 Dear audience, I would like to congratulate International Idea with its 25th anniversary. Of course, democracy itself already dates back over 2500 years, which is also cause for celebration. Today it is as important as it was in ancient history to ensure fair and effective representation of the people. We as the Netherlands are long-term supporters of international idea. Throughout the years we have very much valued the tremendous work, events, tools and studies of the secretariat and our international cooperation with Idea Member States in the Council. Today we celebrate Idea's anniversary during the global Covid-19 pandemic, a crisis with unprecedented effects. Also on democracy and elections worldwide. Idea rightfully addresses these risks and puts them on the international agenda. This to me shows the continued value and agility of international idea. I firmly believe that Idea's efforts are very important in advancing democracy both in context where it's newly embraced as well as in established democracies. Congratulations with this milestone.