ASA, Ambassadors’ Spouses Association The Hague, marks the summer season in a spirit of friendship and shared connection

On Wednesday 1 July 2026, ASA members were invited to an art event, hosted by the Founding Director of Diplomat Club Wassenaar, Mrs. Shida Bliek at Kasteel De Wittenburg.

The programme centred around two complementary themes: a castle tour exploring the rich history of the Kasteel De Wittenburg estate, and a garden exhibition showcasing the remarkable works of the internationally celebrated twentieth-century Dutch sculptor Arthur Spronken, alongside the artworks of his son, Caius Spronken.

The event was attended by the members representing the following countries and international organisations: Ms. Ala Adamia (Slovenia); Ms. Annie Roy Bernasconi (HCCH); Ms. Christine F. Popolo (USA); Ms. Claudia Schieb (OPCW-Germany); Ms. Els Vandemoortele (Belgium); Ms. Ghada Aisaifi (Oman); Ms. Hager Denguezli (Tunisia); Ms. Hayam W. Hanna (Egypt); Ms. Insaf Ghanemi (Morocco); Ms. Intizara Rakhmetullina (Kazakhstan); Ms. Ittha Mamanee (Thailand); Ms. Jocelyne Uwambayinema (Rwanda); Mr. Luiz Moreira (Chile), Mr. Martin Shampaine (OPCW-USA); Ms. Matilde Simas (Brazil); Ms. Michèle Hoffmann (Luxembourg) Committee member; Ms. Mirella de Vásquez (El Salvador) Committee member; Ms. Najat Shmbish (Libya), Ms. Nela Colin (Bosnia Herzegovina); Ms. Olga Kostina (Ukraine) Committee member; Ms. Palwasha Haider (Pakistan) Committee member; Ms. Patricia van Oordt de  Arias (OPCW, spouse Director-General); Ms. Silvia Mondaini (Italy); Ms. Trina Patino (OPCW-Venezuela), Ms. Victoria Dobinda (Moldova) Committee member  – Secretary and Ms. Yvonne Madonsela (South Africa) Committee member – Treasurer.

The gathering at Kasteel De Wittenburg also offered a fitting opportunity to bid farewell to the departing ASA members, which the Committee members had organised with great dedication and grace. The warm connection among the members of the Association, as well as the positive impact it had on everyone involved, was deeply felt throughout the afternoon. The speeches and thoughtful gifts further enriched the occasion, strengthening the spirit of friendship, appreciation, and mutual support that defines the Association. Beyond its formal moments, there was a natural ease and harmony that gently brought everyone closer together, allowing for meaningful exchange and shared enjoyment.

Such occasions beautifully embody the essence of the ASA-community, where diplomacy is complemented by warmth, and where connection is nurtured through shared experience and respect.