Eurojust and Europol have supported authorities in Romania and the United Kingdom (UK) in an operation against the trafficking of Romanian women for sexual exploitation in the UK.
During an action day in both countries, a total of 17 searches were carried out and 6 people were taken to hearings. In addition, one person in the UK was arrested for a wanted circulation.
Eight victims were taken to safety, six of whom during the action day and two more in the course of the investigation.
The authorities seized large amounts of money, weapons, jewellery and luxury vehicles. In total, 133 officers took part in the operation. Eurojust supported the setting up of a joint investigation team (JIT), which facilitated cross-border judicial cooperation.
The suspects allegedly recruited their victims among low-income families in Romania. The criminals used the so-called āloverboyā approach, a method of trafficking in human beings frequently chosen by similar groups operating from Romania. Lured by false promises of romantic relationships, the young women were transported to London, where they were forced into prostitution. The perpetrators advertised these services on various UK adult websites and used the proceedings for their own benefit.
The successful action day on 4 August 2023 was the result of a close collaboration between Romanian and UK authorities. Eurojust facilitated their investigations by setting up a JIT in which representatives of judicial and law enforcement agencies from both countries worked together on the case. Two Romanian police officers took part in the action day in London while four UK police officers participated in the operation in Romania. Europol provided analytical supportĀ and deployed an expert to Romania to support the activities on the ground.
The following authorities took part in the operation:
Romania:Ā Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) ā Iasi Territorial Office; Service for Combating Trafficking in Persons (BCCO), Iasi; Brigade for Combating Organised Crime (BCCO), Suceava
United Kingdom:Ā Metropolitan Police Modern Slavery Unit; Crown Prosecution Service, South London Complex Casework Unit
It was a hot sunny day the Saturday the 24th of June but that didnāt stop the 4000 veterans and serving military to parade before His Majesty King Willem Alexander. Dutch Veterans Day is the annual event in The Netherlands where we thank all 100,000 military veterans for their service, now and in the past.
Next to the military of all service branches, historic army vehicles and dozens of marching bands as well as the impressive air parade of eighteen modern and historic aircraft are part of the event. Prior to the parade Prime minister Mark Rutte and the chairman of the National Committee on Veterans Day, Jaap Smit, the Commissioner (governor) of Zuid-Holland province, addressed the hundreds of veterans in the Koninklijke Schouwburg.
This occasion was attended by HM The King, knights of the Military Order of William (highest decoration for valour), members of parliament and other dignitaries. In his speech the prime minister emphasized the importance of our armed forces:
āFor a long time, it seemed unthinkable that we would experience a war on our continent. In fact, we felt so secure as a society that we thought we might be able to cut down on Defense. We were wrong. Never since the end of World War II has peace in Europe been under more pressure, than now. And no sooner had the importance of a well-equipped armed force become so clear. But also: never before was everyone so agreed. In politics and in society. And I can only say: that appreciation, that reassessment, is justifiedā.
After the parade the Commemoration Veterans Foundation organized a reception for the Defense Attaches and other dignitaries at the famous Poentjak Restaurant owned by Tom Tompoel. Guests – amongst others – included lieutenant-general (ret.) Jan de Kleijn, former chancellor of the Dutch Orders of Knighthood and defense attaches Colonel Thomas Heim (Austria), Colonel Geert Leeman (Belgium), Colonel Christian Bachmann (France), Navy Colonel Mohamed Wirda Prayogo (Indonesia), Colonel Toshiyuki Aso and his successor (Japan), Colonel Piers Strudwick OBE (United Kingdom) as well as the military representative of Poland. Next to that former deputy member of The Hague and member of Parliament Ries Smits and Jens-Volker Ginschel of the German Embassy attended the reception. An unexpected surprise visitor was Ambassador I Gusti Agung WesakaĀ PujaĀ is currently the Executive Director ofĀ ASEANĀ Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (ASEAN-IPR).
Also participating in the parade was veteran, current Interior Minister Hanke Bruins Slot. As platoon commander of an armored howitzer, she provided fire support to Dutch, British and Australian troops during the Uruzgan mission in 2008. Minister Bruins Slot:
“Veterans make an important contribution back in the Netherlands in the context of cherishing and appreciating freedom. After all, they have seen in other countries how things can go wrong and what that means for a society. Together, you must ensure that people can continue to live in freedom in the Netherlands as well. Veterans are the best interpreters of that message. Because freedom, equality and justice, a better world, you make it together.”
More than 90.000 persons visited the event of whom many wore the white carnation. The usage of the white carnation was an act of resistance against the German occupation on June, 29 1940 in the Hague and has been introduced in 2005, the first time Netherlands Veterans Day was held, as a symbol of recognition and appreciation of war and peace keeping veterans.
Dritan Goxhaj has been arrested In Albania pursuant to arrest warrant of the Kosovo Specialist Chambers
On 31 July 2023, the authorities of Albania arrested Mr Dritan Goxhaj in Tirana. The KSC requested the cooperation and assistance of Albanian authorities in arresting Mr Goxhaj and surrendering him to the KSC, pursuant to an arrest warrant issued by a KSC Judge in relation to offences against the administration of justice involving intimidation and obstructing official persons in performing official duties.
Mr Goxhaj will be detained in Albania, pending a decision by the Albanian authorities on the transfer of Mr Goxhaj to the detention facilities of the KSC in The Hague.
These unduly restrictive policies have the secondary effect of encouraging discrimination at the societal level.ā
These are the opening words of a new excellent report by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), published in July 2023. The USCIRF is an independent, bipartisan U.S. federal government commission created by the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA). Its Commissioners are appointed by the President and by Congressional leaders of both political parties.
All European Union member states proclaim their support for religious liberty, the report notes, yet many do not respect it in practice, regarding it as a lesser right with respect to national security, the rights of certain non-religious minorities, a misguided notion of individual freedom, and some statesā idea that citizens should not create āseparatistā communities whose values are different from those of the majority. While France is often quoted in the report as a typical example of these problems, other countries are mentioned as well.
Different religious minorities are targeted. Both Jews and Muslims suffer because of prohibitions to wear distinctive clothing such as the Islamic hijab and the Jewish yarmulke in public places (some states also target the Sikh turban). Also, āAnimal rights activists and politicians, albeit for different reasons, often advocate for ritual or religious slaughter restrictions throughout the EU. These restrictions systematically exclude Jews and Muslims from European society by complicating their ability to comply with religious dietary laws, forcing individuals to abandon deeply held religious doctrine.ā
The Jewish and Muslim practice of circumcision is also under attack, particularly in Scandinavian countries. āChildrenās rights activists contend that circumcision violates the rights of children, while certain politicians consider circumcision an imported, āforeignā practice. Yet, circumcision is a fundamental Jewish ritual and campaigns to ban this practice negatively impact Jewish life.ā
In France, the so-called law against āseparatismā denies Muslims the right to self-organize their communities according to their own values, the report notes, and also impacts negatively on other groups, including those stigmatized as ācultsā (in French, āsectesā).
With respect to the latter groups, the report adds āSeveral governments in the EU have supported or facilitated the propagation of harmful information about certain religious groups. For example, the French government has funded the European Federation of Centres of Research and Information on Cults and Sects (FECRIS), a French non-profit created in 1994 that has pejoratively labeled some religious associations as āsectsā or ācults.ā Similarly, an official body under the French Ministry of the Interiorā¦āthe Inter-Ministerial Mission in the Vigilance and Combat against Sectarian Derivatives (MIVILUDES)āreleases an annual report that regularly disparages groups including Jehovahās Witnesses and the Church of Scientology.
The organization has partnered with government agencies, religious organizations, and civil society to inform them about so-called ācultsā and has generated largely positive reactions from French media outlets, which has in turn negatively impacted societal respect for those associated with religious organizations that MIVILUDES labels as sects or cults. MIVILUDES has also funded various NGOs that target religious organizations considered harmful āsects,āincluding the National Union of Associations in Defense of Families and Individual Victims of Sects (UNADFI) and the Centre Against Mental Manipulation (CCMM).ā
Worse still, the report continues, āIn January 2023, France passed a law, which, under Article 29, section 3.1.2., empowers authorities to use special techniques outlined in the criminal code to investigate āsects,ā including through the impersonation of a delivery person, remote access to electronic communications, and the installation of recording devices in private or public places or vehicles.ā
Quoting āBitter Winter,ā the report also mentions the discriminatory effect of German campaigns against ācultsā (āSektenā in German). āIn some regions of Germany, potential employees or the recipients of government grants must sign statements commonly referred to as āsect filtersā to prove they have no connection to the Church of Scientology. In one case, a man was fired from a long-held official position for his affiliation with the Church of Scientology.ā
Blasphemy laws are still in force in various European countries, and they may affect the right of atheists to criticize religion. Both laws against blasphemy and against hate speech serve the legitimate purpose of protecting religious communities and other minorities, the report notes. However, ālegislation is often too broad, criminalizing speech that does not amount to incitement to violence and thereby encompassing expression protected under international human rights standards, including the rights to freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression.ā
Christians may thus be targeted for maintaining and propagating their traditional doctrines on family issues. āFrom a religious freedom perspective, over-broad hate speech laws are particularly concerning when used against individuals for peacefully sharing religious beliefs that others find offensive or controversial. In one such case, in Finland, state prosecutors are appealing a case against Finnish Member of Parliament PƤivi RƤsƤnen and Evangelical Lutheran Bishop Jhana Pohjola, who were acquitted of hate speech charges for tweets that expressed religious beliefs about LGBTQ+ issues.ā Not surprisingly, official statutes and actions against religious minorities exposes them to hate crimes and private violence as well. āDespite official efforts to combat antisemitism and anti-Muslim hatred, both forms of hatred continue to rise. Meanwhile, the EU has yet to take commensurate steps to address other forms of religious discrimination that are also prevalent throughout Europe.ā
The report argues that it should be āpossible to guarantee freedom of religion or belief while balancing other concerns, such as national securityā. It concludes that āWhile European Union countries generally have in place constitutional and legal protections for freedom of religion or belief, some have also enacted laws and pursued policies that systematically violate religious freedom and have a serious and disproportionate impact on the ability of religious minorities to live in accordance with their beliefs. Importantly, the continuation of such policies at an official level likewise encourages discrimination at a societal level and contributes to an environment that has seen continued violent attacks on places of worship and members of religious minority communities, encouraging increased emigration from Europe.ā
While the European Union commendably protests when religious liberty is violated outside its borders, it is now great time for it to put its own house in order. The European institutionsā own credibility is at stake.
About the author:
Massimo Introvigne (born June 14, 1955 in Rome) is an Italian sociologist of religions. He is the founder and managing director of the Center for Studies on New Religions (CESNUR), an international network of scholars who study new religious movements. Introvigne is the author of some 70 books and more than 100 articles in the field of sociology of religion. He was the main author of the Enciclopedia delle religioni in Italia (Encyclopedia of Religions in Italy). He is a member of the editorial board for the Interdisciplinary Journal of Research on Religion and of the executive board of University of California Pressā Nova Religio. From January 5 to December 31, 2011, he has served as the āRepresentative on combating racism, xenophobia and discrimination, with a special focus on discrimination against Christians and members of other religionsā of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). From 2012 to 2015 he served as chairperson of the Observatory of Religious Liberty, instituted by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in order to monitor problems of religious liberty on a worldwide scale.
Amidst the vibrant colors and warm atmosphere, a garden party like no other was hosted at the residence of Ambassador Chatri Archjananun and his wife Nataya. The event, aptly named “A Day in Thailand,” was dedicated to bidding farewell to fellow ambassadors and welcome friends of Thailand during the summer season. As the sun shone brightly, the garden transformed into a captivating Thai wonderland, showcasing every aspect of the country’s rich culture and traditions.
Ambassador Archjananun stood before the gathering of distinguished guests, expressing his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support received during his tenure as the ambassador of Thailand in the Netherlands. He spoke about the strong bonds forged between the two nations and the lasting friendships that were created. With a touch of nostalgia in his voice, he announced his impending departure in a few weeks, leaving behind cherished memories of his time as an ambassador.
A Day in Thailand
Ambassador Archjananun declared:
“As the Coordinator of the Asia and Oceania Ambassadors’ Luncheon, I would like to express my appreciation to all the members who have actively contributed to the success of the luncheon’s talks. The Ambassadors’ Luncheon has proven an invaluable forum for open dialogue and fruitful discussions in a trusted environment. I encourage all my esteemed Asia and Oceania Ambassadors to continue this tradition.
“I take this opportunity to extend my good wishes for continued success to our departing ambassadors. It is also with a mix of emotions that I have to announce my own and my wifeās departure at the end of September. Every one of you will be dearly missed.
Let me also take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to each of you for the kind cooperation and support I have received throughout my entire tenure as Ambassador. It has been an honour and privilege to work with all of you.”
Throughout the day, the guests were treated to a feast of Thai cultural delights, ensuring an authentic and immersive experience. The event boasted a wide range of activities that represented the heart and soul of Thailand.
Thai culture
Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) – The demonstrations of Muay Thai, Thailand’s traditional martial art, left the audience in awe. Ambassador Archjananun participated in a demo combat. Powerful kicks, swift punches, and well-choreographed moves showcased the sport’s grace and strength.Thai Cooking Demonstrations: Culinary enthusiasts gathered around as talented Thai chefs demonstrated the art of preparing delectable Thai dishes. From Pad Thai to Tom Yum soup, guests learned the secrets behind the country’s renowned cuisine.Traditional Thai Musicians: The air was filled with enchanting melodies as Thai musicians played traditional instruments. The serene tunes transported everyone to the heart of Thailand’s musical heritage.Craving Food Art: Skillful artists exhibited the art of carving intricate designs into fruits and vegetables, creating exquisite displays that were visually stunning.Thai Massage: For those seeking relaxation, professional Thai masseuses offered traditional Thai massages, renowned for their therapeutic benefits and rejuvenating effects.
Also Thai Products and Fashion: Numerous stalls displayed a diverse range of Thai products, including intricately woven bags, elegant dresses, and vibrant textiles, showcasing the country’s exceptional craftsmanship.
A Thai Beer Bar: As the day grew warmer, guests gathered at the Thai beer bar to savor refreshing beverages, relishing the distinct flavors of Thailand’s local brews.
Celebrity Appearance: The party was graced by the presence of a famous Thai top model and TV star, Dr Khemmanit Jamikorn, adding a touch of glamour and excitement to the event. Food and Fruit Stations: Attendees had the opportunity to indulge in an array of Thai delicacies and tropical fruits, savoring the exquisite flavors that define Thai cuisine.Traditional Thai Dancers: The rhythmic movements of skilled Thai dancers captivated the audience, leaving them mesmerized by the elegance and grace of Thai traditional dance forms.
“A Day in Thailand” was a resounding success, and its impact would undoubtedly resonate with all who attended. The event showcased the unique beauty of Thailand’s culture and demonstrated the power of diplomacy in fostering international camaraderie.
Through the captivating displays of Thai culture and the celebration of friendship, the event exemplified the essence of the Thai spirit and left a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to partake in the festivities.
Indeed, “A Day in Thailand” served as a delightful reminder that despite distances and different cultures, the bonds of friendship can transcend borders, leaving an indelible mark on the journey of life.
In a grand celebration of maritime heritage and diplomatic relations, and on the occasion of its XXXIII Annual Training Voyage and its participation of Sail Den Helder 2023, Uruguay’s Capitan Miranda Navy Training Tallship gracefully sailed into the Port of Den Helder in the Netherlands to participate in diverse events.
One of them, the reception hosted by H.E. Mr. Ćlvaro GonzĆ”lez Otero, the Ambassador of Uruguay in the Netherlands, together with the Captain Mario Vaucher Rivero on June 30th, 2023, was a true reflection of the ship’s historical importance and its connection to the own life story of the Uruguayan Ambassador.
In spite of the two hours distance that exists between The Hague and the Den Helderās harbor, the event brought together a relevant number of distinguished international and national authorities, marking an exceptional display of camaraderie and cultural exchange.
H.E. Mr. Ćlvaro GonzĆ”lez Otero, the Ambassador of Uruguay in the Netherlands, together with the Captain Mario Vaucher Rivero and Ms. Anahi Aguirre Toni, Second Secretary, Embassy of Uruguay.
The Capitan Miranda: A Personal Journey
For Ambassador Ćlvaro GonzĆ”lez Otero, the Capitan Miranda Tallship carries sentimental personal significance. The ship’s history intertwines with his own life’s journey, forming an unbreakable bond that has spanned several generations of marine officials.
His first encounter with the vessel was in the company of his step uncle, who served as the Captain of the ship during his young years, leaving an indelible impression on the young Ćlvaro, shaping his passion for maritime affairs and the recognized spread of Uruguayan values and quality products that this school vessel transmits in each country its representative crew visits.
H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica, H.E. Mr. Mario Oyarzabal, Ambassador of Argentina, H.E. Mr. Ćlvaro GonzĆ”lez Otero, the Ambassador of Uruguay, Captain Mario Vaucher Rivero, H.E. Mr. Andres Teran Parral, Ambassador of Ecuador and H.E. Mr. Jaime Moscoso Valenzuela, Ambassador of Chile.
As Ambassador GonzƔlez Otero embarked on a long and distinguished diplomatic career, during which he had the privilege of receiving the Capitan Miranda in various countries before, including Baltimore, USA, and Salvador de Bahia, Brazil.
In this opportunity, as he welcomed the tall ship to the Netherlands, his heart swelled with pride, knowing that the ship continues to represent Uruguay’s commitment to naval education, cultural exchange and social values that meaningfully characterized their own country.
Capitan Miranda Navy Training Tallship’s reception in Den Helder.
H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica and H.E. Ms. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, Ambassador of Panama.
In an improvised and short presentation, the Ambassador of Uruguay stood before his distinguished guests, expressing his heartfelt gratitude for their presence and shared commitment to encouragement strong diplomatic ties. He highlighted the Capitan Miranda tall shipās significance in bridging nations and nurturing cultural understanding, inspiring applause from the audience.
The Ambassador also highlighted the enjoyable food prepared by the vessel cuisine, the excellent Uruguayan wines served to the guests, and the finest attention, care and support coming from the Captain, Officers and the whole crew of the tall ship to all the people and visitors. He ended remembering the value and popularity of the Capitan Miranda worldwide and how much it is appreciated in his own country.
Capitan Miranda Navy Training Tallship’s reception in Den Helder,
Uruguay’s Capitan Miranda Training Tallship
The Commander, Captain Vaucher, also pronounced a speech emphasizing his gratitude to the Netherlands authorities and the special relation and cooperation that also exists between the ship and the Uruguayan diplomats all over the world.
As the sun set over the Dutch horizon, the Capitan Miranda buzzed with excitement and a sense of anticipation. Amidst the traditional music, wine and food of Uruguay, all the people engaged in animated conversations. The Capitan Miranda stood tall in the backdrop, an emblem of unity, evoking shared memories of maritime voyages and cross-cultural experiences.
Mr. Wilhen Diaz Lara, Charge d’affaires of Venezuela, the Ambassador of Angola, H.E. Ms. Maria Isabel Gomes de Resende Encoge and the Ambassador of Belarus, H.E. Mr. Andrei Yeudachenka.
Celebrating Cultural Exchange Uruguay / Netherlands
During the reception, a sample dance performance of tango and candombe by the crew, brought elements of Uruguay captivating the audience with blend of tradition and innovation.
The crew’s genuine openness and willingness to explain their experiences aboard the tall ship created an atmosphere of camaraderie and friendship. Attendees left the reception not only with unforgettable memories of the Capitan Miranda’s mission ā a floating ambassador of goodwill that transcends borders and brings nations together.
A sample dance performance of candombe by the Capitan Miranda’s crew.
The Uruguayan school vessel has already been invited by Dutch authorities to participate in the 10th Sail Amsterdam 2025, which is an impressive nautical event, that takes place every five years since 1975.
In 2025, the city of Amsterdam will be 750 years old, and the Kingdom of the Netherlands will celebrate this in grand style.
After Washington, the Israeli government has also decided to “recognize Morocco’s sovereignty” in the disputed region of Western Sahara, as announced by the government in Rabat a week ago. The geopolitical background in the region is particularly tense.
The palace government stated in a press release, “With this letter, the Israeli Prime Minister brought to the attention of his majesty the King Mohammed V the decision of the State of Israel to recognize the national sovereignty of Morocco in the region of Western Sahara.”
According to the same source, in his letter, Mr. Netanyahu clarified that his country’s position will now be “reflected in all the actions and documents of the Israeli government” related to the issue.
The Israeli prime minister added that this decision would be “transmitted to the United Nations, regional and international organizations of which Israel is a member, as well as all countries with which Israel maintains diplomatic relations,” as cited in excerpts of the letter by the kingdom’s government.
Israel is considering opening a consulate in Dakhila
Moreover, Mr. Netanyahu informed the Moroccan monarch that Israel is positively considering “opening a consulate in the city of Dakhila,” in the part of the Western Sahara controlled by the kingdom.
Rabat is seeking allies to open diplomatic missions in Western Sahara in recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the vast region, as a sign of its support for the kingdom.
In a televised speech, the Moroccan monarch Mohammed V emphasized, “The issue of the Sahara is the prism through which Morocco sees its international environment.”
A senior Moroccan official told AFP on condition of anonymity, “This decision is part of the dynamics of recent months, with the recognition by the US of the kingdom’s national sovereignty in the southern provinces of [s.s. in Western Sahara], the support of about fifteen European countries in the autonomy plan, and the opening of about thirty consulates in Laayoune and Dakhila.”
The recognition by Benjamin Netanyahu’s government “strengthens this momentum,” according to the same source.
Tensions with Algeria
Western Sahara, once a Spanish colony, is considered a “non-self-governing region” by the UN, in the absence of a definitive settlement of its status. For nearly fifty years, the Moroccan army and the separatists of the Polisario Front, supported by Algeria, have been at war in this region.
Rabat has proposed an autonomy plan without challenging Moroccan national sovereignty, while the Polisario is demanding a UN-sponsored referendum on self-determination.
In Jerusalem, the Israeli foreign minister praised the decision. “This measure will strengthen relations between states and peoples and continue cooperation to strengthen peace and stability in the region,” said Eli Cohen.
The Israeli decision, which was widely expected, is announced in a climate of increasing rivalry between Rabat and Algiers. The two neighboring countries severed diplomatic relations in 2021, by Algeria’s decision.
Morocco and Israel normalized diplomatic relations in December 2020, as part of the so-called Abraham Accords, a process of rapprochement between the Jewish state and Arab countries with the strong support of the US.
The Israeli liaison office in Rabat will be promoted to embassy level, while Morocco is preparing to do the same in Tel Aviv.
Since the end of May, three Israeli ministers, the speaker of the Knesset (the Israeli parliament), the national security adviser, and members of a special forces unit of the ground army – something unprecedented – traveled to Morocco.
However, the process of tightening relations is not exactly unanimously welcomed in Morocco, especially because, at the beginning of the year, the most right-wing government in Israel’s history took over. Despite the noticeable decrease in mobilization for it in the kingdom, the Palestinian cause continues to be viewed with great sympathy by a large part of the Moroccan population.
H.E. Ambassador Chatri Archjananun gladly invites you and your spouse to “A Day in Thailandā on 7 July 2023 at the Thai Residence.
It is a special journey where you fully immerse yourself in the vibrant Thai culture and indulge in captivating experiences. Arts and crafts, Thai food, Thai performances, Thai boxing, Thai massage, tourism information, and much more await you.
We eagerly wait to share this unique experience with you! What a marvellous invitation, one you canāt resist!
The Ambassador of Thailand, H.E. Chatri Archjananun during his speech.
Remarks by the Ambassador: āA very warm welcome to “A Day in Thailand“! Thank you all for being here on this special occasion, which is perfectly timed as the summer holidays are just around the corner.
The sun is shining. This good weather is such a rarity in The Hague. So please enjoy the glorious sunshine with the clear sky.
An ambassadors family’s picture. H.E. Mr. Choe Hyoung-chan, Ambassador of Korea, H.E. Mgr Paul Tschang In-Nam, Apostolic Nuncio, H.E. Mr. Veaceslav DobĆ®ndÄ, Ambassador of Moldova, H.E. Mr. Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Ambassador of Costa Rica, HE. Mr. Pham Viet Anh, Ambassador fo Vietnam, H.E. Ms. Salima Abdelhak, Ambassador of Algeria, H.E. Mr. Riaz Hanidullah, Ambassador of Bangladesh, H.E. Mr. Chatri Archjananun, the Ambassador of Thailand, H.E. Mr. Almir Å ahoviÄ, Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina, H.E. Mr. Mohamed Basri, Ambassador of Morocco, H.E. Mr. Mark Anthony Pace, Ambassador of Malta, H.E. Ms Sahar Ghanem, Ambassador of Yemen, H.E. Mr. Hatem Kamaleldin, H.E. Mr. FranƧois Alabrune, Ambassador of France and H.E. Mr. Jose Eduardo Malaya, Ambassador of the Philippines.
As just said, the summer holidays are around the corner, and we are bidding farewell to dear friends whose term of office in the Netherlands is ending due to a new assignment or retirement. I take this opportunity to extend my good wishes for continued success to our departing ambassadors. It is also with a mix of emotions that I also have to announce my own and my wifeās departure at the end of September. Every one of you will be dearly missed.
Let me also take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to each of you for the kind cooperation and support I have received throughout my entire tenure as Ambassador. It has been an honour and privilege to work with all of you.
H.E. Ms. Aruni Ranaraja, Ambassador of Sri Lanka, Ambassador Archjananun and the Ambassador of Bangladesh, H.E. Mr. Riaz Hamidullah.
Further, as the Coordinator of the Asia and Oceania Ambassadors’ Luncheon, I would like to express my appreciation to all the members who have actively contributed to the success of the luncheon’s talks.
The Ambassadors’ Luncheon has proven an invaluable forum for open dialogue and fruitful discussions in a trusted environment. I encourage all my esteemed Asia and Oceania Ambassadors to continue this tradition.
Nataya Archjananun and the Ambassador of Malaysia, H.E. Ms. Nadzirah Osman.
Today we have a wonderful opportunity to bid farewell and for all of you to get a glimpse of Thailand, particularly our cuisine, beverages, and martial arts. I could invite every one of you to dine at the Thai residence, our dining table can only accommodate 10 persons. I have devised a way to treat everyone simultaneously, and thus, came this event.”
A Day in Thailand event also underlines the cherished longstanding diplomatic relations between the two Kingdoms of Thailand and the Netherlands for more than hundreds of years. Ambassador Chatri takes pride that during his tenure he has boosted the cooperation between the two nations in all facets, particularly in economic and people-to-people relations. He is confident that a new chapter of collaboration between Thailand and the Netherlands will be fostered by his successor.
Dr Khemmanit Jamikorn, a Thai movie star enjoying Thai food. Dr Mayelinne De Lara, Diplomat Magazine’s publisher and H.E. Mr. Philippe Couvreur, Judge ad hoc at International Court of Justice.
“Lastly, I would like to say thank you to Dr Mayelinne De Lara from Diplomat Magazine for co-taking the initiative of this event, Dr Khemmanit Jamikorn, a Thai movie star and her family, our sponsor and everyone who has contributed to the event, all the staff at the Royal Thai Embassy, my dear wife for their invaluable support in making this mini-Thai festival happen.”
One day in Thailand, there are numerous attractions, sights seeing, shopping, restaurants, and shows, too much to mention. Not possible to experience them all. It is fabulous how the coordinators narrow the activities to a sublime two hours itinerary and make it look real.
The clothing boutique, the artist, craftsman,massage, cooking demonstration, boxing demo, you name it. I felt like I was on holiday in Thailand, strolling along the streets, delightful.
H.E. Ambassador Suljuk Mustansar Tarar of Pakistan delivered a lecture to students of the TUDelft, Department of Architecture and The Built Environment on Pakistan’s architecture.
The BKTUDelft students are working on an assignment on building in extreme environments and designing low-cost sustainable residential units in Pakistan.
Ambassador Suljuk Mustansar Tarar is himself an architect. The students held a presentation on their housing design in extreme weather projects in Pakistan.
The Embassy of Burundi in the Netherlands hosted an event at the Ambassadorās residence to celebrate Burundiās 61st Independence Day on 8 July 2023.
The event started with H.E. Ambassador Gamaliel Nkurunziza, inviting the audience to sing the National anthem of Burundi “Burundi Bwacu” and the Netherlands.
AmbassadorĀ Gamaliel Nkurunziza further stated, “this is a unique and great day for Burundians. We have listened to the song of our Independence, and we must take the lyrics of our National Anthem as our guidance because it is full of inspiration and a lot of teachings.”
AmbassadorĀ Nkurunziza and guests.
Addressing the many guests the Ambassador stated, “I would like to thank the Ambassadors of Rwanda, South Africa, China, Kenya, Morocco, Tanzania, Uganda, Algeria, Angola, Ghana and Cote dāIvoire, the Deputy Mayor of Wassenaar, representatives of the diplomatic missions as well as the friends of Burundi for having responded to our invitation and accompanying the Burundians to the celebration of the 61st anniversary of the Independence of Burundi.”
Back in Bujumbura, the Government has been receiving congratulations in connection with its 61 years of Independence.
Burundi receives praise for theĀ crucial role that Burundi has been playing in promoting peace and stability throughout Africa. Particularly to be underscored are the invaluable contributions of Burundi towards peacekeeping missions in Somalia and Central Africa, praising the nationās dedication to fostering peace in the region.
The Ambassador of Rwanda, H.E. Mr. Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe and the Ambassador of China, H.E. Mr. Jian Tan.
Burundi 61 years of Independence – Congratulations from abroad
The US, Secretry of State Mr Anthony Blinken: “On behalf of the United States of America, I send my congratulations to the people of the Republic of Burundi as you celebrate 61 years of independence. We commend Burundiās continuing political and economic reforms and welcome Burundiās positive engagement with international financial institutions. We also appreciate the leadership role Burundi has played in regional peace and security as Chair of the East African Community and through its active participation in peacekeeping operations. The United States looks forward to working together over the next year to improve regional security.”
H.E. President Sahle-Work Zewde of Ethiopia extended her congratulatory message to President Evariste Ndayishimiye and the people of Burundi on their National Day.
Praises also came from Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, who currently serves as the head of the African Union Transition Mission, highlighting the crucial role that Burundi has been playing in promoting peace and stability throughout Africa. The Ambassador particularly underscored the invaluable contributions of Burundi towards peacekeeping missions in Somalia and Central Africa, praising the nationās dedication to fostering peace in the region.
Other world leaders have also sent their best wishes to Burundians on their National Day.
AmbassadorĀ Gamaliel Nkurunziza continued hisĀ welcome remarks by stating, “today is an important day for our country and for Burundians living here in the Netherlands. This is the time to make up our minds.”Ā AmbassadorĀ Gamaliel Nkurunziza continued his welcome remarks by stating,Ā “because our Independence Day is a good opportunity to take a look at where we come from and where we are going especially in following steps for people who guided us in the process of fighting for our independenceĀ The Prince Rudoviko RwagasoreĀ who sacrificed his life so that Burundian can be independent, he will always be our Hero.Ā
Burundian Ladies in national dress.
The motto of our Independence hero, Prince Louis Rwagasore, was Progress!
It is in that view I invite every Burundian living in the Netherlands to come and work together. Nothing should separate us.
I noticed all Burundians are here to celebrate our Independence Day. I encourage everyone to support our independence, especially in the angle of developing our country, to feel free and join me as your servant. There is no place like home, we have a beautiful country.
As Burundians, we need to be proud of our country because we are going to have a better future. In order to strengthen that love, I would like to emphasize the speech of our President H.E General Major Evariste Ndayishimiye, which he delivered on the event of the commemoration of the 61st anniversary of the independence of Burundi, we are commemorating today.
The President called on all of us to be united in contributing to the development of our country Burundi. Our government has given a strong signal that when we are united, we become strong. It is time we turned the page of our history because our differences are our strengths.
Our President has become the chief Commander of our country’s Development and urged us to follow his commandment.
As Ambassador of Burundi, I am urging all Burundians to contribute to our country’s development. I also request you to stop slandering your country. No matter what, your country will always be your country. You will never get another one. You can get as many citizenships as you like Burundi will always be your first country and will always welcome you as a mother.
Burundi is our motherland, whatever we will become, we will remain bound to Burundi, our country. Burundi will always be our motherland.
This takes my mind back to the lyrics of A Calypso by Lord Kitchener, Grandmaster of Calypso, āI can always get a wife, but I can never get another mother in my lifeā.(ed.)
Recently some Burundians tried to smear the image of Burundi.
This is an unpatriotic act and not compatible with our values.
Our country is like our mother not customary to maltreat your mother or father. A Burundian who dares to ill-treat parents and smear the image of the country is considered someone who lost his identity, his culture, and values. Has become as cursed person.
Let us change positively and join the call of our President to rebuild the image of our beloved country.
Since my arrival in the Netherlands, you responded positively and massively. There is a bright tomorrow, and the future holds many good surprises.
I thank you all so much for your sacrifices. Let us remain united, contribute to the promotion of the image of our country and remain focused on the development of Burundi.
Enjoy this celebration of our 61st Independence Day. And May God Bless you all.”
