY was “Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” emphasizing the unifying power of yoga. Yoga, as a practice, has the extraordinary ability to bring people together, transcending boundaries.

International Day of Yoga 2023. Port of Rotterdam.

Innovative Events to Commemorate IDY

To make this year’s IDY unique, several innovative events were organized, including the “Ocean Ring of Yoga,” “Yoga from Arctic to Antarctica,” and “Yoga at North Pole and South Pole.” These events aimed to showcase the universal reach and inclusivity of yoga, transcending geographical constraints.

Global Yoga Celebration Led by Indian Prime Minister

In a remarkable display of commitment to spreading awareness about yoga, the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, led the yoga celebrations at the UN Headquarters in New York. This global participation highlighted the international recognition and importance of yoga as a holistic approach to health and well-being.

United Nations’ Recognition of Yoga

The United Nations officially designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014 at India’s initiative. This acknowledgment underscores that yoga provides a holistic approach to health and well-being and is beneficial for the global population. Since then, the International Day of Yoga has been enthusiastically observed worldwide.

The Ambassador of India with members of Port Authorities in Rotterdam.

Health Benefits of Yoga

Yoga offers a multitude of health benefits, promoting physical well-being, flexibility, balance, and mental calmness. Its positive impact is touching the lives of millions across the globe, making it a popular choice for those seeking a holistic approach to health.

Government Initiatives to Promote Yoga Worldwide

The Government of India is actively taking steps to promote the positive benefits of yoga globally. Initiatives like the International Day of Yoga serve as platforms to encourage people from all corners of the earth to embrace this ancient practice for a healthier and more balanced life.

Yoga Day 2023.

IDY Celebrations Across the Netherlands

The Embassy of India in the Netherlands has been actively celebrating IDY since 2015. This year, as part of the celebrations, yoga sessions were organized in eight cities, including Utrecht, Eindhoven, Amstelveen, The Hague, Rotterdam, Roermond, Wageningen, and Leeuwarden. More than 1000 people joined these events, contributing to the global celebration of the unifying power of yoga.

The celebration of the International Day of Yoga in Rotterdam and around the world underscores the significance of this ancient practice in promoting harmony, well-being, and a sense of global kinship. As yoga continues to weave its way into the fabric of diverse societies, its impact on the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of individuals remains undeniable.

Canada: Dean Diplomatic Corps recognizes DR professor

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Canada: Dean Diplomatic Corps recognizes DR professor

OTTAWA, Canada.- H.E. Ambassador Kamal Bashah Ahmad, dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Canada, granted special recognition for the second time to the Dominican Eugene Matos G., professor of public diplomacy at the University of Ottawa and a law graduate from the Law School of that institution.

“I am pleased to present this scroll to Dr. Matos, a long-time diplomat and one of the first public diplomacy specialists in the Americas, who has been a collaborator for more than three decades on behalf of our diplomatic and consular corps in Canada,” Kamal Ahmad said.

The delivery took place on the occasion of the 4th Canada’s Ambassadors of the Year Awards Ceremony, held at the Professional Development Institute of the University of Ottawa.

The event was attended by 48 ambassadors accredited to Canada, senior officials of the Canadian Foreign Ministry, representatives of international organizations, members of the consular corps, the Canadian press and special guests.

Other merit awards were received by the Director of Protocol of the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Civil Law at the University of Ottawa and the publisher of The Hill Times newspaper.

Hellenic Cultural Diplomacy an interview with Peter Dennis Kapsaskis

Diplomat Magazine
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Hellenic Cultural Diplomacy an interview with Peter Dennis Kapsaskis

By Eleni Vasiliki Bampaliouta

The Hellenic Institute of Cultural Diplomacy  is a Greek scientific non-governmental organization, which was founded in Athens on March 25, 2017 and is the first and only body for research, study and dissemination of Cultural Diplomacy in Greece. The activity of the Institute is developed in cooperation with private and public government bodies, academic institutions and scientific institutes in Greece and abroad. It has branches in different cities of Greece and abroad that develop autonomous and varied cultural activities, but guided by the general needs and directions of the Institute, as these arise from the organization’s central administration in Athens. It has branches in America, Denmark, Italy (3), Georgia, Armenia, Albania, Belgium, France, United Kingdom, Egypt, Germany.

On the occasion of the celebration of 6 years since the founding of the Hellenic Institute of Cultural Diplomacy, the Diplomatic Magazine hosted an interesting interview with the President & Founder Hellenic Institute of Cultural Diplomacy Mr. Peter Dennis Kapsaskis.

Hellenic Cultural Diplomacy

Mr Kapsaskis what is “Cultural Diplomacy” and how did you get the inspiration for it ?

Cultural Diplomacy as a rational synthesis of actions aims to promote a positive image of the country in the international arena. The timeless culture, the language that has been written and spoken for centuries, the arts that praise beauty, scientific discoveries, religious sentiment and faith, culinary creativity and in general the traditions and customs of a people, are the tools that they are used to create bonds of emotional closeness between peoples.

Cultural Diplomacy, in addition to its international and purely diplomatic aspects, is defined by the word “Culture”, i.e. the way in which human spiritually affects a society. Therefore, there is also an anthropological component through which diplomacy in question becomes a tool of attraction and seduction and not simply of influence or communication.

The object in question can also be seen as an independent part of the traditional diplomatic function, since Culture is created by peoples and not by governments and in the formation of which private actors participate, e.g. museums, universities, institutions, companies, NGOs, etc. In this sense, it differs radically from the policy of Public Diplomacy which is exercised purely by the authorities of a state, i.e. embassies, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Ministry of Culture.

At the expense of the Greek state, before even the establishment of the Ministries of Economy, Defense or Health, a Ministry of Cultural Diplomacy should have been established. The reason; Greek civilization itself as one of the three pillars (Christianity and Roman Civilization) on which modern Europe was built. Lack, which compels us, the younger generation, to delve deeper into this timeless offering of Hellenism and make it ours, even after 202 years.

However, this does not imply national myopia and sterile reproduction of history, but we are planning the future of the Greek identity, trying to mentally open up to the outside world. Any identity that closes in on itself produces disadvantage and historical backwardness. Our goal is the restoration of Hellenism in historical time, not in terms of reproduction or nostalgia for the “glorious ancient past”, but of creativity and self-will, with the Greek, now, the subject of History and not of fate.

Our inspiration for this work is the Generation of the ’30”, where the flower of the Greek intellectual world (Seferis, Elytis, Empirikos, Theotokas) conducted a cultural dialogue with Europe on equal terms with self-criticism and self-criticism. The bet, therefore, apart from historical, is also existential.

Hellenic Cultural Diplomacy

Tell us with three words how would you characterize your work for Greece?

 This project, in addition to a contribution to diplomacy, is also an anthropological project, since at the moment it has before its eyes the human soul and not the interest. Although the do ut des (give and take) relationship is predominant in diplomatic practice, nevertheless, without a mental (cultural) firmness, any agreement between states cannot endure over time.

So, in summary, to answer your question, the project is inspired by three “s’: self-criticism, self-activity and self-management.

Hellenic Cultural Diplomacy

Do you belong to some state structure, do you accept some state financial support and, if not, how do you operate financially?

The H.I.C.D. has chosen to be financially, therefore strategically/administratively independent from party, business or other bodies. The sources of funding for the actions and the general operation of our Organization are done with our own resources.

Nevertheless, we cooperate and do not rule out any fruitful partnership with government organizations. Of course, we prefer the speed and limited bureaucracy of private initiative organizations, since decisions and results appear more quickly. In addition, the H.I.C.D. cooperates closely with academic bodies and scientific institutes for the development, research and study of Cultural Diplomacy.

In addition, we begin, always keeping in mind that Culture is always a product of peoples and therefore when or if it is ideological, it can be transformed into Propaganda. It is worth noting the fact that the H.I.C.D. is the only organization in Greece which deals purely with the promotion, study and research of the scientific subject of Cultural Diplomacy and “Soft Power”.

We know that your Organization has deployed abroad one sufficiently great network for its 6 years of operation, tell us how did it structure and where it intends for?

The H.C.D. created a decentralized management mechanism, which aims to produce faster decisions and proper distribution of initiatives to the other Branches. The Organization, so far, has 16 Branches (Europe, Asia, Africa and America) with more than 60 memorandums of cooperation signed and 360 trainees in these 6 years of existence.

After all, if Athens were to exercise strict and centralized control over the remaining annexes, then the necessity for the existence of these annexes would be weak to insignificant. Of course, the operation of autonomous administrative boards in the Abroad Branches is done in close cooperation with the founding base in Athens.

6th Anniversary Hellenic Cultural Diplomacy

Soon you will celebrate 6 years since the establishment of the Organization. What exactly is included in this anniversary?

The fact of the anniversary of the six years since the establishment of the H.I.C.D. is for us a very important event, not only for the period of time in which the Organization is active, but above all, for the intensity and passion with which young people claim their future every day and through it the Greece they dream of. It is the more than 200 events, lectures, concerts, seminars and forums, which have been organized during this time with more than 27,000 followers on social media and an articleography that exceeds 1,000 articles in the Organization’s scientific newspaper (Cultural Diplomacy Journal) that they give meaning to existence with pride, since we are talking about a self-financing Organization and fill our soul with fullness for the work produced.

It is of great importance to recall that March 25, 2017, the date of establishment of the Organization, is highly symbolic, as it coincides with the start date of the Greek Revolution of 1821.

Germany welcomes Prince Abdullah bin Khaled as KSA new top envoy

Diplomat Magazine
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Germany welcomes Prince Abdullah bin Khaled as KSA new top envoy

Wednesday, 31 May 2023, Berlin, Germany: His Royal Highness Prince Abdullah bin Khaled bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud presented his credentials from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the German Federal President Dr. Frank-Walter Steimeier during a stately ceremony held at Bellevue Palace located in the central Berlin-Tiergarten neighbourhood. Thereafter the two dignitaries held a private conversation focused on bilateral Saudi-German ties. 

Ambassador Al Saud arrived in Germany after having served as Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Republic of Austria as well as the United Nations and the international organizations based in Vienna, with non-resident concurrencies to the Slovak Republic and Slovenia between 2019 and May 2023. Between 2019 and 2021 he also served as the governor of the board of governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Prince Abdullah bin Khaled Al Saud (b. 1988) speaks his native Arabic in addition to English. He has distinguished himself in the capacity as advisor of the Saudi Royal Court in addition to having been Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Islamic Centre in Vienna at the office of the World Islamic League in Austria, and representative to the Council of Parties of the King Abdullah International Centre for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue. 

Since 2018 he is member of the board of directors of the Jockey Club Saudi Arabia and since 2020 member of the board of directors of the Horse Racing Authority.

HRH Prince Abdullah bin Khaled holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the MIT Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in Cambridge, USA. 

For further information 

Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Germany: https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/Germany/EN/Pages/default.aspx

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