Every time when passion for excellence and hard work meet, the result is an exceptional product. Kaandorp Cheese is certainly one of that.
A family business since 1929, with its 3rd generation (2 brothers, Matthijs and Stefan Kaandorp) now in charge, this cheese company expanded from a traditional local Dutch wholesaler to an international company. The cheese is left to ripen into the hands of specially equipped companies, and then a special attention is given to cutting and packaging. Responsibility for expanding distribution is in the hands of Carla Bos (Commercial Director Europe) and Humphry van Hesse (Export Director Overseas).
Mr. Humphry van Hesse talked to Diplomat Magazine about Kaandorp Cheese history and its future prospective.
‘Customers feel at home at our organization due to the orientation towards service. The words ‘family business’ say it all. The two owners, two brothers, give everything for this company. Through their way of leadership, they take their staff with them in their love for their profession but also in their pursuit of perfection. In other words, everyone is on the same page, and people step in where necessary. There is no thinking and working in boxes; that is one of the secrets of this well-oiled machine’.
Humphry van Hesse, Kaandorp Cheese’s Export Director Overseas.
Mr. Van Hesse talked about the variety of cheese and how it may be accompanied by the right kind of wine, in order to enhance its given pleasure. ‘Each type of milk gives the cheese its own taste and adds diversity to the total cheese shelf.
Cow cheese has by far the largest share. The other variants are also considerably more expensive in terms of price. For people with cow milk intolerance, it is a Godsend that there is also goat cheese, for example. In the last 10 years, however, we have seen the sales of goat cheese in particular rise enormously.
A dinner can be accompanied by various wines: white, red, port, etc. Different kinds of meat go well with different wines. It works the same way with cheese. A cheese board is often served for dessert at dinner, accompanied by a selected glass of wine’.
You can certainly feel the passion for his job in his words. He just loves what he does!
‘Gouda cheese is a typical Dutch product in which no concessions are made. However, there are possibilities to adjust production processes in order to give the cheese the predicate of Kosher, Halal, or Organic, for example. By adding certain herbs, a taste can be created that is accessible or widely used in certain countries. Organic cheeses are an important part of Kaandorp Cheese’s organization.
Kaandorp moves along with the changing world. Certifications such as IFS (last year, Kaandorp had that and achieved a score of 97.71 %.), SKAL (organic), Halal, FDA, Cifer, and BPOM are part of its expertise now. All audits have been successfully completed. We are always very cautious about sharing information about innovative products and new markets.
The basic selection is always based on the highest demand worldwide. The difference between processed cheese and naturally ripened cheese is something we like to explain in order to get a better idea about taste, shelf life, and food safety. As real cheese connoisseurs, we know what people like. The real Gouda cheese is praised all over the world’.
Kaandorp Cheese’s export brand: Pure & Passion.
In recent years the company expanded worldwide and is now present on markets far away from the native Netherlands.
‘Because I already had a reasonable network from my international advertising and marketing background, I was able to contact and negotiate our entry on the Chinese dairy market. The expansion to Florida was a test phase for Kaandorp, in which it was able to test brands and concepts on a small scale. Based on these findings, the company is now on the verge of rolling out these concepts. COVID has caused some delay, but this also had some advantages. The time we have gained has given us some new contacts and relationships with the prospect of long-term commitment’.
Mr. Van Hesse clearly has a very good eye for business. ‘As export director, I am always looking for new ways to bring our products to other local markets. I often work with embassies in order to find out more about the corporate culture of each country in advance and to be able to reach the right people. Sometimes embassy members even join me on my first economic trip to a new country. Because I have been visiting the various embassies for years, it is therefore not surprising that we are present at such diplomatic events, as ‘Diplomat after Summer Party’ organized by Diplomat Magazine at Leonardo Royal Hotel in The Hague. We wish to present our products and have them tasted by those who are not yet familiar with them. People can also visit our website or stay in touch through our regular newsletters’
And for sure, people will definitely want to follow more of the Kaandorp Cheese story, after first tasting their marvelous varieties of cheese.
Vietnam Trade Office in the Netherlands organized a booth to promote Vietnamese agricultural products and foods at the Embassy Festival on September 2, 2023
The Embassy Festival is a prestigious cultural event organized annually by the event organization Prooost in collaboration with the city government of The Hague at Lange Voorhout Central Park, The Hague.
This year, the festival, by chance, is held on the occasion of 78th anniversary of the National Day of Vietnam, 2nd September.
At this festival, the Vietnam Trade Office in the Netherlands in colloboration with LTP Import Export BV, Vietnam Food Europe BV (Miss Linh) and Linsan Imex to promote Vietnamese agricultural and food products such as fresh, canned fruits, regional confectionery, snack products such as dried and soaked cashews, canned desserts, and dried foods for special Vietnamese dishes such as vermicelli, noodle, rice paper, seaweed and many kinds of spices.
Vietnamese brand coffee beans, powders and instant were also introduced at the festival and enjoyed by many visitors. In particular, for the first time, fresh coconuts and green pomelos were promoted and introduced at the festival.
Many visitors were surprised at the fresh, delicious coconut with a sweet taste, very convenient to use, came from Vietnam.
Enjoying Vietnam- fresh coconut.
Dutch visitors even did not know that Vietnam has a big grapefruit with green skin, juicy red-pink flesh, sweet and sour taste, completely unlike the yellow-skinned pomelos imported from China that they have ever eaten.
The Vietnamese Pavilion also attractted lots of visiotrs because of the “Vietnamese brand” dishes such as “nem ran”, “bun cha”, “banh my” … In addition, non-food products environmentally friendly, meeting EU green standards such as straws, cups, plates and coffee filters are also introduced by Vietnamese businesses at the festival.
Introducing Vietnamese green pomelo.
This year, Embassy Festival welcomed the largest number of visitors ever, thousands of visitors came to enjoy food, ethnic music, traditional costumes, dance, martial arts, fine and crafts which presented and introduced by the Embassy and businesses from more than 50 countries.
Diplomat Magazine’s publisher Dr. Mayeline De Lara, visited Vietnam Pavilion here with Ms. Vo Thi Ngoc Diep,
Commercial Counsellor – Head of Trade Office of Viet Nam in the Netherlands.
H.E. Mr. René Miko was appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Czech Republic to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Permanent Representative of the Czech Republic to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in August 2023. Ambassador Miko also represents Czechia in other multilateral organisations based in The Hague, including at the International Criminal Court.
He presented his letter of credence to H M King Willem-Alexander on 6 September 2023.
At Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Miko acted as UN Deputy Director, 2011-12 and 2017-19, to become UN and Global Issues Director in 2019 for four years. He co-represented the Czech Republic at UNESCO in Paris 2013 – 2017 and previously served at the Czech Embassy in London having the portfolio of British foreign and security policy, 2005 – 2009.
He was formerly private secretary to various deputy foreign ministers in charge of a number of security and bilateral policy issues.
H.E. Mr. René Miko of Czech Republic.
A lawyer by education at Charles University in Prague, Ambassador Miko did his post-graduate diplomatic studies at St Antony’s College, University of Oxford.
In his previous capacity he chaired a number of interdepartmental working groups on various topics, including gender, and co-chaired the Czech National Commission for UNESCO 2017 – 2023. He was appointed the national Responsibility to Protect Focal Point in 2011 and re-appointed in 2017.
H.E. Ambassador Fernando Simas Magalhães is the new ambassador of Brazil to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
He presented his Letters of Credence to HM King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands on the 6th of September 2023 at Noordeinde Palace, The Hague.
Ambassador Simas Magalhães is an experienced and internationally awarded diplomat. He is married to Matilde Simas Magalhães and together they have three children.
Born in Mexico City (DF), on October 16, he first concluded the Basic Engineering Cycle at Pontifical Catholic University (RJ), (1976-1978). He continued his studies with the Diplomat Career Preparation Course (CPCD) at Instituto Rio Branco (IRBr), between 1979-1980 and then the Diplomat Improvement Course (CAD) also at Rio Branco (1984). Later in 1998, he finished his Higher Studies Course (CAE) at Rio Branco Institute with the thesis: ‘The 1994 Summit of the Americas: Brazil’s negotiating role in search of a hemispheric agenda’, while also adding an International Relations Theory Course at Latin American Faculty of Social Sciences (FLACSO), (in Ecuador, 1998).
In Brazil, he held various functions and positions, most recently as Undersecretary General for Multilateral Political Affairs, Europe and North America (SGEAM), 2016-2018; Secretary General of Foreign Affairs (equivalent to Vice-Minister), 6/4/2021 – 12/31/2022; Board of Directors of Itaipu, Counsellor, 9/6/2021.
Also held various postings from New York, Moscow, Washington to Madrid or Quito. He worked as Ambassador in Quito, between 2010-2015, and at the Permanent Mission to the Organization of American States (OAS) as Permanent Representative, between 2018-2021. He is currently performing his diplomatic mission in The Hague.
Besides his many diplomatic roles and overseas postings, Ambassador Simas Magalhães also completed other foreign missions and assignments, attending international events such as: the Ministerial Meeting on Limiting the Use of the Veto in Mass Atrocity Situations, New York (09/30/2015) as Head of Delegation; Leaders’ Summit on Refugees, New York (9/20/2016), as Head of Delegation; VI Brazil-European Union High Level Dialogue on Human Rights, Brussels (04/27/2017), as Head of Delegation; 30th Meeting of Consultations of Ministers of Foreign Affairs/II Meeting of the Organ of Consultations of TIAR (Bogotá, 03/12/2019), as Head of Delegation; 28th. Ibero-American Summit/ Meeting of Chancellors, São Domingos (11/26/2021), as Head of Delegation; 12th WTO Ministerial Conference, Geneva (12-16 June 2022), as Head of Delegation; United Nations Security Council, Annual Debate on Children and Armed Conflict, New York (7/19/2022), as Chair; 52nd. OAS General Assembly, Lima (October 5-7, 2022), as Head of Delegation.
He published ‘The Impact of East-West Confidence-building Measures on Global Security: a view from the South’, in ‘Disarmament – United Nations’ (volume XIII, number 1), 1990 and ‘Brazil and the International Protection of Refugees’, Revista Intereste Nacional, year 10, number 39, November 2017-January 2018.
Let’s give a cordial ‘Welcome’ to the Ambassador! Best wishes for your stay in the Netherlands!
Mrs. Sonia Meijer, the Honorary Consul of El Salvador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, had recently given us an interview, about her role and actions, promoting her native country.
‘As honorary consul, I personally have dedicated myself to promoting trade, opportunities as well as attracting investment to different sectors. While searching opportunities for Import-Export, I founded the Binational Chamber of Commerce El Salvador – Holland, to help Salvadoran entrepreneurs of all sizes export their products to the Netherlands. The launching of the Salvadoran Chamber was a success. 70 Dutch companies were present. The launching was only possible after eight months of continuous hard economic research’.
Four times a year, newsletters in both English and Spanish are sent, to share news and information and to maintain a constant connection with companies in both countries.
‘Apart from the Board I have a hand full of honorary members, experts who contribute to developing of the Chamber, giving the right regulations to enter and advice, if needed, to the Salvadoran companies’.
Sonia is a very active and busy woman. She organizes many events for the diaspora and the Salvadoran community in the Netherlands. She just finished a Coffee Cupping event, now preparing for a Coffee Tasting, with organic coffee from Buena Vista Coffee Forest Farm and soon, also a rum tasting by Rum Guazapa, an outstanding rum from the mountains of El Salvador.
As President of the Organization of Salvadorans in the Netherlands she organized charity events to raise money to help children, as well as to help the elderly to have a dignified life in their old days. For the flood in Nejapa, she collected money to buy food for the victims.
‘In these initiatives I must mention our career diplomat, ambassador of the Republic of El Salvador to the Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Agustín Vásquez Gómez, who offered his full support, participation and contribution’.
‘As Honorary Consuls, we are a support figure to an Embassy and country. We are committed to transmitting and enhancing knowledge and actions carried out by the government. We move forward with concrete actions to achieve objectives according to the possibilities. There are advantages of being a native Honorary Consul, as I understand best the habits, ways of interacting and culture’.
Sonia recently participated to a congress in El Salvador, where 48 Honorary Consuls accredited from various countries on 5 continents attended, at the invitation of Salvadoran President, Nayib Bukele.
When asked about him, she said warmly ‘What a special moment, what a special President. He brought safeness into the country and is very dedicated to his country and people.
It was more than wonderful to have the unique opportunity to meet him. The time he had to greet all Honorary Consuls one by one was too short. I would like to thank President Nayib Bukele for this marvelous opportunity to meet the other Honorary Consuls of El Salvador from all over the world. We listened to each other’s experiences and had the chance to see the New El Salvador impressively transformed. El Salvador is ready for investors and more tourism’.
About the important event, she adds: ‘this Congress has given us tools to continue performing and better representing our country. Through our diplomatic representations we get instructions and receive support. If I talk about protocol, El Salvador has it all. I would like to thank our Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chancellor Alexandra Hill, a wonderful, very talented and warm person, as well as our Vice Minister, Ms. Adriana Mira and Ms. Cindy Portal for strengthening our work capacities, so that El Salvador is promoted worldwide through wonderful projects. The government prepared all technical, cultural, trade related, touristic and investment information about El Salvador, we met the other Ministers who were speakers and we had such wonderful and informative tours at Cubos, Surf City, Caja Marca, National Theatre, National Palace and so many other places’.
Returning to the Netherlands, she has so many plans and goals. As the Netherlands is home to many Salvadorans, friendship and cooperation between El Salvador and the Netherlands is essential. One of her goals is to foster good trade between the two countries and to continue to strengthen the bilateral economic relations.
‘El Salvador has great potential to drive dynamic and resilient economic growth, it has low labor costs, so it could be attractive to European manufacturers; it has two modern harbors, so we could start a flow of trade from Central America to Europe and vice versa’.
The economy of El Salvador is growing, and, as Sonia says, ‘President Nayib Bukele is committed to lifting the economy of El Salvador and he is a man to keep his promises’.
So we may see a bright future when it comes to relations between the two countries!
Verbunt Verlinden is a leading modern Dutch wine importer, representing a global range of top brands to the Netherlands. Since 2010, it has become part of the Salentein Company, owned by the Mijndert Pon family.
With wines from the more affordable ones to the leading wineries, from the traditional to the innovative and quirky, Verbunt Verlinden supplies various customer groups in the Netherlands, different wine merchants, independent liquor stores and wholesalers as well as the catering industry. In addition, Verbunt Verlinden supplies wines to various large parties with national distribution.
Bodegas Salentein
We recently talked to Mr. Peter van Houtert, managing director of the company. Mr. Van Houtert emphasized especially on the attention that the company pays to quality of its products.
‘Verbunt Verlinden focuses on wholesale, catering and independent wine specialty stores, called Wijnkring, a select group of wine specialists. There are approximately 110 Wijnkring stores spread throughout the Netherlands, as being the largest and oldest wine retail concept in the country, a partnership of independent liquor stores and wine merchants, who distinguish themselves by a wide and high-quality range of wines from all parts of the world. In The Hague you can find our wines at Jansen Wijnen, Willem Royaardsplein 6, 2597 GS Den Haag, or by www.wijnkring.nl’.
Mr. Van Houtert continued telling us about the company values ‘corporate social responsibility (CSR) is also very important to us. We try to choose wineries that are committed to CSR, with focus on organic or biodynamic and vegan viticulture and/or following (regional) rules, thus obtaining certificates regarding sustainability and Fair Trade. Meanwhile, Verbunt Verlinden strives to transport the greatest possible amount of wine at the lowest possible mileage. To minimize our impact on the environment, we have as many wines as possible delivered via the Barge tunnel in the port of S’Hertogenbosch, via inland shipping instead of road transport’.
Verbunt Verlinden also complies with certain specified qualitative requirements relating to the business, such as quality of purchased and delivered wines, transport, environment, purchasing and food safety. This is stated in the license conditions that the KVNW agrees with each Registerd Wine Merchant, following high international standards such as HACCP, BRC, IFS and ISO 9001/22000.
When it comes to the special connection to the diplomatic world, Mr. Van Houtert says: ‘I am also President of the Royal Association of Dutch Wine Importers. We have a very good relation with the diplomatic community in The Hague, especially related to the wine producing countries. That is why sometimes we have meetings hosted by the official residences of the Ambassadors of South-Africa, Germany, Australia or Argentina. For them it is an excellent opportunity to inform our members about new developments is their wine businesses’.
Mr. Van Houtert adds that, among others, because of Bodegas Salentein, the company has a special relation with the embassy of Argentina. Verbunt Verlinden was the supplier of some of the most exquisite wines for the New Year Diplomatic Reception at the Peace Palace and the 10th Diplomats Welcome After-Summer party. ‘We regularly support the embassy with our Argentinian wines for special occasions. We will, if possible, continue to do so also for the same event, next year’.
Our distinguished guests could not be more pleased and are certainly looking forward to discover more quality wines from Verbunt Verlinden!
I never met her in real life but I feel like I’ve known her for ages. Our online conversations were always nice and funny; her posts on social media are carefully thought out, delicate and sensitive, just like her. She does not want to disturb, she is attentive to words and image… she knows that in the 21st century communication is important, but in a certain way. First lesson of diplomatic conduct was well learnt.
Mariana Bakici was born in the Republic of Moldova, a small country in Europe, where she spent her childhood and which beautiful shaped her character. A Business Administration graduate, with specialization in Tourism and Hospitality, she worked as an English translator for different projects.
‘Mostly, my career has been shaped during the years I’ve worked for the International Department at the Civil Aviation Authority of the Republic of Moldova. Those were years filled with lots of unforgettable experiences, different projects and the remarkable people I met, people that believed in me and helped enhance my professional and also personal abilities.’
But, as in all the diplomatic stories that I discovered over the past few years, life had other plans for her. Once she met her husband, a Turkish diplomat, she embarked on a journey around the world, which has taken her so far from Moldova to Türkiye, Brunei and very soon to their new diplomatic posting, in Lithuania.
When asked about where HOME is to her, she tells me: ‘living a nomadic life makes you think for a while. Home is where my family is. Today it can be in one corner of the world, tomorrow in another. There is this nice saying, which comes now to my mind “A house is made of walls and beams; A home is made of love and dreams”. Our home is where love and our dreams are.’
Indeed, I remember I was given the same advice years ago, before starting my own diplomatic journey.
Our family is our ‘HOME’ and we take it with us, no matter where we go.
Of course, everyone knows the tolls that this kind of life has on our families and especially our children. She also mentioned that, but with the same delicacy and sensitivity that I feel in any of our interactions. ‘Although many believe that children adapt everywhere easier than adults, I would say the opposite. Children have to change schools, leave their much loved friends behind and must start all from the beginning. That is why I think, for someone living a nomadic life, like me, the successful adaptation of the child to a new environment marks one of the proudest and most important moments.’
We all dread the first days in a new country, we wonder how easy and quick we will adapt, how long it will take, but we are much calmer and at peace when we feel that our children have succeeded and feel good about their new ‘country.’
‘Diplomatic life is a world of complexity and diversity. It offers chances to meet new cultures, new people, to learn about their identity and aspirations and thus widen your own horizon of knowledge. I would say that the constantly changing nature of diplomatic life is a benefit and challenge in the same time. It is a great exercise which eventually strengthens your resistance to change. We are expected to follow the ethical standards and codes of conduct set by the diplomatic customs.’
Mariana and one of her cakes
Diplomatic life is complex and often you need years to figure out its steps. She delicately also points out that:
‘sometimes we are seen just as the spouses, being omitted that we all have our own personalities, experience and education, skills and specific qualifications’.
Accepting the extra working hours, the boundaries between professional and personal life are also common challenges for diplomats.
Usually, people look just from one angle and think that we live as tourists and tossing glasses at diplomatic receptions. It is a big privilege to see different corners of the world but this comes together with many challenges, not easy ones. Diplomatic missions can be all over the world, including front lines of different conflicts. I also think that, in most cases, being a diplomat is a job for two, as the spouse is the biggest help for the diplomat, sharing the same stressful life. By nature, diplomatic communities are closed groups and this leads up to more misconception. The best way to change that is to communicate insightful and informative pieces about our lives, to as many readers as possible.’
In recent years I also admired and observed her hobbies, born from passion but carried forward with skill and perseverance. She says that ‘hobbies are not just activities to relax; they are a must when living abroad. When everything is new around you, your own hobbies make you feel home and safe.’
Mariana exploring on the bike
Accepting the extra working hours, the boundaries between professional and personal life are also common challenges for diplomats.
She likes spending time in nature, practices yoga. ‘While living a nomadic life, one has to reinvent and find the personal ”ikigai”. Being passionate about baking, I’ve started to deepen my knowledge about the pastry world. It just makes me and people around me happy. Another work- in-progress is writing. Both areas invite me to artistic creativity and increase the capacity for learning, which I believe should never stop.’
True. The human mind must always be active, but I would say that our way of life, always in motion and constantly in need of adaptation, keeps us that way. Diplomatic life is not easy for anyone, but it is important to keep the optimism, energy and, as Mariana beautifully says ‘be kind to the world!’
This year’s St Leonard’s Ride, scheduled for Sunday, 5 November, is a fixture in the autumn calendar in Alta Badia. After the traditional parade, there will be a demonstration by the protagonists of the well-known ‘Oswald von Wolkenstein’ ride.
Alta Badia (South Tyrolean Dolomites/Italy) – There is no better stage than the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for the 23rd St Leonard’s Ride, which will be celebrated on Sunday, 5 November in Alta Badia. The protagonists of the event, organised by the noriker and haflinger horse associations of Val Badia, will be the more than 100 horses and breeders from all over South Tyrol and the other Ladin valleys.
The St Leonard’s Ride is an excellent opportunity to relive ancient Ladin traditions and customs in an authentic way, as well as to discover Alta Badia during the autumn months, enjoying the tranquillity of this period.
The event begins, as per tradition, with the solemn Holy Mass, celebrated in the parish church of Badia, consecrated to St Leonard and St James. At 10.45 a.m., the parade continues, winding its way through the centre. The procession will be led by the patron saint’s float, followed by a large number of haflinger and noriker horses, traditional costumes from the various Ladin valleys and numerous festively decorated floats. These include the float with the miniature model of St Leonard’s church, built for the 20th anniversary by some local craftsmen, as well as the float with the harvest products, which will be sold at the end of the procession, the proceeds of which will be donated to charity. Thanks to the great participation of horses and breeders from various valleys, the music bands from Badia, Auta Fascia and Versciaco, and local dance groups, the spectators will be able to admire a variety of colours and traditional costumes, seen on only a few other occasions in South Tyrol. In addition, spectators will be inspired by the notes of the local music bands.
The most eagerly awaited moment of the day will certainly be the blessing of the horses and their breeders, in front of the Santa Croce mountain, which will take place immediately after the parade. This will be followed at 1 p.m. by a show by some of the riders of the renowned “Oswald von Wolkenstein” ride. Following the success of the last edition, by popular demand, the event will once again be broadcast live via streaming on the Alta Badia facebook profile.
The festival will continue in the village centre with gastronomic specialities, served by the fire brigade and farmers’ associations, surrounded by the melodies of the Versciaco, Auta Fascia and ‘Böhmische Badia’ music bands, as well as traditional group dances by the local ‘Bal Popular’ association. In the afternoon, there will be the traditional ‘törggelen’, or chestnut-roasting ritual, accompanied by a good glass of wine and traditional music.
The weekend of festivities will begin in the evening of Saturday 4 November, during which you can taste some local cuisine and listen to the music of Ladin artists.
The St Leonard’s Ride will also be held in case of bad weather.
For further information: Alta Badia Tourist Information Offices – www.altabadia.org – Tel.: +39 0471/836176-847037 – Email: info@altabadia.org
The leaders of BRIC[1] (Brazil, Russia, India, and China) first met in St. Petersburg, Russia, during the G8 Summit in July 2006. This was followed by a series of high-level meetings, after which the first BRIC summit took place on June 16, 2009, in Yekaterinburg, Russia. After the inclusion of South Africa in 2010, the group was renamed BRICS.
Before this year’s summit, the group represented[2] 41% of the world’s population (3.14 billion people), 24% of global GDP, over 16% of world trade, and 29.3% of the total land area.
For the BRICS Summit held in Johannesburg, South Africa, from August 22-24, 2023, invitations were extended to leaders from 67 other countries, resulting in over 500 official participants at the event. Notable for the summit were the physical absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, due to an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the first part of 2023, and the absence of a speech by Chinese PresidentXi Jinping, who was represented by China’s Minister of Commerce. The reasons for President Xi’s decision were not publicly disclosed.
The main points on the summit agenda included:
Expansion of the BRICS bloc, as over 40 nations expressed interest in joining, with 23 having already submitted official applications.
Economic cooperation among Global South states in areas such as investments, energy, strategic infrastructure, and innovative technologies.
Prospects for developing common monetary and banking relationships.
Global security issues, including matters related to new structures of international order.
It’s noteworthy that while this last point was discussed during working sessions, none of the BRICS leaders addressed it in the conclusions following the presentation of the final declaration, “Johannesburg II,” which was presented by the host country’s president, Cyril Ramaphosa. Additionally, there was no mention of the bilateral understanding reached in Johannesburg between President Xi and Prime Minister Modi regarding mutual de-escalation of border tensions between China and India.
The expansion of BRICS was realized through the consensus decision to admit five new members from January 1, 2024: Saudi Arabia, Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt, Argentina, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This marks the first expansion in 13 years, with BRICS leaders stating that the door remains open for new members, considering that 16 more states have officially applied for membership, and about 20 countries have expressed unofficial interest in joining the organization.
It’s worth emphasizing that in the final evaluations of the delegates at the summit, President Xi Jinping listed the newly invited states to the bloc, starting with Saudi Arabia and the UAE. These states are part of BRICS+, a group that will have the potential to produce over 50% of global oil. Furthermore, the combined GDP of the BRICS+ states will exceed 37% of the total nominal global GDP (surpassing the combined GDPs of the G7 countries), and their share in global trade will be over 20%. Notably, the combined population of the BRICS+ countries surpasses 46% of the world’s total population.
The prospects for numerical growth of the group will make it a powerful entity in international political negotiations in the near future. However, it’s important to recognize that there are Western political leaders and analysts who continue to downplay the significance of BRICS, including BRICS+, considering it “largely a dysfunctional organization that cannot gain weight through mere expansion. At the core of BRICS are three immature democracies – South Africa, India, and Brazil – who want to maintain a constructive relationship with Western financiers, while at the extremities are China and Russia as autocracies.” Nevertheless, the final summit declaration, presented by South African President Ramaphosa, indicated that BRICS has followed a strategic course with a clear perspective, responding to the aspirations of a significant part of the international community, acting in coordination based on principles of equality among states, mutually supporting each other as partners, and considering the interests of others in addressing urgent global and regional issues. When addressing security matters, Ramaphosa emphasized the need to respect the provisions of the UN Charter for dispute resolution through dialogue.
Argentina joining BRICS after Brazil means two giant countries. The inclusion of Ethiopia[3] might seem surprising, but it’s symbolic and a magnet for Sub-Saharan and Central Africa. Moreover, China has strong relations with Addis Ababa, and South Africa wishes to emphasize Africa’s importance.
Symbol and substance, two words that can apply to describe the expansion. G7 is big, AUKUS is big, NATO is big. BRICS+ must be big, global, and resourceful.
Regarding the process of “de-dollarization” and the creation of a specific BRICS+ currency, it is believed that this is far from materializing into an alternative currency that would challenge the supremacy of the American dollar in the foreseeable future.
Dilma Rousseff, President of the New Development Bank[4] (NDB) of BRICS+, presented a written report on the institution’s goals. The NDB intends to provide loans in national currencies, especially in South Africa and Brazil, as part of a plan to reduce global dependencies on dollar settlements and promote a multipolar international financial system. This approach aims to avoid risks posed by the dollar-based exchange rate and fluctuations in US interest rates. In the initial phase, the NDB plans to provide loans of up to $10 billion by December 2023. The medium-term goal of the NDB is to have 30% of all loans within BRICS+ be in national currencies, and importantly, without any political preconditions (unlike the IMF and World Bank’s practices).
This idea, presented in Johannesburg, poses the most impactful challenge to the Western community and represents a strategic risk in the long term for the entire Western world. The implications of the possible success of this initiative could disrupt the stability of the entire global military and socio-economic security system. This idea is explicitly mentioned in point 10 of the final Johannesburg II communiqué: “We support a robust global financial safety net with an International Monetary Fund[5] (IMF) based on quotas[6] and with adequate resources. We call for the conclusion of the 16th General Review of Quotas of the International Monetary Fund before 15 December 2023. The review should realign quotas in the IMF. Any adjustments to quota levels should result in quota increases for emerging market and developing economies (EMDEs), protecting voice and representation for the poorest members. We call for the reform of the institutions of the Bretton Woods Agreement[7], including a greater role for emerging markets and developing countries, including leadership positions in institutions of the Bretton Woods Agreement that reflect the role of EMDEs in the global economy.”
Another conclusion to draw from the Johannesburg summit is that the BRICS+ group is starting to intensify its challenge to the US’s position as the world’s number one power by countering the West’s use of sanctions against Russia and, more importantly, by attempting to weaken the role of the dollar as the reference currency in international transactions, as well as shaping a new policy in the global energy industry (oil, gas, and nuclear energy). The perspective does not appear positive when considering the efforts of Venezuela, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, and Cuba to get closer to BRICS+. These countries are accelerating the trend of restructuring the current global order toward a multicentric one, without a dominant actor from a geopolitical and economic perspective, even though they strive to refrain from developing explicitly anti-American rhetoric.
Another emerging perspective after August 24, 2023, is that the West (probably with the exception of Germany) can no longer afford to ignore BRICS+ as an entity. In this context, the US will need to rethink its foreign policy regarding the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific region, as well as the future of bilateral cooperation with Algeria, Egypt, Brazil, South Africa, and India, especially in terms of continuing arrangements in the QUAD (India, Australia, Japan, USA).
Finally, a rhetorical question arises. Does the recent BRICS summit in Johannesburg signify the beginning of a project lacking transparency (i.e., undemocratic) subtly hinted at by two famous phrases that the world continues to decipher?
First: “Cooperation between Russia and China will be limitless.” (from the official statement after Vladimir Putin’s visit to Beijing, February 2022)
Second: “We are now witnessing changes that haven’t been seen in over a century, and we are experiencing them together. Take care, dear friend!” (Xi addressing Putin through an interpreter as they bid farewell in front of the Kremlin during Xi Jinping’s state visit to Russia, March 2023)
The Johannesburg summit might also represent a real opportunity for Washington to reset its entire foreign policy framework focused on BRICS+ due to the likelihood of a new wave of countries being accepted into the core of the Global South in the near future. Many of the developments in global stability will depend on the actual growth rates of China, India, and the Russian Federation, which are not without uncertainties, as well as how the US will overcome obstacles arising from the diminishing status of its hegemonic role.
At the same time, the internal limitations and difficulties of BRICS+ must not be overlooked, along with the differing interests among its members and how they will work toward achieving common goals.
“Interesting times” lie ahead!
The text is a presentation by General (Rtd) Corneliu Pivariu at the international webinar “To BRICS or not to BRICS – that is the question,” organized by MEPEI and EURODEFENSE Romania, on August 30, 2023.
About the author:
General (Rtd) Corneliu Pivariu.
Corneliu Pivariu is a highly decorated two-star general of the Romanian army (Rtd). He has founded and led one of the most influential magazines on geopolitics and international relations in Eastern Europe, the bilingual journal Geostrategic Pulse, for two decades. General Pivariu is a Military Intelligence and International Relations Senior Expert.
[1] The acronym BRIC was first used in 2001 by economist Jim O’Neill from Goldman Sachs, who described what he considered to be the countries with rapid economic growth that he believed would dominate the global economy by 2050.
[3][3] Ethiopia covers 1,112,000 square kilometers and has a population of 120.5 million (ranking 13th globally and second in Africa). It possesses natural resources such as gold, phosphates, natural gas, copper, platinum, graphite, lithium, precious stones, and tantalum (a crucial raw material for electronic components). Ethiopia maintains excellent foreign relations with China, Israel, Mexico, Turkey, and India.
[4] Established in 2015, headquartered in Shanghai, China. In 2019, it opened its branch in Sao Paulo, Brazil, followed by branches in India and Russia. Subscribed capital is $50 billion, initially authorized at $100 billion.
[5] IMF monitors exchange rates and manages countries in need of financial support. World Bank manages the assistance funds required by countries facing financial difficulties.
[6] National quotas are expressed as a percentage of total SDRs (Special Drawing Rights) and determine each nation’s voting power at the IMF. For instance, China holds 9,525.9 SDRs or 4%, Russia 5,945 SDRs or 2.5%, and the US 42,122.4 SDRs or 17.69%.
[7] The Bretton Woods Agreement (1944) – signed by representatives of 44 allied nations, who decided that gold should constitute the reference standard for establishing a fixed exchange rate. Subsequent developments led to the replacement of gold with the US dollar, enabling the US to become the regulator of global trade through the Federal Reserve. The agreement facilitated the creation of significant financial structures: the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), now known as the World Bank.
Alka Power: A Fusion of Innovation, Partnerships, and Sustainability
By Roy Lie Atjam
On August 24, 2023, Alka Power Holding BV hosted a signing and product launch event at the Marriott Hotel in The Hague. The event was filled with warmth and cordiality as agreements were signed in crucial sectors like renewable energy, health, and infrastructure. Alka Power also strengthened its partnership with the Government of the République Démocratique du Congo on multiple projects.
The Master of Ceremonies for the occasion was Mr. Luuk de Ruijter, who holds the position of Director of Legal and Subsidies. Alka Power is a remarkable special-purpose entity that focuses on developing environmentally friendly projects, with offices located in the Netherlands and beyond. Recently, Alka Power introduced a ground-breaking infrared heating panel, a testament to unwavering commitment to creating innovative and sustainable energy solutions. Furthermore, a signing ceremony was held for various projects in collaboration with the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo, reflecting dedication to forging mutually beneficial partnerships.
Mrs.Raana syed CEO Alka Power Holding BV & Mr.Limbaya Mbangisa Cesar Governor of
Mongala Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In her inaugural speech Mrs. Raana Syed, CEO of Alka Power Holding BV, indicated how thrilled she was to welcome the many guests to the milestone event. Raana Syed went on to highlight the newly forged joint venture with ATB-Motors/Wolong, describing it as more than a business arrangement – it was a fusion of shared visions, relentless innovation, and the quest for excellence. Her excitement was palpable as she unveiled the ALKA RST Nano Heating Panel, a game-changer in sustainable energy solutions.
Raana Syed continued, “ I want to extend a special welcome to our Guest of Honor, the esteemed Ambassador of Pakistan H.E. Mr. Suljuk Mustansar Tarar. We’re also privileged to have in our midst respected diplomats from Egypt, Cameroon, Guinea, Angola, Bangladesh, Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Governor of Haut Lomami & Mongolia and the CEO’s, Directors, and representatives of various multinational corporations. Your presence here tonight does not just add value to our gathering, it enriches it.” Mrs. Raana Syed further added, “Tonight, we’re not just celebrating three significant achievements, we’re celebrating the culmination of dreams, hard work, and relentless pursuit of excellence.”
“Firstly, it fills me with immense pride to announce our joint venture with one of the global top three motor and drive manufacturers, ATB Motors/Wolong. This partnership is more than a business agreement, it’s a union of shared visions, of relentless innovation, and the aspiration of excellence. ATB Motors/Wolong, a powerhouse in industries from automotive to infrastructure, will infuse this venture with their vast expertise and influential reach.
Mrs.Raana Syed CEO Alka power and Mr.Hans Wezeenberg MD ATB-Motors- Wolong, Miss.Tiantian Li, Mr. Quirijn Haak , Mr.Ron Slappendel COO Alka power Holding.
Today, we’re not just signing a cooperation agreement with ATB-Motors/Wolong, we’re signing a promise – a promise of a future where sustainability and innovation are intertwined, where partnerships transcend borders and industries, and where our commitment to a greener planet is reflected in every step we take.
Later, we will shift our focus to our latest marvel, the ALKA RST Nano Heating Panel. This isn’t just a heater; it’s a breakthrough in sustainable energy solutions. Certified by the esteemed German TUV authority, this innovation is set to revolutionize heating solutions across Europe and beyond. It’s ready to bring warmth and comfort to your homes, offices, and institutes, and do so sustainably.
Lastly, we’re overjoyed to announce our major infrastructure projects in partnership with the Democratic Republic of Congo. This collaboration is more than a business venture, it’s a symbol of our mutual commitment to sustainable development and the transformative power of international cooperation. This initiative, our first in Africa, is a tangible expression of our commitment to right past wrongs and contribute positively to the future of this vibrant continent.
The Ambassador of Pakistan, H.E.Mr.Suljuk Mustansar Tarar, Mr.Rao Rizwan Commercial Councilor, Embassy pf Pakistan, Mrs.Raana syed(backing) Mr. Ellahi.
Especially poignant is the fact that on July 5th of this year, our King Willem Alexander issued an apology for the country’s involvement in the slave trade, asking forgiveness for the clear failure to act in the face of this crime against humanity. This act of acknowledging past wrongs resonates deeply with our mission at Alka Power – to learn from history, to strive for better, and to build a future that rectifies the mistakes of the past.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone here today. Your unwavering support and faith in our vision have been the wind beneath our wings, propelling us to this milestone. As we embark on these exhilarating new ventures, we eagerly look forward to your continued support and enthusiasm. Thank you, and here’s to a future that’s brighter, greener, and more sustainable!“.
Another speakers were: Mr. Wezenberg, he lauded the partnership with Alka Power Holding BV, Our cooperation with Alka Power Holding BV transcends business. Its a union of shared visions and aspirations.
Miss Tiantian Li, who also heads the New Energy Business Unit at ATB Wolong Group stated, “tonight, we have taken a significant step forward. We have just signed a cooperation agreement with Alka Power Holding BV. This partnership is not merely a convergence of business interests. Our partnership with Alka Power Holding BV is a harmonious alignment of shared values, goals, and a vision for a greener future. This alliance is about amalgamating our strengths, expertise, and passion for renewable energy”.
Group photo stakeholders and friends.
Launching of Alka Power Holding’s innovative heater panel, presented by Mr. Ron Slappendel, the Chief Operating Officer and Head of R&D at Alka Power Holding. The heater panel, a breakthrough in sustainable energy solutions, was described as a quick, efficient, and green way to keep things warm. Slappendel also announced the company‘s plans to develop a cooling panel within the next two years.
The signing ceremony was also witnessed by the Director–General of the INTPA, the Ambassador of Norway, and Ambassadors of Africa countries whose universities are involved in the clusters.
A solemn signing ceremony followed, subsequently, the evening concluded with a impressive and stylish sitting dinner.
