May 29, 2025
World Affairs Council Program Features Mexican Consul and Cuisine
The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia hosted its latest World Affairs Table series which combined conversations with Carlos Obrador, Head Consul of Mexico in Philadelphia, with a culinary reception. Airport and City officials commented on the importance of Aeromexico’s recently announced service to Mexico City and Head Consul Obrador responded to questions from WAC President Swartz and from the audience, on a wide range of topics. Following this engaging discussion, attendees were treated to a delicious selection of Mexican cuisine catered by Chef Cristina Martinez, owner of Barbacoa and Casa Mexico restaurants in Philadelphia. The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia is a CCAP Associate Member.
May 27, 2025
Dominican Republic Promotes Tourism in “Roadshow Philadelphia 2025”
The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism and Consulate General in Philadelphia hosted “Roadshow Philadelphia 2025” at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel. The well-organized program included a delightful luncheon and impressive presentation of the country’s extraordinary tourist resources to an engaged audience of travel agents and tour guides. Comments by David Collado, DR’s Minister of Tourism, and a spectacular video highlighted the program.
May 23, 2025
Georgia Raises National Flag to Celebrate Independence Day at Philadelphia City Hall
The Consulate General of Georgia in New York and the Georgian Apostolic Orthodox Church joined forces with the Saint Hieromartyr Grigol Peradze Georgian Cultural Center and the City of Philadelphia to present an inspiring celebration of the Republic of Georgia’s independence from Russia in 1918 and from the Soviet Union in 1991. The ceremony included a blessing by the Church’s Ruling Bishop Saba, lovely renditions of the national anthems sung by Nino Tsiklauri, raising of the Georgian national flag, presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation and spectacular performances by the Cultural Center’s dance troupe in full traditional costume. Remarks by Consul General Bartaia emphasized the importance of Georgia’s diaspora in the Philadelphia region and highlighted Georgian success stories in the U.S.
May 22-24, 2025
Honorary Consul Toshkezi Welcomes Albanian President to Philadelphia
H.E. Dr. Bajram Bega, President of Albania, and his wife, Armanda Begai, First Lady of Albania, spent several productive days in the Philadelphia area where they enjoyed the warm hospitality of Dr. Gentian Toshkezi, Honorary Consul of Albania, and his wife, Arjola Toshkezi. The delegation included Mr. Ervin Bushati, Albania’s Ambassador to the U.S., and the group met with local Albanian community groups and businesses. President Bega also visited Ohio where he addressed a NATO conference. The President’s travels were broadcast in mainstream media to Albania.
May 22, 2025
Philadelphia Celebrates 10th Anniversary as the Country’s First World Heritage City
In an event organized by Global Philadelphia Association (GPA), a group of engaged celebrants gathered at the iconic Masonic Temple to hail the 10th Anniversary of Philadelphia’s designation as the country’s first World Heritage City. John Smith, founder of GPA, and Michael Nutter, Mayor of Philadelphia in 2015, received special recognition for their successful leadership in this competitive international selection process.
May 22, 2025
Norway HC Satkowski Featured at Historical Exhibit’s Opening Reception
Susan Satkowski, Honorary Consul of Norway, and the Sons of Norway Foundation joined forces with the American Swedish Historical Museum (ASHM) to present an important historical exhibit titled “Across the Atlantic: Sloopers and the First Organized Emigration from Norway to America”. The story of the 1825 voyage by Norway’s first emigrants to the U.S. explores their motivation for leaving, their three month experience at sea and their arrival to their new home. An opening reception included Norwegian cuisine and comments by HC Satkowski. The exhibit will be open to the public until October, 2025.
May 21, 2025
CCAP Members Enjoy Reception and Tour of Carpenter’s Hall in Philadelphia
Built in 1775, Carpenter’s Hall is a jewel of Georgian architecture and a treasure trove of historic significance. In a delightful and educational event organized by CCAP President Krista Bard and John Medveckis, Honorary Consul of Latvia, a group of Consular Members were treated to a fascinating tour of this remarkable building and its central role in the nation’s early foundation. The hall is privately owned by its original builder – The Carpenter’s Company, the country’s oldest craft guild – and Executive Director Michael Norris masterfully highlighted the remarkable narrative of this Philadelphia gem for his enthusiastic audience.
May 20, 2025
CCAP President Bard Hosts Associate Member Breakfast at Union League of Philadelphia
Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania and CCAP President, convened a group of organization leadership and Associate Members for an enjoyable breakfast and engaged conversation at the Union League of Philadelphia. Executive Committee Members mingled with Associate Members and provided remarks describing CCAP as a unique international resource – Philadelphia’s only association composed of representatives appointed by foreign governments.
May 17, 2025
Philadelphia “Watch Party” Enjoys 69th Annual Eurovision Song Contest Broadcast from Switzerland
Founded in 1956 by the European Broadcasting Union, the Eurovision Song Contest is an annual international music competition among performers of original songs from each country. Over 50 largely European countries have participated in this contest which is hosted by the country that won the preceding year’s event. The contest culminates with an evening of performances by finalists and the winner is determined by a vote of professional panelists and the public.
The German Society of Pennsylvania, World Affairs Council and the Honorary Consulate of Switzerland co-hosted a “Watch Party” of the Eurovision Song Contest 2025’s final performances from Basel, Switzerland and the Philadelphia audience actually voted in the winning selection of Austrian singer “JJ”. Just as Switzerland was named to host Eurovision 2025, Austria will follow that tradition in 2026.
May 16, 2025
Hong Kong Hosts Business Forum “AI Revolution Unveiled” in Philadelphia
The National U.S. Hong Kong Business Association (NUSHKBA) hosted a Business Forum and Welcome Dinner titled “AI Revolution Unveiled: Transforming Business and Global Trade” in Philadelphia’s University City. Attendance of NUSHKBA members and guests enjoyed a high level panel discussion among experts in the field of Artificial Intelligence followed by networking and dinner. The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York and Drexel University are CCAP members.
May 15, 2025
Hungarian HC Schwartz Celebrates International Family Day at Consulate General in New York
In 1993 the United Nations General Assembly adopted May 15 as International Day of Families to annually promote awareness of issues relating to families throughout the world. The Hungarian Ambassador to the UN and the Liszt Institute, Hungarian Cultural Center, New York co-hosted an International Day of Families celebration at the Consulate General of Hungary in New York. Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary in Pennsylvania, attended the lively event which also included government and diplomatic officials.
May 12, 2025
Italian CG Philadelphia Hosts Exhibit of Italian Design and Contemporary Art
The Consulate General of Italy in Philadelphia hosted an opening reception for an exhibit curated by Maestri Artigiani – Artifex, an Italian non-profit dedicated to the promotion of creations by the country’s master artisans. The elegant evening’s event treated members of Philadelphia’s fashion, art and Italian communities to the impressive works and delicious refreshments. The exhibition will be on display at the Consulate General for a week.
May 10, 2025
France HC Participates in Penn State Forum on Community-based Heritage Language Education
Penn State University hosted its first Community-based Heritage Language Education program at its Abington campus near Philadelphia. Marine Fraval-Vennel, Honorary Consul of France, joined other presenters in panels and presentations that emphasized the importance of their French, Chinese, German, Ukraine and Khmer heritage languages in maintaining the cultural identities of their respective diasporas.
May 10, 2025
EU Open House Day Attracts Crowds to Lithuanian Embassy and Other Missions throughout Washington, D.C.
Over 2,000 people visited the Lithuanian Embassy as part of the European Union’s Open House Day celebration at Embassies throughout Washington, D.C. Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania and President of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) was in attendance with her son, Alex, and their special, family recipe for the traditional “Krupnikas” honey liqueur was toasted – “I Sveikata” or “To Your Health” – by the many happy celebrants.
May 8, 2025
CCAP Hosts Special Briefing in Philadelphia by European Union Official
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) hosted a special briefing by Ruth Bajada, Deputy Ambassador of the European Union, in a Center City Philadelphia law office. Deputy Ambassador Bajada traveled from Washington, D.C. and met with Philadelphia EU country Consuls and Honorary Consuls. The session included a review of EU priorities and policies and a discussion of current trade and investment issues. The group explored ideas for more exchanges between Philadelphia, the EU Mission and EU countries.
May 6, 2025
“Investing in Jamaica” Forum in Philadelphia Features Government Officials and Business Leaders
The Consulate General of Jamaica in New York, the Jamaica Stock Exchange and The Montage Companies hosted the “Investing in Jamaica” forum at the Pyramid Club in Center City Philadelphia. Attendees received informative presentations by representatives of the host institutions as well as several financial groups from Jamaica. The session also provided an enjoyable networking opportunity.
May 2, 2025
Republic of Albania Appoints Honorary Consul for Philadelphia
The Republic of Albania has appointed Dr. Gentian Toshkezi as its first Honorary Consul for Philadelphia. In a beautiful celebration hosted by Dr. Toshkezi and Mrs. Arjola Toshkezi, Mr. Ervin Bushati, Albania’s Ambassador to the U.S., and Ms. Suela Janina, Albania’s Ambassador to the UN, officiated the appointment ceremony. Members of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) welcomed our newest member and enjoyed a delightful evening.
April 30 – May 1, 2025
Royal Visit to Philadelphia Benefits IHT and Duke of Edinburgh Awards Program
His Royal Highness Prince Edward, The Duke of Edinburgh, spent a busy two days in Philadelphia. Following a warm train station welcome by Oliver St. Clair Franklin, CBE, retiring after 28 years as Honorary Consul of the UK and Northern Ireland in Philadelphia, the Duke of Edinburgh dedicated the Benjamin Rush Garden and Bicentennial Bell, originally gifted to Philadelphia by his mother, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, in 1976. Other highlights of the visit included a private VIP luncheon for city and state leadership at historic Carpenters’ Hall and a Royal Reception and Dinner at the Downtown Club. Proceeds from the visit will benefit the Independence Historical Trust (IHT) in Philadelphia and the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, an international program for young people.
April 29, 2025
Welcoming Center Gala Highlights Immigrant Achievement
The Welcoming Center hosted its annual Solas Awards gala at the Constitution Center in Philadelphia. A networking reception preceded the program which included presentations of the awards to Luc-Henri Fortune, immigrant leader and advocate, and Hamdi Ulukaya, Founder and CEO of Chobani Yogurt and Tent Partnership for Refugees. The Welcoming Center is an Associate Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.
April 25, 2025
Trinidad & Tobago Consulate General Hosts Dinner to Honor Teams at Penn Relays in Philadelphia
The Penn Relays is the oldest and largest track and field competition in the United States. Hosted annually by the University of Pennsylvania, the three day event attracts top high school, collegiate and professional athletes and over 100,000 spectators. International participation now includes high school teams from Trinidad and Tobago and other Caribbean countries. To honor his country’s 2025 participants, J. Andre Laveau, Consul General of Trinidad and Tobago, New York, hosted a celebratory dinner at the PECO Headquarters Building in Center City Philadelphia during the Penn Relays weekend.
April 22, 2025
WAC Hosts “State of World Affairs” Conversation with PA Congressman Brendan Boyle
The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia (WAC) hosted an informative “State of World” conversation with Brendan Boyle, six-term U.S. House Representative for Pennsylvania’s 2nd District. Congressman Boyle is a Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and he had plenty to say about the first hundred days of Donald Trump’s presidency. The program included a substantive conversation with WAC President Lauren Swartz followed by a lengthy, lively Q & A session. The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia is a CCAP Associate Member.
April 17, 2025
Consulate General of Italy Opens New Philadelphia Office
Cristiana Mele, Consul General of Italy for Philadelphia, hosted a grand opening of the Consulate General’s new offices at 1818 Market Street in Center City Philadelphia. Speakers included special guest Minister Luigi Vinali, Director General for Italians Abroad and Migration Policies of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The inaugural celebration included a reception attended by other dignitaries and members of Philadelphia’s Italian community.
April 15, 2025
Pan American Day Celebrated with Annual Scholarship Luncheon at Union League
The Pan American Association of Philadelphia (PAAP) hosted its annual luncheon at the Union League to celebrate Pan American Day and to award scholarships to local university students. Comments by Ruben Reyes, PAAP President, were followed by Keynote Speaker Dr. Orlando J. Perez, a Professor of Political Science at the University of North Texas, who provided an informative overview of U.S. – Latin American relations. PAAP is an Associate Member of CCAP.
April 15, 2025
Philadelphia International Airport Hosts Tour for CCAP Members
Kate Sullivan, PHL’s Chief Commercial Officer, and her staff hosted a delegation of CCAP Members on a tour of the Philadelphia International Airport. The visit included an overview of PHL performance and plans to accommodate the special demands anticipated in 2026. The group then received an insider’s look at Atlantic Aviation, a private terminal which will serve the many special visitors, dignitaries and team charters expected during next year’s FIFA World Cup tournament and other 250th year celebrations. PHL is an Associate Member of CCAP.
April 8, 2025
CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting & Reception Features Speakers on 2026 Celebration Plans
The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) convened its first Quarterly Members Meeting & Reception of 2025 in Center City Philadelphia. A large consular turnout received an informative presentation by the Office of Foreign Missions (OFM) of the U.S. State Department, followed by the usual association business meeting. The retirement of Oliver St. Clair Franklin, CBE, from his long-time service as Honorary Consul of the United Kingdom was recognized with great appreciation by the membership. A dynamic networking reception featured timely remarks regarding Philadelphia’s plans for the 2026 celebrations by Kathryn Ott Lovell, President of the Philadelphia 250 committee, and Lauren Swartz, Chair of Global Engagement for the FIFA World Cup soccer tournament.
April 4 – 5, 2025
CCAP Members Attend Lauder Institute’s Africa Futures Symposium in Philadelphia
The University of Pennsylvania’s Lauder Institute hosted its annual Africa Futures Symposium at the Warwick Hotel in Center City Philadelphia. Several CCAP members appreciated the program which included speakers and panelists from Africa-related government, academia, NGO and business sectors. In a related development, well-known Philadelphia attorney, John Giordano, has been nominated as the U.S. Ambassador to Namibia. John is the son of Frank Giordano, Honorary Consul of Malta in Philadelphia. The University of Pennsylvania is an Associate Member of CCAP.
April 3, 2025
HC Chaplin Speaks at Reception Honoring Outgoing Jamaican Ambassador to the U.S.
Alsion Wilson, Consul General of Jamaica in New York, hosted a heartwarming reception to honor Senator The Honourable Ambassador Audrey Marks. Following her two terms (2010 – 2012, 2016 – 2025) as Jamaica’s first female Ambassador to the United States, Marks has been appointed Senator and Minister in the Office of The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Jamaica’s Prime Minister. The farewell program included remarks by Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica in Philadelphia, who expressed his appreciation and admiration for Senator Marks as she assumes her new role in serving Jamaica.
April 3, 2025
CCAP President Bard Launches Breakfast Roundtable Meeting Series for Consular Members
Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania and CCAP President, hosted the initial breakfast roundtable meeting at the Union League. This new, smaller forum for member interaction will occur on the first Thursday of each month at 8:30 AM. With space limited, interested members should email Krista Bard at president@ccaphila.org for the next breakfast roundtables scheduled for May 1 and June 5.
April 1 – 3, 2025
Hungarian Delegation Returns to Philadelphia for Fuller Historic, Cultural and Academic Experience
Following their brief visit to Philadelphia last November, Dr. Tibor Navracsics, Hungary’s Minister of Public Administration and Regional Development, and seven delegates returned for three full days of personalized tours and informative meetings at our city’s most esteemed historic, cultural and academic institutions. The busy schedule was arranged by Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary, and Dr. Csenge Palotai, Director of the Liszt Institute, Hungarian Cultural Center New York. A photography exhibition titled “Lights of the Landscape” and a Hungarian Wine Tasting Reception provided the delegation with a relaxing opportunity to socialize with many of Philadelphia’s business, academic and diplomatic leaders. Minister Navracsics was most impressed by the professionalism, courtesy and efficiency that his group experienced throughout their stay in Philadelphia.
March 30, 2025
English Speaking Union Hosts Retirement Tribute to UK Honorary Consul Franklin
The English Speaking Union (ESU) hosted a retirement gala to recognize and to honor Oliver St. Clair Franklin’s many years of service as the Honorary Consul of the UK in Philadelphia. “A Salute to Oliver” attracted over one hundred family, friends and associates to a reception and dinner at the Overbrook Golf Club in the Philadelphia suburb of Villanova. Consular colleagues, family members and old friends commented on HC Franklin’s many personal and professional contributions to their own lives and to Philadelphia’s diplomatic community. The evening concluded with Oliver’s eloquent remarks, thanking his family and the many supporters throughout his illustrious consular career.
March 27, 2025
Indian Diplomat Enjoys Community Networking Reception
Vishal J. Harsh, Deputy Consul General & Acting Consul General of India in New York, spent a busy day in Philadelphia – starting as special luncheon guest of the American Jewish Committee of Philadelphia/Southern New Jersey (AJC) and ending as centerpiece to a CIOGP networking event at an Indian restaurant. Acting Consul General Harsh provided comments regarding his country’s relationships with the U.S. and Israel and recognized the importance of the Indian diaspora in Philadelphia.
March 27, 2025
AJC Ambassador Speaker Series Luncheon Features Indian Diplomat
The American Jewish Committee (AJC) of Philadelphia/Southern New Jersey and its affiliate AJC Asia Pacific Institute hosted the Ambassador Speaker Series Luncheon, featuring Special Guest, Vishal J. Harsh, Deputy Consul General and Acting Consul General of India in New York. The event was highlighted by DCG Harsh’s remarks, focused on India’s relationship with Israel and the United States. An active Q & A ranged from delicate U.S. trade policy questions to a more relaxed discussion regarding India’s competitive position in the world of cricket. AJC is an Associate Member of CCAP.
March 21, 2025
Aeromexico and Mexican Consulate Announce New Direct Flight Between Philadelphia and Mexico City
A press conference was held at the Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia to announce the new daily, direct flight between Philadelphia and Mexico City which will be operated by the Aeromexico-Delta alliance, starting June 5, 2025. Event hosts Carlos Obrador, Head Consul of Mexico in Philadelphia, and Jose Zapata, Aeromexico’s VP of Sales for the U.S., Canada and Latin America, commented on the flight’s positive impact on trade, tourism and student exchange for both cities. The flight is particularly timely for the FIFA World Cup, MLS All-Star Game and 250th Independence Day celebration, all scheduled in Philadelphia for 2026.
March 20, 2025
Serbian-American Heritage Day Celebrated with Flag Raising Ceremony at Bowling Green Park
The Consulate General of the Republic of Serbia, New York and the Office of the Mayor of New York City joined forces to celebrate Serbian-American Heritage Day in a flag raising ceremony at Bowling Green Park in Lower Manhattan. The festivities were organized by Consul General Vladimir Božović and attracted a distinguished group of attendees, including HRH Crown Prince Alexander and HRH Princess Katherine. Other city officials and members of the local diplomatic community were also present and speakers praised the Serbian community’s contributions to New York’s cultural and civic life.
March 11, 2025
Lithuania Celebrates 35 Years of Independence with Philadelphia City Hall Flag Raising Ceremony
Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania and CCAP President, and the Lithuanian American Community Philadelphia Chapter joined forces with the Philadelphia City Representative’s Office in a flag raising ceremony to celebrate Lithuania’s Declaration of Independence from the Soviet Union thirty-five years ago. The City Hall program included an opening prayer; comments by Dovydas Špokauskas, Consul General of Lithuania in New York; speeches by local government officials and community representatives; national anthems sung by the Laisve choir; the flag raising itself; and the presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation recognizing this important historical milestone for the Lithuanian diaspora.
March 6, 2025
CCAP Members Enjoy Reception and “Gardens of Tomorrow” Flower Show in Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Flower Show is hosted each year by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) and is one of the oldest, largest flower shows in the world. This year’s “Gardens of Tomorrow” theme invites us to envision a future where our actions today nurture a healthier planet. Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania and CCAP President, and John Medveckis, Honorary Consul of Latvia, organized a delightful cocktail reception in a Convention Center Skybox. PHS President Matt Rader and Creative Director Seth Pearsall, provided an informative presentation to CCAP Members who later explored the show’s stunning horticultural displays. PHS is a CCAP Associate Member.
March 6, 2025
Kazakhstan CG Impressed with Philadelphia Partnership Opportunities
Rauan Tleulin, Consul General of Kazakhstan, New York spent two busy days in Philadelphia meeting with City and Commonwealth officials, university administrators, entrepreneurs and other diplomats. CG Tleulin is focused on building partnerships in the healthcare, higher education and food processing sectors and was impressed with the potential opportunities in Philadelphia and Pennsylvania.
March 1, 2025
City of Qingdao, China Presents Traditional Garden Exhibit at Philadelphia Flower Show
Dating back to 1829, the Philadelphia Flower Show is hosted annually by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) and has become one of the largest flower shows in the U.S. This year, Qingdao, China presented a garden exhibit showcasing the city’s horticultural and cultural traditions at the Philadelphia Flower Show. In a related event, the Vice Mayor of Qingdao led a Tourism Promotion Press Conference, highlighted by dance and musical performances, to an audience of local dignitaries and community members. The group then enjoyed a VIP tour of the Flower Show itself. PHS and PHLCVB are Associate Members of CCAP.
February 27, 2025
Dominican Republic Celebrates 181 Years of Independence with Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony
Dominicanos in the Delaware Valley, the Consulate General of the Dominican Republic and Philadelphia’s Office of the City Representative collaborated to produce an animated celebration of the Dominican Republic’s 181 years of independence. The ceremony was staged at Philadelphia’s City Hall where flags were raised, national anthems sung, folkloric dances performed and speeches delivered. A Mayoral Proclamation was presented honoring this historic day and recognizing the importance of the substantial Dominican population to Philadelphia.
February 26, 2025
Temple Office of Research Hosts CCAP Members to Exciting Basketball Victory
Temple University’s Josh Gladden, Vice President for Research, and Seema Freer, Director of Research Development, hosted a group of CCAP Members and guests to a basketball contest between Temple University and the University of South Florida. The Temple men’s basketball team recently won the 2,000th game in program history and the Freshman-dominated Owl lineup thrilled the crowd with a dramatic, come-from-behind 73-71 victory. CCAP representatives also enjoyed delicious refreshments and great company in the comfort of a Liacouras Center luxury box. Thank you Josh, Seema and Temple!
February 26, 2025
Consulate General of Georgia, New York Joins CCAP
The Consulate General of Georgia in New York has joined the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP). Maia Bartaia, Consul General of Georgia New York, spent a busy day getting to know Philadelphia and enjoyed a delightful introductory meeting with Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania and CCAP President, at the Union League of Philadelphia. CG Bartaia is a career diplomat whose New York responsibilities include the state of Pennsylvania and she looks forward to active participation in CCAP events and programs.
February 23, 2025
HC Mazur Leads Ukrainian Rally and March in Philadelphia
Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine, organized a rally at the Philadelphia Art Museum and a march to Philadelphia City Hall to protest Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The program’s speakers stirred the large crowd of Ukrainian supporters with comments demanding greater support for the war effort and honoring those who have sacrificed everything in this fight for survival.
February 20, 2025
Lincoln University Hosts Conference Celebrating Work of Vincent Carter
Lincoln University hosted a one-day conference honoring the work of Vincent O. Carter (1924 – 1982) – novelist, essayist, playwright and artist. A 1950 graduate of Lincoln University, Carter spent his entire creative life in Bern, Switzerland and the event was organized by a collaboration between the university; Christine Pfister, HC of Switzerland; the Consulate General of Switzerland, New York; and Oliver Franklin, CBE, HC of the UK and himself a graduate of Lincoln. The program included comments by scholars of Carter’s work which explores the experience of black life in Europe and Switzerland.
February 17, 2025
CCAP and Albanian Community Support Kosovo Independence Day Celebration at Philadelphia City Hall
Philadelphia’s Office of the City Representative and Members of the Kosovo-Albanian community celebrated Kosovo’s 17th independence day in a flag raising ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall. Comments by local officials, including Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania and President of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP), captured the spirit of the occasion and recognized the close ties between Albania and Kosovo.
February 12, 2025
FPRI “Ambassador Series” Features Lithuanian Diplomat
The Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) hosted its latest “Ambassador Series” session featuring Eitvydas Bajarūnas, whose remarkable diplomatic career is highlighted by former Lithuanian Ambassadorships to Russia, Sweden, United Kingdom, Portugal, Oman and Uzbekistan. The program opened with a conversation between Aaron Stein, FPRI President, and Ambassador Bajarūnas, followed by an active Q&A with the engaged audience at the institute’s Philadelphia headquarters. Subjects of discussion included Russia’s hybrid warfare, NATO’s new Baltic Sentry mission and the future of security cooperation in the Baltic Sea. FPRI is an Associate Member of CCAP.
February 9, 2025
HC Chaplin Addresses Interfaith Service at Washington National Cathedral
The International Peace Foundation and the International Stop the Violence Alliance, Inc. hosted a moving interfaith service focused on nonviolence, peace and justice, at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. The group included faith leaders from the Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Muslim and Jewish communities. Guest speaker, Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica and former CCAP President, commented on the importance of global unity through diversity and recognized U.S. President Joe Biden’s recent posthumous pardon of Jamaican activist the Right Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey.
January 29, 2025
PHL and PCVB Convene Air Service Development Meeting with External Partners
The Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and the Pennsylvania Convention and Visitors Bureau (PCVB) convened a gathering of external partners in a discussion regarding efforts to establish direct flights from Philadelphia to foreign destinations. Edgar Vesga, Director of PHL’s Air Service Development, provided an update on the airport’s initiatives, highlighted by the recently announced service to Mexico City. Meeting participants also reported on their own activities and exchanged ideas on strategies to better promote Philadelphia as a global hub. Both PCVB and PHL are Associate Members of CCAP.
January 16, 2025
CCAP President Bard Attends Central East European Coalition Meeting in Washington, D.C.
Members of Central East European Coalition (CEEC) countries gathered for an all-day agenda at Kossuth House in Washington, D.C. Named after Lajos Kossuth, the celebrated 19th century Hungarian freedom fighter, Kossuth House is owned by the Hungarian government and the event was hosted by Hungarian American Coalition President Max Teleki. Representatives from Belarus, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, and Ukraine participated in the meeting. Full CEEC membership includes 18 countries with combined U.S. diasporas exceeding 20 million people.
January 10, 2025
Lunar New Year Concert at the Kimmel Center Celebrates Chinese Culture with Springtime Musical Theme
The Philadelphia Orchestra and The China Tourist Office New York hosted an exhilarating Lunar New Year Concert for a sell-out audience in the magnificent Marian Anderson Hall of the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia. Conducted by the dynamic Naomi Woo, an exquisite program featured works to celebrate springtime, highlighting Chinese pipa (a traditional string instrument) virtuoso Zhang Hongyan and an original work by Mason Bates, co-commissioned by the Philadelphia Orchestra and the China International Association. The Consulate General of The People’s Republic of China and The Philadelphia Orchestra are members of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP).
January 7, 2025
CCAP Delegation Travels to PA Farm Show in Harrisburg
In what has become another exciting CCAP tradition, a delegation of Members attended the 109th Pennsylvania Farm Show – the nation’s largest indoor agricultural exposition – in its sprawling Harrisburg, Pennsylvania complex. The group enjoyed the Show’s incredible scale and variety, which aptly celebrates Pennsylvania’s $132.5 billion agricultural industry. The busy day culminated with the PA International Delegation Partnerships Forum and Reception, hosted by Russell Redding, Secretary of Agriculture and other officials in Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration.