Robotization is the final form of capitalist degeneration of humanity. Capitalism does not transform robots into humans, but humans into robots. Instead of human evolution having a historical character, it takes on a technocratic character. Capitalism destroys manâs personality and reduces him to a functional component of technical processes through which capitalism destroys the human and living world. Marx’s concept of âreificationâ (Verdinglichung) points to the prevailing tendency of world development. Capitalism abolishes man as a human and natural being and turns him into technical means for the development of capitalism
Robots are a projection of the capitalistically degenerated humanity. Capitalism abolishes interpersonal relationships and, in doing so, abolishes man as social being. Society becomes a crowd of atomized individuals reduced to a labor-consumer mass. People lose the need for human connection. Man no longer seeks humanity in another man, but in virtual worlds, pets and technological devices. Robots become a substitute for human beings.
Measured by capitalist criteria, one of the most significant advantages of robots over humans is that robots, as technical “beings,” can constantly be improved based on the productivity and efficiency. The rate of capital turnover is the driving force behind the robotization of humans and the technization of the world. In the end, the process of robotization comes down to the development of capitalism, which involves the increasingly intensive destruction of man as a human and life-creating being. Robotization indicates that there are no limits to the capitalist future.
This is especially significant when it comes to the “conquest of space.” The technocratic approach to space and to the cosmic future of humanity is conditioned by a dehumanized technocratic mind. Man is abolished as a historical being, and thereby as a unique and irreplaceable cosmic being. Rather than endeavoring to create a humane cosmos, man is instead, through technical means, abolished as a human and natural being and reduced to cosmic processes that have an energetic and mechanical character.
Robots are an organic part of the technical world, and their characteristics are conditioned by the nature of capitalism. They are mass-produced and, as such, disposable commodities. Robots are not social or historical beings; they lack emotions, mind, libertarian dignity, cultural and national self-awareness, moral criteria, rights, they don’t get sick, they work 24 hours a day as programmed, they are replaceable, and can be instantly turned off and destroyed…
Capitalists do not strive to create robots that are increasingly similar to humans in their qualities but rather humans who are increasingly similar to robots. Humans are not the role models for robots; robots are the role models for humans. Through the spectacular model of robots, capitalist propaganda machinery imposes on people the image of the capitalist man of the future. In reality, robots are surrogates of humans turned by capitalism into ideal slaves.
Sport is an area where the robotization of humans in the existing world has reached its highest level. The human body has become a technical means to achieve records, and the “quest for records” is based on a productivistic fanaticism with a technical and destructive character. This is what defines the personality of an athlete, as well as their relation to the world and the future.
Considering that capitalism is increasingly destroying the living conditions in which man as a natural and human being can survive, the distinctive ability of robots to function in environments that are deadly to humans becomes of paramount importance. The destruction of the living environment devalues man as a human and natural being and further encourages the process of robotization.
Robotization suggests that capitalism can survive without humans. In the capitalistically degenerated world, humanity is not just superfluous; it has become an impediment to “progress.” With the development of consumer society, which means capitalismâs becoming a totalitarian order of destruction, capitalism has come to the final reckoning with the living world and with man as a human and natural being. Man has become an “obsolete being” that is to conclude his cosmic odyssey in the capitalist landfill.                                  Â
In a fluid global order, initiatives to articulate cooperation to its best mutual outcome, as for exchange of resources and synergies are relevant more than ever. The mighty Asian triangular format of RIC (Russia â India â China) is relatively well known although underreported in scholarly and popular writings. However, the triangulation between Russia, Iran and India â largely overlooked â is a fact and a pressing necessity, especially for Russia and Iran, the most sanctioned countries in the world.
The strengthening of the International North-South Transport Corridor could implement that new triangulation. The multimodal North-South corridor is 7,200 km long and makes it possible to reduce costs and times for transportation of goods, if contrasted and compared to the Suez Canal passage.
According to estimates, the North-South could double the volume of goods from the current 17 to 32 million tons. Furthermore, over the past year, the reveal of this corridor has grown. So, this Project brings numerous geopolitical and geo-economic opportunities and challenges, making Asia autonomous and (self-)integrated for the first time.
The advantages of the corridor in pills:
1. Reduction of dependence on Suez;
2. Time and cost reduction;
3. Alternative route for Indian goods to Central Asia (primarily Kazakhstan) by bypassing Pakistan;
4. Alternative route for Indian goods to Europe bypassing Red Sea, Africa, Bosporus and traditional key ports of Europe (such as Port Said, Tangier, Rotherham, Hamburg, Genoa, Trieste, Thessaloniki, and the like);
5. Pivoting Iran as a median crossroad, and hence further stabilising it;
6. Breaking the isolation, and consequent circumvention of sanctions of Russia, while arching this corridor to the Arctic bridge;
7. Complete integration of the littoral statesâ region around the Caspian Sea as a new global hub.
Bandung (1956), Belgrade (1961), Johannesburg (2023): Materialisation of the Grand Visions
Rather recently, the Asia-based researcher Dr. Maria Smotrytska â while marking the 60th anniversary of the inaugural, Belgrade conference of the Non-aligned Movement (NaM) (Aug-Sep 1961), recalled the famous argument of prof. Anis H. Bajrektarevic âNo Asian century without pan-Asian multilateral settingsâ which was prolifically published as policy paper and thoroughly debated among practitioners and academia in over 40 countries on all continents for the past 15 years. Then and there, Smotrytska was revisiting and rethinking the professorâs very argument, its validity and gravity in retrospect.
Hence, she noted âToday Eurasia is the axial continent of mankind, which is home to about 75% of the world’s population (see Map 1), produces 60% of world GDP (see Map 2) and stores three quarters of the world’s energy resources (see Map 3) [Shepard, 2016]. In these open spaces, two giant poles of modern geoeconomics are being formed: European and East Asian, which are tearing the canvas of the familiar geographical concept of âEurasiaâ and at the same time providing opportunities for new synthesis through the construction and connection of transcontinental transport arteries.â
Past the historical Johannesburg gathering of BRICS, with the âunprecedented (post-) Maastricht-like deepening (institutionsâ building) and widening (massive enlargement with 6 robust either demographics or/and economies â hence larger than any of the EU /or for that matter NATO/ enlargements ever) â this grouping is the best living example of the grand idea of Tito, Nehru and Nasserâs postulated active and peaceful coexistence that came to life in Yugoslavia in 1961â â as professor Anis H. Bajrektarevic commented the 15th BRICS Summit.
How the active and peaceful coexistence is materialising itself without confronting but rather by complimenting the existing world order?
The Global Disorder and the Euro-Asian Synchronization
Rise, decline, marginalization, or collapse are inevitable stages in the life cycle of empires as gravity centres. Political power always tries to amortise, even reverse the decline (if in a good time admitting it self), but power transfer is an unstoppable historical constant. The Powerâs disappearance leads to the emergence of a challenger capable of (re-)organizing space. In the VI Canto of Paradise, the poet Dante â talking through Emperor Justinian â uses the metaphor of the eagle flying âagainst the course of heavenâ to depict the transfer of power from Rome to Constantinople, to the ânew Romeâ.
Nowadays, an irreversible power relocation has begun, even if there is not a precise gravitational centre. Indeed, the global order is archipelagic and âfluidâ, as even the western media recently admitted. Since the Russian special operation in Ukraine, a magmatic phase started, incentivizing new triangulations and alliances, sometimes alternatives to the West primacy. Of course, the United States remains the global technological and military pivot, and NATO remains the first military alliance, but it is undeniable that the balance is evolving.
The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) involving Russia, India, and Iran (in total, 13 members) fits into this multipolar-evolving context. If integrally implemented according to plans, it would make it possible to reduce the supremacy of Suez, through which about 12% of global trade transits. This project will encourage a Euro-Asian synchronization and provide an alternative to the traditional Suez route exclusivity, reducing approximately 40% distance and costs by 30%, as claimed by Silk Road Briefings.
Infrastructures have a substantial role in the growth and decline of power. The case of the Suez Canal is emblematic: it interrupted the complex circumnavigations and restored the centrality of the Mediterranean. For this reason, powers aspiring for a hegemonic role invest in infrastructural networks: China with the âBelt and Roadâ Initiative â Research Fellow at IFIMES/DeSSA Dr Maria Smotrytska described the shifting-balance project in her detailed analysis â while Russia and Iran with the Corridor. As a result, the project is fraught with enormous geopolitical implications.
However, these are not the only initiatives. Having overcome the internal turmoil, Algeria (as a forthcoming BRICS member) has heavily invested in the new Trans-Sahara Highway Project, 5,000 kilometres long, from Algiers to Lagos. In this way, the ârepublicanâ Algeria hopes to bypass the âmonarchicalâ Morocco and, finally, the Strait of Gibraltar. The name “African Unity Road” testifies to the socio-geo-political significance.
The World Island and Russian Scramble for Warm Seas
At the beginning of the twentieth century, the great Anglo-Saxon geopolitical strategists âMackinder, Spykman, Lea â asked themselves the problem of how to counter the rise of the gigantic Euro-Asian empires located in the Heartland and their expansion to the critical fault line of the Rimland. In The Day of The Saxon (New York Harper, 1912), Homer Lea warns of the risks of integration between Euro-Asian powers, such as Russia and Germany, as evidenced by the Berlin-Baghdad railway project.
The Anglo-Saxon thalassocrat powers â the authors argued â could not withstand the impact of such vast empires, with young and numerous populations set off for industrial and infrastructural development as well as with boundless natural resources. For this, it is essential to control the Rimland and try to hold back the momentum of the empires, fighting one at a time: once Russia, once China. The containment policy against the Russian giant also derives from these reflections.
They were well-justified fears. At the time, Russia, which had already become a pivotal protagonist on the European scene since the Napoleonic wars, had expanded into the Caucasus and Central Asia. Soon after, that very theatre scored significant rates of economic and demographic growth, primarily thanks to the Trans-Siberian railway and the consequent colonization of Asian Russia. The Czars also aimed at the seas, the Indian Ocean, and the Mediterranean. For that same reason, Crimea has historically been crucial in Moscowâs strategies.
Analyzing the complex geographical composition of the Euro-Asian mass in The Geography of Peace (Harcourt, Brace, 1944), Spykman notes that the seas arranged in an arc all around has facilitated the development of the coastal areas, while the more inland areas have always remained disconnected and without reliable communication routes; this prevented full integration. As a result, communications almost always took place with sea routes. However, there are infrastructural interventions that can break the setback of geography.
Counter-balancing gravities of both West and China: The Russia-Iran-India Triangulation
An escalation of Ukrainian crisis led the Western world to (unfold already prepared: to) sever relations with Moscow. However, as evidenced by the growth of the European import of Russian LNG and ever better rankings of Russia on PPP (Purchasing Power Parity which now stands better than one of Germany), it is nearly impossible to disconnect Russia from a fully integrated global economic system. For example, during the Cold World, Charles Levinson in Vodka Cola (Gordon and Cremonesi, 1977) highlighted a similar situation: the interdependence between the two opposing blocks â he also envisaged a hybridization in a more authoritarian sense.
South Corridor / Source: INSTC Map
Nevertheless, compared to the twentieth century, Russia is no longer an âideological lighthouseâ, no longer commands the Warsaw block, and, after the dissolution, has been increasingly marginalized. Past the shock caused by the loss of its historical territories, that Eurasia giantis successfully pressing its peripheries, and knocking on the global doors. Even in the harsh circumstances (past the February 2022 calamity), Russia has found numerous and is developing effective alternative channels to come out of isolation.
First, the Russian-Chinese integration is already a reality: trade could reach a value of about 200 billion USD by the end of 2023. Furthermore, China is a privileged end market for Russian resources, but Russia is also a relevant market for China that could compensate for the loss of shares in Taiwan and the United States with Russia.
Similarly, trade between Russia and Iran quadrupled in 2022. Interestingly, trade between Iran and the Caspian littoral states amounts to 5.54 million tons worth $3.03 billion (according to MMag Mak A. Bajrektarevicâ book âCaspian: Status, Challenges, and Prospectsâ).
The North-South Corridor / Source: Public Domain
Last but not least, after a long period in which the mutual value trade has not exceeded 10 billion dollars, in just one year the exchange between Russia and India has reached a record high of 44.4 billion; as a result, Russia is now the fifth largest trading partner. Trade between India and Russia has grown in the last year thanks to the International North-South Transport Corridor, which makes it possible to reduce logistics times from around 40 days to about 25. So, India is investing a lot in the corridor and reached an agreement for the Iranian port of Chabahar. This port is located about 790 nautical miles from Nhava Sheva and Mumbai.
The Geo-Economical Relevance of the Project
A comparable and particularly profitable route already existed a while ago. The United States, United Kingdom and Canada created a corridor, the so-called âPersian Corridorâ, during WWII to transfer military aid to the USSR: over 4 million tonnes of cargo passed through the forerunner of the North-South Corridor.
After the capitulation of the European powers in 1939 and 1940-41, the USSR had to withstand an overwhelming shock force and was initially forced to retreat. As the Soviet military and industrial complex came into full swing, the corridor, especially in its initial stages, had a greater importance than is generally attributed. The corridor was the only reliable channel to support the USSR as the Nordic and Arctic routes towards Murmansk and Archangel were controlled by the Nazis.
After decades, the project was relaunched in the early 2000s and is listed as a priority by the countriesâ governments. The corridor responds to the needs of the three major players involved: access to the Indian Ocean and the Gulf for Russia interrupting isolation, internal infrastructural strengthening for Iran â the country will become a pivotal crossroads of rail, road, and sea routes â and projection towards Central Asia for India bypassing Pakistan, which has become a key-country for China.
In addition, the initiative also has beneficial effects for all the other regional players: the former Soviet republics, Azerbaijan â the port of Baku is becoming an increasingly important hub (over 6.3 million tonnes of cargo in 2022) â and Armenia, but also the GCC (Gulf states), which are now the protagonists of a cautious and attentive policy to redefining the global politico-military and energo-economic balance.
Current forecasts predict the doubling of freight volumes from 17 million tons per year to 32 million in 2030. The completion of the project would also lead to a shift of the trade and transit axis towards the heart of Central Asia.
Source: Smotrytska (2022), the pre-C-19 Worldâs Crude Shipments Levels (UCL Energy Institute, 2019)
Therefore, the North-South Corridor has enormous potential, but there are many unsolved problems. First, complete the infrastructural works in unison, modernize often-outdated infrastructure sections, and finally complete additional complementary interventions, as in the case of the Volga-Don Canal, which could strengthen trade between the Caspian Water Plateau and the Sea of ââAzov.
This canal is crucial in Russian Iranian commercial exchange: an estimated 35 merchant ships passed through the Volga-Don passages in 2021 (annual average), but this number grew to 50 in 2022 (42% more). However, despite the growing importance of global trade, the intermodal capacity of the ports on the Caspian Sea is still limited (Mak A. Bajrektarevicâ âCaspian: Status, Challenges, and Prospectsâ). At the same time, the interconnection between ports and railways in Iran is still lacking, but the two partners are willing to invest.
Finally, it is very complex to scratch the supremacy of Suez, especially after the doubling. The data show constant growth: from 2011 to 2016, over 16 thousand ships passed through Suez, while in 2021, over 20 thousand (more than 56 per day), as reported by the Suez Canal (SCA). In 2021, about 1.27 billion tons of cargo were shipped through the canal. Therefore, Suez and Panama remain the fundamental facilitators of modern navigation.
Nevertheless, besides Iran â pivotal for the Caspian corridor, Suez becomes âovercrowdedâ by the new BRICS members: Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia and Egypt are practically Red Seaâs littoral states while the last one is the Canalâs (solo) proprietor. Â
Why does such analysis matter? âGeopolitics often follows laws of quantum mechanics: if we (only) analyse locality we lose a sight of a speed, if we focus on the speed we miss to understand interaction of the triggering protagonist/s. Center and periphery are relative (to say, reversible) to its speed and positionâ â as professor Anis H. Bajrektarevic vividly explains subtle interplays of events, (gravity of) theatres and its actors. Hence, this awareness energetically invites us to illuminate less explored and underreported trends and localities, and to extrapolate them with those we perceive as a main-stream and acknowledge as the established.
In an earlier mentioned The Geography of Peace, Spykman highlighted some gateways or obligatory passages â the so-called âGates to the Heartlandâ â potentially dangerous for âworld peaceâ, from which the Russian giant (be it of that time or present day) could try to get out. In his vision, the gates are the Arctic route (the ancient Pomor Trade), the Crimea, central European plains, Caucasian passes, or the Khyber Pass. Preventing access to Russia at these points is a guarantee of peace â actually of the British domination of that time.
The northern road remains accessible for Russia even if less safe after Finland entered NATO; precisely, the war against Finland (1939-1940) finished with the conquest of the Karelia region and the RybaÄij Peninsula to protect Leningrad and Archangel port. The post-1989 NATO advance – past Gorbatchovâs unilateral retreat, has made Russian penetration towards central Europe almost impossible at this stage. Finally, Russiaâs returned to the war to protect the Crimea and the Azov Sea (now its âinner seaâ) as well as it (re-)appeared in Syria and the Sahel, past the Westâs disastrous politico-military meddling in the MENA during its decades of âunipolar momentâ.
By implementing the International North-South Transport Corridor, always following Spykmanâs vision, which represents a route that crosses the Caucasus and the Caspian Sea, Russia is finding a way to break the isolation up, reaching the âgatesâ.
The International North-South Transport Corridor (and its linking with the Artic Bridge and Northern Sea Route â as professor Anis H. Bajrektarevic already indicated over decade ago, in his ground work âArctic and Antarctic: Two Poles – Different Scoresâ) demonstrates, together with the initiatives of China and Algeria (to cheapen and fasten delivery by cutting off Morocco) as well as other related triangulations, that there is a definite will of the revisionist powers and emerging global players to become central on the global supply lanes or to want to build new trade routes. In conclusion, transport infrastructures are one of the main factors in shaping the geopolitics, socio-economics and consequently, our history. Panama and Suez made it possible, and the new corridors can do the same.
If this would be one of the worldâs best concretisations of the grand Bandung and Belgrade visions of our times, the following years will certainly show us.
About the Author:
Lorenzo Somigli
Lorenzo Somigli is a columnist specialised in the EU and Euro-MED energy and geopolitics (publications in Italian and international media and magazine like leSfide and Transatlantic Policy Quarterly). In his native Italy, Somigli is actively involved in the State Parliamentâs MPs advisory.
The post-pandemic world and the Russia-Ukraine war is upon us and how we manage from this point on will determine our success. This article proposes a cadre of ideas in a world that has completely changed. The crucial role in preparing an organization for the post-pandemic world and the Russia-Ukraine war is at the heart of business acumen today. A new definition of the role of corporate strategy in managing innovation is crucial for success. A world that we once knew no longer exists. What does exist is you reading this article. Congratulations on your successful survival of the worst war and pandemic since the turn of the century.
In the wake of the worst war and pandemic since the turn of the century, strategic formulation has developed into a worldwide phenomenon. As organizations begin to migrate back into the office, settling in has taken on a new sensation. âSitting at his desk on a Monday morning after being home for two years working remotely, I felt surreal,â said Vic, in Manhattan, New York, as he reminisced his entire career in a moment. It was knowledge management and technology that kept the dialogue going via large platforms of remote use. Now, respect for these two factors removes the barriers to developing more supportive workplaces for in-organization stationed workers and remote workers.
In this article, we ask the question: How to adapt to the post-pandemic world and the Russia-Ukraine war in strategic management? Your answer is your own personal journey, but we can imagine a workplace that is not the same, and perhaps, never will be again.
Strategic Management in the Post-Pandemic World and the Russia-Ukraine War
The world went under an edict of quarantine for many months in 2020. At that time, the mole people were the predominant residents roaming the streets of Manhattan.
Viewed as pejorative by the very folk it denotes, the term âmole people” describes those who live in the tunnels under Manhattan’s Grand Central Station, Penn Station, Port Authority, and Riverside Park.
The mole people had no idea of what knowledge management and corporate strategy had to do with them. They embraced the wandering streets and endured as they always do, successful in any environment. They did not know that behind the scenes the COVID-19 recovery was going to usurp them once again. They survived many decades of crowded streets, and they know that they will prosper as the Island of Manhattan begins to populate with a cadre of commuters once again.
The tumultuous post-pandemic is a survival ground as concerts, Broadway plays, restaurants, and organizations open for business. We wondered if knowledge management is a precursor for the post-pandemic recovery. We answer, yes! A few decades ago, various prominent scholars shed light on the crucial role of the knowledge-based strategy. In particular, these scholars highlight organizations as communities that have been developed to create organizational competitiveness through using and generating knowledge and new ideas. Hence, the post-pandemic recovery requires that organizations determine strategic initiatives required so that they as a whole more effectively manage knowledge. Ergo, post-pandemic recovery is a success.
The post-pandemic recovery is contingent upon the strategic initiativesâ performance as the facilitator of competitive advantage. Two prominent scholars by the names of Charles Hofer and Dan Schendel see strategy as a âfundamental pattern of present and planned resource deployments and environmental interactions that indicates how the organization will achieve its objectivesâ.
In a post-pandemic world, executives strive to meet and exceed the strategic goals of both the stockholders and the employees. Goals are the keys to business success if they best fit the relationship between the two as the world manages the lingering effect of the pandemic. Therefore, the goal is to develop more effective corporate strategies to efficiently deploy organizational capabilities and better manage internal and external sources, aiming at increasing and building rapport with the business environment, inspiring employees, and increasing their satisfaction with their careers so that they can become engaged and productive. Enter the Ukraine invasion by Russia and we have more havoc as supply chains are affected by oil prices, transportation, and the rising cost of goods.
Two predominant strategies come out of strategic formulation, one being the analysis strategy, and the other being the pro-activeness strategy. Both are geared toward recovery, but they also are imperative for survival. When the post-pandemic world and the Russia-Ukraine war have surfaced, executives need to intervene in the system and exert effective change at the organizational level to set a more effective analysis strategy for their organizations to create better and more innovative solutions for business problems. Reactive response to develop an effective analysis strategy included:
Focusing on coordination as they respond to customer needs.
Focusing on the successful application of management information systems to support decision-making at all levels of the organization.
Focusing on the successful application of business-planning methods.
Focusing on the successful application of cost control methods.
Focusing on the successful application of management performance methods.
Focusing on the successful application of performance appraisal and manpower planning methods.
A pro-activeness strategy determines proactive approaches required so that the organization, as a whole, searches and prepares to be better positioned in the external business environment. Pro-activeness strategy is applied more often today as all levels of the organization change and prepare for the post-pandemic crisis. Pro-activeness strategic responses to develop an effective analysis strategy are:
Searching for viable businesses if expansion is the goal.
Tracking new trends to find niches worth developing.
Focusing on research and development for competitive edge.
Eliminating operations that are not required anymore for the product life-cycle stages.
Focusing on indicators used for operations forecast which generally reflect long-term considerations
In Conclusion
This article offers novel insights into the direct impact of organizational strategies for the pos-pandemic world and the Russian-Ukraine war. The key is to develop a solid foundation that can be built upon to secure a vast future that can withstand any tumultuous activity facing organizations. Organizational strategy and knowledge management could help organizations better perform in the post-pandemic world and the Russian-Ukraine War.
In a recent exclusive interview with Diplomat Magazine, the newly appointed Grand Chancellor of the Order of Malta, Riccardo PaternĂČ di Montecupo, provided valuable insights into the Order’s mission, diplomatic efforts, and its commitment to promoting peace and humanitarian aid on the global stage.
Conveying a Message of Peace
During his address at the UN Security Council, Grand Chancellor PaternĂČ di Montecupo emphasized the Order of Malta’s unwavering commitment to ending the tragic conflict in Ukraine. He stressed âThe main message the Sovereign Order of Malta has been conveying since the very outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine is that we need to stop a war that it is causing tragic human suffering, heavy damage to infrastructures and huge costs to the world economy, especially with regard to the poorest countries and the most vulnerable groupsâ. The Order of Malta, through its organization Malteser Ukraine, has been actively involved in providing vital goods, medical and social assistance, and even prosthetic limbs through a clinic in Lviv for war wounded individuals in over 60 cities and towns.
Maintaining Neutrality in a Turbulent World
One of the hallmarks of the Sovereign Order of Malta is its steadfast commitment to neutrality, impartiality, and an apolitical stance. Grand Chancellor PaternĂČ di Montecupo explained that these principles do not equate to turning a blind eye to global conflicts or crises. Rather, the Order advocates for the protection of civilians in conflict zones, adherence to International Humanitarian Law, and universal access to basic social services. âWe approach conflicts from the perspective of the most vulnerable ones and those in need, irrespective of nationality, gender or religious belief.â He said.
A Dual Role in Promoting Peace
Historically, the Sovereign Order of Malta maintains a neutral stance in international politics.  Grand Chancellor PaternĂČ di Montecupo recently addressed  the UN Security Council, marking the first time a Grand Chancellor from the Order of Malta has spoken at this prestigious forum. In this dual role of advocacy and humanitarian aid provision, the Order calls for peace, the safeguarding of human life, and adherence to humanitarian principles. Since the onset of the Ukrainian crisis, the Order has provided assistance to displaced people and refugees both within Ukraine and in neighboring European countries, making it one of the most extensive operations in the Order’s history since World War II.
Universal Access to Healthcare
Addressing universal access to healthcare, Grand Chancellor PaternĂČ di Montecupo shared that âIn several countries around the world the Order of Malta runs hospitals, health centers, mobile units with a view to ensuring access of the poorest groups to basic health servicesâ. In regions such as Africa, the Middle East, including Lebanon and Palestine, the Order’s presence is felt through its commitment to promoting and supporting One Health, a holistic approach that seeks to align environmental, human, and animal health for the greater good.
Diplomatic Relationships and Humanitarian Efforts
The Sovereign Order of Malta maintains bilateral diplomatic relations with 113 countries, and its Embassies and Missions to the United Nations play a vital role in facilitating humanitarian activities. These diplomatic relationships help the Order navigate diplomatic channels and collaborate with respective countries of accreditation. This collaboration was particularly evident during the Ukrainian crisis, where the Order’s Embassy in Kiev facilitated â and still does – the delivery of goods, protection of humanitarian staff, and implementation of assistance projects within the country.
Challenges in Humanitarian Aid and Peace Promotion
Grand Chancellor PaternĂČ di Montecupo acknowledged the significant challenges the Order of Malta faces in providing humanitarian aid, including violations of International Humanitarian Law and threats to the safety of humanitarian workers. Hospitals and clinics operated by the Order are also vulnerable to attacks, resulting in severe damage and destruction. Ultimately, these challenges disproportionately affect the most vulnerable, including the elderly, women, children, and people with disabilities.
Future Priorities and Goals
As the new Grand Chancellor, one of PaternĂČ di Montecupo’s top priorities is to strengthen the Order’s relations with other states and international organizations. They aim to enhance the Order of Malta’s role and visibility within the global community while diversifying funding sources to increase the capacity to deliver aid where it is most needed.
Support from the International Community and Civil Society
Grand Chancellor Riccardo PaternĂČ di Montecupo emphasized the importance of establishing and strengthening partnerships with the global and regional community to achieve humanitarian and diplomatic objectives. The Order also relies heavily on civil society, with numerous volunteer-based associations and relief corps actively engaging in humanitarian operations worldwide.
Grand Chancellor of the Order of Malta, Riccardo PaternoÌ di Montecupo
Adaptability in a Changing World
Given the dynamic nature of global conflicts and health crises, the Sovereign Order of Malta remains committed to reviewing and updating its strategies continually. Its humanitarian activities have expanded to encompass a broader range of initiatives, including food security, vocational training, support for small farmers, and sustainable development, reflecting the organization’s adaptability to address evolving challenges effectively.
In closing, Grand Chancellor Riccardo PaternĂČ di Montecupo’s insights shed light on the unwavering commitment of the Sovereign Order of Malta to promote peace, provide humanitarian aid, and advocate for the most vulnerable, even in the face of complex global challenges. The Order’s unique blend of diplomatic efforts and on-the-ground humanitarian assistance is poised to make a lasting impact on a world that desperately needs compassion and cooperation.
Human rights in the context of a Free-Trade Agreement
HRWF (19.09.2023) – 19 September, the DROI committee has held an exchange of views on the human rights dimension of the negotiations on an EU-India Free Trade Agreement. In preparation, the London Story Foundation has compiled an overview of evidence on human rights concerns associated with the India Free Trade Agreement, with accompanying recommendations.Â
The dossier compiles recommendations based on a comprehensive review of evidence from the Indian government itself, international lawyers, academic literature, and human rights reports. It incorporates inputs from various stakeholders, including human rights organisations and civil society, and draws from consultations and their outcomes like the EU-India People’s Roadmap. These recommendations aim to address human rights and human security concerns in the EU-India relationship, and more specifically, to issue recommendations within the context of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The world is facing a multifaceted human rights crisis with concerns spanning from restrictions of freedom of expression, infringements of labour rights, restrictions of religious freedoms, to violations of indigenous rights. These all violate the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and other core human rights treaties. These concerns are prevalent in India, too, as reports by leading human rights organisations, international organisations, and UN Special Procedure experts highlight deteriorating freedoms.
Pre-existing human rights violations may be further exacerbated by the conclusion of a free trade and investment agreement between the EU and India. Labour rights as enshrined in International Labour Organisation Conventions are also under threat, with evidence of child and forced labour and suspension of core labour protection during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ongoing armed conflicts in resource-rich regions result in serious human rights violations, which may be further exacerbated by increased resource extraction. For example, in Chhattisgarh state, aerial bomb attacks on Adivasi communities have raised alarm about the right to life in violation not only of the ICCPR, but also the Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions.
Human rights defenders and civil society actors face persecution, exacerbating the challenges of upholding fundamental rights and seriously restricting the ability for human rights to be addressed during the negotiations for an FTA. Additionally, press freedom is deteriorating, as journalists face travel bans and harassment and India leads in blanket internet shutdowns, in violation of the ICCPR. The targeting of civil society actors who utilise the Right to Information Act (RTI) has resulted in numerous casualties, including killings, injuries, and harassment of RTI activists over the years. The country has also seen widespread targeted violence disproportionately affecting religious minorities, particularly Muslims, and with a significant increase in violence against Christians in recent years.
In light of these ongoing multifaceted crises to human rights, the EU and India should incorporate the following recommendations into their negotiations for free trade and investment agreement:
The EU and India should ensure that any trade liberalisation agreement thoroughly addresses concerns related to human rights, social, and environmental issues, rather than rushing into agreements for expediency.
The EU and India should postpone the 2024 deadline for negotiations to allow for a meaningful discussion of adverse impacts.
The EU and India should conduct Human Rights Impact Assessments, ensuring full civil society participation, and make the assessments publicly available within a defined time period.
The EU and India must fulfil their human rights commitments, as outlined in international agreements and the EU-India Strategic Partnership Roadmap, and convene the 2023 bilateral Human Rights Dialogue urgently.
In 2120, 20% of the land area in the Netherlands will consist of forest. This manifesto is a guide to a lively forest landscape and introduces a new basic attitude for this. For the near and distant future.
Many civilizations have been lost due to the massive clearing of forests. To create an action perspective on living in reciprocity with the forest and its ecosystem, a series of workshops took place in the Assembly of Trees installation during Festival Oerol 2022, Terschelling (NL). These workshops and the interaction with the public have been the inspiration for this manifesto.
The manifesto is partly derived from the rights-of-nature in the Constitution of Ecuador, including the precautionary principle3 and global indigenous wisdom.
For the Forest: Reciprocity of relationships, (material) use, and of rights; listening to each other with an open heart, as well as historical awareness of where we come from.
Let’s strive together for:
Recognizing the intrinsic value of the Forest;
Right to existence;
Respect for the web of life and diversity;
Repair and compensation in case of damage;
Recognition of connectedness and mutual nourishment;
Equality, dignity of all life and the precautionary principle.
Embrace the fundamental principles and petition with the Forest.
The Forest speaks
We the Forest
Holland, Holtland, Houtland, (Woodland), I feel dethroned. You named the land after our trees. But where are they? Economic gain. Only Ireland and Malta are poorer than me. I, the Forest, live in poverty, the poorest in the world. Will you restore us?
We are made of one essence, cut from the same cloth. Discovering the tree in ourselves, the human being in the tree. Where has our unity gone? Do you remember us?
Your parents, grandparents, children, family, ancestors, friends, what have you experienced with us the Forest? How did you grow with us? Our rings are your rings. Do you surround yourself with us?
Life is our birthright. Growth, flowering and dying characterize our existence, our natural cycle. I am in contact with all living beings around us. Together we form an indivisible ecosystem. The earth nourishes us, the air caresses us, the sun gives us strength, the water is our lifeblood. In return we share our shadow, scents, fruits and sometimes even tree parts of our existence. Do you smell us?
Respect the Web of Life, it is our brain. We, the Web, are also underground, we are subterranean and unfathomable. We Beings and non-Beings survive through each other. Together we are smart, we keep the ancestors alive and share our memories with you. We the Forest are your collective memory of all that was, is and will be. Our memory is vast. Your prehistoric internet. Do you see us?
Our existence is rich in variety. The animals are allowed to rest in our shade. We sisters and brothers are all different. The pine forest has orchids, the deciduous forest woodpeckers, mixed forests birds of prey. Up to the smallest creatures that hide and nest in us, fly and crawl around us. Do you protect us?
When we are damaged, we ask for our Honor to be restored. Compensation for the suffering that has been done to us, so that we can grow and prosper again and stay in balance. In our world there is no guilt, only action and reaction, cause and effect. We love all beings equally. Do you understand us?
All human beings may wallow in our presence and radiance to strengthen their own powers and to connect even more with all living things. We offer you relaxation, reflection, health. We help you come to yourself. We feel a deep connection with you. We, the web of life, communicate with humanity every day. Do you hear us?
We feed you with everything that lives here. Your human presence and care enhances our presence, diversity and biodiversity. Do you taste us?
We, the Forest, belong to ourselves, no one can own or claim us. Not only my trees, but also my trunks, juices, leaves and roots have rights. Our right to exist, our integrity, (equality) dignity and peaceful existence. Be friends with us!
We never have enough of you. Will you come to rest and play?
Harvest from us, but respect the other functions we perform. Also create and manage different types of forests: Wood forests and food forests to harvest, forests to be in, or a forest in which you can do everything at once. We greatly appreciate your attention, care and precaution, as well as your gratitude and inventiveness in coming up with solutions. Do you feel us?
What language should I speak as Forest so that you understand us? A language of science is too cold for us. A language of emotion is too sultry for us. A language of money is too cheap for us. A language of silence… Yes, a language of silence that fits our message very nicely. That message may seem a little disappointing to you humans at first, but it gradually gains momentum. Doyou hear us?
We speak at the time when you do not listen, when you do not measure and do not saw, when you do not know and do not grieve, when you do not run and do not ask. When you simply do in the Forest. When you lose your mind. Our bodies â bone, sap, wood. Mind zero, heart open. Let us be.
Once you were all Indigenous Peoples. For you the Forest was and is your Home, your Pharmacy, your Supermarket, your Museum and your School. You took no more than is necessary, for future generations, to enjoy as much as you do. You did not pollute that House and you certainly did not destroy it. That is ancient Wisdom. Do you honor us?
Your monocultures are suffocating our brains. Your plantations depress our existence. You isolate us into non-existence. We Forests are like gossiping people. We are talking about the polluted water, how the new arrivals have changed and destroyed the landscape. How we clean our brains again. Will you join the conversation?
About the author:
The forest has been composed by Dorine van Norren, diplomat, artist and writer. Associate researcher Leiden Law School on Ubuntu/Buen Vivir/Happiness. UN Harmony with Nature expert.
In association with
Chihiro Geuzebroek, multidisciplinary artist, writer, organizer, trainer in decolonial climate justice perspectives and practices.
Koen Arts, assistant professor (Wageningen University & Research), nature explorer and writer (including Wild Year, Polar bears with optimism, Rewilding in the Netherlands). He examines the relationship between man and nature in word and deed.
Elmo Vermijs, visual artist who works at the intersection of landscape, art and ecology. He is the initiator of the research project StagingWood.
Jessica den Outer, lawyer, writer and speaker on Rights for Nature. She is part of the United Nations Harmony with Nature Network as an Earth-centered Law Expert.
Raki Ap, spokesperson for the Free West Papua Campaign. He fights for an independent West Papua and its indigenous ways of life.
Remi Hougee, forester for Staatsbosbeheer on Terschelling. Staatsbosbeheer manages 9500 hectares of nature on Terschelling (approx. 80% of the island), of which approx. 750 hectares are forest.
After 40 years the Prime Minister of India visits Greece
It is the first time, after 40 years, that an Indian Prime Minister has visited Greece and as the Indian Prime Minister Mr. Modi emphasizes, his visit to Greece “opens a new chapter in the multifactorial relationship between the two countries”.
It is a visit with strong business interest, as the Indian Prime Minister was accompanied by top businessmen of the country, who held meetings with Greek businessmen. “Cooperation in various fields, such as trade and investment, defense and cultural and people-to-people contacts, have brought our two countries closer,” Mr. Modi emphasized.
It is noted that according to the relevant information note from the side of India, the two countries enjoy cultural ties, which have been strengthened in recent years through cooperation in areas such as maritime transport, defense, trade and investment, and people-to-people ties. .
Business relations are strengthened In recent years, the two countries have grown closer with the volume of bilateral trade set to increase by 58% in 2022 to âŹ1.32 billion, the highest level in the last 5 years. At the same time, Greece and India have also become closer in the defense sector, with the reference point being the multinational air exercise HNIOHOS-23, led by the Greek Air Force, in which Su-30MKI fighter jets of the Indian Air Force participated for the first time. In the same mood, the Indian Navy’s warship INS Chennai recently arrived in Souda Bay, where it also conducted a transit exercise with the Greek warship Nikiforos Fokas. Apart from this, Greek fighter jets are expected to participate for the first time in the Indian exercise ‘Tarang Shakti’ in September.
At the same time, according to information from the Greek side, the discussions are expected to focus on workforce and technology issues, while the pharmaceutical sector may have a key role, as India is the largest manufacturer of generic drugs in the world, with the pharmaceutical sector covering more than 50% of global demand for vaccines.
It is worth noting that, after Brexit, India is looking for a stable ally that could be the gateway for Indian businesses to the EU. In this context, the port of Piraeus, the which could be used for the faster “importation” of Indian products to Europe.
A deeper analysis of the geopolitical game that just begins !!!
The geopolitical map of the wider region is expected to be changed in the near future by Cyprus and Greece, with Israel as the protagonist, which as the regional power drags the dance, seeking to have as co-protagonists other states that play a leading role in their neighborhood and internationally, as they are India and Saudi Arabia. As we are informed by government sources, during the last Tripartite, held in Cyprus last week, the following was said: First: Making final decisions by the end of the year. It has already been decided that a pipeline will pass through the Israeli fields in Cyprus. This is considered as the first leg of EastMed. Then there are two options. The first is the EastMed pipeline to Greece and from there to Italy and the rest of Europe. The second is that of LNG in Cyprus and its transport via ships to Alexandroupolis and in other directions. This appears to be more advantageous, writes Yannos Charalambidis in his analysis. As we are informed in this regard, the works will start as soon as the final decision is made, because everyone involved wants to seize the opportunity of the five years, as they say.
One more thing is added to these developments: At the beginning of next year, it is expected that an agreement will be reached between Cyprus and Israel on the issue of percentages in part of the Aphrodite plot. The no-pipeline option to Greece is emerging as an “EastMed via tanker”, especially at a time when Europe is in need of energy due to the Ukrainian crisis. In addition, the first green energy milestone closes by 2030, so if the project in Cyprus ends in 2026, it will have four years to be very profitable. Then the issue depends on whether and how much the EU will limit its needs in natural gas and oil due to its transition to green energy. For Cyprus and Israel there are Asian markets outside of Europe. This project does not affect the choice of pipeline to Egypt. Second, the creation of a geopolitical and geostrategic arc with India, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Cyprus, Greece, which reaches the EU and includes:
It covers US gaps
A) States of different ethnicities and religions, which will coexist serving common interests. B) Economic, trade and energy cooperation. C) Defense cooperation in the logic of a security subsystem, which also favors the US, without excluding the participation of Jordan and Egypt. This design is estimated to fill gaps in the United States at the regional level and can work in parallel and in competition with the new Silk Road from China to Europe, in sea, land and even air space.
It works as a deterrent
However, by its very nature, such a geopolitical and geostrategic arc acts as a deterrent to states unfriendly to the West, which mainly the US considers as threats, such as Pakistan, and more recently Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq and Syria. However, the issue was discussed between the current president of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, when he was foreign minister, and his Indian counterpart. After Britain’s exit from the EU, Cyprus aspires to become India’s bridge with Brussels. It is estimated that further decisions will be taken in the first quarter of 2024 at a Summit, which will be held in Israel with the presence of India. Strategic compass
The question is how quickly can such a design be implemented and what reliability can it have? Government sources say that the involvement of Israel and Saudi Arabia â if it eventually becomes possible to participate â as well as India lends, along with Cyprus and Greece, as EU member states, other dimensions of allied confidence. It is estimated that Saudi Arabia has no reason to be negative. This double planning: 1) It reduces the chances of a pipeline from Israel to Turkey, because, among other things, the Israelis already have an agreement with Egypt as well, but without excluding anything as long as there are interests. 2) A related policy from Cyprus and Greece can be added to it, if a decision is made to implement the strategic compass, so that it is: A) The EU is present and already in practice through two of its own member states. B) NATO is present, which is connected to the defense and security of the EU, through Greece. As for Turkey, no participation requirement can be in the strategic compass if it does not proceed with the withdrawal of its troops from Cyprus and commits, on the one hand, to a complete withdrawal and, on the other hand, to an end to the climate of tension and respect for Greek sovereign rights in the Aegean through the dialogue with Greece. Turkish energy diplomacy and timelines
Tayyip Erdogan, however, continues the “pendulum” policy, , one with the USA and NATO and one with Russia. And this is because he behaves as a superpower leader. The other day he had contacts with Russian President Vladimir Putin and it is obvious that he wants to become Moscow’s energy exit from its blockade as a result of the war in Ukraine. As the Turkish president stated: “With our investments we will turn our country into an important natural gas base. We are getting closer to our goal of making Turkey the center of regional and later global energy… With the agreements in the natural gas sector, we are turning our country into an energy base.” And on top of that he added: “With the successes in energy diplomacy, we proved that in the Eastern Mediterranean no step can be taken without Turkey.” On the basis of this policy, it has announced that it plans to install another nuclear power plant in the Black Sea, namely in Sinop, after the one in Akugiou. In the deep waters of dialogue
At the same time, it is no coincidence that the EastMed pipeline, in addition to the economic sector, is probably shelved due to Turkish threats regarding the issues of EEZs and the continental shelf that Ankara has open with Cyprus and Greece, which do not want to come into confrontation with Turkey so as not to spoil the climate that is about to be created. Since the talk is about Greece, after the Gerapetritis-Fidan meeting last Tuesday, its relations with Turkey enter the deep waters of the dialogue, with the political will of the USA regarding the cohesion of NATO as a lifeline. The Greek-Turkish road map is related to the timetable, which was set in the relations between Greece, Cyprus and Israel. Greece and Turkey will have: A) The next appointment on September 18, when the Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will meet with the Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of the UN work (the article was written before the postponement of the meeting to the 20 -September 22 due to the floods in Greece). B) On October 17, when a meeting will be held at a political and technocratic level, which will include proposals for Confidence Building Measures (CBM) and the preparation for the Supreme Council of the two countries, which will take place in Thessaloniki around December, after seven years. The question and self-handicap
The new question that arises is as follows: How will such a dialogue proceed when Greece and Turkey claim to remain loyal to the red lines? The same is the case with the Cyprus issue. How will there be a result in the efforts of the president when the Turkish side insists on the two states with equal sovereignty? Of course, there is something else Erdogan is saying. That is, Turkey should also play a role in the exploitation of natural gas in the south-eastern Mediterranean. It is for this reason that the government should make it clear to our potential and existing allies, as well as to our partners in the EU, that Turkey can participate when it recognizes the Republic of Cyprus to define a continental shelf and EEZ between the two states on the basis of International Law, as long as what Protocol 10 and the counter-declaration of September 21, 2005 stipulate are respected. These positions are democratic and put Turkey in front of dilemmas, to which it must provide answers. Otherwise, any geopolitical planning between Greece, Cyprus and Israel is exposed and facilitated at the international, and especially the European, level. Of course, we’ve been selfish a few times.
In a climate of euphoria and positive acceptance for investment opportunities, Greece can play a leading role in the geographical region of the Southeast Mediterranean. The country is shedding its evil self and the previous decade seems now to be a bad dream that is finally in the past. The occasion for this foreword was an important Forum which was organized for the first time in Greece at the initiative of the Joseph Sassoon Group on Wednesday, September 27, at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center entitled “Creating Links” and highlighted the importance of multi-level partnerships between Greece, USA, Cyprus and Israel. Host of the Joseph Sassoon Group, former US Secretary of State, Michael R. Pompeo.
The Forum aimed to re-attract US businesses and investors to the region, while providing an opportunity for entrepreneurs, startups and micro, small and medium-sized businesses to engage with investors, global industry leaders and senior government officials and to explore possible cooperation and financing opportunities. Mr. Pompeo was the keynote speaker and offered a positive vision for the future in Greece in terms of economic security and stability. The organization of the American Mediterranean Investment Forum took place at a time when there is a rapid increase in Foreign Direct Investments in Greece, with the result being evident in the overall development of the Greek economy and the confidence shown by foreign investors. Leading figures from Israel and Greece in business, investment and politics attended the Forum. The event was also honored with their presence by the Ambassador of the United States of America to Greece, Mr. Giorgos Tsounis, the Ambassador of Israel, Mr. Noam Katz, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus, Kyriakos A. Kenevezos. It was also attended by leading ministers of the government, parliamentarians and officials from the opposition parties, representatives of institutions, organizations, businesses and structures that support the investment and entrepreneurship ecosystem in Greece. At the core of the topic, which was structured in three panel discussions, were the investment relations between the USA, Greece, Israel and Cyprus in key sectors such as energy, tourism, real estate and technology. The development of business networks in the Mediterranean basin and the encouragement of trade, investment and new business transactions were also at the center of public discussions.
David Sasson, president of the Sasson foundation: the investment world of the West will come to Greece – two major projects will take place in the country The Forum was opened by David Sassoon, who announced that the project for the construction of an innovation park, with laboratories and offices, in Thessaloniki, next to the city’s airport, is in the final stretch. The construction will start by the end of the year and will be completed by the first half of 2026. In particular, it became known that Sasson will build a research center in Greece, focusing on artificial intelligence, computing, while an invitation was sent to Israeli entrepreneurs with companies innovation, so that they have access to the European market. As he said, this is an investment of 15 million dollars. The group’s second investment in Greece will be in collaboration with the University of Maine and will concern technological products related to construction and infrastructure, such as bridge support, etc. Investment worth $5 million, as reported. Then, referring more broadly to the investment opportunities of the Mediterranean region, David Sassoon proceeded to estimate that the investment world of the West will come to invest. He underlined the need to create an investment vision for the region and suggested solving issues of double taxation and harmonization of tax incentives across the region, training human capital with modern skills. As he said, the countries of the region represent 15% of the world’s GDP and 52% of the world’s population by 2050 and that they were not on the “radar” of Western investors in previous years. He also noted that there is scope for investment as there is a low level of development. If the per capita income doubles by 2030 we will reach a GDP increase of 25%. Capital investments are very low, he additionally observed. In this context, he underlined the need for foreign investments on the one hand and the utilization of investment opportunities and financial tools on the other. Finally, he identified as a risk for investors the inflationary outbreaks in many countries of the region.
It is noted that David Sassoon’s family originates from Thessaloniki. “My grandmother and my father were born in Greece” he said and brought to his memory moments from his childhood and his visits to our country. The ties between Greece and the USA are close, said former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaking at the 1st American Mediterranean Investment Forum, organized by the Joseph Sassoon Group at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation. “We have always considered Greece a NATO center for the region” he said and underlined that Greece is the best place for someone to invest and bring prosperity.
George Tsounis, US Ambassador: Greece a pillar of stability in a region that has a lot of instability
Afterwards, the American ambassador to Greece, Mr. Giorgos Tsounis, spoke, who expressed the belief that strong economies lead to prosperity and ultimately to peace. Regarding Greece, he said that it has recorded great economic progress and that it has attracted significant investments. In particular, he said that Greece has recorded a 6 billion dollar surplus in the first 8 months of the year and is a country open to investment and said that there is great investment interest from American companies. He made special reference to the energy and logistics sectors. In fact, he appeared confident that Greece’s best days are ahead. Focusing on the energy role of Greece, he said that it is a hub of the region and announced that the US will continue to support Greece. As he said, “Greece will be the energy access country that will allow Europe to get off Putin’s back.” Extending his reasoning, he said that Greece is a guarantor of stability in the region. He emphasized the energy role of Greece. It is an energy hub in Europe, which is very important, he said. Finally, Giorgos Tsounis emphasized that Greece can be a gateway with its ports which play an important role and help the regions that need it.
Mike Pompeo, former US Secretary of State: The ties between Greece and the US are close – Greece is an amazing place to invest.
The ties between Greece and the USA are close, emphasized former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaking at the 1st American Mediterranean Investment Forum, organized by the Joseph Sassoon Group at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation. “We have always considered Greece a NATO center for the region” he said and underlined that Greece is the best place for someone to invest and bring prosperity. At the same time, the 70th US Secretary of State did not fail to mention trade relations and emphasized the energy prospects of the region. He suggested the need to observe rules in bilateral and international relations. At the same time, he sent the message that “we should be ready, faster , in proper ways to protect any sovereign state, so that no one bad can usurp a country.” In particular, he referred to the need to resolve conflicts through diplomatic channels and recounted the role he had as foreign minister. “Collectively, we did a good job,” he said, giving a brief account of his tenure at the helm of the State Department. He made special reference to economic development, saying it guarantees security and prosperity. “Everything is connected to the GDP of the countries,” he added. Referring to his contacts with Putin, Mike Pompeo confided that they joked about the KGB and the secret services. He said Putin had the vision to rebuild the great Russian empire, while expressing confidence that normalcy would return. “Our allies know that we will always be by their side,” he emphasized. He further said that Russia and China have stronger ties today than they did three years ago, noting that it is a relationship of necessity. However, he estimated that there are so many frictions between them that they will move in the opposite direction as soon as the opportunity presents itself and they will not remain friends. “These two leaders will not be able to become close friends,” he said. Finally, he referred to tonight’s debate of the Republican presidential candidates, saying that he is glad to be in Athens and the time will not be convenient to watch it. to speak at the first American-Mediterranean Investment Forum (1st American Mediterranean Investment Forum) organized at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation by the Joseph Sassoon Group. Referring to US relations with Greece and the Mediterranean, he characterized them as important and emphasized not only issues security but also economy and spoke of common prosperity. Asked about the EastMed project, the 70th US Secretary of State said significant progress has been made but much work remains to be done. However, he emphasized that the good news is that the opportunities he saw as foreign minister have not changed, they still remain, for the Eastern Mediterranean. In particular, he said that the people of this region work hard, the geography, the infrastructure present huge economic opportunities, creating many jobs, much wealth Furthermore, he expressed the hope that the President of Turkey would follow the path of dialogue, pointing out that this expectation was also during his tenure at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, that is, for dialogue and not confrontation. He added that Erdogan was re-elected and has economic challenges and said he hopes to face them and become a good partner not only in the region but also in NATO. He has the ability to do so, he pointed out. Asked about the F-16s, the former Secretary of State said he tries to stay out of politics, stressing that the US has excellent cooperation with Greece and Cyprus and that NATO has an important role. Finally, answering a question about the case with Sen. Robert Menendez, said the Justice Department will clear it up, noting that the allegations are very serious when a senior American official is accused of these things.
States ensure peace when they cooperate, emphasized US Ambassador George Tsounis in his greeting at the 1st American Mediterranean Investment Forum organized by the Joseph Sassoon Group, with the 70th US Secretary of State as the keynote speaker. A. Mike Pompeo. At the same time, he underlined the need for international cooperation and declared that “we must be on Ukraine’s side” because another Putin should not follow.
Noam Katz, ambassador of Israel: Greece and Cyprus are valuable partners of Israel Greece is a gateway to Europe and Israel is a powerful force in the Middle East, emphasized Israel’s ambassador to Greece Noam Katz, speaking on a panel at the 1st American Mediterranean Investment Forum organized by the Joseph Sassoon Group.
He characterized Greece and Cyprus as Israel’s valuable partners in the region. He stated that Greece-Israel relations are strategic and strong. Regarding energy, he said that today liquefied natural gas (LNG) is the preferred alternative and the interest of Israel is focused on finding a safe port for its entry into Europe and in Greece there is infrastructure, while referring to the electrical interconnection plan of the three countries. According to Noam Katz, there is a growing business potential in Greece and Israeli investors have given Greece a vote of confidence.
By H.E. Mr. Selçuk Ănal, Ambassador of the Republic of TĂŒrkiye to the Netherlands
Diplomatic relations between the Dutch Republic and the Ottoman Empire was initiated when the States-General of the Dutch Republic sent its first resident envoy, Cornelius Haga, to the Sublime Porte in Istanbul in 1612. The Ottoman Empire reciprocated over two centuries later by sending its first resident envoy to the House of Orange-Nassau, Yahya Karaca Pasha, in 1859.
However, Turkish-Dutch relations go way back than 1612; perhaps as much as by a hundred years. Dutch tradesmen were frequently visiting the Ottoman shores long before the establishment of diplomatic ties. Thus, the first tulip was brought from Istanbul to Amsterdam by one of these merchants in 1560. The first diplomatic mission was sent to Istanbul in 1561 whereas the first envoy had arrived to Ottoman Empire in 1569. As a result, in the second half of the 16th century, history recorded the assistance given by the Ottoman Navy during the Dutch War of Independence. A hamlet in the municipality of Sluis in Zeeland was named as Turkeye by Prince Maurice of Orange in 1604, in recognition of those Ottoman sailors helping the Dutch. Following the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1612, Turkish-Dutch relations have witnessed a steady growth in the following centuries.
TĂŒrkiye has always attached special importance to its relations with the Netherlands. It was not a coincidence that following the establishment of the modern Republic of TĂŒrkiye in 1923, one of the first friendship agreements was concluded with the Netherlands in 1924.
In post war era, TĂŒrkiye and the Netherlands shared common perspectives regarding cooperation in multilateral fora. Our nations founded the Council of Europe, became staunch NATO Allies, worked together in the OSCE and the OECD, among others. Two countries promoted a vision of international peace, security, stability and development on a global scale.
Turkish-Dutch Labor Agreement was signed in this era in 1964. Thanks to this agreement, Turkish guest workers which founded the Dutch-Turkish community started to contribute significantly to the Dutch economy in transforming it into the welfare state of today. Based on this strong history, today TĂŒrkiye and the Netherlands have come a long way in their relations since 16th century for a strong future.
Our countries share the political will and determination to overcome issues arising not only among themselves, but also on a broader scale. We have a variety of dialogue mechanisms, bringing several ministries and agencies together regularly. Turkish-Dutch Bilateral Wittenburg Conferences commenced in 2008 provide an important additional platform for the two countries to exchange views, have consultations and further enhance their cooperation.
We share a bilateral trade volume exceeding 10 billion Euros. In terms of foreign direct investment (FDI), the Netherlands is the biggest investor in TĂŒrkiye. Likewise, Turkish investments in the Netherlands are also at the top in terms of worldwide Turkish FDI.
We are also proud to have hosted 1.2 million Dutch friends in their holidays last year.
TĂŒrkiye and the Netherlands today stand side-by-side in international missions such as Afghanistan, the Balkans, and UN peace keeping missions worldwide like Somalia and work together in international fora. Their shared vision is based on effective multilateralism, and prevention of conflicts through diplomacy. TĂŒrkiye is determined to exert every effort not only for our common interests, but also for mutual solidarity, dialogue and cooperation. In face of multitude challenges like armed conflicts, terrorism, radicalism, racism and discrimination, TĂŒrkiye and the Netherlands are cognizant that no single country is able to overcome those issues on their own. That is why, we are working together with a vision of a rules-based international system.
The EU member Netherlands and a candidate country for full membership TĂŒrkiye, could cooperate more on sustainable development, energy, green transformation, climate change, food security, poverty, cross-border crime and irregular migration in the face of global challenges to secure a more prosperous future.
Last, but not the least, I would like to thank for the support and solidarity that Netherlands has extended to TĂŒrkiye in the immediate aftermath of my arrival to the Hague â 5 days before the devastating earthquakes of 6 February 2023. Dutch participation to the relief efforts, aid to the victims of the disaster by deployment of the Urban Search and Rescue Team, military airborne Medevac Unit and numerous NGOs were welcomed with gratitude. Like the Turkish aid to the Dutch during the floods in 1916, 1953 and 2021, the gracious donations of the Dutch government, business circles and public, including those of the Turkish-Dutch community, will never be forgotten.
This year the Republic of TĂŒrkiye is celebrating its centennial anniversary. Just like the steady growth of Turkish-Dutch relations throughout centuries, the Republic of TĂŒrkiye has come a long way in every sense since its founding in 1923. We are determined to further utilize the enormous potential existing in our relations with the Netherlands, both in terms of mutual bilateral benefit and cooperation on the global scale.
âEverything happens for a reasonâ⊠I always believed that⊠and it is one of Beatriz Pizaâs sayings too, by which she guides her life, while embracing the wisdom and sense of purpose within it.
From her Dutch home she talked to me about her life now, together with her diplomat husband, Arnoldo, and 24 year-old daughter, Sofia, but also about how she sees her future.
She proudly portraits herself as a âmom, wife, architect and site developerâ. Born in Madrid from a Spanish mother and a father from Costa Rica, she grew up within a fun, large, loving family, who still see each other weekly. She studied architecture/urbanism while working since she was 17. She opened her own consulting firm before graduating and got involved from architectural projects and coastal resort development, to real estate mega-projects and tourist marinas.
Ms. Piza tells me that architecture has been her lifelong passion: âI always wanted to be an architect. My 3rd grade notebooks were full of house plans and I was fascinated with buildings and how people moved and lived within them. I strongly believe spaces should inspire people to function at their best, to grow and evolve. But I did think of astronomy at some pointâ.
She enjoys travelling, writing, playing the guitar, drawing, ballet, learning about ancient civilizations, philosophies and religions, but most of all, she enjoys getting to know people. She lived in New York during her teenage years, while her father was ambassador of Costa Rica to the UN. New York is dear to her heart and so is Spain, but she is totally in love with Costa Rica, home to family and friends, âwith its beaches, volcanoes, forests, fauna, the âTicosâ (Costa Ricans) and âGallo Pintoâ (rice & beans)â. She adds: âHome is also where your heart is, so first and foremost, mine is always where Arnoldo and Sofia areâ.
When it comes to talking about The Netherlands, her current country of residence, she says candidly: âwe arrived here almost three years ago and we have enjoyed it immenselyâ. Although it is her first time as a diplomatic spouse, she fully enjoys her role and understands its dynamics. As part of the Administrative Committee of the Ambassadorâs Spouses Association (ASA) for over 2 years, she is a very active member of the diplomatic community in The Hague. Having the former recollections of being a diplomatic child abroad, she reflects on both experiences: âI feel that the international diplomatic community is very open, friendly and warm.
Communication and conflict resolution are the keys. We support each other, building wonderful friendships along the way, lasting beyond our posts. If I compare it to my fatherâs post at the UN, I believe that now diplomatic life is less formal and more agile, due to technological advances in IT, which facilitate communication at all levels. I also admire that now there is more participation of female ambassadors. Meanwhile, I think people should know that diplomatic spouses are down-to-earth persons, who struggle just like anyone else. Spouses support and respect the key roles their diplomat partners play. Most of them sacrifice and leave behind brilliant professions and careers, so I would like people to admire their adaptability, their intelligence and comprehension of the world we live in, as well as the challenges we all faceâ.
Sophia, Beatriz and Arnoldo Brenes, Ambassador of Costa Rica.
Arriving in The Hague during Covid times, Ms. Piza also found time and determination to finish a MasterÂŽs Degree in Project Management, studying online, most of the time at late hours into the night. âIt was a life-long dream of mine. I strongly believe it is never too late, so I was able to graduate with the incredible support of my family and so many others, as well. Having completed that dream, I see myself in the future teaching others about my passions: site analysis and master planning, sustainable design and developmentâ.
Ms. Piza enjoys her time in the Netherlands and she considers herself incredibly lucky to be living this experience together as a family. âI am grateful that our daughter is able to be with us, to share in person our experiences and anecdotes, while she grows and evolves on her own path. It is a blessing we do not take for granted. But I do have one regret though, about not learning to speak Dutch as soon as we arrived, since I had to focus on my Masterâs Degree. To me, learning the local language of the country that so kindly hosts us is a sign of respect, but it would also allow me to connect more with its people, enriching my understanding of the Dutch culture. Thankfully, it is never too late to beginâ.
In the wisdom of her life motto, she understands there is a purpose in all things that happen to us, while being aware that sometimes some may not be convenient as well. She states: âIn the end, it is up to us, we need to work hard to make dreams a reality and not just expect that they will come our wayâ.
As the saying goes⊠âHappy are those who dream, and are ready to pay the price to make dreams come trueâŠâ
About the author:
Alexandra Paucescu
Alexandra Paucescu- Author of âJust a Diplomatic Spouseâ Romanian, management graduate with a Master in business, cultural diplomacy and international relations studies.
She speaks Romanian, English, French, German and Italian, gives lectures on intercultural communication and is an active NGO volunteer.
