Honourable members of the House of Representatives,
Against my will, I have now become a symbol of young, single asylum seekers in the Netherlands. Much rather, I am a symbol of integration into Dutch society. Something to which so much importance is attached in the Netherlands.
When I was nine, I was put on a plane, all alone. I was hugely sad and scared at the time. How could I ever trust anyone again? Why had I been sent away? Fortunately, I ended up with very sweet people, who are now my mum and dad. 3 years ago, my little brother was born, whom I love very much. I am very close to my family and friends.
The most important years of my life I grew up here. I feel completely at home here. I feel like a Dutchman.
My future lies in the Netherlands. I want to be an example for everyone and I want so much to contribute to Dutch society, all my life. I want so much to celebrate Queen’s Day every year and, as a footballer, I want to see the Dutch national team become champions.
I would like to thank all the MPs who support me. I so hope you will continue to do so and that you can convince those colleagues who still have doubts. This is my last chance to ask you to give me a residence permit. I promise that I will always try to be of value to the Netherlands. Please let me stay here forever!
Lots of love from Mauro