Maha Putri (Queen) Maria Amor Leonora Torres Mastura undertook a momentous and historic return to the Republic of Poland, marking her second official visit to the capital city of Warsaw following her initial diplomatic mission in 2023. This highly anticipated occasion bore witness to the formal inauguration of two pivotal institutions: the Royal Chamber and Administrative Office of the Royal House of Luzon Tagalog, and the Royal Embassy of the Sultanate of Magindanaw (Maguindanao) to Poland.
In her dual capacity as Bae Mompong and Minister for Foreign Affairs for the Sultanate of Magindanaw, Queen Mariam officiated the solemn opening of the Royal Embassy, an endeavor made possible through the efforts of Datu Jordan Nirankari-Bowen, who serves with distinction as Ambassador of the Sultanate to Poland. The newly inaugurated Embassy symbolizes the growing bonds of friendship, cultural exchange, and diplomatic collaboration between the Sultanate of Maguindanao and the Republic of Poland.
A Private Audience of Cultural and Diplomatic Exchange
The day’s formalities were followed by an intimate private audience held at the Royal Embassy, which was attended by family, close friends, and distinguished colleagues of the Embassy. The reception provided a reflective and enriching space for meaningful discussion on contemporary global issues and offered guests the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Sultanate’s unique heritage and mission.
A focal point of the event was an insightful open question and answer session led by Hania Dębowska, a student of Cultural Anthropology at the University of Warsaw. With a depth of scholarly curiosity and thoughtful articulation, Ms. Dębowska steered a vibrant and enlightening discussion on the cultural, historical, and geopolitical significance of the Sultanate. Her questions enabled the gathered audience to appreciate the Sultanate’s legacy as an enduring sovereign entity in the Southern Philippines, its diplomatic ethos, and its commitment to peace and cultural preservation.The Maha Putri responded with candor and poise, underlining the importance of cultural diplomacy and intercultural understanding in today’s increasingly interconnected world. She also highlighted the unique contributions of the Sultanate to global dialogues surrounding indigenous governance, international diplomacy, and cultural resilience.
A Voice for Peace and Solidarity
Another deeply poignant moment came during reflections by Marta Shokalo, BBC Editor-in-Chief for Ukraine, who took the floor to speak on the continuing crisis in Ukraine. Ms Shokalo provided an emotive account of the ongoing human toll resulting from the Russian invasion, offering a sobering reminder of the stakes facing Europe and the world in these uncertain times. Her words struck a particular chord with the Royal House, for whom the plight of Ukraine remains a matter of profound personal concern.Indeed, the Queen’s earlier visit to Poland in November 2023 had been specifically undertaken to express solidarity with the people of Ukraine and to advocate for global support in their time of need. During Saturday’s address, Queen Mariam reiterated her unwavering support for Ukrainian sovereignty and peace, reaffirming the Sultanate’s dedication to humanitarian principles and justice.
A Speech of Gratitude and Unity
In her opening remarks, delivered with warmth and elegance, Queen Mariam who is also known as the “Traveling Queen”, reflected fondly on her previous visit to Warsaw and conveyed her heartfelt appreciation for the enduring hospitality and kindness extended by the Polish people.“I return to Warsaw not only as a representative of the Royal House of Luzon Tagalog and the Sultanate of Magindanaw, but as a friend of Poland and its people,” Mariam said. “The generosity, grace, and solidarity I have witnessed here have left an indelible mark upon me. Today marks a new chapter in our shared journey—one of cooperation, cultural exchange, and mutual respect.”Mastura extended special thanks to the legal and diplomatic teams who played a critical role in supporting the establishment of the Embassy and Royal Chamber, naming Nirankari-Bowen i Partnerzy Kancelaria Prawna, Mr Jakub Gałęzowski, Adwokat Monika Górna-Bieniek, Radca Prawny Krzysztof Lis and family, and Mrs Barbara Piasecka, commending their steadfast commitment and friendship.Additionally, the Royal House extended their gratitude to several esteemed guests, including Dr Urszula Kopczyńska, inż. Magdalena Frynas, Miss Divya Dhyani, and Miss Sejal Kesharwani, for their presence and contributions to the event.
A Standing Ovation for a Distinguished Ambassador
A resounding standing ovation was given in honor of Datu Jordan, who has served tirelessly not only in his formal diplomatic post but also as the Royal Spokesperson of the Sultanate of Magindanaw. His instrumental role in facilitating the Embassy’s establishment, and his continuous efforts to advance the voice and vision of the Sultanate across Europe, were widely acknowledged by all in attendance.
An Enduring Symbol of Cultural Legacy and Sovereign Dialogue
The inauguration of the Royal Chamber and Embassy signifies more than the opening of new diplomatic missions—it embodies a broader vision of unity through cultural recognition, sovereign identity, and the nurturing of peaceful international relations. Through her enduring efforts, Queen Maria Amor Leonora Torres Mastura continues to promote intercultural diplomacy and advocate for the shared values of dignity, cooperation, and mutual understanding.The Warsaw visit forms part of a four-day private diplomatic mission within the Republic of Poland, during which the Queen will continue engaging in closed-door meetings with officials, cultural figures, and members of the international community.As the Sultanate of Magindanaw deepens its engagement on the European continent, this historic occasion marks a meaningful step in expanding bridges of trust and cooperation—beginning in Warsaw, and extending across borders, cultures, and peoples.
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