December 17, 2021
Latvia-Temple Celebrate Law School Partnership
Temple University’s Interim Dean Rachel Rebouche hosted a delegation headed by His Excellency Maris Selga, Latvia’s Ambassador to the United States, to celebrate a new partnership between Temple’s School of Law and the Riga Graduate School of Law (RGSL), a leading educational institution in the Baltic region. This alliance expands exchange opportunities for Temple Law and RGSL students and faculty. John Medveckis, Honorary Consul of Latvia in Philadelphia, played a central role in the formation of this partnership and also committed funding from the J.J.Medveckis Foundation to support the first Latvian student to attend Temple in 2022.
December 16, 2021
CCAP Members Join HC Schwartz in Holiday Celebration
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) was well represented at a holiday party hosted by ASI Management and Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary, at 1650 Arch Street, a Center City Philadelphia office building. ASI Management is a major Philadelphia landlord and the annual holiday celebration included employees, local brokers, Schwartz family members and CCAP colleagues who enjoyed refreshments and good company.
December 11, 2021
Roaring 20’s Charitable Holiday Soiree Draws Ukrainian Dignitaries and Local Community Members
Iryna Mazur, Ukraine’s Honorary Consul in Philadelphia, hosted a Roaring 20’s-themed Charitable Holiday Soiree which attracted important dignitaries from Washington, D.C. and New York and benefited the Ukrainian Federation of America’s Medical Program for autistic children. Philadelphia’s Ukrainian community dressed for the occasion in classic flapper/Gatsby style and enjoyed authentic 1920s cocktails and period music in the elegant Abington Art Center.
December 7, 2021
HC Schwartz Featured in Panel on Hungarian Women in Business and Science
Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary in Philadelphia, was a featured panelist in a discussion hosted by the Consulate General of Hungary in New York. An overflow audience was treated to comments and counsel from a panel of successful Hungarian women regarding their experiences in business and medicine in the United States.
December 6, 2021
CCAP Executive Committee Elected for 2022
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia’s Members Meeting of December 6, 2021 elected an Executive Committee for 2022, including Peter Longstreth – President; Chris Chaplin– Vice President; Edith Schwartz – Treasurer; and Susan Satkowski – Secretary. The Executive Committee meets on a monthly basis, making regular management decisions and recommending important policy actions to the Quarterly Members Meetings. Other CCAP volunteer committees will assist with a variety of specific functions related to programming, funding, communications, governance and planning.
December 6, 2021
CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting and “Diplomatic Hanukkah Reception”
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) convened its Quarterly Members Meeting in 1600 Market Street, a Center City Philadelphia office building. New members and special guests were welcomed; CCAP 2021 activities were reviewed in detail; an Operating Budget was approved and an Executive Committee was elected for 2022. A “Diplomatic Hanukkah Reception” was then co-hosted with the American Jewish Committee (AJC) of Philadelphia and Southern NJ which organized a symbolic ceremony with Menorah candle lighting and readings. CCAP Associate Members and guests also enjoyed refreshments and networking. The event was made possible by the generosity of AJC and event sponsors Citrin Cooperman, Drucker & Scaccetti and Duane Morris – all CCAP Associate Members.
December 1-3, 2021
German Ambassador Hosts Diplomatic Corps in DC
H.E. Emily Haber, Germany’s Ambassador to the United States, hosted a three day conference for her country’s diplomatic corps in the U.S. Eight Consuls General and dozens of honorary consuls participated in a variety of sessions to promote cooperation, best practices and good will. CCAP Member Ralf Wiedemann was in attendance at the German Embassy in Washington, D.C.
November 30, 2021
CCAP Supports Pan American Association of Philadelphia Luncheon
The Pan American Association of Philadelphia (PAAP) hosted its 81st Annual Members Meeting and Luncheon at the Union League of Philadelphia, an event that was well attended by Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) members. The Keynote Speaker Eric Farnsworth, Vice President, Council of the Americas, provided eloquent comments regarding current events in Latin America and its relations with the U.S. PAAP also presented its William J. Clothier II Memorial Award to local community groups – ACLAMO and Esperanza.
November 26, 2021
Philadelphia’s Albanian Community Celebrates 109th Year of Independence
Members of Albania’s diaspora in Philadelphia celebrated the country’s 109th year of independence in a festive flag raising ceremony at the Municipal Services Building Plaza. Katie Katro, ABC News Journalist, spoke eloquently of her Albanian roots and Sheila Hess, City Representative, presented a Mayoral proclamation while supporters danced and sang and a huge Albanian flag was raised. Jimmy Daku, Albania’s representative and CCAP Member, played a central role in organizing the event.
November 21, 22, 2021
Panama Celebrates Bicentennial in Philadelphia with Ceremony, Music and Culture
Georgia Athanasopulos, Consul General of Panama, organized exciting celebrations of Panama’s Bicentennial in Philadelphia. An evening event showcased Panamanian fashion, art, dance and music, highlighted with a performance by “Los Rabanes”, a Latin Grammy winning ska rock fusion band from Chitre, Panama. The following day, Panama’s flag was raised in a City Hall ceremony that also included comments by diplomatic and City officials, music, folkloric dancing and presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation.
November 19, 2021
Philadelphia City Councilman David Oh Hosts International Round Table
Philadelphia Councilman-at-Large David Oh hosted an International Roundtable discussion and networking session with members of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP). CCAP members described their individual consulate activities and the group explored areas of potential cooperation with the City of Philadelphia.
November 17, 2021
Former CCAP Member Canepari Assumes New Responsibilities in Rome and Remembers Philadelphia in New Book
Our friend Andrea Canepari, former Consul General of Italy in Philadelphia and, until recently, Italian Ambassador in the Dominican Republic, has relocated to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Rome where he heads an office with broad economic promotion responsibilities. He reached out recently to recommend “The Italian Legacy in Philadelphia”, a collection of essays and images which he co-edited and is being offered by the Temple University Press (see press release). During his time in Philadelphia, Canepari was an active CCAP and Executive Committee Member.
November 16, 2021
Honorable Frank Giordano Receives Prestigious Crystal Award at Union League Ceremony
The Union League of Philadelphia presented its Crystal Award to Frank Giordano, Honorary Consul of Malta, in an elegant Black Tie dinner which filled the Lincoln Ballroom. Giordano’s extraordinary career was recognized by a variety of speakers who highlighted his past Presidency of the Union League, his longtime leadership of the Philly POPS orchestra and his current position as Executive Director of the Semiquincentennial Commission. Fellow diplomats in attendance included Keith Azzopardi, Malta’s Ambassador to the United States, and a number of CCAP colleagues. Congratulations to Frank!
November 13, 2021
Passport Printing Center Inaugurated at Guatemalan Consulate General in Philadelphia
Hugo Hun Archila Consul General of Guatemala, hosted a ceremony to celebrate the opening of the passport printing center at the Consulate General in Philadelphia. Representatives from Guatemala’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, City government officials, local diplomats and members of Philadelphia’s Guatemalan community joined in an event that included speeches, national anthems, a ribbon cutting and refreshments. The new facility will upgrade the Consulate General’s capacity to serve its constituents.
November 12, 2021
Poland Celebrates 103rd Anniversary of Independence in Flag Raising Ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall
Debbie Majka, Honorary Consul of Poland, City Officials and representatives from various community groups gathered at Philadelphia’s City Hall to celebrate the 103rd anniversary of Poland’s independence. Stanislaw Maria Starnawski, Vice-Consul of Poland’s Consulate General of New York, provided comments and Sheila Hess. Philadelphia’s City Representative, presented a Mayoral Proclamation recognizing the importance of this historic date. National anthems were played and the Polish flag was raised to further dramatize this symbolic ceremony.
October 28-29, 2021
Norway’s U.S. Ambassador Hosts Consular Conference in Washington, D.C.
Norway’s Consuls and Honorary Consuls met in Washington, D.C. for a discussion of consular issues and networking, the first in-person gathering since the start of the pandemic. Susan E. Sankowski, Norway’s Honorary Consul in Pennsylvania, enjoyed re-connecting with many established colleagues and was honored to meet Anniken Krutnes, Norway’s Ambassador to the United States, and Heidi Olufson, Norway’s recently appointed Consul General in New York, for the first time.
October 21, 2021
Ambassador Nolan Named Consul General of Ireland in New York
Born in Kilkenny, Ireland, Helena Nolan is a career diplomat who has held a number of Foreign Affairs positions prior to assuming her duties as Consul General of Ireland in New York in August, 2021. Most recently, she served as Ireland’s Ambassador to Belgium and the Partnership for Peace Liaison Office (2017 – 2021). Prior to that appointment, Helena directed Disarmament and Non-Proliferation in the Department’s Dublin headquarters and regularly visited the United Nations in New York. Overseas postings have included London, Armagh, Kuala Lumpur and Dar Es Salaam. The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) welcomes Ambassador Nolan!
October 18, 2021
Panama Delegation Reconnects with Philadelphia
In an effort to resume a dialogue started in 2019 and interrupted by COVID, Georgia Athanasopulos, Panama’s Consul General in Philadelphia, organized a series of meetings and presentations by a visiting delegation from her country. A busy day started with breakfast hosted by Drexel University where a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to partner on a variety of fronts was executed with representatives of Panama’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry. A meeting with Philadelphia’s Mayor Jim Kenney was followed by a Trade and Investment Summit over luncheon at the Union League of Philadelphia where local businesses learned about opportunities in Panama. The program concluded with cocktails and networking in the late afternoon.
October 5, 2021
CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting and Cocktail Reception
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) convened its Quarterly Members Meeting in 1500 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, a Center City Philadelphia office building. A number of new country representatives were welcomed and detailed reports on membership, upcoming events, finances and communications were submitted to the group. The Strategic Planning Committee reviewed the final draft of the Plan which was approved by the members. An outdoor Cocktail Reception followed at the Uptown Beer Garden where Consular, Associate and Legacy Members mingled with guests. This event was made possible by the generosity of Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary, and Associate Member Citrin Cooperman, Accountants and Advisors.
October 5, 2021
Australian Consul General Greiner Spends a Busy Day in Philadelphia
As part of the New York Australian Consulate General’s regional responsibilities, Nick Greiner (link), Consul General, and his Assistant, Matilda Hay, spent a productive day in Philadelphia visiting with local leadership and attending the CCAP’s Quarterly Members Meeting and Cocktail Reception. The Australian visitors also attended the U.S. Open at the Arlen Specter U.S. Squash Center where they met several countrymen, including John White, former world’s best player and current squash coach at Drexel University.
October 5, 2021
CCAP Welcomes Italy’s Consul General Mele
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) welcomed recently arrived Cristiana Mele, Consul General of Italy, at its Quarterly Members Meeting in Center City Philadelphia.CG Mele is a career diplomat with extensive experience in Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the United Nations, as well as overseas postings in Australia and Switzerland. Her education includes degrees from the University of Florence and Columbia University and studies at the University of Paris IV, Sorbonne.
September 23, 2021
Kozlov Appointed Honorary Consul of Georgia
Hersh Kozlov, P.C., a prominent local attorney, businessman and civic leader was recently appointed Honorary Consul of Georgia. Mr. Kozlov is the managing partner of the Cherry Hill, New Jersey office of the international law firm of Duane Morris LLP, headquartered in Philadelphia. With over thirty years of legal experience in the areas of litigation, regulatory law and financial transactions, Mr. Kozlov has served on the boards of many prominent public companies and non-profit institutions. In 2002, he was also a U.S. Presidential appointee to the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations and has significant business experience in the Country of Georgia. The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia enthusiastically welcomes the Honorary Consulate of Georgia and congratulates Honorary Consul Kozlov as our newest member.
September 21, 2021
Zowie Hay, PhD, Named Wales’ Senior Diplomat in North America
Zowie Hay, PhD, has assumed her new post as Head of North America for the Welsh Government with offices in the British Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Hay joined the Welsh Government in 2011 and has held positions in a wide range of departments, most recently in the Welsh Treasury. Her extensive educational background includes advanced degrees from Welsh and U.S. universities. The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia welcomes Dr. Hay!
September 20, 2021
HC Alban Elected Chairman of Congreso de Latinos Unidos Board
Miguel Alban, Honorary Consul of Peru and Vice President of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia’s Executive Committee, was recently elected Chairman of the Board of Directors of Congreso de Latinos Unidos – a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in 1977 and headquartered in Philadelphia, with a mission to enable individuals and families in predominantly Latino neighborhoods to achieve economic self-sufficiency and well being. Alban is also Senior Vice President and Director of Multicultural Banking for Customers Bank, an important regional financial institution.
September 18, 2021
Poland’s HC Majka Joins Dedication Ceremony of Leopold Stokowski Historical Marker
Members of the Philadelphia’s Polish and musical communities gathered in front of the Academy of Music in Center City to dedicate an historical marker celebrating the career of Leopold Stokowski, visionary Music Director of the Philadelphia Orchestra from 1912 to 1941. The ceremony included speeches by dignitaries, playing of national anthems, a Mayoral Proclamation and, amid strains of Stokowski’s 1943 recording of Beethoven’s 5th Symphony, the marker was unveiled.
September 18, 2021
CCAP Member Fernandes Joins Portugal’s President Rebelo de Sousa in 100 Year Anniversary Celebration
September 15, 2021
NatWest Banking Group Appoints HC Franklin to Ethnic Advisory Council
Read Full Press NatWest Release
September 15, 2021
Mexico Celebrates Independence Day with City Hall Flag Raising Ceremony
The Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia and the Mexican Cultural Center co-hosted a dynamic Independence Day celebration at City Hal in Philadelphia. Mayor Jim Kenney provided inspiring comments regarding Philadelphia’s commitment to its Mexican community and presented a Proclamation to Carlos Obrador, Head Consul of Mexico in Philadelphia. Consul Obrador led a formal Civic Ceremony with honor guard, national anthem and flag raising. The Mexican Cultural Center offered a delightful program which highlighted the country’s rich culture with Mariachi music, folkloric dance and food, all of which invited enthusiastic audience participation.
September 13, 2021
City Proclamation Celebrates Nicaragua Independence Day
September 13, 2021
HC Satkowski Assists Norwegian Voters in Parliamentary Election
Norwegians went to the polls on September 13, 2021 for Parliamentary elections! Norway’s Consulates were included as official locations for advance voting by Norwegians living abroad, including at the Honorary Consulate in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Advance voting at the Consulates was permissible by appointment between July 1 and August 30 at the Consulate. The Consulate also provided ballots to Norwegian citizens who were not able to vote in person.
September 10, 2021
Mexico Celebrates Independence Day on State Capitol Steps
For the first time in almost two years, the collaborative initiative between the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) and the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) celebrated Mexico’s Independence Day in a COVID-compliant ceremony on the steps of the State Capitol Building in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. This program which, over the years, highlighted the National Days of many CCAP Member countries in the Rotunda of the Pennsylvania State House was interrupted by the pandemic in 2020-2021 and this event provided a hopeful first step towards a return to normalcy. Representatives of DCED, the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs, CCAP and Carlos Obrador, Mexico’s Head Consul in Philadelphia all provided comments on the importance of the Mexican community to Pennsylvania and on the significance of this historic day. The event’s audience also enjoyed a spirited Mariachi Band performance and delicious Mexican food, organized by the Mexican Cultural Center.
September 9, 2021
CCAP/PIM Representatives Visit New York Members
Peter Longstreth, President of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Edgar Vesga, President and CEO of Associate Member Philadelphia International Medicine (PIM) made the rounds of CCAP Consulate General Members in New York, reestablishing personal contact after more than a year of COVID-restricted communication.
September 1, 2021
CCAP Sponsors Philadelphia International Unity Cup Soccer Tournament
During the fall of 2016, Mayor Jim Kenney inaugurated the Philadelphia International Unity Cup, a neighborhood-based, city-wide soccer tournament. Modeled after the FIFA World Cup, each team represents a particular country – utilizing the universal language of sport to unite people and to showcase Philadelphia’s rich cultural diversity. After a COVID-related hiatus in 2020, the Unity Cup tournament is back in 2021, with 52 competitors represented. Given the participation of 28 CCAP Member countries and the international spirit of the program, the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia has, for the fifth consecutive year, enthusiastically sponsored the Unity Cup.
August 27, 2021
HCG Bard Meets with Former UN Ambassador Haley
August 24, 2021
Ukraine Celebrates 30th Anniversary with Flag Raising and Reception in Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s robust Ukrainian community celebrated their country’s 30th Anniversary of Independence with an inspiring flag raising ceremony at City Hall and with an elegant reception at the Union League of Philadelphia. H.E. Oksana Markarova, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States, highlighted an impressive roster of speakers, including other government officials, diplomats and community leaders. Sheila Hess, City Representative of Philadelphia, presented a Mayoral Proclamation, Ukraine’s National anthem was beautifully sung and the country’s flag was raised. Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Philadelphia, organized the festivities and emceed the reception in an extraordinary display of Ukraine spirit and energy.
August 6, 2021
Jamaica Celebrates Independence Day with Philadelphia City Hall Flag Raising
City and state officials, diplomats and members of the Jamaican community celebrated the country’s 59th anniversary of independence in a dynamic ceremony, animated by an inspirational opening prayer, speeches, flag raising, national anthems and a musical performance. Messages from The Most Honorable Prime Minister Andrew Holness, H.E. Ambassador Audrey Marks and New York Consul General Alsion Roach Wilson were delivered by local Jamaican leaders and Sheila Hess, City Representative, presented a Mayoral Proclamation recognizing the importance of Jamaica’s presence in Philadelphia.
August 6, 2021
Manuel Saldaña Appointed Philadelphia Representative by Consulate General of the Dominican Republic, New York
Manuel Saldaña has been appointed the Philadelphia Consular Representative of the Dominican Republic by the Consulate General in New York. Born in Bani, DR, Manuel’s early education in his country was complemented by an advanced degree at Penn State University. His career has included management positions in the banking and manufacturing sectors. He now resides in Hazleton, Pennsylvania where he has been very active in the Dominican community.
July 28, 2021
HC Sorkin Comments on Tunisian Olympic Victory and Political Uncertainty in Arab Weekly Article
Click to read full Arab Weekly article
July 28, 2021
Peru Celebrates Independence Day at City Hall Flag Raising
Philadelphia City officials, visiting diplomats and members of the Peruvian community gathered outside of City Hall for a festive program celebrating Peru’s 200th year of independence. Speeches were delivered, flags were raised, national anthems were sung and a traditional dance program was performed. City Representative Sheila Hess also presented a Mayor’s Proclamation recognizing this important date in Peruvian history and the local community’s dynamic role in present-day Philadelphia.
July 28, 2021
CHOP Hosts Discussion on Health Care Cooperation with UAE and Israel
In celebration of the Abraham Accords’ one year anniversary, Madeline Bell, President and CEO of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), hosted a meeting with diplomatic and health care representatives from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Israel. Delegations led by HE Abdalla Shaheen, Consul General of U.A.E., New York, and Israel Nitzan, Acting Consul General of Israel, New York, gathered with CHOP leadership at the Philadelphia hospital while health care professionals joined in virtually from their respective countries. CCAP Associate Member Ruth Frey, CHOP Vice President for Global Strategy and Business Development, led the discussion which explored prospects for greater cooperation between these three potential partners and concluded with a tour of the hospital.
July 22, 2021
Former Israeli CG and CCAP Member Dayan to Head Yad Vashem
Former Consul General of Israel in New York and CCAP Member Dani Dayan will be appointed Chairman of Yad Vashem – The Holocaust Martyrs’ and Heroes’ Remembrance Authority – in Israel.
Read full Jerusalem Post story
June 28, 2021
CCAP Supports German Social Program in Philadelphia
Ralf Wiedemann, Honorary Consul of Germany presented a CCAP contribution check to Monika Moyrer, U.S. Program Director of Action Reconciliation for Peace (ARSP) at a Center City Philadelphia reception celebrating German-Pennsylvania Ties and hosted by David Gill, Consul General of Germany in New York. ARSP was founded in Germany after World War II to promote reconciliation between Germans and the social groups that had been persecuted before and during the war. ARSP”s U.S. headquarters is in Philadelphia where a program places young German volunteers in social service organizations and which CCAP has supported in the past.
June 24, 2021
CCAP Members Meet in Person after a Virtual Year
After more than a year of virtual meetings, the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) held its Quarterly Members Meeting and Cocktail Reception under conditions of “normalcy” made possible by Philadelphia’s more relaxed COVID protocols. The consular members meeting was held in a Center City office building at 1500 JFK Boulevard and the reception followed in an adjacent outdoor venue, the Uptown Beer Garden. On a beautiful summer afternoon, the atmosphere was euphoric as friends, old and new, socialized in a natural, face-to-face fashion for the first time in over a year.
June 22, 2021
Ambassador Egopija Appointed Consul General of Nigeria in New York
In April, 2021, Ambassador Lot Peter Egopija was appointed Consul General of Nigeria in New York. Amb. Egopija was born in Nigeria where he received his university and advanced degrees. He joined his country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1993 and has held a range of important positions in both Nigeria and abroad, including postings in Austria, Indonesia, United States and Senegal. He has also been a member of Nigeria’s delegation to numerous international conferences. Nigeria’s Consulate General in New York is a Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia and we welcome Ambassador Egopija.
June 18, 2021
CCAP Members Visit Costa Rican Embassy
June 17, 2021
Philadelphia Welcomes Guatemala Consul General Hun
On June 1, 2021, Hugo Hun Archila was appointed Consul General of Guatemala in Philadelphia. Born and educated in Guatemala, Consul General Hun is a career diplomat with significant experience in a number of U.S. cities and in his country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia welcomes him and his family to our region.
June 14, 2021
Consuls Celebrate Caribbean American Heritage Month in Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Honorary Consulates of St. Kitts and Nevis and Jamaica actively participated in several important events celebrating Caribbean American Heritage Month. Honorary Consul Nero joined community leaders with his comments to the Mayor’s Commission on African and Caribbean Affairs. Jamaica’s Honorary Consul Christopher Chaplin addressed the PECO-hosted inaugural launch of CAHM. Both CCAP Members attended a variety of ceremonies as detailed in the complete press release.
June 10, 2021
“Diplomacy & Dialogue” Features Acting Consul General Nitzan of Israel
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted their regular program, “Diplomacy & Dialogue”, which featured a conversation with Israel Nitzan, Acting Consul General of Israel in New York, for a virtual audience. A stimulating discussion covered Israel’s COVID experience, possibilities of a new government and recent peace initiatives. The Consulate General of Israel in New York is a CCAP Member.
June 2, 2021
Dr. Fauci Awarded HCG Bard’s Artwork by Interfaith Philadelphia
The Interfaith Center of Greater Philadelphia honored Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, with its annual award – artwork displaying the word “Understanding” in ever language and created by Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania.
May 25, 2021
Philippines Appoints H.E. Elmer G. Cato Consul General in New York
Effective March 30, 2021, H.E. Elmer G. Cato has assumed his duties as Consul General of the Republic of the Philippines in New York. Consul General Cato is a career diplomat with the rank of Chief of Mission Class II who joined his country’s Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in 1998. Since then, he has held a wide range of important positions, both in Manila and abroad – including significant U.S. experience in Washington, D.C. and New York. The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia welcomes Consul General Cato.
May 20, 2021
Pan American Day Features Colombian Ambassador
The Pan American Association of Philadelphia hosted its annual Pan American Day celebration on a virtual basis, with remarks by H.E. Francisco Santos Calderon, Colombia’s Ambassador to the United States, and the presentation of scholarships to area college students. PAAP is an Associate Member of CCAP.
May 19, 2021
Consular Corps College Hosts “Best Practices” Discussion
The Consular Corps College (CCC) hosted a virtual discussion titled “Consular Corps Best Practices” with panelists Peter Longstreth and Martin Rauchbauer. Krista Bard, CCC Chancellor and Honorary Consul General of Lithuania, moderated the interchange which reviewed and compared consular organizations in Philadelphia and San Francisco. The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia is a CCC Member.
May 18, 2021
India’s Consul General Jaiswal Provides COVID Overview
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted another of its regular “Dialogue & Diplomacy” sessions in a conversation with Hon. Randhir Jaiswal, Consul General of India in New York. Inevitably, the Special Guest focused on India’s recent surge in COVID infection rates and related short term demands exceeding capacity of the health care system. While India is a major producer of COVID vaccines, vaccination rates have not kept pace and emergence of variants has aggravated the crisis. CG Raiswal did express optimism that progress is being made in the larger cities and was heartened by the audience”s expression of sympathy and solidarity. The Consulate General of India in New York has responsibility for Philadelphia and is a CCAP Member.
May 17, 2021
Norway Celebrates National Day with Flag Raising at Philadelphia City Hall
In a ceremony limited by COVID restrictions, Susan Satkowski, Honorary Consul of Norway, City officials and members of the Norwegian community celebrated Norway’s National Day with a flag raising over Philadelphia’s City Hall and a presentation of the Mayor’s Proclamation by Sheila Hess, City Representative.
May 14, 2021
Cherken Appointed HC of Armenia for Philadelphia
Harry Cherken, Senior Counsel and Real Estate Attorney at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath, has been appointed Honorary Consul of Armenia in Philadelphia. Mr. Cherken is a graduate of Lafayette College (where he currently serves as a Trustee) and Villanova University School of Law. His maternal grandfather, who emigrated to the United States from Armenia in the early years of the last century, was a life-long inspiration to Harry. We are delighted to welcome Honorary Consul Cherken to the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.
May 11, 2021
HC Kuffler Honored by Danish Government
The government of Denmark honored Joseph Kuffler, Honorary Consul of Denmark for Philadelphia, with his induction into the Order of Dannebrog in a ceremony at the Embassy in Washington, D.C. Instituted in 1671 by Christian V, Dannebrog is a Danish order of chivalry which recognizes faithful servants of the Danish state for meritorious civil or military service.
April 30, 2021
Republic of Korea Opens Consular Office in Philadelphia
Ambassador Won-sam Chang, the Republic of Korea’s Consul General in New York, and Hon. Jong Seop Lee, Head Consul in Philadelphia, hosted an event to celebrate the opening of the Republic of Korea’s consular office in Center City Philadelphia. Ambassador Chang, Head Consul Lee, City officials – including City Council Members Helen Gym and David Oh and Commerce Director Michael Rashid – and community leaders all made comments recognizing Korea’s historical ties to Philadelphia and the importance of the Korean American population in the city. CCAP President Peter Longstreth welcomed Head Consul Lee into our association. The event concluded with ribbon-cutting and signage unveiling ceremonies.
April 27, 2021
Philly Shipyard Active with New Contract
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted their regular “Diplomacy & Dialogue” program featuring Special Guest Steinar Nerbovik, President & CEO of Philly Shipyard, Inc. (PSI), the Norwegian-owned ship-building operation at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Following his review of PSI’s 20 year track record in the private commercial market, Nerbovik described the current government contract to build training ships for the state marine academies and answered questions from the audience. Philly Shipyard is an Associate Member of CCAP.
April 25, 2021
HC Chaplin Remembers Royal Visits to Jamaica
Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica in Philadelphia, has fond memories of visits by Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip to his native Jamaica. Chris’ father, Kenneth, was a career journalist who served for many years as Press Secretary under different administrations and as head of Jamaica’s news agency. In these roles, he often welcomed dignitaries including Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip in 1983 and1994. For his service, Kenneth Chaplin was appointed Lieutenant of the Victorian Order (LVO) by Queen Elizabeth.
HC Chaplin’s Memories: Passing of Prince Philip
April 23, 2021
Ambassador Farani Azevêdo Appointed Brazil’s Consul General in New York
On April 1, 2021, Ambassador Maria Nazareth Farani Azevêdo was appointed Consul General of Brazil in New York. A career diplomat with extensive experience in promoting Brazil’s interests before a number international organizations, Ambassador Farani Azevêdo has held a range of important positions in Brazil, Switzerland, Uruguay and the United States. Details of her illustrious career can be accessed through the link below. Brazil’s Consulate General in New York has responsibility for Pennsylvania and is a CCAP Member.
March 30, 2021
HC Pfister, CDI Co-Host Another Session on Art World
Christine Pfister, Honorary Consul of Switzerland and owner of Pentimenti – a well-known Philadelphia art gallery, joined CCAP Associate Member Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) in co-hosting the second in a series of virtual discussions titled “The International Art World and Major Art Fairs”. The session featured HC Pfister moderating a conversation with Omar Lopez-Chahoud, Artistic Director and Curator of UNTITLED, a Miami-based art fair, and Ralph Citino, a private art collector in Philadelphia. The wide-ranging interchange explored the complementary perspectives of art seller and purchaser in the time of COVID.
March 16, 2021
CCAP Quarterly Reception Features Roberto Canessa, M.D.
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia hosted its Quarterly Reception which featured comments by Roberto Canessa, M.D., who joined the virtual event from his home in Montevideo, Uruguay. In 1972, Canessa was a 19 year-old medical student aboard a plane that crashed in the Andes. After enduring months of unimaginable hardship, he played an heroic role in the eventual rescue of the survivors. Today, Dr. Canessa is a prominent pediatric cardiologist and his inspirational remarks shared many life lessons connecting his survival in the Andes to his career in medicine.
March 16, 2021
CCAP Hosts Virtual Quarterly Members Meeting & Reception
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) again hosted its Quarterly Members Meeting & Reception on a virtual basis. The usual business was covered in an efficient manner: membership growth has been limited by the pandemic, the schedule of virtual events has been dynamic and the association’s financial condition remains sound. The Members Meeting was followed by a well-attended Zoom Reception which featured Special Guest Roberto Canessa, M.D., Uruguayan cardiologist, author and inspirational speaker.
March 9, 2021
“D&D” Features Drexel’s Marini
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted their regular “Diplomacy & Dialogue” program featuring special guest Janice “Jake” Marini, Vice Provost for Global Engagement for Drexel University. Marini’s office manages relationships with nearly 200 institutional partners worldwide, with an emphasis on broadening international educational experiences for students and staff. Jake’s comments on pandemic challenges focused on the transition to virtual education and on current preparation for the post-COVID world. Drexel’s Office of Global Engagement is a CCAP Associate Member.
March 4, 2021
Muskens Named U.S. Trade Representative for Kutch Region, State of Gujarat, India
Wilfred Muskens, President & CEO of Muskens Global USA and Honorary Consul of the Netherlands in Philadelphia, has recently been named U. S. Trade Representative for the Kutch Region in the State of Gujarat in western India. Gujarat is populous, economically vibrant and well known for its former Governor Narenda Modi, India’s current Prime Minister. Wilfred brings extensive experience in promoting international trade and investment to this new assignment.
February 16, 2021
HC Alban Recognized in PBJ’s “40 Under Forty”
The Philadelphia Business Journal has recognized Miguel Alban in its “40 Under Forty” listing of prominent young Philadelphia business leaders for 2021. Alban is Senior Vice President and Multicultural Banking Manager for Phoenixville-based Customers Bank. He is also Honorary Consul of his native Peru and Executive Committee Vice President of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia. Miguel is married with three young children and, like many local executives, he has been working from home during the pandemic.
February 11, 2021
“Diplomacy & Dialogue” Features Villanova Center for Global Leadership
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted its regular “Diplomacy and Dialogue” program featuring special guest Kim Cahill, Director of Villanova Business School’s Moran Center for Global Leadership, for a robust virtual audience. While COVID has clearly limited international travel and foreign exchange activity, Cahill described the various adjustments which have been made to maintain Villanova’s global partnerships. The Moran Center is a CCAP Associate Member.
February 9, 2021
CBP Hosts Virtual “Meet & Greet” with CCAP
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Area Port of Philadelphia Command Staff hosted its annual “Meet and Greet” with members of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP), on a virtual basis. Joseph Martella, Area Port Director, led the meeting with an introduction of attending staff members and an overview of CBP activities. He and his colleagues then fielded questions from the consular audience. With its responsibilities for lawful travel and trade, border enforcement and homeland security operations at the international air and sea Ports of Entry in Pennsylvania, South Jersey and Delaware, CBP is an important partner for CCAP.
February 8, 2021
The Republic of Korea To Open Consular Office in Philadelphia
The Republic of Korea will be opening a Consular Office at 1500 JFK Boulevard in Center City Philadelphia in April, 2021. Jong Seop Lee has been appointed Head Consul and Chief of Mission for this expanded Korean presence in Philadelphia. Mr. Lee is a veteran diplomat with over 30 years of experience including important positions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Seoul and foreign postings in the U.S., Tunisia, Finland and Algeria. He and his wife arrived in Philadelphia in September, 2020 and he has recently joined the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia. We welcome this important addition to our international community.
February 2, 2021
AJC Program Features Ukraine Ambassador Yelchenko
The American Jewish Committee of Philadelphia/ Southern New Jersey (AJC) hosted its Ambassador Speaker Series featuring H.E. Volodymyr Yelchenko, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States, in a virtual program organized with the assistance of Iryna Mazur, Ukraine’s Honorary Consul in Philadelphia. Ambassador Yelchenko provided a series of prepared remarks and then responded to AJC requests and questions from the audience. His comments related to his country’s relationships with the U.S., Israel and Russia, during this time of COVID. AJC is an Associate Member of CCAP.
January 24, 2021
Philly Shipyard Revitalized with Major Contract to Build Training Ships for U.S. Maritime Administration
The Philly Shipyard has started work on building up to five “national security multi-mission vessels” for the U.S. Maritime Administration. While initial use will be as training ships at state maritime academies, they can also serve in disaster relief operations. The average cost of each vessel will be $300 million and this major contract has already activated employment at the shipyard. Philly Shipyard is an Associate Member of CCAP.
January 21, 2021
“Diplomacy & Dialogue” Features Zoo President Dewan
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted “Diplomacy & Dialogue”, featuring a conversation with Vikram Dewan, President & CEO of Philadelphia Zoo, for a virtual audience. Dewan described the challenging circumstances of 2020 and the Zoo’s adjustments to address necessary COVID-related protocols with remote communications techniques. He emphasized the need to adapt financially and to think creatively about post-pandemic operational models. The Zoo is a CCAP Associate Member.
January 14, 2021
HC Pfister Partners with CDI to Discuss Art World
Christine Pfister, Honorary Consul of Switzerland and owner of the Pentimenti Gallery in Philadelphia, joined CCAP Associate Member Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) in presenting “The International Art World and Its Museums” to a large virtual audience. HC Pfister moderated a conversation with special guests Val Gay, Deputy Director of Audience Engagement, Barnes Foundation, and Mladen Banjac, Curator, Museum of Contemporary Art of the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia Herzegovina. Mr. Banjac participated in CDI’s Global Leadership program in Philadelphia in 2019 and was particularly pleased to “return” to our city for this program. The discussion ranged from the inevitable pandemic-related comments to observations on the longer term role of art and museums in the modern world.