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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.

 

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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).

 

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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.

 

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December 16, 2024

AJC Philadelphia/Southern NJ Celebrates 80th Anniversary with Gala Featuring Pennsylvania Governor

 

The American Jewish Committee of Philadelphia/Southern NJ celebrated its 80th Anniversary with a Gala titled “Shaping a New Future” at the beautifully renovated Bellevue Hotel in Philadelphia. A dynamic reception and delicious dinner were followed by a formal ceremony recognizing this important milestone for the local AJC. The evening culminated with an engaging exchange between Josh Shapiro, Pennsylvania’s Governor, and Ted Deutch, AJC Chief Executive Officer. AJC of Philadelphia/Southern NJ is an Associate Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP).

 

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December 13, 2024

Panama Donates Christmas Toys to South Philadelphia Children

 

The Consulate General of Panama in Philadelphia and the Panamanian Association of Pennsylvania donated a welcome Christmas gift to the Discovery Place Preschool in South Philadelphia. The school provides early education to 135 students aged 1 to 4 years old. Thanks to Panama’s generosity and commitment to Philadelphia, these lucky children will enjoy a selection of new toys to enhance their learning experience.

 

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December 13, 2024

Kazakhstan Celebrates Independence Day in Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

The Kazakh American Association of Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia City Representative’s office co-hosted a dynamic celebration of the country’s 33rd year of independence from the Soviet Union. The program celebrated Kazakh heritage and showcased its culture with dancers, singers and musicians – including performances on the remarkable dombra, Kazakhstan’s unique long-necked, two string instrument. Comments by elected officials and community leaders culminated with the presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation recognizing this important milestone in Kazakh history.

 

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December 12, 2024

CCAP Supports German Social Program in Philadelphia

 

Action Reconciliation Service for Peace (ARSP) was founded in Germany after World War II to promote reconciliation between Germans and the groups that had been persecuted before and during the conflict. ARSP’s U.S. headquarters is in Philadelphia where young German volunteers are placed with local social service organizations. CCAP has provided financial support to ARSP for a number of years.

 

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December 11, 2024

CCAP Executive Committee Elected for 2025

 

The Consular Corps of Philadelphia’s Members Meeting of December 11, 2024 elected an Executive Committee for 2025 including President – Krista Bard; Vice President – Harry Cherken; Secretary – Deborah Majka; and Treasurer – Daisy Van den Hoof-Mertens. The CCAP Executive Committee meets regularly, managing routine operations and recommending important policy decisions to the Quarterly Members Meetings. Other CCAP volunteer committees also assist with a variety of specific functions.

 

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December 11, 2024

CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting and “Diplomatic Hanukkah Reception” Held in Center City Philadelphia

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) convened its final Quarterly Members Meeting of 2024 in Center City Philadelphia. New Members and special guests were welcomed; CCAP 2024 activities were reviewed in detail; and an Executive Committee was elected for 2025. A “Diplomatic Hanukkah Reception” was then co-hosted by the American Jewish Committee (AJC) of Philadelphia and Southern NJ which included a symbolic ceremony with Menorah candle lighting and readings. CCAP Associate Members and guests also enjoyed delicious food, refreshments and networking.

 

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December 6, 2024

Irish Consulate General Hosts Annual Reception to Welcome Pennsylvania Society to New York

 

The Consulate General of Ireland in New York hosted its reception to welcome members of The Pennsylvania Society – political, business and civic leaders from the Keystone State who gather in New York every December. Consul General Helena Nolan provided opening comments and introduced Ireland’s Ambassador to the U.S., Geraldine Byrne Nason, who stressed the strong ties between our two countries. The event attracted prominent members of Philadelphia’s Irish-American community who enjoyed traditional bagpipe music and lot’s of good fellowship in the Consulate General’s impressive, new offices.

 

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December 3, 2024

Consulate General of China Hosts Reception to Welcome Consul General Chen to New York

 

The Consulate General of The People’s Republic of China in New York hosted a “Welcome Reception” to honor recently arrived Consul General Li Chen. While Mr. Chen’s current appointment in New York is his first U.S. posting, he is a career diplomat and a former Ambassador to Finland. Consul General Chen’s formal comments emphasized the importance of China – U.S. relations and cited the example of the Philadelphia Orchestra’s recent tour of his country. The large attendance enjoyed delicious Chinese food in a dynamic social setting at the Consulate General offices in New York.

 

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November 26, 2024

Philadelphia’s Albanian Community Celebrates 112 Years of Independence in City Hall Ceremony

 

The Albanian American Association (Bijte e Shqipes) and other community groups partnered with the City of Philadelphia’s Representative Office in a well attended celebration of Albania’s 112 years of independence. Due to inclement weather, a brief flag raising on the North Plaza of Philadelphia City Hall was followed by the ceremony itself in elegant Conversation Hall where a lively audience enjoyed national anthems, speeches by community leaders and government officials and the presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation.

 

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November 20, 2024

FPRI “Ambassador Series” Features Romanian Diplomat

 

The Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) hosted its latest “Ambassador Series” session, featuring Andrei Muraru, Ambassador of Romania to the U.S. The Ambassador’s opening remarks were followed by a conversation with Aaron Stein, FPRI President, and active Q & A with the engaged audience in the institute’s Philadelphia headquarters. Subjects of discussion ranged from the war in Ukraine’s impact on Romania; prospects for NATO and the Black Sea strategy under a new U.S. President; and Romania’s extraordinary recent economic performance. FPRI is an Associate Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP).

 

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November 20, 2024

HC Schwartz Hosts Hungarian Delegation’s Visit to Philadelphia

 

Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary, hosted a delegation of Hungarian officials led by Dr. Tibor Navracsics, Minister of Public Administration and Regional Development, on a tour of Philadelphia’s historic sites and an elegant luncheon at the Union League of Philadelphia. The Hungarians’ first visit to Philadelphia was part of their weeklong travel to the U.S., with other stops in New York and Washington, D.C.

 

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November 14 – 16, 2024

APS Autumn General Meeting Features Uruguayan Pianist and Composer

 

The American Philosophical Society (APS) was founded in 1743 in Philadelphia by Benjamin Franklin to honor extraordinary accomplishments in a wide variety of academic disciplines. Since then, APS membership has included 260 Nobel Prize winners and iconic names like Charles Darwin, Thomas Edison and Albert Einstein. Society members gather in Philadelphia twice each year for varied programs that reflect their diverse fields of achievement. A highlight of the 2024 Autumn General Meeting program was an exuberant concert by Gustavo Casenave, Uruguayan pianist and composer. The three time Grammy Award winner thrilled the APS audience with a virtuosic collection of his original works, delivered with a fierce energy and charming style. The American Philosophical Society is a CCAP Associate Member.

 

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November 14, 15, 2024

Brazil CG Pays First Official Visit to Philadelphia

 

On their first official visit to Philadelphia, Ambassador Adalnio Ganem, Consul General of Brazil, New York, and Thiago Miranda, Deputy Consul General, spent two busy days meeting with government officials, university students, community members and international organizations. Ambassador Ganem is a career diplomat with multiple foreign postings in Europe, Latin America and the U.S. Brazilian companies employ over 2,000 Pennsylvanians and the state’s trade with the country totals $1.6 billion.

 

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November 13, 2024

CCAP Supports Philadelphia250 Countdown Celebration

 

PHILADELPHIA250 is an independent, non-profit organization founded to create a people-driven movement to assure that the national celebration scheduled for 2026 is a collective, inclusive experience for the city, the country and the world. To build awareness and stimulate excitement for the related neighborhood engagement, PHILADELPHIA250 hosted its third annual Countdown Party which was highlighted by the presence of First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden. Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica and President of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia, is a PHILADELPHIA250 Board Member and a number of CCAP members were in attendance at Girard College event.

 

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October 28, 2024

Swiss MedTech Company Attends US Market Gateway Accelerator Program in Philadelphia

 

WorldUpstart is located in Philadelphia and offers early stage foreign Life Science, MedTech and Digital Health corporations with tools to enter the U.S. market. The “US-Market Gateway Accelerator” is an annual hybrid program, spanning 6 weeks on line and 2 days in person, which facilitates connections with industry experts and corporate mentors.  

WorldUpstart’s nine 2024 participants were selected from a competitive pool of over 100 applicants and included MYNERVA, a Zurich-based developer of AI-driven non-invasive neurostimulation devices that address chronic pain caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy. MYNERVA CEO Greta Preatoni visited Philadelphia to work with her designated mentor – local company Turner Healthcare Quality Consulting, Inc. Other program attendees represented France, Italy, Poland and South Korea.

 

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October 15, 2024

PAAP Hosts Annual Membership Meeting & Clothier Award Presentation at Union League in Philadelphia

 

The Pan American Association of Philadelphia (PAAP) hosted its 84th annual Membership Meeting and William J. Clothier II Award presentation at the Union League of Philadelphia. The well-attended Luncheon Program was highlighted by presentation of the Clothier Award to Jennifer Rodriguez, President & CEO, GPHCC, and her comments regarding achievements of the Hispanic business community in Philadelphia. Brian Winter, Editor-in-Chief of Americas Quarterly, then provided a fascinating review of his journalistic career in Latin America with informative comments regarding current relations with the U.S. The Pan American Association of Philadelphia is an Associate Member of CCAP.

 

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October 10, 2024

Grandmaster Polgár, Female Chess Great, Meets Philadelphia Admirers

 

Hungarian Judit Polgár, greatest female chess player and the youngest grandmaster (1991 at age fifteen) of all time spent a busy day in Philadelphia meeting with chess fans, scientists and mathematicians at various universities and cultural organizations. She also made an inspirational presentation to 200 starstruck young women chess players in a special event at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Polgár, who retired in 2014, has dedicated herself to a number of nonprofits which use chess to advance her educational mission. Her visit to Philadelphia was organized by the Consulate General of Hungary in New York and by Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Philadelphia.

 

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October 9, 2024

National Ballet of Ukraine Uplifts Philadelphia Audience

 

The National Ballet of Ukraine, one of the world’s premier ballet companies, performed for an enthusiastic audience at the Miller Theatre in Philadelphia. The program was part of the company’s 16-city East Coast U.S. tour. The Philadelphia region is home to one of the country’s largest Ukrainian communities which was well represented at this glorious event. The performance showcased the National Ballet’s classical repertoire, highlighting Ukrainian identity and inspiring emotional support from the audience. Proceeds from the U.S. tour will benefit children and families of Ukraine.

 

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October 8, 2024

Wistar Honors Nobel Laureate Karikó with Award Ceremony in Philadelphia

 

The Wistar Institute presented its Helen Dean King Award for 2024 to Nobel Laureate Dr. Katalin Karikó, Professor, University of Szeged, Hungary and Adjunct Professor of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania. The virtual award presentation ceremony was followed by an active in-person conversation among Dr. Karikó, Wistar’s Dr. Maureen Murphy and a select group of Wistar supporters at the institute’s Philadelphia headquarters. The Helen Dean King Annual Award is an integral component of Wistar’s Women & Science Program. Wistar Institute is an Associate Member of CCAP.

 

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October 7, 2024

Philadelphia AJC Hosts Ceremony to Commemorate Anniversary of Terrorist Attack in Israel

 

The American Jewish Committee (AJC) Philadelphia/Southern NJ hosted a ceremony to commemorate the solemn one year anniversary of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack in Israel. The gathering of remembrance convened members of AJC Board and the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) in a service that included comments by local leadership, a video dramatizing the tragic loss of life in Israel, a Yahrzeit candle lighting, a poetry reading and open conversation. AJC is an Associate Member of CCAP.

 

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October 4, 2024

DR Consulate General Hosts Reception to Celebrate Transition of Leadership in Philadelphia

 

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October 2, 2024

Nigerian Flag Raising Celebrates 64 Years of Independence in Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

Philadelphia’s Office of the City Representative and FunTimes Magazine, a publication addressing Philadelphia’s African and Caribbean communities, co-hosted a celebration of Nigeria’s 64th anniversary of its independence from Great Britain in a flag raising ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall. Formal remarks by government officials, diplomats and community leaders were followed by the raising of Nigeria’s national flag and culminated with the presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation declaring “Nigerian Independence Week in Philadelphia” and recognizing the important contributions of Nigeria’s dynamic local diaspora. The country’s rich cultural heritage was also showcased in lively musical and dance performances. The Consulate General of Nigeria in New York is a CCAP member.

 

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October 1, 2024

CCAP Convenes Quarterly Members Meeting & Reception at 1650 Arch Street Building in Center City Philadelphia

 

Thanks to the generosity of Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary, and her husband, Alex Schwartz, the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) convened its Quarterly Members Meeting and Reception in the conference center of the 1650 Arch Street Building in Center City Philadelphia. The formal Consular Members Meeting was followed by a well-attended reception, featuring informative comments by Atif Saeed, CEO of the Philadelphia International Airport, who emphasized the importance of CCAP in PHL’s efforts to expand its international routes.

 

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September 26, 2024

The People’s Republic of China Flag Raising at Philadelphia City Hall Draws Large Crowd

 

 

Philadelphia’s Office of the City Representative and the Pennsylvania United Chinese Coalition co-hosted a flag raising ceremony to celebrate The People’s Republic of China at Philadelphia City Hall. A number of community-based cultural organizations entertained the large turnout with a dramatic dance performance prior to the day’s program. City, diplomatic and community representatives then provided remarks, a Philadelphia Mayoral Proclamation was presented and the national flag was raised in a moving ceremony appreciated by the diasporan spectators. The Consulate General of The People’s Republic of China in New York is a CCAP Member.

 

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September 25, 2024

HCG Bard Interviews Lithuanian President Nausėda

 

Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania in Philadelphia, interviewed Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda in an intimate “fireside chat” format at the Consulate General in New York. The discussion focused on the President’s policy priorities, security, and diasporan investment attraction. President Nausėda was recently elected to a second term with an unprecedented 75% of the vote and was in New York with a Lithuanian delegation for the United Nations General Assembly meetings.

 

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September 22, 2024

Lithuania’s First Lady Visits Philadelphia with HCG Bard

 

Lithuania’s First Lady Diana Nausėdienė spent a busy day in Philadelphia, coordinated by Krista Bard, Lithuania’s Honorary Consul General. The First Lady met with Lithuanian school children, teachers and parents at the Vinco Breves School; toured the Philadelphia Museum of Art where she admired the works of Lithuanian artist Romas Viesulas; and ended the day with a reception at the historic Lithuanian Music Hall in the Port Richmond neighborhood of the city.

 

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September 21, 2024

World Affairs Council Hosts Reception to Welcome Ukrainian Regional Governor and Delegation to Philadelphia

 

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia and Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Philadelphia, organized a warm welcoming reception for Ivan Federov, Governor of the Zaporizhzhia Region in Ukraine, and a Ukrainian delegation at WAC headquarters in Philadelphia. Introductory comments by Lauren Swartz, President & CEO of World Affairs Council, and HC Mazur were followed by Governor Federov’s descriptions of his region during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Pennsylvania Congresswoman Madeleine Dean commented forcefully on the critical need for continuing U.S. support to Ukraine. Governor Federov then mingled with the guests, including WAC and CCAP members as well as representatives from the local business and non-profit communities.  The World Affairs Council is a CCAP Associate Member.

 

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September 20, 2024

Trinidad and Tobago Celebrates Independence with Flag Raising Ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall

 

The Consulate General of Trinidad and Tobago in New York, Philadelphia’s Office of the City Representative and the American Caribbean Alliance Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago joined forces to present a dynamic celebration of the country’s Republic Day and the 62nd anniversary of its independence at Philadelphia City Hall. J. Andre Laveau, Consul General of Trinidad and Tobago in New York, local officials and community representatives provided comments regarding the country’s creation as an independent nation and its important diaspora in Philadelphia. The ceremony culminated with the flag raising, singing of the national anthem and presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation.  The Consulate General of Trinidad and Tobago in New York is a CCAP member.

 

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September 19, 2024

St. Kitts and Nevis Celebrates Independence with Philadelphia City Hall Flagraising

 

The Mayor’s Commission on African and Caribbean Immigrant Affairs, the Honorary Consulate of St. Kitts and Nevis and the Philadelphia Office of the City Representative co-hosted a flag raising ceremony to celebrate St. Kitts and Nevis’ 41 years as an independent nation. Diplomats, City officials and community leaders provided comments, national anthems were sung, the national flag was raised and a Mayoral Proclamation was presented.

 

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September 19, 2024

PAAP Hosts “The Enduring Spirit of Don Quixote” Conversation with Drexel Scholar Minana

 

As part of its cultural promotion mission, the Pan American Association of Philadelphia hosted “The Enduring Spirit of Don Quixote” – an in-depth conversation with Cervantes scholar Rogelio Miñana – for a group of PAAP members, Drexel faculty and literary devotees. Miñana presented an overview of traditional “Don Quixote” interpretations and focused on the iconic classic’s relevance to modern audiences and educators. He then led a discussion that explored Cervantes’ timeless themes, characters and its lasting impact on global culture.  The Pan American Association of Philadelphia and Drexel University are CCAP Associate Members.

 

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September 16, 2024

Mexico Celebrates 214th Independence Day with Cultural Display at Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

The Consulate of Mexico, the Mexican Cultural Center and the Philadelphia City Representative’s Office staged a dynamic celebration of Mexico’s 214th anniversary of independence. To the delight of an enthusiastic crowd from the local diaspora, a showcase of Mexican cultural selections featured live mariachi music, a fashion show of regional dress and a traditional dance performance. Speeches were delivered, national anthems were sung and the Mexican flag was raised. Carlos Obrador, Mexico’s Head Consul in Philadelphia, led the official “Grito” ritual and City Representative Jazelle Jones presented a Mayoral Proclamation recognizing the importance of Philadelphia’s Mexican community.

 

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September 13, 2024

FPRI’s “Ambassador Series” Launch Features Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations

 

The Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) of Philadelphia hosted its first “Ambassador Series” session featuring Sergiy Kyslytsya, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations. The new FPRI program offers members and partners a unique opportunity to interact with front line diplomats. Ambassador Kyslytsya recognized the important work of Iryna Mazur, Ukraine’s Honorary Consul in Philadelphia, and provided the capacity audience with extensive updates regarding the conflict in Ukraine and related United Nations’ policies. FPRI is an Associate Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and the two complementary organizations have collaborated in organization of the “Ambassador Series”.

 

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September 13, 2024

Nicaraguan Independence Day Celebrated with Flag Raising Ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall

 

Philadelphia’s Office of the City Representative and Eli Gabay, Honorary Consul of Nicaragua, co-hosted a celebration of Nicaragua’s independence from Spain in September, 1821 at Philadelphia City Hall. Members of the local Nicaraguan community enjoyed comments by diplomats and government officials, playing of national anthems, the flag raising itself and presentation of a Mayoral proclamation, recognizing this historic date.

 

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September 12, 2024

Princeton University Hosts a Symposium to Celebrate U.S.- Brazil’s 200 Years of Diplomatic Relations

 

Princeton University’s Institute for International and Regional Studies, Brazil LAB project, partnered with the Consulate General of Brazil in New York to present a two day symposium exploring the 200 year diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Brazil. The opening panel was highlighted by Keynote Speaker Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, Brazil’s Ambassador to the United States; her engaging conversation with Brian Winters, Editor-in-Chief of Americas Quarterly; and questions from an audience of students and local Brazilians. The second day’s program included panels of academics discussing “Present Pasts” and “Future Horizons”. The Consulate General of Brazil in New York is a CCAP Member.

 

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September 9, 2024

FEMA Region 3 Hosts Consular Roundtable for CCAP Members in Philadelphia

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of the Department of Homeland Security hosted a Consular Roundtable for CCAP members in its Region 3 (Delaware, D.C., Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia) headquarters in Center City Philadelphia. Led by Region 3 Administrator MaryAnn Tierney, FEMA representatives from local, state and federal offices and the Red Cross made presentations describing their programs and responding to questions from a hybrid CCAP audience.

 

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September 6, 2024

Brazilian Community Celebrates Independence Day with Flag Raising Ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall

 

Philadelphia’s Office of the City Representative and Project Capoeira joined forces to host a flag raising ceremony to celebrate Brazil’s independence from Portugal in 1822. Project Capoeira is a cultural organization which uses the Brazilian martial art of capoeira to connect with its local community. The ceremony included live music, dance and the flag raising as well as comments by government officials and a demonstration of capoeira. Brazil’s Consulate General of Brazil in New York is a CCAP member.

 

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September 6, 2024

Ukrainian Rock Band Opens U.S. Tour with Philadelphia Event Organized by HC Mazur

 

ANTYTILA (Antibodies) is a Ukrainian rock band whose powerful music and impactful lyrics form a platform of cultural diplomacy in support of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. In an event organized by Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Philadelphia, band leader Taras Topolia was featured in a presentation of the group’s “War vs Culture” project which uses music, film and culture to dramatize courage and hope in this brutal war. Tara and his band mates are active members of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the gathering concluded in their round table discussion with members of the audience.

 

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August 31, 2024

CCAP President Chaplin Inducted into St. George’s College Hall of Fame in Jamaica Ceremony

 

Christopher Chaplin, CCAP President and Honorary Consul of Jamaica in Philadelphia, was inducted into the St. George’s College Hall of Fame in a moving ceremony at the S Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica. Chaplin’s fellow inductees included three other distinguished St. George’s College graduates in a celebration attended by Christopher’s wife Margaret and friends.  In his induction remarks, Chaplin stated, “while my parents were the strongest influences on my life and my values, STGC established key principles that have been the foundation of both my banking career and my diplomatic service”.

St. George’s College was founded in Kingston, Jamaica in 1850 and the Hall of Fame is the institution’s highest accolade. Christopher now joins only 59 other STGC graduates, with his portrait prominently displayed in a special Hall of Fame Room on the Kingston campus. Congratulations to our friend, colleague and President – Christopher Chaplin!

 

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August 24, 2024

CCAP President Chaplin Featured Speaker and Lifetime Award Winner at US-Africa Conference in Philadelphia

 

The African and Caribbean Business Council of Greater Philadelphia and Dijigui Corporation, a non-profit dedicated to financial education and wealth creation, hosted a two-day conference on US – African trade and investment, highlighting the country of Mali. Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica and CCAP President, provided Keynote remarks and, at the event’s closing dinner, received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his 20 years of work in Philadelphia’s African and Caribbean communities.

 

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August 23, 2024

Ukrainian Independence Day Celebration at Philadelphia City Hall Honors and Supports the War Effort

 

The Honorary Consulate of Ukraine in Philadelphia, Ukrainian Federation of America, Manor College and Ukrainian Selfreliance Credit Union joined forces with the City of Philadelphia to host an impressive, emotional ceremony to celebrate 33 years of Ukrainian independence and to support the country’s current battle for survival. Speakers, including Ukraine’s Honorary Consul Iryna Mazur, CCAP President Christopher Chaplin, government officials, diplomats and community leaders, delivered stirring remarks to honor the courage of the Ukrainian people. In a dramatic display of solidarity, the audience formed a “unity chain” surrounding a giant Ukrainian flag.

 

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August 16, 2024

Indonesian Community Celebrates Independence Day at Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

The Philadelphia City Representative’s Office joined forces with Gapura, the Indonesian Community Center in Philadelphia, to host a dynamic celebration of Indonesia’s 1945 independence from the Netherlands. Keynote remarks by Winanto Adi, Consul General of Indonesia in New York, highlighted his country’s shared values with the U.S. and emphasized the significance of the new capital complex in Nustanara. The program also showcased Indonesia’s traditional dance, music and fashion, a flag raising and the presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation honoring the Indonesian diaspora in Philadelphia. The Consulate General of Indonesia, New York is a CCAP Member.

 

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August 15, 2024

Indian Community Celebrates Independence with Flag Raising Ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall

 

The Philadelphia City Representative’s Office teamed up with the Council of Indian Organizations in Greater Philadelphia (CIO) to present an inspiring and entertaining celebration of India’s 1947 independence from Great Britain. A large crowd of colorfully dressed community members gathered outside of Philadelphia City Hall where they enjoyed speeches by government officials, traditional music and dance performances, raising of the Indian national flag, and presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation. The Consulate of India, New York is a CCAP Member. 

 

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August 9, 2024

Jamaica Celebrates 62nd Year of Independence in Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

The City of Philadelphia and Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica, joined forces to organize a joyful celebration of Jamaica’s 62nd year of independence. Following an outdoor flag raising, the ceremony moved to the Mayor’s Reception Room in Philadelphia City Hall due to stormy weather. Comments by City and diplomatic officials culminated with the presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation. Jamaican community attendees then enjoyed uplifting music, delicious food and good company.

 

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July 26, 2024

CCAP President Chaplin is Guest Speaker for Liberian Independence Day Ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall

 

The Liberian Association of Pennsylvania and the City of Philadelphia City hosted a City Hall flag raising ceremony to celebrate the anniversary of Liberia’s independence in 1847. In addition to the singing of national anthems and the flag raising itself, comments were made by government officials, community leaders and diplomats.

 

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July 26, 2024

Consul General Hosts Commemorative Luncheon to Celebrate Peru’s Anniversary of Independence

 

M. Gabriela Porras Alor, Consul General of Peru in Paterson, New Jersey, hosted a luncheon to celebrate her country’s 203rd anniversary of independence. Consul General Porras Alor is a career diplomat who recently assumed her position in New Jersey following other international postings in Houston and Madrid. Prominent members of Peru’s local diaspora, consular colleagues and other guests enjoyed a lively program which included comments by the Consul General, Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh and other officials, as well as national anthems, a stirring dance performance and delicious Peruvian cuisine. The Consulate General of Peru in Paterson is a CCAP Member.

 

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July 24, 2024

CCAP Mourns the Passing of Colleague and Friend Karen Lawson

 

Karen E. Lawson passed away on July 8, 2024 and her family and friends celebrated a service of remembrance at the Union League of Philadelphia. Karen led a varied and distinguished career as a management development consultant, educator, author, philanthropist and diplomat. She represented the Republic of Fiji as Honorary Consul in Philadelphia and served on the CCAP Executive Committee. The obituary link below provides a full description of Karen’s rich, fulfilling life.

Link to Obituary

 

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July 19, 2024

Colombian Community Celebrates Independence Day with Lively Ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall

 

 

The City of Philadelphia and the Coalicion Colombia Civica joined forces to present a dynamic Independence Day celebration at Philadelphia’s City Hall. The spirited event included national anthems, the Colombian flag raising, a Mayoral Proclamation, and recognition of various community leaders and achievements. Comments by government officials combined with popular song and traditional dance to recognize both this historic milestone and Colombia’s rich cultural heritage. The Consulate General of Colombia in Newark, New Jersey is a CCAP Member.

 

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July 15, 2024

American Jewish Committee and Latino-Jewish Coalition Host 30th Anniversary Commemoration of AMIA Bombing in Argentina

 

American Jewish Committee (AJC) of Philadelphia/Southern NJ and the Jewish-Latino Coalition (JLC) hosted a program and luncheon to remember the terrorist bombing victims at the Asociación Mutual Israelita Argentina (AMIA) community center in Buenos Aires in 1994. Comments by Marcia Bronstein, AJC Regional Director; Fernando Trevino, LJC Member; Tsach Saar, Israel’s Deputy Consul General in New York; and Amos Linetsky, AMIA President (by video recording from Buenos Aires); highlighted an agenda that also included testimonial readings and candle lighting in remembrance of the individual victims. AJC is a CCAP Associate Member and several consuls participated in the program.

 

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June 21, 2024

HC Montanaro Attends Consular Conference in Prague, Czech Republic

 

Alexander Montanaro, Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic in Philadelphia, attended a consular conference hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic in Prague. The three day meeting opened with welcoming comments by Jan Lipavský, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and was highlighted by sessions with Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Senate President Miloš Vystrčil. The agenda of consular, cultural, economic and scientific themes, included excursions to nearby regions and visits to leading Czech companies. Alex enjoyed sharing experiences and best practices with consular colleagues in attendance from 90 other countries.

 

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June 18, 2024

Temple University Hosts CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting and Reception at Morgan Hall North

 

 Temple University generously hosted the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia’s Quarterly Members Meeting and Reception in the spacious 27th floor lounge area of Morgan Hall North on the main Philadelphia campus. The Consular Members Meeting was followed by a delightful Cocktail Reception where special guests Dr. Richard Englert, Temple’s Interim President, and Alba Martinez, Philadelphia’s Commerce Director, provided provocative comments regarding CCAP’s important role in the city’s international marketing infrastructure. CCAP expresses particular appreciation to Temple’s official hosts: Josh Gladden, PhD, Vice President for Research, and Seema Freer, PhD, Director of Research Development.

 

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June 12, 2024

CCAP Members Welcome Miss Universe to Philadelphia

 

On November 18, 2023, Sheynnis Palacios was crowned Miss Universe. The reigning Miss Nicaragua was a model and telejournalist whose pageant platform focused on mental health awareness. Since then, Miss Universe has been a global nomad, promoting the pageant and its sponsors around the world. In that spirit, she visited Philadelphia to highlight a fashion show produced by Clarisse Designs, a local dress designer which is the Official Miss Universe Pageant Wear Sponsor.  A nice break from Miss Universe’s busy schedule was an informal luncheon at the Union League of Philadelphia hosted by a welcoming committee of CCAP members and organized by Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania.

 

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June 12, 2024

WAC “Diplochat” Features Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States

 

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia hosted its latest Satell Family Foundation-sponsored “Diplochat” program, featuring H.E. Masood Khan, Ambassador of Pakistan to the U.S., at WAC headquarters in Center City Philadelphia. Ambassador Khan opened the session with comments regarding US – Pakistan relations and then joined Lauren Swartz, WAC President, in conversation regarding a wide range of topics. The program closed with the Ambassador fielding lively questions from an engaged WAC audience.

 

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June 12, 2024

Philippines Celebrates 126 Years of Independence with Philadelphia Flag Raising Ceremony

 

The Filipino Executive Council of Greater Philadelphia and the City of Philadelphia hosted an Independence Day ceremony celebrating Philippine liberation from Spain in 1898. The event included singing of national anthems, a national flag raising, comments by Philadelphia and Philippine officials and presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation recognizing this historic date. Philadelphia’s Filipino community was well represented and enjoyed traditional musical and dance performances by local groups. The Consulate General of the Philippines in New York is a CCAP Member.

 

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June 7, 2024

St. Kitts and Nevis Featured in Caribbean Business Roundup at Odunde Festival

 

The Odunde Festival was founded in Philadelphia in 1975 and is the largest African American street festival in the country – with almost 500,000 participants and $30 million of economic impact. The Caribbean Business Roundup is an important economic development program within the festival’s weeklong schedule. This year, the Roundup’s keynote speaker was Ambassador Worrell Nero, Honorary Consul General of St. Kitts and Nevis, who reviewed his country’s strong investment profile and business opportunities during a dynamic session at Philadelphia’s City Hall.

 

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June 6, 2024

Honorary Consul Lubert Sworn In by Lithuanian Ambassador in New Jersey Ceremony

 

Ira Lubert, recently appointed Honorary Consul of the Republic of Lithuania to the State of New Jersey, hosted an investiture ceremony administered by H.E. Audra Plepyte, Lithuanian Ambassador to the U.S. and Mexico, and a luncheon at the Union League National Golf Course in Swainton, New Jersey. Following the formal proceedings and comments by Ambassador Plepyte, HC Lubert and Honorary Consul General Krista Bard, the group of officials, colleagues and friends enjoyed a delightful lunch and conversation.

 

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June 5, 2024

CCAP President Chaplin Addresses African Business Forum in 49th Odunde Festival

 

The Odunde Festival was founded in Philadelphia in 1975 and is the largest African American street festival in the country – with almost 500,000 participants and $30 million of economic impact. Scheduled for the first week in June each year, the mega-event includes a series of meetings to address a wide variety of African themes and culminates with a dazzling Sunday procession through the streets of South Philadelphia, showcasing African entertainment, music, food and art. Today, Odunde is recognized as a national model for cultural street festivals.

Christopher Chaplin, HC of Jamaica and CCAP President, addressed the Odunde Festival’s forum titled “Africa is Open for Business” that featured presentations by Ambassadors to the U.S. from Guinea and Mali and included panels describing business experiences in those countries. The meeting was hosted in the Comcast Center and was followed by a VIP Reception at the Comcast Technology Center, both in Philadelphia.

 

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June 4, 2024

Italian National Day Highlighted by a Special Bandierai Fiorentini Performance at Philadelphia City Hall

 

The Consulate General of Italy celebrated Italian Day and the country’s many cultural traditions with a ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall, highlighted with the flamboyant performance by Bandierai Fiorentini, the official flag throwing troupe from Florence, Italy. The full ceremony included an Italian national flag raising, national anthems, comments by city officials and Consul General Mele prior to a remarkable form of flag waving and throwing choreography performed by the celebrated visiting group from Florence. The Consul General then hosted a delightful reception in Conversation Hall for community members and guests.

 

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June 4, 2024

Philadelphia Kicks Off Immigrant Heritage Month with City Hall Celebration

 

The Philadelphia Office of Immigrant Affairs hosted a celebration of Immigrant Heritage Month in the elegant Mayor’s Reception Room in Philadelphia City Hall. Comments by city officials and guest speakers highlighted the numerous contributions of immigrant communities in the Philadelphia region. The enthusiastic audience also enjoyed performances of dance and song, showcasing several of these rich cultural traditions.

 

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May 24, 2024

Georgian Church and Cultural Center Raise National Flag to Celebrate Independence Day at Philadelphia City Hall

 

The Georgian Apostolic Orthodox Church and the Saint Hieromartyr Grigol Peradze Georgian Cultural Center teamed up with Philadelphia Offices of the City Representative and of Immigrant Affairs 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, singing of national anthems by the Cultural Center’s Singing Ensemble, raising of the Georgian national flag, presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation and spectacular performances by the Center’s Choreographic Ensemble, in full traditional costume. Hersh Kozlov, Honorary Consul of Georgia is a CCAP member.

 

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May 23, 2024

PHL Official Meets with Costa Rican Embassy to Promote New American Airlines Flight

 

As a followup to American Airlines recent announcement of direct service between Philadelphia International Airport and Costa Rica, PHL official Edgar Vesga met with Ambassador Crespo Sancho and her staff at the Costa Rican Embassy in Washington, D.C. The flight will operate initially between December 7, 2024 and March 30, 2025 and will have special appeal to winter travelers drawn by Costa Rica’s extraordinary ecotourist attractions. PHL is an Associate Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP).

 

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May 21, 2024

WAC “Diplochat” Features Denmark’s Ambassador to the United States

 

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia’s latest Satell Family Foundation-sponsored “Diplochat” program featured a conversation with H.E. Jesper Møller Sørensen, Denmark’s Ambassador to the United States at WAC headquarters in Center City Philadelphia. The session opened with an exchange between Lauren Swartz, WAC President and CEO, and Ambassador Sørensen regarding US-Danish relations and the importance of alliances to the future of Europe. The Ambassador then fielded questions from the audience and acknowledged the importance of American Airlines direct service between Philadelphia and Copenhagen, to commence in mid-June. The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia is an Associate Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP).

 

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May 16, 2024

Guatemalan Community is Honored at Philadelphia City Hall Flag Raising Ceremony

 

The Consulate General of Guatemala and the City Representative’s Office hosted a flag raising ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall to recognize the importance of Guatemala’s diaspora in the region. National anthems were sung, the Guatemalan flag was raised and a Mayoral Proclamation was presented to Hugo Hun, Consul General of Guatemala in Philadelphia. Hun, city officials and community leaders provided comments to a vibrant audience accented by many colorful traditional Guatemalan garments.

 

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May 15, 2024

Consulate General of Turkiye Hosts New York Reception for CCAP Delegation

 

Reyhan Özgür, Consul General of the Republic of Turkiye, and his staff hosted a delightful cocktail reception for a visiting delegation of CCAP members and other guests at the Consulate General in New York. The Society for Foreign Consuls in New York was also well represented, including that association’s president, Amna Almheiri, Consul General of the United Arab Emirates. For the Philadelphia group, this concluded a busy day and provided a charming opportunity to mingle with New York-based colleagues and counterparts.

 

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May 15, 2024

CCAP Delegation Enjoys Special Tour of United Nations Headquarters and Meets with OFM Regional Office

 

 

A delegation of Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) members traveled to New York for a number of special meetings and a VIP tour of the United Nations Headquarters complex, organized by Rytis Paulauskas, Lithuania’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN and Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania in Philadelphia. Ambassador Paulauskas provided informative commentary to a tour that included poignant visits to the Security Council Chamber and the General Assembly Hall and was highlighted by a conversation with UN Under Secretary General Guy Rider. In a separate meeting, the delegation was also received by Alexander K. Hardin, Director of the U.S. State Department’s Office of Foreign Missions (OFM) New York and his team at the Regional Office.

 

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May 13, 2024

WAC Features Conversation with Former Ukraine President Yushchenko

 

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May 13, 2024

Irish Writer Tóibín Featured at Philadelphia Barnes & Noble Book Signing Event

 

Barnes & Noble, Center City Philadelphia, hosted a book signing event for Colm Tóibín – Irish novelist, short story writer, essayist, journalist, critic, playwright and poet. The author provided comments, answered questions and signed copies of his latest work – “Long Island” – for an enthusiastic group of dedicated readers. Along with his diverse artistic achievements, Tóibín is also the Irene and Sidney B. Silverman Professor of Humanities at Columbia University in New York.

 

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May 2, 2024

Cuban Ambassador Addresses Philadelphia Society for Promoting Agriculture

 

Hon. Lianys Torres Rivera, Cuba’s Ambassador to the U.S., addressed a gathering of the Philadelphia Society for Promoting Agriculture (PSPA) at the Union League of Philadelphia. Ambassador Torres Rivera described the opportunities and needs of Cuba’s agricultural sector to members of PSPA – a non-profit organization founded in 1785 to promote understanding and appreciation of the agricultural sector. The Ambassador and her delegation also met with the World Trade Center and members of Philadelphia City Council. Cuba’s Consul General, Nora Alberteris, is a member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP).

 

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May 1, 2024

Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia and the Mexican Cultural Center Relocate Important Archaeological Collection

 

The Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia held a delivery-reception ceremony for 22 archaeological pieces voluntarily delivered by the Mexican Cultural Center (MCC). The objects, considered “movable archaeological monuments belonging to the Mexican nation”, had been purchased by art collector Leonard Landau whose family recently donated them to the Mexican Cultural Center. Given the potential historical and cultural importance of the pieces, the Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia requested that MCC initiate the restitution process which was formalized in the ceremony. In his comments, Carlos Obrador Garrido, Consul Titular of Mexico in Philadelphia, emphasized his government’s policy to recover and rematriate Mexico’s historical heritage and celebrated the return of these 22 pieces of Mesoamerican art to their country of origin.

 

Link to Photos from Event

 

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April 30, 2024

World Affairs Council’s Spotlight Luncheon Features U.S. Ambassador to UN

 

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia (WAC) hosted its “Spotlight” luncheon which featured conversation with The Honorable Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Representative of the United States to the United Nations and the Security Council for a capacity audience at the Independence Visitors’ Center in Center City Philadelphia. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield is a career diplomat who previously held a variety of positions, including Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs. Lauren Swartz, WAC President, moderated a conversation with the Ambassador regarding global challenges facing the U.S., followed by questions from the floor. The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia is a CCAP Associate Member.

 

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April 17, 2024

CCAP Meets with CBP and Tours Philadelphia International Airport

 

A delegation of CCAP members met with local leadership of the U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) unit of the Department of Homeland Security in the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). A presentation by Acting Area Port Director Frank McCarthy was followed by a bus tour of the airport’s expansive facilities, hosted by PHL officials Kate Sullivan and Edgar Vesga. The Philadelphia International Airport is an Associate Member of CCAP.

 

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April 15, 2024

Ira Lubert Appointed Honorary Consul of Lithuania to New Jersey

 

Prominent local businessman, Ira Lubert, has been appointed Honorary Consul of Lithuania to New Jersey. Mr. Lubert is well known for his years of experience in the private equity and real estate investment markets. In addition to these many entrepreneurial activities, he has also been a major participant in the region’s non-profit community, including notable board positions with Penn State University (Chair), National Constitution Center, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and the Franklin Institute. CCAP is delighted to welcome Ira as its newest consular member.

 

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April 12, 2024

HC Montanaro Attends Austrian Consular Conference in Vienna

 

Gregory Montanaro, Honorary Consul of Austria for Philadelphia, attended a consular conference hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Vienna, Austria. The busy several day event included a reception with President Alexander Van der Bellen, meetings with the Minister of Foreign Affairs Alexander Schallenberg and a tour of the United Nations headquarters complex in Vienna. Greg enjoyed sharing experiences and best practices with consular colleagues from around the world.

 

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March 29-30, 2024

India’s Consul General Pradhan Makes First Official Visit to Pennsylvania

 

Ambassador Binaya S. Pradhan, Consul General of India, New York made his first official visit to Pennsylvania, including meetings with officials and diaspora members in Harrisburg and Philadelphia. Consul General Pradhan is a career diplomat with extensive international experience, including postings in Russia, Turkmenistan, Pakistan and, most recently, as High Commissioner of India to Tanzania. His visit to Philadelphia was organized by Paresh Birla, Chairman of the Council for Indian Organizations in Greater Philadelphia, and included a “Meet and Greet” with representatives from the business community, a session with university students and a reception with the local diaspora. The Consulate General of India, New York is a CCAP Member.

 

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March 19, 2024

Morgan Lewis Hosts CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting and Reception at New Building in Philadelphia

 

Prominent Philadelphia law firm, Morgan Lewis, generously hosted the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia’s Quarterly Members Meeting and Reception at the firm’s striking new office building in Center City Philadelphia. The consular members meeting was followed by a delightful cocktail reception with comments by Jami Wintz McKeon, Morgan Lewis’ Chairperson, and Alison Grove, Philadelphia Soccer 2026. Steve Jannetta, Honorary Consul of Belgium, and Dennis Morikawa, Honorary Consul of Japan, are both members of the Morgan Lewis firm and their efforts in organizing this wonderful event are most appreciated.

 

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March 14, 2024

Philadelphia’s Nobel Laureates Highlight Temple Tribute to Celebrated Hungarian Scientist

 

 

Temple University’s College of Science and Technology and Office of the Vice President of Research collaborated with Hungary’s Consulate General in New York and Honorary Consulate in Philadelphia to present an all-day conference honoring legendary Hungarian mathematician and scientist John von Neumann (1903-57) at the Temple University campus. The program titled “Exploring the Frontiers of Science – Learning from the Past, Sharing for the Future” included impressive speakers from the fields of mathematics, science and medicine. The conference culminated with inspiring remarks by recent Nobel Laureates Dr. Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman for their mRNA research related to the COVID-19 vaccine. In closing, Temple hosted a reception featuring Hungarian music and folk dancing. Seema Freer, Tamas Novak and Edith Schwartz headed the organizing committee for this extraordinary event.

 

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March 11, 2024

Embassy Officials and Airport (PHL) Leadership Discuss Resumption of Direct Flights to Hungary

 

In a meeting organized by Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary for Pennsylvania, leadership of the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) hosted a conversation with officials from Hungary’s Embassy to the U.S. regarding the reinstatement of direct flights to Budapest. This service was interrupted by COVID in 2020 and this group discussed the dynamics of recovering passenger and cargo traffic which could justify its renewal by a commercial airline in the near future.

 

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February 28, 2024

PWH Panel Considers “The Future of the War in Ukraine”

 

As part of its rich programming of critical conversations on pressing global issues, Perry World House hosted a recent panel discussion titled “The Future of the War in Ukraine: Two Years and Counting”. Experts representing various perspectives provided comments on the war’s status and prospects for its end. Questions from the capacity audience of students, faculty and guests were also addressed. PWH and Penn Global are Associate Members of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP).

 

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February 21, 2024

CCAP Joins PHL Leadership in International Strategy Discussion

 

PHL executives Kate Sullivan, Chief Commercial Officer, and Edgar Vesga, Director, Air & Cargo Services, hosted an “External Partners” meeting with members of Philadelphia’s international community at the airport’s new administrative offices. Following a review of recent industry trends and PHL performance, the group discussed priorities and strategies for expanding international service from Philadelphia. As an integral part of Philadelphia’s global marketing infrastructure, CCAP will play an active role in this important forum which will convene regularly in the future.

 

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February 16, 2024

Lithuania Celebrates 106th Anniversary of Statehood Restoration in Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania, and Indra Kalasauskas, President, Lithuanian American Community Philadelphia Chapter, hosted a celebration of the 106th anniversary of the restoration of Lithuanian statehood following World War I. The program included national anthems, the flag raising itself, comments by special guest Ambassador Vaclovas Salkauskas, Consul General of Lithuania in New York, and remarks by other local dignitaries and diplomats. A reception followed in the elegant setting of Conversation Hall within Philadelphia City Hall.

 

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February 16, 2024

Kosovo Honors Independence with Flag Raising at Philadelphia City Hall

 

Kosovo’s local community and the City of Philadelphia hosted a flag raising ceremony to celebrate the country’s independence from Serbia in 2008 at City Hall. Since a large portion of Kosovo’s population is Albanian, the audience was a mix of diasporas from the two countries. In addition to comments by Ambassador Dugolli, local officials and community leaders also provided remarks.

 

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February 15, 2024

HKETONY Reception Celebrates Year of the Dragon in New York

 

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York (HKETONY) hosted a Spring Reception to celebrate the Year of the Dragon at the Harvard Club in New York. The program included delicious food, special cocktails and performances by a local musician and dance troupe. Maisie Ho, HKETONY Director, welcomed the guests with wishes of a happy, healthy Chinese New Year. Ambassador Ping Huang, New York Consul General for the People’s Republic of China, and his wife were in attendance. The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York is a CCAP Member.

 

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February 13, 2024

CCAP Hosts Virtual Introduction of Consular Security Team

Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica and President of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia, hosted a virtual meeting to introduce the Consular Security Team to a robust audience of CCAP Members. CST representatives included Tanya L. Jeter, Outreach Specialist for the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI); Derek Copensky, Special Agent for the Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) of the U.S. Department of State; and Christopher Culver, Officer of the Philadelphia Police Department. Jeter and Copensky provided informative overviews of their agencies’ activities and fielded questions regarding their relationships with CCAP members. Officer Culver was unable to attend this event due to his security service commitment to the Philadelphia visit of Poland’s former president Lech Walesa.

 

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February 12, 2024

HC Montanero Welcomes Czech Diplomats to Philadelphia

 

Alexander Montanero, Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic, had the honor of hosting H.E. Jan Lipavsky, Foreign Minister of the Czech Republic, and Arnost Kares, Consul General of the Czech Republic in New York, during their recent visit to Philadelphia. The dignitaries enjoyed a comprehensive historical tour of the city and were particularly impressed with the Declaration of Common Aims exhibition in the West Wing of Independence Hall. This document was written in 1918 to support many of the newly independent countries of Middle Europe at the end of World War I and draws on the spirit and language of the Declaration of Independence. See LINK for further details.

 

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February 5, 2024

CCAP President Attends Chinese New Year Celebration in New York

 

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January 13 & 14, 2024

HC Giordano Hosts Weekend Retreat for Maltese Colleagues at Union League of Philadelphia

 

Frank Giordano, Honorary Consul of Malta in Philadelphia, hosted a weekend retreat at the Union League of Philadelphia for a group of Malta’s Honorary Consuls from around the United States. The program was organized by the country’s Embassy Team in Washington, D.C. and included a virtual meeting with Ian Borg, Malta’s Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade. Dr. Godfrey Carmel Xuereb, Maltese Ambassador to the U.S., attended the gathering in person and shared in the discourse on central policy issues under discussion by the consuls.

 

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January 12, 2024

Philadelphia Orchestra Presents Lunar New Year Concert Featuring Distinguished Chinese Conductor

 

The world-renowned Philadelphia Orchestra honored Chinese tradition with an inspiring Lunar New Year Concert to a sell-out audience in the magnificent Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia. Featuring distinguished conductor Long Yu, the exquisite program included soloists in jinghu (a traditional Chinese string instrument), cello, flute, piano, violin and percussion, all backed by the full orchestra. Concertmaster David Kim was honored for his 25 years with the Orchestra and a number of the soloists are associated with Philadelphia’s Curtis Institute of Music. A VIP reception for government officials, diplomats and guests preceded the concert.

 

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January 9, 2024

CCAP Delegation Travels to PA Farm Show in Harrisburg

 

 

In spite of heavy rains and winds, an intrepid delegation of CCAP Members attended the 108th annual Pennsylvania Farm Show, the world’s largest indoor exposition of its kind, in its sprawling complex in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. 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 an International Reception hosted by Russell Redding, Secretary of Agriculture and other officials in Governor Shapiro’s administration. This impressive experience provided CCAP Attendees with valuable contacts in Pennsylvania.

 

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December 12, 2023

CCAP Executive Committee Elected for 2024

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia’s Members Meeting of December 12, 2023 elected an Executive Committee for 2024 including: Christopher Chaplin – President; Marine Havel – Vice President; Karen Lawson – Secretary; and Daisy Van den Hoof-Mertens. The CCAP Executive Committee meets regularly, making routine management decisions and recommending important policy decisions to the Quarterly Members Meetings. Other CCAP volunteer committees also assist with a variety of specific functions.

 

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December 12, 2023

CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting and “Diplomatic Hanukkah Reception”

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) convened a record attendance at its final Quarterly Members Meeting of 2023. New members and special guests were welcomed; CCAP 2023 activities were reviewed in detail; and an Executive Committee was elected and an Operating Budget was approved for 2024. A “Diplomatic Hanukkah Reception” was then co-hosted by 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.

 

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December 12, 2023

Kazakhstan Celebrates Independence Day in Philadelphia

 

 

Kazakh American Community (KAC), a non-profit dedicated to promoting Kazakhstan culture, and the City of Philadelphia co-hosted a dynamic celebration of the country’s 32nd year of independence from the Soviet Union. A chilly flag raising ceremony in the MSB Plaza was followed by an uplifting indoor program featuring KAC speakers, singers and musicians. Sheila Hess, Philadelphia City Representative, also provided comments and presented a Mayoral Proclamation to Ambassador Raushan Yesbulatova, Consul General of Kazakhstan in New York.

 

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December 11, 2023

GPA Honors HC Franklin with Lifetime Achievement Award

 

Oliver St. Clair Franklin, CBE, Honorary Consul of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by Global Philadelphia Association during its annual Globy Award ceremony at the Westin Hotel in Center City Philadelphia. GPA and CCAP Members and guests enjoyed a program which recognized Franklin’s many years of service to the UK and his commitment to global mindedness.

 

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December 4, 2023

PA German Society Co-Hosts Briefing by Bundestag Representative

 

The German Society of Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia Eric M. Warburg Chapter of the American Council on Germany co-hosted a breakfast briefing titled “German-American Cooperation in Times of Conflict in Ukraine and Israel” and featuring Michael George Link, Coordinator for Transatlantic Cooperation in the Federal Foreign Office and Member of the Bundestag (FDP). Mr. Link provided comments and addressed questions to a capacity audience in the law offices of White & Williams LLP in Center City Philadelphia.

 

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December 2, 2023

HCG Sfedu Hosts National Day of Romania Celebration

 

George Sfedu, Honorary Consul General of Romania in Philadelphia, hosted the Romanian National Day reception at his Center City home. Friends, neighbors and colleagues from the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia enjoyed delicious refreshments and lively music in a distinctly Romanian setting.

 

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December 1, 2023

HC Schwartz Attends Honorary Consular Conference at Hungary’s Embassy

 

The annual conference for Honorary Consuls of Hungary in the U.S. was hosted by the Embassy in Washington D.C. with a busy agenda of informational meetings and social events. Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary in Philadelphia, met and mingled with colleagues from around the country. This conference builds morale and shares best practices throughout Hungary’s diplomatic community in the United States.

 

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November 29, 2023

Royal Heritage Society Recognizes CCAP President Chaplin at “Candlelight Wassail” in Fairmount Park

 

Founded in 1982, the Royal Heritage Society of the Delaware Valley (RHS) is a non-profit corporation which promotes British heritage in the region and operates the Ormiston Mansion, a historic home in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. Each year, RHS kicks off the holiday season with its evening of traditional “Candlelight Wassail”, dining and caroling. The Guest of Honor for 2023 was Christopher Chaplin, CCAP President and Honorary Consul of Jamaica, who enjoyed a delightful event with his wife, Margaret, RHS members and guests at the cozy, charming Ormiston Mansion.

 

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November 28, 2023

Philadelphia’s Albanian Community Celebrates 111 Years of Independence

 

“Bijte e Shqipes” and other community groups partnered with the City of Philadelphia Representative’s Office in a dynamic celebration of Albania’s 111 years of independence. Due to unusually frigid temperatures, only the flag raising occurred outdoors. The ceremony itself was held in the Municipal Services Building (MSB) where a capacity crowd enjoyed national anthems, speeches, folk dancing and a Mayoral Proclamation by City Representative Sheila Hess.

 

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November 25, 2023

CCAP President Chaplin Receives Chief Tuazama Leadership Award

 

Christopher Chaplin, CCAP President and Honorary Consul of Jamaica, received the Chief Tuazama Leadership Award in a ceremony at the Clarion Hotel in Essington, Pennsylvania. The annual award was organized by Owen John Tuazama, grandson of noted Liberian leader Chief Tuazama, and recognizes individuals in the Philadelphia area who have contributed to support and promotion of the Liberian and other African communities.

 

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November 16, 2023

Wistar Honors Geneticist Bargmann in Award Ceremony

 

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November 16, 2023

NIAF Colloquium at Penn Features Discussion of 18th Century Franklin Correspondence with Italian Philosopher

 

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), the Consulate General of Italy in Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania co-hosted a presentation and discussion related to an 18th century correspondence between Benjamin Franklin and Gaetano Filangieri, a well known Italian jurist and philosopher of the period. The actual letters are part of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania’s Franklin collection. The event was held at the McNeil Center for Early American Studies on the Penn campus and Amedeo Arena, a law professor at Naples University, provided the keynote comments.

 

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November 15, 2023

American Insight Hosts Free Speech Award Ceremony in Philadelphia

 

American Insight is a Philadelphia-based non-profit dedicated to the promotion of free speech, human rights and rule of law. Each year, American Insight organizes a Free Speech Film Festival that highlights prominent voices associated with global human rights. In 2023, “Ellos Gritan Libertad”, a documentary set in 2021Cuba and directed by Melinda Raebyne, was recognized with the Free Speech Award in a ceremony held at the Philadelphia Club. American Insight is a CCAP Associate Member.

 

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November 6, 2023

CCAP President Chaplin Tours Manor College and Ukrainian Heritage Museum

 

At the invitation of Manor College President Dr. Jonathan Peri, Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica and President of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) toured the college and the Ukrainian Heritage Museum during his recent visit to the 20 acre campus in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania. Manor College has strong roots in the Ukrainian-American community and a proud heritage of welcoming students of all faiths and backgrounds. The Ukrainian Heritage Museum is located on the college grounds and showcases many aspects of Ukrainian culture. The Honorary Consulate of Ukraine for Philadelphia is a CCAP Member.

 

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October 26, 2023

Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation Hosts Planetary Health Awards Celebration in Philadelphia

 

The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation opened its 16th annual Planetary Health Awards celebration with a reception at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, highlighted by welcoming remarks from His Serene Highness himself. The foundation supports environmental projects around the world and the Award Ceremony in the Perelman Theater of the Kimmel Cultural Campus recognized three notable Planetary Health initiatives in the UK, Germany and U.S. A Gala Dinner followed at the Masonic Temple in Center City, Philadelphia. The Consulate General of Monaco in New York is a CCAP Member.

 

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October 25, 2023

Drexel Hosts Celebration of Fry Appointment by South Africa

 

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October 17, 2023

CCAP Delegation Visits PA State Capitol in Harrisburg

 

A delegation of CCAP Members, including Ambassadors, Consul Generals, Honorary Consuls and associates, spent an informative, engaging day in Harrisburg, interacting with representatives of the executive and legislative branches of Pennsylvania state government. While many rode a bus from and to Philadelphia, others traveled directly from New York, New Jersey and Washington, D.C. Meetings with departments within the new Shapiro Administration provided strategic contacts for future communications. The group was also recognized by the State Senate in its majestic chambers at the historic Capitol Complex and enjoyed a warm reception hosted by the PA Chamber of Business and Industry. Overall, the day provided a useful introduction to state government and a unique opportunity to network with other CCAP colleagues.

 

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October 15, 2023

Unity Cup Crowns Men’s and Women’s Champions for 2023

 

The Philadelphia International Unity Cup (unitycup.phila.gov) is a neighborhood-based soccer tournament hosted by the City of Philadelphia. Modeled after the FIFA World Cup with each team representing a particular country, the program utilizes the universal language of sport to unify communities and to showcase Philadelphia’s rich cultural diversity. In 2023, 48 men’s teams and, for the first time, 8 women’s teams played matches across the city throughout August and September. In championship competitions Ireland outlasted Liberia for the men’s crown and USA defeated Mexico in the women’s final. Given the international spirit of this program and the fact that many member countries are represented, CCAP has again provided financial support to the Unity Cup.

 

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October 11 – 13, 2023

GPA Represents Philadelphia at OWHC Regional Conference in Belgium

 

The Organization of World Heritage Cities’ (OWHC) regional conference of the Northwest Europe/North America secretariat in Bruges, Belgium attracted 50 participants from 20 different World Heritage Cities. One of only two World Heritage Cities in the U.S., Philadelphia was represented by a delegation led by the Global Philadelphia Association (GPA). The forum’s central theme of “Climate Change and Heritage” was explored by host city Bruges in several workshops and tours, while the Philadelphia group shared best practices and strategies with other World Heritage Cities. GPA is an Associate Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.

 

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October 9, 2023

Leif Erikson Day Celebrates Scandinavian Role in Discovery of America

 

In 1964, the U.S. Congress declared October 9 as Leif Erikson Day to honor the Norse explorer who led the first Europeans thought to set foot in continental North America. Scandinavian communities throughout the United States celebrate the date and this year Susan Satkowski, Honorary Consul of Norway, attended the Leif Erikson Day dinner hosted by Leif Erikson Viking Ship, Inc. – a 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to the explorer’s legacy. Earlier in the day, the group launched a replica Viking ship to dramatize the occasion.

 

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September 30 – October 1, 2023

Flemish Lions Roar to the Shore

 

This year’s “City to Shore” fundraising bicycle ride raised almost $4 million for the local Multiple Sclerosis Society chapter. For the 13th consecutive year, Daisy van Den Hooff-Mertens, Representative of Flemish in the World and Treasurer of the CCAP Executive Committee, and the Flemish Lions bicycle team biked for the good of the cause and raised $19,000, as described in the following CBS news report – Click for Report.

 

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September 21, 2023

Ukraine President Zelenskyy Awards State Medal of Merit to HC Mazur in Washington, D.C. Ceremony

 

Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine for Philadelphia, received Ukraine’s State Medal of Merit from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in an award ceremony held at the National Archives Building and Museum in Washington, D.C. Consul Mazur was recognized for her tireless work and dedicated advocacy on behalf of Ukraine. President Zelenskyy’s busy U.S. visit included his appearance at the United Nations General Assembly in New York and meetings with government officials in the nation’s capital.

 

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September 19, 2023

CHOP Hosts CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting & Reception

 

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) hosted the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia’s Third Quarterly Members Meeting of 2023 at the hospital’s stunning University City campus. Consular members addressed the usual business agenda and then joined a lively cocktail reception where Vice President Ruth Frey, Steven Docimo, MD and Jack Rychik, MD provided informative remarks on CHOP’s inspiring work throughout the world. CHOP is, of course, an Associate Member of CCAP.

 

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September 18, 2023

HCG Bard Awarded Lithuanian Presidential Medal

 

Krista Bard, Lithuania’s Honorary Consul General for Pennsylvania, past President of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia, Chancellor of the Consular Corps College and Chair of the Lithuanian American Community National Board, was awarded the Knight’s Cross Order of Merit by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda. This prestigious medal was presented to honor her years of distinguished service in promoting Lithuania and developing international relations. Congratulations to Krista – our dear friend and colleague.

 

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September 15, 2023

Mexico Celebrates 213th Independence Day with Cultural Display at Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

The Consulate of Mexico, the Mexican Cultural Center and the Philadelphia City Representative’s Office staged a dynamic celebration of Mexico’s 213th anniversary of independence. To the delight of an enthusiastic crowd from the large local diaspora, a showcase of Mexican cultural selections included mariachi music, a fashion show of regional dress, traditional dance and, of course, delicious food. Speeches were delivered, national anthems were played, the Mexican flag was raised, Carlos Obrador, Head Consul of Mexico, enacted the symbolic “Cry of Dolores” ritual and City Representative Sheila Hess presented a Mayoral Proclamation.

 

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September 14, 2023

Guatemala and Nicaragua Share Independence Days in Separate Celebrations at Philadelphia City Hall

 

 

Philadelphia’s Office of the City Representative hosted separate celebrations for Guatemala and Nicaragua, which both declared their independence from Spain on September 15, 1821. The ceremonies outside of Philadelphia City Hall included comments by government officials, flag raisings, national anthems and presentations of Mayoral Proclamations recognizing this historic date.

 

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September 11, 2023

Iceland’s Honorary Consul for Ohio and Pennsylvania Joins CCAP

 

Ms. Capri Cafaro, recently appointed as Iceland’s Honorary Consul for Ohio and Pennsylvania, has joined the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP). Ms. Cafaro was born in Ohio, graduated from Stanford University and holds Masters Degrees from Georgetown University and Ohio State University. Her distinguished career includes a decade of service in the Ohio Senate (2007 – 2016) followed by university teaching positions and ongoing activities as a cultural reporter and journalist. She resides in Brookfield, Ohio and she looks forward to CCAP engagement as she gets to know the Philadelphia region in her jurisdiction.

 

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September 8, 2023

Switzerland Celebrates 175th Anniversary with Panel Discussion at National Constitution Center in Philadelphia

 

Ambassador Niculin Jäger, Swiss Consul General in New York, and Christine Pfister, Honorary Consul of Switzerland in Philadelphia, hosted an engaging panel discussion to celebrate the 175th anniversary of Switzerland’s establishment as a federal state and as the first republic of Europe. The esteemed panel drew comparisons between the Swiss and U.S. constitutions and commented on the reciprocal influences of these seminal documents. The National Constitution Center in Philadelphia was, of course, an ideal location for such meaningful discourse which was most appreciated by a capacity audience.

 

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September 7, 2023

Brazilian Community Celebrates Independence Day with Flag Raising Ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall

 

Philadelphia’s Office of the City Representative and Project Capoeira joined forces to host a flag raising ceremony which celebrated Brazil’s independence from Portugal in 1822. Project Capoeira is a cultural organization which uses the unique Brazilian martial art of capoeira to connect with its local community. The ceremony included the flag raising, remarks by Nara Cardoso Barado, Deputy Consul General from New York, presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation honoring Brazil and a demonstration of capoeira. Brazil’s Consulate General in New York is a CCAP member.

 

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September 5 – 7, 2023

Cuban Delegation Makes A Busy Official Visit to Pennsylvania

 

 

Lianys Torres Rivera, Cuba’s Ambassador to the U.S., led a delegation from her Embassy on an official visit to Pennsylvania. A day at the state capitol in Harrisburg concentrated on discussions with the Departments of Agriculture and Economic Development. Two days in Philadelphia included meetings with City officials, business associations and life science organizations. Ambassador Torres was also a special guest for the World Affairs Council’s “Diplochat: Cuba” program attended by a capacity audience. The delegation itself included CCAP Member Nora Alberteris, Consul General of Cuba.

 

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August 28 – 30, 2023

Netherlands Consul General Dadou Visits Pennsylvania

 

Admed Dadou, Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in New York, made his first official visit to Pennsylvania. Wilfred Muskens, Netherlands Honorary Consul in Philadelphia, organized full agendas in Philadelphia and Harrisburg including meetings with city and state officials and with local educational and cultural institutions. The Consul General also attended business roundtable discussions hosted by the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia and the PA Chamber of Business and Industry.

 

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August 28, 2023

Jamaica and Albania Tie in Philadelphia International Unity Cup Match

 

The Philadelphia International Unity Cup is a neighborhood-based soccer tournament modeled on the FIFA World Cup where each team represents a particular country. Using the universal language of sport, this wonderful program brings people together in friendly competition and showcases Philadelphia’s rich cultural diversity. CCAP Members Christopher Chaplin and Jimmy Daku recently attended a first round tie between Jamaica and Albania, two of the 48 total teams to participate in the tournament during August and September.

 

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August 25, 2023

Trinidad & Tobago Celebrate Independence Day at Philadelphia City Hall

 

The American Caribbean Alliance Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago and the City of Philadelphia hosted a joyous celebration of Trinidad and Tobago’s independence from Great Britain in 1962 at Philadelphia City Hall. The flag raising ceremony included inspirational comments by J. Andre Laveau, Consul General of Trinidad and Tobago, New York, local diplomats, City officials and community representatives. Trinidad and Tobago’s proud and playful spirit was captured in song and dance performances that entertained the enthusiastic diasporan audience. The Consulate General of Trinidad and Tobago, New York is a member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP).

 

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August 24, 2023

Ukrainian Independence Day Celebration in Philadelphia Honors and Supports the War Effort

 

 

The Honorary Consulate of Ukraine in Philadelphia, Ukrainian Federation of America, Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center and Ukrainian Selfreliance Credit Union hosted an impressive, emotional ceremony to celebrate 32 years of Ukrainian independence and to support the country’s current battle for survival. Speakers, including Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, Ukraine’s Honorary Consul Iryna Mazur, government officials, diplomats and community leaders, delivered stirring remarks to honor the courage of the Ukrainian people. In a dramatic display of solidarity, the audience formed a “unity chain” surrounding a giant Ukrainian flag.

 

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August 15, 2023

Indian Independence Celebrated by Large Diasporan Turnout at Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

The Philadelphia City Representative Office and the Office of Immigrant Affairs teamed up with the Philadelphia Council of Indian Organizations (CIO) to present an inspiring and entertaining celebration of India’s 1947 independence from Great Britain. A large crowd of colorfully dressed community members gathered outside of Philadelphia City Hall where they enjoyed speeches by government officials and CIO leadership, music and dance performances, the raising of the Indian flag and the presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation. The Consulate General of India in New York is a member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.

 

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August 14, 2023

Indonesian Community Celebrates Independence Day at Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

The Philadelphia City Representative’s Office joined forces with Gapura, the Indonesian Community Center in Philadelphia, to host a dynamic celebration of Indonesia’s 1945 independence from the Netherlands. Keynote remarks by New York Consul General Winanto Adi highlighted the basic principles shared by Indonesia and the U.S., as captured in his country’s national motto: “Unity in Diversity”. The program included dance and musical performances, the Indonesian flag raising, comments by Gapura leadership and a Mayoral Proclamation presented by Sheila Hess, Philadelphia City Representative. The Consulate General of Indonesia, New York is a member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.

 

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August 4, 2023

Jamaica Celebrates 61st Anniversary of Independence with Flag Raising Ceremony and Reception at Philadelphia City Hall

 

Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica, hosted a Flag Raising Ceremony on the North Apron of Philadelphia City Hall to celebrate his country’s independence from Great Britain in 1961. The full program included messages from Jamaican diplomats, comments by local community leaders, remarks by government officials and presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation. National anthems were sung as the Jamaican national flag was raised and a reception featuring delicious Jamaican cuisine was held in Conversation Hall. Christopher Chaplin is also President of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.

 

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July 24, 2023

Peru Celebrates 202nd Anniversary of Independence with Philadelphia Flag Raising Ceremony

 

Peru celebrated its 1821 independence from Spain with a flag raising ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall. Patricia Raez Portocarrero, Consul General of Peru in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, provided keynote remarks on this historic day. National anthems, the Peruvian flag raising itself, a Mayoral Proclamation and a colorful folkloric dance performance were enjoyed by an audience of city officials, diplomats and community members.

 

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July 11, 2023

Jamaican HC Chaplin Addresses Mandela Fellows Cohort in Philadelphia City Hall Event

 

The Mayor’s Commission on African and Caribbean Immigrant Affairs hosted a gathering of Mandela Fellows in Philadelphia City Council Chambers. Keynote speaker Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica and CCAP President, provided keynote comments regarding the global leadership of Jamaican activist Marcus Garvey. The Mandela Washington Fellowship is the flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), an organization founded in 2010 to empower and support initiatives of young Africans. The Fellowship works closely with the U.S. State Department and is hosted in Philadelphia by Drexel University.

 

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June 27, 2023

World Affairs Council Hosts “Diplochat” with Ukraine’s Ambassador to U.N.

 

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia hosted its “Diplochat” series with special guest Sergiy Kyslytsya, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the United Nations, at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia. The busy evening included a stakeholder meeting with Ambassador Kyslytsya, a cocktail reception and a public program in which Lauren Swartz, WAC President & CEO, interviewed the Ambassador who then fielded questions from a sold out audience. The “Diplochat” program is sponsored by the Satell Family Foundation. WAC is an Associate Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.

 

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June 26, 2023

Philly Shipyard Christens First NSMV Vessel for MARAD

 

Philly Shipyard, Inc. (PSI) hosted a Christening Ceremony to celebrate the launching of the “Empire State”, the first of five National Security Multi-Mission Vessels to be constructed in Philadelphia for the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD). NSMV is a training vessel for the U.S. marine academies and is also equipped to provide humanitarian relief in areas affected by national disasters. Philadelphia’s NSMV program will eventually cost $1.5 billion and is employing 1600 workers at the Navy Yard. PSI is an Associate Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.

 

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June 13, 2023

Consulate General of Kazakhstan, New York Joins CCAP

 

Raushan Yesbulatova, Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in New York, is the newest member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia. Born in Almaty, Consul General Yesbulatova was educated in Kazakhstan and Europe. She joined the diplomatic service in 1988 and has held a number of her country’s important positions with the United Nations and as Ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand. She was appointed Consul General in New York in 2022.

 

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June 13, 2023

Duane Morris Hosts CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting & Reception

 

Duane Morris hosted CCAP’s Second Quarterly Members Meeting of 2023 in the law firm’s Center City offices. A robust turnout of consular members addressed the association’s usual business in a meeting which introduced several new members, reviewed financial reports and discussed scheduled activities for the remainder of 2023. Hersh Kozlov, Honorary Consul of Georgia and Duane Morris partner, then welcomed CCAP members and guests to a lively cocktail reception accented by typical Georgian dishes and wines.

 

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June 11, 2023

Royal Heritage Society Honors Oliver Franklin, CBE, UK Honorary Consul

 

Founded in 1982, the Royal Heritage Society (RHS) is a non-profit corporation which promotes British heritage in the region and operates the Ormiston Mansion, a historic home, in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. On June 11, RHS hosted a garden party to congratulate Oliver St. Clair Franklin, Honorary Consul for the United Kingdom, for his recent decoration with the Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire – CBE – by the British government. RHS members, diplomats and guests enjoyed a buffet lunch, refreshments and a congratulatory ceremony in the sunny Ormiston gardens.

 

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June 7, 2023

Global Lithuanian Leaders Award Presented to Honorary Consul General Bard

 

Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, was presented with the prestigious Global Lithuanian Leaders Award by Audra Plepyte, Lithuania’s Ambassador to the United States, at a major networking event in Chicago. Global Lithuanian Leaders is a nonprofit, non-government organization committed to building and engaging the Lithuanian professional diaspora. The Global Lithuanian Leaders Award recognizes remarkable contributions by members of that community.

 

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June 6, 2023

HC Schwartz Attends Israel’s 75th Anniversary Celebration in DC

 

Michael Herzog, Israel’s Ambassador to the United States, hosted a reception to celebrate the 75th anniversary of his country’s founding at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. Emceed by TikTok star Montana Tucker, the event was highlighted by Vice President Kamala Harris’ keynote speech. Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary and CCAP member, joined other diplomats and dignitaries in a joyous outpouring of appreciation for this historic milestone.

 

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June 5, 2023

Italian National Day Celebrates at Historic Wyck in Philadelphia

 

Cristiana Mele, Consul General of Italy, hosted the Italian National Day celebration at Wyck historic house, garden and farm in the Germantown neighborhood of Philadelphia. Wyck is a National Historic Landmark which was the ancestral home to one Philadelphia family for nine generations (1690 – 1973) and includes the oldest rose garden in America. Consul General Mele has deliberately located her events in order to showcase both Italian culture and Philadelphia’s historic sites. The National Day celebration was well attended by members of the Italian community, diplomats and guests. Following comments by the Consul General and singing of the national anthems, a delightful outdoor reception was held on the bucolic Wyck grounds.

 

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June 2, 2023

Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office, New York Joins CCAP

 

On behalf of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Ms. Candy Nip, Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York, has joined the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia. Born and educated in Hong Kong, Ms. Nip joined the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government in 1997 and has held official positions in a range of departments and bureaus. She was appointed to her current post in 2020 and is responsible for promoting business, trade and cultural ties between Hong Kong and 31 eastern states in the U.S.

 

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May 31, 2023

Swiss Architecture Firm Wins Prestigious Kahn Award

 

The Center for Architecture and Design in Philadelphia presented its 2023 Louis I. Kahn Award to the architecture firm of Herzog & de Meuron. Established in 1983 in memory of Philadelphia architect Louis Kahn, the award celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of architecture. Herzog & de Meuron is headquartered in Basel, Switzerland where the name partners founded the firm in 1978 and has designed high profile buildings throughout the world. A lecture by Jacques Herzog at the Penn Museum highlighted the award ceremony.

 

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May 22, 2023

Swiss Consul General in New York Visits Philadelphia

 

Ambassador Niculin Jäger, the recently appointed Consul General of Switzerland in New York, made an introductory visit to Philadelphia arranged by Christine Pfister, Honorary Consul of Switzerland in Philadelphia. Ambassador Jäger met with Mayor Jim Kenney and other government officials as well as executives of Swiss companies located in the Philadelphia region. He also enjoyed socializing with local members of the Swiss community at an intimate cocktail reception at the elegant Union League of Philadelphia.

 

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May 17, 2023

CCAP Members Tour Comcast Technology Center and Connect with LIFT Labs Accelerator Program

 

Comcast Corporation is, of course, a global media and technology giant headquartered in Philadelphia. At 60 stories, the Comcast Technology Center is Philadelphia’s tallest building and houses offices for the company’s software developers and engineers, television studios, a major hotel, restaurants and retail. A group of Consular and Associate Members of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) were hosted to a VIP tour of the Comcast Technology Center. Of particular interest was a presentation regarding the company’s “LIFT Labs” accelerator program which connects startups from around the world with Comcast business leaders.

 

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May 15, 2023

Norway Celebrates “Constitution Day” with Philadelphia City Hall Flag Raising and Reception

 

The Norwegian Constitution was passed unanimously on May 17, 1814 and, since 1833, the country has celebrated Constitution Day as a national holiday with parades and festivities. In that rich tradition, Susan Satkowski, Honorary Consul for Norway in Pennsylvania, organized a Constitution Day celebration at Philadelphia City Hall highlighted by dignitaries’ remarks, singing of the national anthems, presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation and raising of the Norwegian flag. The multi-generational audience was then treated to a delightful reception in the ornate Conversation Hall in Philadelphia’s City Hall.

 

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May 10, 2023

“Whispers of Nature” Photographic Exhibition Opens at Italian Consulate General in Philadelphia

 

In the latest example of her ongoing program to showcase Italian culture in Philadelphia, Consul General Cristiana Mele hosted a reception and artist’s talk for the exhibition of work by Italian photographer Flavia Loreto at the Consulate General in Philadelphia. Loreto was born in Rome and currently resides in Wilmington, Delaware. In her “Whispers of Nature” photographs she uses her camera as a brush, capturing nature’s regeneration in spirals of leaves and shimmers of color.

 

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May 9, 2023

Premiere of “Slava Ukraini” Features Post Screening Conversation with Filmmaker

 

One year after the beginning of the war in Ukraine, French philosopher and filmmaker Bernard-Henri Levy has produced a documentary titled “Slava Ukraini” (Glory to Ukraine) which premiered at the Landmark Ritz 5 Cinema in Philadelphia. Filmed at the front in late 2022, this war diary goes to the heart of the conflict and the courage of the Ukrainian people. Following the screening, Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Philadelphia, interviewed Levy who then fielded questions from the capacity audience.

 

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May 8, 2023

Consulate General of Colombia in Newark, New Jersey Joins CCAP

 

Maria del Pilar Cruz, Consul General of Colombia in Newark, New Jersey is the newest member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP). Consul General Cruz holds advanced degrees from universities in Belgium, Chile and Ecuador. Her foreign service career started in 2003 and includes a variety of positions in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, overseas experience in Chile and Peru and her current appointment in January, 2023. Welcome to CCAP, Consul General Cruz!

 

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May 6, 2023

English-Speaking Union’s “Royal Garden Party” Celebrates Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III

 

The Philadelphia Branch of the English-Speaking Union (ESU) hosted a “Royal Garden Party” at The Highlands Mansion and Gardens, an 18th century estate located in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia. The festivities included entertainment by a Scottish musician, a hat competition, an auction of coronation memorabilia and refreshments. The ESU is a non-profit that employs the English language to foster global understanding.

 

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May 3, 2023

Consulate General of Morocco, New York Joins CCAP

 

H.E. Abdelkader Jamoussi, Consul General of the Kingdom of Morocco in New York, is CCAP newest member. Consul General Jamoussi is a career diplomat with international postings in the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Australia and Japan, prior to his current appointment in 2019. CG Jamoussi, is also recognized as a distinguished author, poet and translator who believes that writing and art can bridge cultures which is central to effective diplomacy.

 

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May 2, 2023

AJC Hosts Murray Friedman Memorial Lecture: A Conversation with Elisha Wiesel

 

American Jewish Committee (AJC) of Philadelphia/SNJ’s annual Murray Friedman Memorial Lecture and luncheon attracted a capacity audience at the Pyramid Club in Center City Philadelphia. The program featured Elisha Wiesel, the son of Nobel laureate and Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel, in conversation with AJC President Alan Hoffman. Elisha’s remarks and responses to questions clearly demonstrated the continuing impact of his father’s legacy. AJC is an Associate Member of CCAP.

 

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April 30, 2023

Wharton Awards Prestigious Prize to ADES, a Swiss NGO Dedicated to Madagascar’s Preservation and Energy Future

 

Each year, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, awards the $500,000 Lipman Family Prize to three recipients that demonstrate leadership and innovation in the social sector. Association pour le Developpement de l’Energie Solaire Suisse-Madascar (ADES), a non-governmental organization (NGO) headquartered in Mettmenstetten, Switzerland was a 2023 Lipman Family Prize recipient. ADES focuses on preserving Madagascar’s forests and alleviating its poverty through solar and energy-saving programs.

 

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April 29, 2023

Philadelphia Lithuanian Community Hosts “Colors of Life” International Fashion Show

 

The Philadelphia Chapter of the Lithuanian American Community and the Lithuanian Ladies Club of Philadelphia hosted the “Colors of Life” International Fashion Show at the historic Lithuanian Music Hall. The program featured gowns by London designer “Zygis” and entertainment by international beauty queens – Miss Jamaica and Miss St. Vincent’s and Grenadines. Deborah Majka, Honorary Consul of Poland, also led a set of rousing folk dances by her local troupe. Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania, provided important advice and support to the exciting event.

 

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April 27 – 29, 2023

Jamaica Shines in 127th Penn Relays

 

The Penn Relays is the oldest and largest track and field competition in the United States, hosted annually since 1895 by the University of Pennsylvania at Franklin Field in Philadelphia. Top high school, collegiate and professional athletes compete in this three day event which attracts over 100,000 spectators.

While international participation has grown over the years, only Jamaica has demonstrated individual and team performances which challenge the U.S. athletes at all levels. Since 1964, Jamaica’s success on the track has also transformed the Penn Relays itself into a wonderful promotion of Brand Jamaica – a festival which attracts a third of total attendees, visiting government officials, sponsors and trade missions. Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica and CCAP President, provided important coordination and local leadership that assured similar success in 2023.

 

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April 25, 2023

Consulate General of Cuba Joins CCAP

 

The Consulate General of Cuba, located in the Embassy in Washington, D.C., is CCAP’s newest member. Consul General Nora Alberteris is a career diplomat whose extensive experience has included important responsibilities at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and postings in Spain and France prior to her 2021 appointment to her current position. She looks forward to engaging with Philadelphia’s business and non-profit communities to promote trade, investment and tourism with her country’s private sector.

 

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April 19, 2023

CG Mele Hosts Lecture by Translator of Classic Italian Novel

 

H.E. Cristiana Mele, Consul General of Italy, organized a lecture by Michael F. Moore regarding his recent translation of “The Betrothed” (I Promessi Sposi) by Alessandro Manzoni for an audience of students, faculty and guests at the Penn Bookstore on the University of Pennsylvania campus in Philadelphia. “The Betrothed”, originally published in 1827, is considered the most famous and widely read novel in the Italian language.

 

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April 19, 2013

CCAP Members Attend PHL Airport Tour and CBP Meeting

 

CCAP Members enjoyed an informative morning at the Philadelphia International Airport. The program opened with a welcome from Atif Saeed, PHL President and CEO, and followed with a presentation by Edgar Vesga, Director, Air Service Development and Cargo Services. The group then toured the sprawling airport complex, including a meeting with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials and a visit to the impressive control tower. PHL is a CCAP Associate Member and the consuls are very much committed to assisting in the expansion of Philadelphia’s international direct flight network.

 

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April 18, 2023

Pan American Association Hosts Conference and Luncheon Featuring Panama’s Ambassador to the U.S.

 

The Pan American Association of Philadelphia (PAAP) hosted an expanded version of its annual Pan American Day and Annual Scholarship Luncheon at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia. The program opened with a “Conference on Panama” which included a panel discussion on the economic, political and cultural characteristics of Panama with comments by H.E. Ramon Martinez, Ambassador of Panama to the U.S., and by the Honorable Georgia Athanasopulos, Consul General of Panama in Philadelphia. The luncheon followed with scholarships awarded to local university students and Ambassador Martinez’s Keynote Remarks. PAAP is an Associate Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia and a number of consuls were in attendance.

 

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March 31 – April 2, 2023

Hellenic Federation Celebrates Greek Independence with Weekend of Events in Philadelphia

 

The Federation of Hellenic-American Societies of Philadelphia and the Greater Delaware Valley hosted its annual celebration of Greek independence with a series of events throughout the weekend. A Friday afternoon flag raising at Philadelphia City Hall attracted an impressive group of City officials, diplomats, religious leaders and members of the local Greek community. Overflow attendance at the Saturday evening dinner enjoyed presentation of the Eleftheria Medal to H.E. Alexandra Papadopoulou, Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to the U.S. On Sunday, the Greek Independence Day Parade energized the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Center City Philadelphia with large crowds, Grand Marshall, His Excellency George J. Tsunis, U.S. Ambassador to the Hellenic Republic, and the Presidential Guard of Greece. Finally, a post-parade reception featured dance performances, music and refreshments.

 

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March 29, 2023

“Radically Marimekko” Exhibition Celebrates Finnish Design and Fashion

 

Kristina Mattila, Honorary Consul of Finland in Philadelphia, and members of the local Finnish community organized a reception to open an exhibition of work by Marimekko, a clothing and home furnishing company founded in Helsinki in 1951 and noted for its bold design and original colors. The formal program included remarks by Ambassador Jarmo Sareva, Consul General of Finland in New York. The event was hosted by the American Swedish Historical Museum in Philadelphia and attracted a large audience which enjoyed refreshments and the original works of Marimekko on display.

 

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March 15, 2023

Franklin Institute Hosts CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting and Reception

 

The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia’s science museum, hosted CCAP’s First Quarterly Members Meeting and Cocktail Reception of 2023. A record turnout of consular members addressed the association’s usual business in a meeting which welcomed several new members, reviewed scheduled activities and financial reports and elected a new Treasurer. Larry Dobinski, President of the Franklin Institute, and his staff then welcomed CCAP members and guests to a lively cocktail reception in the iconic Fels Planetarium space of the museum.

 

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March 1, 2023

“Arctic Cool” Event at Norwegian Embassy Dramatizes Climate Issues

 

Susan Satkowski, Honorary Consul for Norway in Pennsylvania, attended an event titled “Arctic Cool” at the Norwegian Embassy in Washington, D.C. which highlighted the country’s important role in global environment, climate and security issues.

 

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February 24, 2023

Student Performance at Kimmel Center Honors Ukrainian War Effort

 

Students from Philadelphia Performing Arts: A String Theory Charter School presented a program of music at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia to recognize the one year anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The performances included a concert choir, string quartet and solos by students from Ukraine. Special guests Matias Tarnopolsky, President & CEO of the Philadelphia Orchestra; Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine; and U.S. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon commented on Ukraine’s heroic resistance. Proceeds of the event were contributed to the Ukrainian Federation of America.

 

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February 23, 2923

Italian CG Mele Hosts Screening of Film at African-American Museum

 

On the occasion of Black History Month, Cristiana Mele, Consul General of Italy, hosted a screening of “Autumn Beat”, a film by Italian Director Antonio Dikele Distefano at the African-American Museum in Philadelphia. The appreciative audience included members of the local cultural and diplomatic communities.

 

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February 22, 2023

CCAP Members Meet Virtually with Officer Culver of Philadelphia Police Department’s Dignitary Protection Unit

 

CCAP hosted a virtual meeting to introduce the Philadelphia Police Department’s recently appointed Consular Corps Liaison Officer Christopher Culver to its members. Officer Culver is a 23-year veteran of the PPD and joined the Counter Terrorism Operations group in 2019. His virtual presentation reviewed his background and Dignitary Protection Unit services, while fielding questions from the audience.

 

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February 20, 2023

New York CG of Trinidad & Tobago Newest CCAP Member

 

J. Andre Laveau, Consul General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in New York, has joined the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia. CG Laveau is a graduate of the University of the West Indies – where CCAP President Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica, is also an alumnus. Mr. Laveau’s career includes a number of important positions in several of his country’s ministries and foreign postings in Belgium, Uganda and Barbados.He assumed his current New York Consulate General responsibilities in 2018. Welcome to CCAP!

 

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February 18, 2023

Romanian Musicians Dazzle Center City Philadelphia Soiree

 

Susan Satkowski, Honorary Consul of Norway, and George Sfedu, Honorary Consul General of Romania, co-hosted a sparkling Romantic Musical Soiree in their elegant Center City Philadelphia home. The program included a virtuoso “four hand” performance by duo pianists Madalina Danila and Hugh Sung (www.MadaHugh.com) and Mezzo Soprano Andrea Lucaciu’s moving interpretations of several operatic classics. Danila and Lucaciu are both students at Temple University and Romanian by birth. The audience of friends and diplomatic colleagues was enchanted by the stirring music and lively entertainment.

 

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February 17, 2023

Republic of Kosovo Celebrates 15th Year of Independence in Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

The Republic of Kosovo celebrated its 15th year of independence in a Philadelphia City Hall ceremony. An audience of government officials, community members and diplomatic representatives gathered in ornate Conversation Hall where H.E. Llir Dugoli, Kosovo Ambassador to the United States, delived comments and a Mayoral Proclamation was presented by Sheila Hess, Philadelphia City Representative.

 

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February 16, 2023

Lithuania Celebrates 105th Anniversary of Statehood Restoration in Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania, and Indra Kalasauskas, President, Lithuanian American Community Philadelphia Chapter, hosted a celebration of the 105th anniversary of the Restoration of Lithuanian Statehood in the elegant setting of Conversation Hall within Philadelphia City Hall. The celebration was well attended by members of the community, government officials and diplomatic representatives. The ceremony included singing of the national anthems and remarks by the hosts, local dignitaries and Rytis Paulauskas, Lithuania’s Ambassador to the United Nations. Shella Hess, Philadelphia City Representative, presented a Mayoral Proclamation and the festivities concluded with lively folk dancing and refreshments.

 

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February 16, 2023

Drexel Hosts Panel on 200 Years of Mexico – U.S. Diplomatic Relations

 

A panel presented various perspectives on 200 years of Diplomatic Relations between Mexico and the United States to an audience of students, academics and diplomats at Nesbitt Hall on the Drexel University Campus in Philadelphia. The discussion was organized by the Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia, the Mexican Cultural Center and the Drexel University College of Arts and Sciences. Panelists Dr. Arthur Schmidt, Emeritus Professor of Latin American History, Temple University; Dr. Aurora Camacho de Schmidt, Professor Emerita of Latin American Literature, Swarthmore College; and Carlos Obrador, Head Mexican Consul in Philadelphia, each provided comments and fielded questions from the audience.

 

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February 10, 2023

HCG Nero Appointed Ambassador at Large by Saint Kitts and Nevis

 

The Honorable Dr. Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, recently announced the appointment of Mr. Worrell D. Nero. J.D., L.E.C., as Ambassador at Large, with authority to represent the country in all matters of state. Mr. Nero has been Honorary Consul General of Saint Kitts and Nevis in Philadelphia since 2009 and is an active member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.

Link to Full Background

 

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January 26, 2023

U.S. Trade Representative Tai Featured at WAC Luncheon

 

World Affairs Council of Philadelphia (WAC) hosted a luncheon at the Doubletree Hotel featuring Ambassador Katherine Tai, U.S.Trade Representative, whose opening remarks highlighted the Biden Administration’s trade policies and priorities. She then joined WAC President & CEO Lauren Swartz and Rachel Carson, President & CEO of Helicopter Tech Inc, a woman-owned small business, in a conversation that compared trade experiences. Ambassador Tai also fielded questions from the audience. WAC is an Associate Member of CCAP and Lauren Swartz is the Honorary Consul of Sweden.

 

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January 24, 2023

Turkish Consulate General in New York Joins CCAP

 

Reyhan Ozgur, Consul General of the Republic of Turkiye in New York, is the newest member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia. Consul General Ozgur was born and educated in Turkiye. He entered the foreign service in 2004 and held a number of important positions in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as well as international postings in Iraq and Belgium. He served as Deputy Consul General in New York in 2014-2018 and returned as Consul General in August, 2020. CCAP welcomes CG Ozgur.

 

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January 20, 2023

Longstreth Appointed CCAP Chair

 

The Executive Committee of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia has appointed Peter S. Longstreth to the position of Chair. Longstreth is Honorary Consul of Uruguay and a former CCAP President. With his new responsibilities, Longstreth will concentrate on CCAP membership development and can reached at chair@ccaphila.org and 215-694-8870.

 

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January 19, 2023

CG Mele Hosts Modigliani Lecture at the Barnes

 

The Hon. Cristiana Mele, Consul General of Italy in Philadelphia hosted a lecture by Barbara Buckley, Senior Director of Conservation and Chief Curator of Paintings, as part of the Barnes Foundation’s major loan exhibition – “Modigliani Up Close” – which includes 50 works by Amedeo Modigliani and shares new insights into the artist’s working methods and materials.The lecture was followed by a reception and guests were encouraged to visit the exhibition itself in the museum’s Roberts Gallery.

 

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January 17, 2023

CCAP Hosts Presentations on Mural Arts and Fashion

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) hosted presentations by Netanel Portier, Director of the Mural Arts Institute, and Elissa Bloom, founder of Bloom Fashion Design, for an audience of CCAP Members at the Welcoming Center in Philadelphia. In both cases, the presenters emphasized areas of potential cooperation with CCAP as their organizations look to expand international engagement. The event provided networking opportunities and refreshments.

 

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December 14, 2022

CCAP Executive Committee Elected for 2023

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia’s Members Meeting of December 14, 2022 was highlighted by the election of an Executive Committee for 2023, including Christopher Chaplin, President; Susan Satkowski, Vice President; Edith Schwartz, Treasurer; and Karen Lawson, Secretary. Other meeting agenda items included a welcome to new members and special visitors; a review of CCAP activities during 2022; and approval of an operating budget for 2023. Following the meeting, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) co-hosted a “Diplomatic Hanukkah Reception” where CCAP Members and guests enjoyed refreshments and networking in a holiday spirit.

 

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December 13, 2022

Swiss Business Delegation Focused on U.S. Rail Transportation Visits Philadelphia

 

A Swiss Business Delegation, led by the new Swiss State Secretary for Economics Ms. Helene Budliger Artieda, spent a busy day in Philadelphia, focused on U.S. rail transportation and market opportunities for Swiss railway technology. Christine Pfister, Honorary Consul for Switzerland in Philadelphia, organized a schedule of meetings with local stakeholders.

 

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December 13, 2022

Michael Scullin Awarded Medal of Honor by French Government

 

Michael Scullin, former Honorary Consul of France in Philadelphia and Wilmington, was presented the Medal of Honor of Foreign Affairs by Francois Penguilly, Consul General of France in Washington, D.C. The charming award ceremony and reception were held in majestic Conversation Hall where family, friends and former consular colleagues honored Mr. Scullin for his long and loyal service to France.

 

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December 12, 2022

Mexico Celebrates 200 Years of Diplomatic Relations with United States at Penn Museum

 

The Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia, the Mexican Cultural Center and the Penn Museum co-hosted a celebration of the 200th Anniversary of U.S. – Mexican Diplomatic Relations. The event included comments by Jim Kenney, Mayor of Philadelphia; Carlos Obrador, Head Consul of Mexico in Philadelphia; and representatives of the University of Pennsylvania faculty and Mexico’s local cultural community. Mexican Opera Profesor Luis Ledesma and his students performed several arias and the festivities concluded with a reception in the Sphinx Gallery of the Museum.

 

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December 8, 2022

Royal Thai Consulate-General in New York Joins CCAP

 

Mr. Fabio Chinda, Royal Thai Consul-General in New York, has become the newest member of CCAP. Born and educated in Thailand, Consul-General Chinda is an experienced diplomat whose career has included a range of positions in Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and international postings in Mexico City, Rome, Dubai and Moscow. He assumed his current responsibilities in 2020. Mr. Chinda has also been honored with various important decorations by his country.

 

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December 7, 2022

GPA Donates to World Heritage City of Lviv, Ukraine

 

Global Philadelphia Association (GPA) raises funding for World Heritage City projects with its annual World Heritage City Celebration event. In 2022, GPA dedicated 10% of the proceeds collected at that event to support the World Heritage City of Lviv, Ukraine. In a ceremony held in the Mayor’s Reception Room of Philadelphia City Hall, GPA Board Members presented a symbolic “big check” to Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine, and representatives of the local Ukrainian community. Both Philadelphia and Lviv are World Heritage Cities. GPA is an Associate Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.

 

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December 5, 2022

Lithuanian Prime Minister Welcomed to Pennsylvania by Governor Wolf

 

As evidence of the important relationship between Lithuania and Pennsylvania, Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrid Simonyte received a warm welcome from Governor Tom Wolf during her first visit to the Commonwealth. The accompanying delegation included military and diplomatic representatives who held various meetings with Wolf Administration counterparts, with emphasis on the country’s 30 year old partnership with the PA National Guard and economic development. Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania, played a central role in organizing this important connection.

 

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December 4, 2022

HCG Sfedu Hosts National Day of Romania Reception

 

George Sfedu, Honorary Consul General of Romania in Philadelphia, hosted the Romanian National Day reception at his Center City home. The guests, including friends, neighbors and colleagues from the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia, were treated to delicious food, live music and convivial fellowship. George’s wife, Susan Satkowski, Honorary Consul of Norway, was, of course, a gracious co-host for this anticipated annual event.

 

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November 29, 2022

Hungarian Leaders Group Enjoys Farewell Reception with Celebrated Scientist

 

A group of accomplished Hungarian lawyers, academics and entrepreneurs concluded a day of meetings and cultural visits in Philadelphia with a relaxing cocktail reception hosted by Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary. In addition to a wonderful networking opportunity for the visitors, the reception was honored by the presence of Hungarian-born biochemist Dr. Katalin Kariko, Ph.D., most recognized for her contribution to discovery of mRNA-mediated mechanisms in COVID-19 vaccines.

 

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November 29, 2022

Temple University Hosts Hungarian Leaders Group in Philadelphia

 

Civic Enterprises, a Hungarian non-profit which annually leads a delegation of Hungarian leaders on a tour of the Eastern United States, paid its first visit to Philadelphia. The group of accomplished lawyers, academics and entrepreneurs spent a stimulating morning at Temple University engaged with local counterparts regarding business, science and innovation in Philadelphia. An elegant luncheon at the Union League of Philadelphia was hosted by Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary in Philadelphia, and the afternoon was dedicated to Philadelphia’s many cultural and historic attractions. The delegation will make other stops in Washington, D.C., New York and Toronto.

 

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November 28, 2022

Philadelphia’s Albanian Community Celebrates 110 years of Independence

 

“Bijte e Shqipes” and other Albanian community groups partnered with the City of Philadelphia’s City Representative to present a dynamic celebration of Albania’s 110 year anniversary of independence. The ceremony included national anthems, speeches, folk dances, an Albanian flag raising and the presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation by Sheila Hess, Philadelphia City Representative.

 

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November 22, 2022

Dominican Republic Opens Philadelphia Consulate General

 

Licenciado Alexis Antonio Henriquez Nunez, Consul General of the Dominican Republic in Philadelphia, hosted a formal ceremony to officially open his country’s Consulate General offices for appreciative representatives of family, friends, government officials, diplomats and the local community. Consul General Henriquez and his staff commented on their commitment to serving Philadelphia’s large Dominican diaspora and the celebration culminated with a symbolic ribbon-cutting.

 

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November 16, 2022

CCAP Supports German Social Program in Philadelphia

 

Ralf Wiedemann, Honorary Consul of Germany, presented a CCAP charitable contribution to Monika Moyrer, PhD, U.S. Program Director of Action Reconciliation Service for Peace (ASRP) at the German Honorary Consulate in Philadelphia. ASRP was founded in Germany after World War II to promote reconciliation between Germans and the groups that had been persecuted before and during the war. ASRP’s U.S. headquarters is in Philadelphia where young German volunteers are placed in social service organizations.

 

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November 7, 2022

Liberty Medal Awarded to Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in Ceremony at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia

 

The National Constitution Center in Philadelphia hosted its 2022 Liberty Medal Ceremony honoring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Jeffrey Rosen, President & CEO of the National Constitution Center, led a powerful program which dramatized President Zelenskyy’s heroic defense of liberty which has inspired people around the world. Other speakers included journalist Jane Ferguson; Chris Coons, U.S. Senator from Delaware, who had delivered the actual Liberty Medal to President Zelenskyy in Ukraine last week; and Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Philadelphia, who led the audience in a memorable standing ovation for a Ukrainian soldier in attendance. President Zelenskyy joined the event by video with his own stirring comments, as did 43rd U.S. President George W. Bush. The ceremony was followed by a dinner on the main floor of the museum.

 

Link to video of the full ceremony
Link to transcripts of speakers’ remarks

 

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November 4, 2022

HC Franklin Receives CBE Appointment and Medal in British Embassy Ceremony

 

In a ceremony at the British Embassy in Washington, D.C., HRH the Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex and Forfar, granted an honorary Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) and awarded the related medal to Oliver St. Clair Franklin, Philadelphia’s Honorary Consul of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The Earl acted in his role as Counsellor of State, on behalf of King Charles III. Warren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, was also honored.

 

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November 4, 2022

Panama Celebrates National Day with Festive Philadelphia City Hall Flag Raising Ceremony

 

The City of Philadelphia and the Consulate General of Panama hosted a flag raising ceremony to celebrate Panama’s national birthday. Georgia Athanasopulos, Consul General of Panama in Philadelphia, delivered inspiring comments regarding her country’s history and Sheila Hess, City Representative, presented a Mayoral Proclamation officially recognizing this important day. Music, dancing, and colorful dress were all part of a delightful outdoor event which was followed by a reception in City Hall.

 

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November 3, 2022

Temple Hosts Panel Discussion on The Italian Legacy in Philadelphia

 

Temple University assembled a distinguished panel to discuss The Italian Legacy in Philadelphia: History, Culture, People, and Ideas, a handsome, informative volume edited by Ambassador Andrea Canepari, former Consul General of Italy in Philadelphia, and Judith Goode, Temple professor emerita, and published by Temple University Press. In addition to the editors, the panel included contributors to the book who provided insightful comments to the audience at Temple’s magnificent Charles Library where a reception followed and books were available for purchase.

 

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October 15, 2022

CCAP Members Join Opening Ceremony for Matisse Exhibition at Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA)

 

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October 14, 2022

CCAP Members Attend Leventhal Retirement Party

 

Brian Leventhal recently retired and his family hosted a party to celebrate his 33 year career with the Philadelphia Police Department. Since the last fourteen of those years were spent with the PPD’s Dignitary Protection Section, Counter Terrorism Operations, Brian frequently suported CCAP events and developed many friendships in our association. He was, therefore, honored at the Quarterly Members Meeting in September and a number of CCAP members expressed their appreciation to him personally at his retirement party.

 

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October 13, 2022

“World Affairs Table” Features Mexico Discussion and Culinary Cultural Experience

 

The World Affairs Council (WAC) hosted a “World Affairs Table” event which featured a conversation with Carlos Obrador, Head Consul of Mexico in Philadelphia, followed by a reception with samples of Mexican cuisine and drinks. Lauren Swartz, World Affairs Council’s President and CEO, facilitated the discussion with Consul Obrador whose comments covered a range of Mexico related subjects. WAC is an Associate Member of the Consular Corp Association of Philadelphia.

 

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October 13, 2022

Italian CG Hosts Lecture on Penone Exhibition at Philadelphia Museum of Art

 

The Consulate General of Italy hosted a lecture by Dr. Greer Pagano of the Moore College of Art and Design on Giuseppe Penone, an Italian artist and sculptor whose work is currently on display at the Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA). Penone is an influential international figure whose themes have concentrated on interactions between his body and nature – particularly trees, stones and water. Dr. Greer’s comments reflected a thorough knowledge and a deep appreciation of the artist.

 

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October 11, 2022

CCAP Members Meet Virtually with USGLC Director

 

CCAP Members attended a virtual presentation by Emily Travino, Northeast Outreach Director of U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC). Her comments introduced USGLC’s core mission of advocacy for development, diplomacy and defense in U.S. government policy-making. She also discussed the federal International Affairs Budget and encouraged CCAP engagement in USGLC’s programs and forums throughout the year. Her Power Point slides were circulated to CCAP members.

 

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October 10, 2022

CCAP Supports Philadelphia International Unity Cup Again

 

In the Fall of 2016, Mayor Jim Kenney inaugurated the Philadelphia International Unity Cup, a neighborhood-based soccer tournament. Modeled after the FIFA World Cup, each team represents a particular country, utilizing the universal language of sport to bring people together and to showcase Philadelphia’s rich cultural diversity. In 2022, 48 teams played across the city throughout August and September and Team USA broke Team Liberia’s four year winning streak in a 5-3 final match at Lincoln Financial Field. Given the Unity Cup’s international spirit and the fact that 22 CCAP member countries were represented this year, we have again contributed to this wonderful program.

 

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October 9, 2022

Leif Erikson Day Celebrates Scandinavian Role in Discovery of America

 

In 1964, the U.S. Congress declared October 9 as Leif Erikson Day to honor the Norse explorer who led the first Europeans thought to set foot in continental North America. Scandinavian communities throughout the country celebrate the date and this year CCAP Members Susan Satkowski, HC of Norway, and Kristina Mattila, HC of Finland, attended the annual Leif Erikson Day dinner along with members of the Leif Erikson Society’s local chapter, the Leif Erikson Viking Ship group and the Sons of Norway officers. Earlier in the day the ritual launching of a replica Viking ship occurred on Marsh Creek in Downingtown, Pennsylvania.

 

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October 3, 2022

EU Delegation Visits Philadelphia to Build Transatlantic Unity

 

A delegation of high ranking dignitaries from European Union countries spent a busy day in Philadelphia meeting with local officials, diplomats and businesspeople in a variety of venues. The World Affairs Council, the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia and the Foreign Policy Research Institute hosted several panel discussions, a VIP luncheon and an evening reception. Several ambassadors also met with local university students as part of an overall effort to improve communication with the U.S. public and to build transatlantic unity. The various events provided CCAP members with the unusual opportunity to meet with their respective EU ambassadors in Philadelphia.

 

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October 1, 2022

HC Franklin Reflects on the Queen and the King

 

Much of Oliver Franklin’s life, his studies at Oxford University and his many years as Honorary Consul of the United Kingdom all occurred during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Now with her passing on September 8, 2022, he reflects on his contact with her Majesty, the British royal family and England’s future under King Charles III:

 

“I have only met her late Majesty once during a garden party in 2018. Garden Parties are held at Buckingham Palace in June to celebrate the monarch’s birthday. Invitation is by lottery and people involved in charities are invited to apply. So, there’re a lot of people, from all sectors of society, all very pleased to be dining on cucumber sandwiches, walking the grounds, and admiring the rose gardens. Some guests are ‘presented’ to the Queen as she walks from the palace to the Royal tent. I stared as Her Majesty approached me and, like most people, didn’t know what to say. She smiled said hello and hearing my reply asked if I was an American. “Ah Philadelphia” she said,” lovely city, very historical,” and she moved on. That was it, but a moment I shall never forget.

 

Last May, Prince Edward invited me to attend the Platinum Jubilee Garden Party. It was a glorious Wednesday afternoon. Buckingham Palace stood majestic against the clouds and the guest, all doing good works, walked amongst the grounds. The Queen was not in attendance but Prince Edward, the Countess of Wessex and the Princess of Wales were there meeting and greeting the guest. I was struck by the quietness, and reverence with which the Brits greeted their Royals. But a slight pall of melancholy and thankfulness descended over the Palace grounds as we slowly realized that Britain, the ancient nation that it is, has never celebrated a ‘Platinum’ Jubilee before and would never again in our lifetime. It was a historical moment.

 

The Queen’s passing and period of mourning has given us an opportunity to reflect on her 70+ years of service and her commitment to ‘duty.’ The author Tina Brown, a longtime observer of the monarchy, asked the question: “Without the Queen, will anyone know how to be British anymore?” Elizabeth, she said was the “last well-behaved person in our coarsening, transactional world. Amid the clamor of ubiquitous narcissism, her cool refusal to impose her views or justify her choices was ineffably soothing.” And she was always ‘there.’

 

Britain received a new monarch and government at the same time; another historical first. It will be King Charles III, globalist and longest serving Prince of Wales, who must carry on the late Queen’s legacy. And unlike her late Majesty, we know where this King stands on many issues. He will slim down the monarchy, strengthen the Commonwealth and make the oldest institution in Britain more modern. When His Majesty and the Queen Consort visited Philadelphia to celebrate the Centennial of the Academy of Music, the couple visited all parts of the city, including a Mural Arts tour. During a seminar at The International House on housing policies in the developing world, the King discussed several examples of polices that worked and those that didn’t. Afterward, the students kept remarking on how knowledgeable and empathetic he was. He was described as ‘cool.’ They were right; he is.

 

Long live the King!”

 

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September 21, 2022

Lithuanian President and First Lady Feted at New York Dinner

 

Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania in Philadelphia, and her sister, Audrey Gruss, teamed up with Rytis Paulauskas, Lithuanian Ambassador to the United Nations, to organize a dinner at the Whitby Hotel in honor of Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda and First Lady Diana Nausediene during their vist to New York for the UN General Assembly. During the evening, the First Lady announced her new joint initiative with Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska to establish a center in Lithuania for assisting refugee families from Ukraine.

 

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September 16, 2022

Dignitaries Attend Opening of ICA Exhibition Featuring Norwegian Artist Tolaas

 

Susan Satkowski, Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of Norway in Philadelphia, hosted a small delegation from Norway’s Consulate General of New York which visited Philadelphia, in part, to attend the opening of Norwegian artist Sissel Tolaas’ exhibition at the University of Pennsylvania’s Institute for Contemporary Arts (ICA). The New York group was led by Aslaug Nygard, Deputy Consul General, and their busy day included a meeting with Honorary Consul Satkowski, a walking tour of Philadelphia’s historic district, lunch at the Union League of Philadelphia and the ICA exhibition. In the link below, artist Tolaas leads a tour of her work which is a study of smells as a part of communication in life, most noteworthy during the time of COVID when many lost their sense of smell.

 

Link to Exhibition Information

 

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September 15, 2022

Mexico Celebrates 212th Independence Day with Cultural Display at Philadelphia City Hall Flag Raising Ceremony

 

The Consulate of Mexico, the Mexican Cultural Center and the Philadelphia City Representative’s office staged a dynamic celebration of Mexico’s 212th anniversary of independence which showcased a range of cultural performances – mariachi music (and sing-along), traditional dress, “danza azteca” and delicious food – for a delighted audience representing the country’s robust Philadelphia community. Speeches were delivered, national anthems were played, the Mexican flag was raised and City Representative Sheila Hess presented a Mayoral Proclamation to Carlos Obrador, Head Consul of the Mexican Consulate.

 

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September 14, 2022

Drexel President Fry Appointed Honorary Consul of South Africa

 

In accordance with today’s Press Release (see link below), John Fry, President of Drexel University, has been appointed Honorary Consul of South Africa in Philadelphia. In this new role, Mr. Fry will work to strengthen connections between Philadelphia and South Africa. The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia congratulates both him and our friends in South Africa’s diplomatic community for what promises to be a mutually beneficial relationship.

 

Press Release

 

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September 14, 2022

Uruguay’s Ambassador Duran Participates in Perry World House Global Order Colloquium

 

Andres Duran, Uruguay’s Ambassador to the U.S., made his first visit to Perry World House to participate in the 2022 Global Order Colloquium. The program included a private, off-the-record luncheon with Colloquium participants followed by the public keynote program titled: “Ambassador’s Roundtable: Navigating a Fracturing Economic Order” which was open to the public and was live-streamed on Zoom. The panel was moderated by Edward Wong, New York Times, and included Ashok Kumar Mirpuri, Singapore’s Ambassador to the U.S. and Hilda Suka-Mafudze, Permanent Representative of the African Union to the U.S. Perry World House is the University of Pennsylvania’s center for scholarly inquiry, teaching research, international exchange, policy engagement and public outreach on pressing global issues. PWH is an Associate Member of CCAP.

 

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September 14, 2022

Nicaragua Celebrates Independence Day with Philadelphia City Hall Flag Raising Ceremony

 

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September 13, 2022

University of Pennsylvania Hosts CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting & Cocktail Reception

 

The University of Pennsylvania hosted the Quarterly Members Meeting & Cocktail Reception of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia at the Dunning Coaches Center in the heart of its campus. The Members Meeting addressed the association’s usual business, welcomed several new members and paid special tribute to two retiring friends – Michael Scullin, long-time Honorary Consul of France and former CCAP President, and Brian Leventhal, Officer in the Philadelphia Police Department’s Dignitary Protection Section.

The cocktail reception theme of “Diplomacy in Athletics” was well articulated in comments by Steve Dolan, Director of the university’s highly successful Track & Field/Cross Country program and the celebrated Penn Relays which attracts elite competitors from all over the world. M.S. Fox Real Estate Group and Willis Towers Watson sponsored the event.

 

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September 9, 2022

Dominican Republic Opens Consulate General in Philadelphia

 

The Dominican Republic has recently opened a Consulate General in Center City Philadelphia. Alexis Henriquez, a highly respected attorney and jurist, was appointed Consul General on June 1, 2022 and has assumed his duties to serve Philadelphia’s large Dominican diaspora. Lic. Henriquez was born in the city of La Vega and educated at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo. Throughout his career, he has held a variety of important legal positions in both the private and public sectors. We welcome him and his team to Philadelphia.

 

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September 7, 2022

Mexico Resumes Tradition of Independence Day Celebration in Pennsylvania State Capitol Building

 

Following a three year interruption due to COVID, a collaboration of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), The Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia and the Mexican Cultural Center hosted the celebration of Mexican Independence Day in the ornate splendor of the State House Rotunda in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. State government officials and diplomats described the dynamic business, cultural and social connections between Mexico and Pennsylvania. Mariachi music and delicious Mexican food were enjoyed by an audience of local community and school groups.

 

Link to Head Consul Obrador’s Remarks

 

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August 24, 2022

Large Audience Attends Emotional Ukrainian Independence Day Event

 

 

The Honorary Consulate of Ukraine, the Ukrainian Federation of America, the Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center and the Ukrainian Selfreliance Federal Credit Union hosted an impressive, emotional ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall to celebrate the 31st anniversary of Ukraine’s independence. Speakers, including Hon. Jim Kenney, Mayor of Philadelphia; H.E. Oksana Markarova, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States; Madeleine Dean, member of the U.S. House of Representatives; leadership of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and local community groups, described in stirring words the courage and commitment to freedom by the Ukrainian people in their heroic fight for survival. The event concluded with the audience signing a massive Ukrainian flag for delivery to the troops as a moving symbol of Philadelphia’s support and solidarity.

 

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August 15, 2022

AJC Diplomatic Luncheon Features Ukraine’s Ambassador to UN

 

AJC- Philadelphia/Southern NJ hosted a Diplomatic Luncheon featuring His Excellency Sergiy Kyslytsya, Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations. Ambassador Kyslytsya provided insightful and often passionate comments regarding the current situation in Ukraine and his country’s historical relationship with Russia. The AJC audience responded to his riveting presentation with a round of extensive questions. Honorary Consul Mazur added her thanks for the support received by Ukraine from AJC and from Philadelphia in general.

 

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August 12, 2022

India Celebrates 75th Year of Independence in Philadelphia Ceremony

 

The Council of Indian Organizations in Greater Philadelphia (CIO) and the Philadelphia City Representative’s Office hosted a celebration of India’s 75th Independence Day, at City Hall in Philadelphia. Paresh Birla, Board Chairman of CIO, was Master of Ceremony to a program which included speeches by dignitaries, singing of national anthems, presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation, an Indian dance performance and, of course, the flag raising itself. A large contingent from the local diaspora enjoyed the inspiring ceremony and the beautiful summer weather. The Consulate General of India in New York is a CAAP member.

 

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August 5, 2022

Jamaica Celebrates 60 Years of Independence with Philadelphia City Hall Ceremony

 

Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica, and Sheila Hess, Philadelphia’s City Representative, hosted a flag raising ceremony at Philadelphia’s City Hall to celebrate Jamaica’s 60th year of independence with members of the local diaspora. Dignitaries in attendance included Alsion Roach Wilson, Consul General of Jamaica in New York, and Sharif Street, Pennsylvania State Senator. A Mayoral Proclamation was presented to HC Chaplin and the event was covered by ABC News.

 

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August 4, 2022

El Salvador Honors Philadelphia Community with City Hall Ceremony

 

Daniel Erazo, Consul General of El Salvador in New York, and Sheila Hess, Philadelphia City Representative, hosted a colorful celebration of Salvadoran-American Day to honor the local diaspora. A traditional flag raising ceremony and a Mayoral Proclamation highlighted the program at Philadelphia City Hall. Dignitaries in attendance included Cesar Aguilar, El Salvador’s Deputy Ambassador to the United States; Amy Eusebio, Executive Director of Philadelphia’s Office of Immigrant Affairs; and members of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.

 

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July 25, 2022

Peru Celebrates 201st Independence Day with Philadelphia City Hall Flag Raising

 

Philadelphia’s Office of the City Representative hosted a flag raising ceremony at City Hall to celebrate Peru’s 201 years of independence. The program included remarks by officials and diplomats, playing of the national anthems, the flag raising itself and the presentation of a Mayoral Proclamation by Sheila Hess, City Representative, to Patricia Raez, Peru’s Consul General, and to Miguel Alban, Honorary Consul of Peru in Philadelphia. The celebration was shared by an enthusiastic audience from the local community.

 

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July 20, 2022

CCAP Supports AJC Annual Meeting & Humanitarian Awards Dinner

 

The American Jewish Committee (AJC) Philadelphia/Southern New Jersey hosted its Annual Meeting & Human Relations Award Dinner at the historic Fairmount Water Works overlooking the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia. A vibrant cocktail hour was followed by a delicious dinner and an active program with multiple speakers. The 2022 Human Relations Award was presented to Michael Fabius for his work with Circle of Friends. AJC is an Associate Member of CCAP and a number of consuls attended this important event.

 

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July 14, 2022

Bastille Day Celebrated at Philadelphia City Hall

 

The City Representative’s office hosted another flag raising ceremony at Philadelphia’s City Hall to celebrate France’s national holiday. Members of the local Alliance Francaise delivered remarks on the history of Bastille Day, children from the PhilaFLAM language program performed and City Representative Sheila Hess presented a Mayoral Proclamation. Festivities culminated with local opera singers’ stirring renditions of “The Star Spangled Banner” and “La Marseillaise”, as the French flag was raised.

 

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July 6, 2022

Sakura Collection Fashion Design Award in Philadelphia

 

The Sakura Collection is a Japanese cultural institute that produces annual Fashion Design Awards events where local student designers and models exhibit their original fashion creations using Japan’s traditional fabrics. The 2022 Fashion Design Award ceremony in Philadelphia was co-hosted by Ambassador Mikio Mori, Consul General of Japan in New York, and the University of Pennsylvania at the Iron Gate Theater on the university campus. Dennis Morikawa, Honorary Consul of Japan in Philadelphia, represented the local diplomatic community.

 

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July 4, 2022

July 4th Celebration of Freedom Dramatized by Ukrainian Presence

 

Philadelphia’s Office of the City Representative partnered with Wawa Welcome America to present a July 4th Celebration of Freedom at historic Independence Square. The ceremony included comments by Mayor Jim Kenney and City Representative Sheila Hess, a stirring rendition of “God Bless America” by Miss America Emma Broyles and presentation of several awards. Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine, and Sergii Kyslytsya, Ukraine’s Representative to the United Nations, provided a particularly poignant moment with their special reading of the Declaration of Independence.

 

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July 2 – 4, 2022

Lithuanian Dance Festival, Dignitaries and Thousands Celebrate July 4th in Philadelphia

 

The Lithuanian Dance Festival, held every four years in a different city, drew nearly 4,000 Lithuanians to Philadelphia over July 4th weekend. There were over 1000 dancers on the arena floor of the Liacouras Center representing dance groups from all over the U.S. and Lithuania. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda and First Lady Diana Nausediene attended the weekend celebration and met with Mayor Kenney, Pennsylvania National Guard Adjutant General Mark Schindler, Lithuanian American business leaders and community members.

 

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June 29, 2022

First NALB Forum Connects Lithuanian and Local Partners

 

The first North American Lithuanian Business (NALB) Forum attracted a capacity audience of business, government and diplomatic attendees to the Union League of Philadelphia. Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania in Philadelphia, introduced an all-day program packed with informative panels and impressive speakers. There was also plenty of time for networking and connecting a high-level Lithuanian delegation with potential partners in the local marketplace.

 

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June 28, 2022

Temple University Hosts CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting & Reception at Charles Library

 

Temple University hosted the Quarterly Members Meeting & Reception of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia in its magnificent, state-of-the-art Charles Library in the heart of its impressive North Philadelphia campus. The Members Meeting addressed the association’s usual business and paid special recognition to Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine, for her extraordinary efforts to consolidate local support for her country.

The cocktail reception was highlighted by the attendance of a Lithuanian delegation, including H.E. Audra Piepyte, Ambassador of Lithuania to the United States, and H.E. Darius Skusevicius, Lithuania’s Ambassador to Canada. Gregory Mandel, Provost, and Michele Masucci, Vice President of Research, represented Temple with comments on the importance of global engagement in today’s academic world. Cushman & Wakefield and L2P, a local design firm, sponsored the event.

 

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June 25, 2022

“Remaining Relevant” is HC Lawson’s Latest Work

 

Karen Lawson, PhD, is founder of Lawson Consulting Group which specializes in leadership development and she serves as Honorary Consul of Fiji in Pennsylvania. Dr. Lawson is the author of many books, including her latest work, “Remaining Relevant”, which is currently available on Amazon.

 

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June 14, 2022

English Oak Planted at Washington Square to Celebrate Platinum Jubilee of QEII

 

Cynthia MacLoed, Superintendent of Independence National Historic Park, hosted a tree planting ceremony in celebration of The Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in Washington Square. Hannah Young, Her Majesty’s Deputy Consul General in New York, spoke on behalf of the United Kingdom, while Chris Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica, represented the Commonwealth of Nations. Following comments by military officers of the U.K. and U.S., a 25-foot English Oak was added to the Washington Square arboretum as a living symbol of the solidarity between our two countries.

 

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June 13, 14, 2022

Hungarian Healthcare Startups Tour Philadelphia

 

The INPUT Program is a Hungarian Government Agency which assists private startup companies in their efforts to penetrate the U.S. market. As part of INPUT’s June 2022 East Coast Tour organized by Tamas Novak, Science and Technology Attache at the Consulate General of Hungary in New York, four startup healthcare companies spent two days exploring Philadelphia’s life science institutions. In meetings arranged by Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary, these young entrepreneurs made important contacts with potential clients, research partners and capital sources in Philadelphia.

 

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June 8, 2022

Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand and Turkey Host Joint Cultural Showcase in New York

 

Consulates General of the Republic of Indonesia, the Republic of the Philippines, the Kingdom of Thailand and the Republic of Turkey combined forces to present a dazzling Joint Cultural Showcase in New York. The program offered entertainment with Film, Music, Dance, Food and Drink, as diverse members of the host communities celebrated each other’s cultures. The Consulates General of Indonesia and the Philippines in New York are CCAP members.

 

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June 8, 2022

Consulate General of Qatar in New York Joins CCAP

 

H.E. Mohammed Sultan Al Kuwari, Consul General of the State of Qatar in New York, has become the newest member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia. CG Al Kuwari is an experienced diplomat whose career has included a posting with the United Nations in New York and positions in Argentina and Hong Kong. He assumed his current responsibilities in 2021.

 

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June 2, 2022

CG Mele Hosts Italian National Day Celebration at Philadelphia Boathouse Row Landmark

 

Cristiana Mele, Consul General of Italy in Philadelphia, hosted a celebration of Italian National Day at the Fairmont Rowing Association boathouse on Philadelphia’s famous Boathouse Row overlooking the Schuylkill River and the Center City skyline. The program included a charming cello rendition of the Italian and U.S. national anthems, thoughtful comments by Consul General Mele, delicious Italian food and delightful networking among members of Philadelphia’s dynamic Italian community.

 

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May 31, 2022

Swiss Official Visits Philadelphia

 

H.E. Markus Börlin, Swiss Ambassador to the United States and Consul General for New York, spent a busy day in Philadelphia on a schedule organized by Christine Pfister, Honorary Consul of Switzerland in Philadelphia. In addition to a meeting with Mayor Jim Kenney, Ambassador Börlin visited with several CEO’s of Swiss companies located in the Philadelphia area.

 

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May 23, 2022

Czech Senatorial Delegation Visits Philadelphia

 

A delegation of Senators from the Parliament of the Czech Republic spent a busy day in Philadelphia, organized by Alexander Montanaro, Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic in Philadelphia. The group was led by Sen. Jan Hornik, Senate Vice President, and included Arnost Kares, Consul General of the Czech Republic in New York. Meetings with David Briel, Director of International Business Development for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and others explored trade and investment opportunities. Tours of the Philadelphia Art Museum and Independence Hall provided cultural and historic balance to the day’s activities.

 

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May 19, 2022

Chellie Cameron Named President and CEO of Philadelphia Chamber

 

Following a national search, the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia has selected Chellie Cameron as its new President and CEO, effective July 11, 2022. Cameron currently serves as chief executive officer for the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and the Northeast Philadelphia Airport where she has held leadership positions since 2011. Chellie and her PHL team have been active Associate Members of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.

 

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May 18, 2022

HC Franklin Mingles with Royals at Platinum Jubilee Garden Party

 

Queen Elizabeth II hosts three springtime Garden Parties at Buckingham Palace to thank charity workers for their service to the country. Tickets are awarded by lottery and a broad cross section of British society mixes with members of the royal family. Oliver St. Clair Franklin OBE, Britain’s Honorary Consul in Philadelphia, was a guest of Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, and enjoyed the company of the countess of Wessex and the duchess of Cambridge (wife of Prince William, second in line for succession to the British throne) at this year’s historic Platinum Jubilee Garden Party. While in London, HC Franklin also attended to his duties on NatWest Bank’s advisory board.

 

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May 17, 2022

WAC “Diplochat” Features Israeli Consul General from New York

 

The World Affairs Council’s latest Satell Family Foundation “Diplochat” program featured a conversation with Ambassador Asaf Zamir, Consul General of Israel in New York, at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre in Philadelphia. The session opened with an exchange between Lauren Swartz, WAC President and CEO, and Ambassador Zamir regarding U.S.-Israel relations. A lively Q & A followed with significant give-and-take between the Ambassador and his audience. Both the World Affairs Council and the Consulate General of Israel in New York are CCAP members.

 

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May 15. 17, 2022

Norway’s National Day Celebrated with Reception Recital and Philadelphia City Hall Flag Raising

 

Susan Satkowski, Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of Norway, hosted a reception featuring a musical recital of works by Edvard Grieg (link to video) and organized a flag raising ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall to celebrate Norway’s declaration of independence from Sweden in 1814. The National Day festivities attracted leaders of the Norwegian community and government officials. City Representative Sheila Hess presented a Mayoral Proclamation and Chris Burmeister, President of the Norwegian-American Chamber of Commerce, did the honors of raising the Norwegian flag.

 

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May 12, 2022

HC Pfister Hosts Author Talk and Reception with Diccon Bewes

 

Christine Pfister, Honorary Consul of Switzerland in Philadelphia, hosted an author talk reception with Diccon Bewes as part of his east coast book tour underwritten by the Maurice Rohrbach Fund for Swiss-American Cultural Exchange. Bewes is acclaimed for his books on Swiss culture, food and linguistics which he showcased in his talk to the audience at Pentimenti, a Philadelphia art gallery owned by Honorary Consul Pfister.

 

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May 9, 2022

“Missing Stories” Exhibition in Philadelphia Memorializes Hungarian Victims of the Holocaust

 

The Liszt Institute – Hungarian Cultural Center in New York and Edith Schwartz, Honorary Consul of Hungary in Philadelphia, hosted a reception to open a unique exhibition titled “Missing Stories – The Hungarian Victims of the Holocaust” featuring the work of Hungarian photographer Ildi Herman and ten real-lifre stories of struggle and survival. The reception was attended by members of Philadelphia’s cultural and diplomatic community. The exhibition was also open to the general public.

 

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May 8, 2022

HC Mazur Hosts Ukrainian Solidarity Rally on Art Museum Steps

 

Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Philadelphia, hosted another rally to consolidate support for her country as it faces continuous attack and destruction by Russian forces. HC Mazur’s comments centered on the ironic symbolism of May 8 as the date in 1945 when WWII ended in Europe with the hope that a similar conflict would never occur again. Other members of the Ukrainian community, city officials and diplomatic representatives remarked on the tragic situation and the growing need for humanitarian assistance.

 

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May 6, 2022

Congreso Celebrates 15th Annual Gala Latina at Bellevue Hotel

 

Congreso de Latinos Unidos, one of Philadelphia’s most prominent community organizations, celebrated its 15th Annual Gala Latina with a spotlight on Buenos Aires, Argentina. Special Guests included H.E. Jorge Arguello, Ambassador of Argentina to the United States, and Georgina Fernadez Destefano, Argentine Embassy’s Head of Consular Section and CCAP Member. The Gala’s capacity attendance enjoyed a VIP Cocktail Reception followed by a tango show, a delicious dinner, a live auction and dancing to a full orchestra. Congreso’s mission is to enable families and individuals in Philadelphia’s predominantly Latino neighborhoods to achieve economic self-sufficiency and well-being.

 

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May 6, 2022

Ambassador Arguello and Mayor Kenney Celebrate Symbol of Argentine Liberty in Philadelphia City Hall

 

A small Argentine delegation led by H.E. Jorge Arguello, Argentina’s Ambassador to the United States, and including Georgina Fernandez Destefano, Minister, Head of Consular Section at the Embassy of Argentina, and family members spent a busy day in Philadelphia. A private meeting with Mayor Jim Kenney was followed by a symbolic gathering at the bust of Jose de San Martin in Philadelphia City Hall. San Martin was the hero of Argentina’s liberation from Spain in the early 19th century and his bust was gifted to the City of Philadelphia by its Argentine community many years ago. Mayor Kenney and Ambassador Arguello provided comments regarding the spirit of independence shared by Argentina and the United States

 

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May 5-6, 2022

Czech Embassy Hosts Annual Meeting for U.S. Honorary Consuls

 

For the first time in almost three years, the Czech Republic’s Embassy in Washington, D.C. hosted an in-person Annual Meeting of Honorary Consuls from around the United States. With active participation by Ambassador Hynek Kmonicek, the group discussed a range of consular, diplomatic, economic and cultural themes. CCAP Member Alex Montanaro, Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic in Philadelphia, enjoyed reconnecting with his colleagues and friends after the lengthy COVID interruption.

 

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May 3, 2022

HC Chaplin Appointed to Jamaica Development Bank Committee

 

Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica and Vice President of CCAP’s Executive Committee, was recently appointed to the Development Bank of Jamaica’s Private Capital Oversight Committee (PCOC). The Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) is a government-owned financial institution that provides funding to stimulate the local economy. The PCOC reports to the Board of Directors and oversees the DBJ’s policies and strategies to grow the country’s venture capital and private equity ecosystem. HC Chaplin is a Vice President of PIDC, Philadelphia’s economic development agency, and is one of two external members of the PCOC.

 

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April 27, 2022

CCAP Supports Pan American Day Luncheon at Union League

 

The Pan American Association of Philadelphia (PAAP) hosted its annual Pan American Day Luncheon at the Union League of Philadelphia. CCAP Members turned out in unusual numbers to support the program which included $20,000 of scholarship awards to students of Latin American studies in local universities and remarks by Martin Silverstein, a former U.S. diplomat. PAAP is an Associate Member of CCAP.

 

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April 26, 2022

Historic Ship Celebrated in Wilmington, Delaware

 

Elected officials, diplomats and members of the local community gathered on the Wilmington, Delaware waterfront to celebrate the arrival of “Kalmar Nyckel”, a replica of the ship which transported Swedes, Dutch and Fins to our region during the 1600s. CCAP Members Lauren Swartz, CG of Sweden, and Wilfred Muskens, CG of the Netherlands, addressed the audience regarding the history of this beautiful vessel and its symbolic significance to their country’s local descendents today.

 

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April 26, 2022

CDI/WAC Host Rumsfeld CAMCA Fellows VIP Welcome Reception

 

Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) and World Affairs Council(WAC) co-hosted a VIP Reception to welcome visiting Rumsfeld CAMCA Fellows at WAC offices in Center City Philadelphia. Special guests included a delegation of rising leaders from Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan who are fellows in the joint program of the Central Asia-Caucasus Institute at the American Foreign Policy Council and the Rumsfeld Foundation. The audience included members of CDI and WAC, which are both Associate Members of CCAP.

 

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April 25, 2022

HC Muskens and DCED Celebrate Netherlands’ “King’s Day” in Pennsylvania State House Rotunda

 

For the first time in almost three years, a CCAP Member country’s National Day was celebrated in the Rotunda of the State House in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Thanks to the efforts of Wilfred Muskens, Honorary Consul of the Netherlands, and Thomas Schmidt (thoschmidt@pa.gov), International Specialist in the Commonwealth’s Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), a “King’s Day” exhibit showcased Netherlands’ assets in the magnificent Rotunda setting. This ceremony will hopefully be an “icebreaker” in a post-COVID reactivation of this dynamic program. Thank you Wilfred!

 

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April 7, 2022

New York Consulate General of Indonesia Newest CCAP Member

 

The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in New York, represented by Dr. Arifi Saiman, MA, Consul General, has joined the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP). Consul General Saiman is a career diplomat with over twenty years of experience, including a range of important duties at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and overseas postings in France, Senegal and Canada. He assumed his current position in New York in October, 2019. The Philadelphia region is home to a large Indonesian diaspora.

 

Link to CV

 

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April 6, 2022

Postponed Australia Day Celebration Draws Diplomatic Friends

 

Although Australia celebrates its official national day on January 26, a COVID surge in early 2022 required postponement until April 6 when an enthusiastic, largely diplomatic group convened at the Brickworks Design Studio in central Manhattan. Co-hosts Nick Greiner, Australia’s Consul General in New York, and Mitch Fifield, Australia’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, provided remarks that highlighted their country’s diversity and irresistible charm. On a more sober note, they also recognized the crisis conditions in Europe and H.E. Sergii Kyslytsya, Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, provided his own brief comments. The Consulate-General of Australia in New York is a CCAP Member.

 

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April 5, 2022

Drexel Hosts CCAP Quarterly Event at Specter Squash Center

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia’s Quarterly Members Meeting & Cocktail Reception was hosted by Drexel University at the Arlen Specter U.S. Squash Center in the University City section of Philadelphia. A record turnout of consuls attended the Members Meeting which addressed its usual business and paid special recognition to Iryna Mazur, Philadelphia’s Honorary Consul of Ukraine. The Cocktail Reception was highlighted by Drexel President John Fry’s remarks (see attachment) on the importance of global engagement in today’s academic world. The event was made possible by the generosity of BellBellwether Enterprise Real Estate Capital, Republic Bank, Firstrust Bank and Green & Spiegel.

Link to complete Remarks by John Fry, President of Drexel University

 

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March 28, 2022

World Affairs Council Hosts Estonia’s Ambassador to the U.S.

 

The World Affairs Council hosted a program featuring Kristjan Prikk, Estonia’s Ambassador in Washington, D.C., who delivered prepared remarks, conversed with Lauren Swartz, WAC President, and responded to questions from the audience. The war in Ukraine and its impact on neighboring Estonia was, of course, a central topic. WAC, Lauren Swartz – Sweden’s Honorary Consul in Philadelphia – and Estonia’s Consulate General in New York are all CCAP members.

 

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March 26-27, 2022

Philadelphia Orchestra Supports Ukraine with Pre-Concert Program

 

The Philadelphia Orchestra collaborated with the Ukrainian Federation of America and the Honorary Consulate of Ukraine in Philadelphia in producing pre-concert programs titled “Stand with Ukraine” prior to the scheduled Saturday and Sunday orchestra performances. Featuring artists from the Ukrainian community with musicians of The Philadelphia Orchestra, the emotional event combined beautiful music with inspiring rhetoric by Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine; H.E. Sergii Kyslytsya, Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations; and Matias Tamopolsky, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Orchestra.

 

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March 24, 2022

CCAP Contributes to Ukrainian Federation of America (UFA) for Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) has made a donation to the Ukrainian Federation of America (UFA), a Pennsylvania-based, 501C3 charitable organization with over 30 years of experience in assisting Ukraine. While this contribution is inevitably symbolic, CCAP expresses our heartfelt support for Ukraine’s courageous resistance and our deep commitment to addressing its humanitarian needs.

 

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March 23, 2022

WAC Diplochat Program Features Swedish Consul General

 

Lauren Swartz deftly managed her combined roles as President of the World Affairs Council and Honorary Consul of Sweden in hosting the “Diplochat” Program’s special guest Camilla Mellander, Consul General of Sweden in New York. CG Mellander capped off a busy day in Philadelphia with an informative presentation on a range of current topics to an audience at WAC headquarters in Center City Philadelphia. HC Swartz is a CCAP Member.

 

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March 21, 2022

CCAP Members Host Reception and Book Talk by Author David Allon

 

CCAP Members Edith Schwartz and Peter Longstreth hosted a reception for David Allon, author of “Oranges to Easels – Journey of an Israeli Pioneer”, a fascinating story of his father’s life and career. David described important sections of the biography, answered questions from the audience and signed books for buyers in an informative, enjoyable evening event.

 

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March 18-19, 2022

HC Schwartz Joins Consular Summit at Hungarian Embassy

 

Szabolcs Takacs, Hungary’s Ambassador to the U.S., hosted a two day summit at the Embassy, attended by Honorary Consul Edith Schwartz. Consuls General and Honorary Consuls from throughout the United States participated in meetings with the Ambassador and his embassy staff. Consular colleagues received briefings, exchanged best practice suggestions and socialized freely for the first time in two years.

 

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March 18 – 20, 2022

Philadelphia’s Hellenic Federation Honors Panama’s Consul General Athanasopulos with Greek Independence Day Celebrations

 

The Honorable Georgia Athanasopulos, Consul General of Panama, was appointed Grand Marshal of the Greek Independence Day celebrations by Philadelphia’s Federation of Hellenic Societies. Festivities included a flag raising ceremony at Philadelphia’s City Hall, a dignitaries dinner at Adelphia’s and a parade on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Consul General Athanasopulos spoke eloquently at the three ceremonies, commenting on her rich Greek heritage and noting historical connections between Greece and her native Panama. CCAP members joined an impressive array of diplomatic, religious and community leaders at all three events.

 

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March 17, 2022

HC Muskens Meets with Other U.S. Honorary Consuls at Netherlands Embassy in Washington, D.C.

 

Ambassador Andre Haspels hosted a one day conference for Honorary Consuls representing the Netherlands in 27 cities throughout the U.S. at the Embassy in Washington, D.C. The group met with the Ambassador and embassy staff, reconnecting in person for the first time since 2019.

 

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March 14, 2022

Representatives of Hungary Explore Partnerships with Temple University

 

Temple University’s leadership in International Affairs and research hosted representatives of the Hungarian government to explore possible partnerships between institutions of higher education in the two countries. The focus was on areas of collaboration in science, technology and innovation with the prospect of exchange programs for students, faculty and researchers.

 

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March 12, 2022

HC Satkowski Attends International Women’s Day Celebration at Norwegian Embassy in Washington, D.C.

 

Susan Satkowski, Honorary Consul of Norway in Philadelphia, attended the International Women’s Day celebration hosted by Norway’s Ambassador Anniken Krutnes at the Embassy in Washington, D.C. The program’s special guest was Oksana Markarova, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S. whose remarks regarding her country’s courageous resistance were received with an emotional response by the appreciative audience.

 

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March, 2022

CCAP in Solidarity with Ukraine

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia shares the world’s horror and outrage at Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. We condemn the brutal attack on the population and on the territorial integrity of Ukraine. We admire the inspired courage of the Ukrainian people and are hopeful that a unified response from the U.S. and its NATO allies can lead to a peaceful solution. CCAP member countries are already providing humanitarian relief and our colleague Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine (info@uaconsulphila.org, 215-364-1200) welcomes your support and assistance.

 

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March 12, 2022

Honorary Consul Chaplin Attends Daughters of British Empire Annual State Luncheon

 

Christopher Chaplin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica, attended the Annual State Luncheon of the Daughters of the British Empire (DBE) at the Overbrook Golf Club in Villanova, Pennsylvania. As part of the event’s ceremony, Honorary Consul Chaplin delivered a toast to President Joseph R. Biden (in absentia). Founded in 1909, the DBE does fantastic charitable work nationwide and has supported Jamaican and Caribbean organizations in Pennsylvania, with a particular focus on senior members of those communities.

 

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March 9, 2022

British Official Meets Philadelphia

 

CCAP Member Oliver St. Clair Franklin OBE, HC of the United Kingdom, accompanied British official Emma Wade-Smith OBE through her busy first visit to Philadelphia. Her schedule was highlighted by a private meeting with Mayor Jim Kenney and a VIP Luncheon hosted by the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia (BABCPHL) in the Center City headquarters of CIGNA where she addressed a group of local business people and professionals with connections to Great Britain.

 

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February 25, 2022

CG Franklin and Museum of the American Revolution Host Presentation on Educational Collaboration with Oxford University

 

Balliol College, Oxford University and the Museum of the American Revolution are working together on a project titled “Teaching the Transatlantic Slave Trade”, a multi-year series of professional development institutes for teachers in Philadelphia and the United Kingdom. Members of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia attended a presentation describing this project and offering examples of teaching materials and techniques. A tour of the Museum was then followed by Andrew Roberts’ lecture regarding his book, “The Last King of America” and a VIP reception.

 

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February 24, 2022

CCAP Members Attend International Trade & Investments Roundtable

 

Philadelphia City Councilman David Oh organized another roundtable meeting to introduce members of Philadelphia’s international community to leadership of the Building Trades Council. A number of Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia Members were in attendance and the discussion explored ways to make Philadelphia more competitive in the global marketplace.

 

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February 16, 2022

CCAP Hosts Virtual Meeting with USCIS/ICE Panel

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) hosted a productive, virtual meeting with a panel of representatives from the U.S.Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Presentations by each of the panelists were followed by questions from the CCAP audience. Powerpoint materials and contact information were subsequently shared with CCAP membership. Followup meetings are planned with local DHS personnel.

 

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January 30, 2022

“Philadelphia Stands with Ukraine” Rally Attracts CCAP Support

 

 

In spite of freezing temperatures, scores of supporters crowded the frozen steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art to demonstrate solidarity with the “Philadelphia Stands with Ukraine” rally. Flags from a variety of nations snapped in the frigid breeze as speakers, including Iryna Mazur, Honorary Consul of Ukraine, expressed outrage at Russian aggression and fears of global conflict. CCAP Members representing several other Eastern European countries were in attendance.

 

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January 18, 2022

Malta Expands HC Giordano’s District to Include New Jersey

 

Effective October 11, 2021, the Republic of Malta has expanded the consular district of Frank Giordano, Honorary Consul, to include the states of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Since his appointment in 2018, Honorary Consul has covered Pennsylvania from his offices in Philadelphia. With recent U.S. State Department approval, his jurisdiction will also include New Jersey.

 

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January 13, 2022

HCG Bard and Lithuanian Ag AttacheTour PA Farm Show and Meet with Government Officials

 

The Pennsylvania Farm Show is the largest indoor farm show in the United States. Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania, accompanied Karolis Anuzis, Lithuania’s Agricultural Attache, on a tour of this immense exposition and arranged meetings with PA government and National Guard officials. Of special note, Lithuania is home to Auga, the EU’s largest organic food company and developer of the world’s first hybrid Eco-Tractor powered by biomethane. Auga’s products are available in Pennsylvania, at selected Costco and Whole Foods stores.

 

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January 5, 2022

Cambodian Delegation Connects with Local Community

 

Peter Savoeun Sok, Honorary Consul of Cambodia, hosted a delegation of Cambodian government officials and businessmen in their visit to Philadelphia. The group’s primary focus was to interact with their country’s large local population and to explore potential business relationships in the region.

 

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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.

 

Link to Full Story

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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!

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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!

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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!

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

Link to Full Story 

 

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September 18, 2021

CCAP Member Fernandes Joins Portugal’s President Rebelo de Sousa in 100 Year Anniversary Celebration

 

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September 15, 2021

NatWest Banking Group Appoints HC Franklin to Ethnic Advisory Council

 

Read Full Press NatWest Release

 

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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.

 

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September 13, 2021

City Proclamation Celebrates Nicaragua Independence Day

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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August 27, 2021

HCG Bard Meets with Former UN Ambassador Haley

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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July 28, 2021

HC Sorkin Comments on Tunisian Olympic Victory and Political Uncertainty in Arab Weekly Article

 

Click to read full Arab Weekly article

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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June 18, 2021

CCAP Members Visit Costa Rican Embassy

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

Link to Video

 

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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

 

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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.

 

Link

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

Link to Video

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

Link to Video

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

Link to Video

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

Link to Inquirer article

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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December 27, 2020

Associate Member Drucker & Scaccetti Shares “11 Basics of a Functional Home Office”

Link to Article

 

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December 23, 2020

HC Mattila Facing COVID in Finland

 

Kristina Mattila, Honorary Consul of Finland, recently emailed that she has been dealing with the pandemic in her native Finland since May, 2020. While many European countries are experiencing COVID spikes and related lockdown policies, she reports that the Nordic countries have been able to survive with fewer imposed restrictions. Finland’s primary strategy has evidently been to control border crossings with large-scale testing and a tracking app which has already been used by half of the country’s population. Most significantly, recommended actions to combat the virus are largely voluntary and yet have proved to be quite effective. Good health and happy holidays to Kristina.

 

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December 15, 2020

Last “Diplomacy & Dialogue” of 2020 Features Nasdaq

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia and Citizen Diplomacy International co-hosted their last regular “Diplomacy & Dialogue” program of 2020 with special guests LeeAnne Milhiser and Raymond Mays, executives with Nasdaq, Inc., a CCAP Associate Member. A multinational financial services and technology corporation, Nasdaq operates stock exchanges around the world. The conversation focused, inevitably, on the company’s many adjustments to COVID pandemic restrictions.

 

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December 9, 2020

CCAP, AJC Co-Host Virtual Holiday Reception

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and the American Jewish Committee of Philadelphia/Southern New Jersey (AJC) co-hosted their traditional Holiday Reception…on a virtual basis. As in previous years, the event included a symbolic Hanukkah celebration with CCAP and AJC members lighting menorahs and reading ceremonial passages. AJC is an Associate Member of CCAP and the two organizations are regular partners.

 

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December 9, 2020

CCAP Quarterly Members Meeting – Another Virtual Hit!

 

In response to continuing COVID-related restrictions, the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia again hosted its Quarterly Members Meeting on a virtual basis. Attendance was excellent and the association’s usual business included a welcome to new members and special visitors, a detailed review of CCAP activities during the challenging year of 2020, election of the 2021 Executive Committee and approval of the 2021 Operating Budget. Following the meeting, CCAP members joined a virtual Holiday Reception co-hosted with the American Jewish Committee of Philadelphia/ Southern NJ.

 

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December 8, 2020

“Diplomacy & Dialogue” Features CHOP’s Frey

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted their regular program, “Diplomacy & Dialogue”, in a virtual conversation with Ruth Frey, Vice President of Global Strategy and Business Development at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Frey reviewed CHOP’s adjustments to the special challenges of COVID-19 and emphasized the effectiveness of many necessary new tools in international communication. She also commented on CHOP’s role in Philadelphia’s continued emergence as the country’s center for cell and gene therapy innovation. CHOP is a CCAP Associate Member.

 

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November 27, 2020

Albania Celebrates Independence Day – Pandemic-Style

 

In a ceremony compliant with pandemic restrictions, a group of community members celebrated Albania’s 108th Independence Day anniversary at Philadelphia’s City Hall. The country’s flag was raised, its national anthem played and officials commented on the historic occasion. Sheila Hess, City Representative, presented a Proclamation from Mayor Jim Kenney recognizing Albania Independence Day.

 

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November 25, 2020

HC Chaplin Featured with New Team Members in PIDC Newsletter

 

HC Christopher Chaplin was featured in “Meet PIDC’s New Team Members” in PIDC’s November Newsletter.

 

Excerpt from Newsletter (link to full version follows):

HOMETOWN: Kingston & St. Andrew, Jamaica

DEPARTMENT: Financial Services

TITLE: Vice President, Portfolio Management

What role will you play in helping PIDC drive growth to every corner of Philadelphia?

Our team’s role is to support PIDC’s investment in Philadelphia by balancing our mission with the risk of these investments. Our investment in Philadelphia will generate growth, jobs, higher living standards, and a reduction in poverty over the long term if done in a financially responsible way.

Philadelphia is a great place to study, work, and play because:

Philadelphia is such a diverse community with people from many backgrounds, cultures, and countries. There is much to do in Philadelphia from the great arts communities to the great restaurants and from the fantastic ethnic communities going back decades to the newer immigrant communities that bring a different flavor to our wonderful city.

Your message to the business community during this unprecedented time:

We are here to support you as you face these challenges. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your team at PIDC. President John F. Kennedy said during his inaugural speech: ‘United there is little we cannot do in a host of cooperative ventures. Divided there is little we can do–for we dare not meet a powerful challenge at odds and split asunder.’

 

PIDC November Newsletter

 

 

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November 19, 2020

DCED Promotes PA in Poland

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted another of its regular “Diplomacy & Dialogue ” programs with Special Guests David Briel, Executive Director of International Investment at the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and Karolina Kaptur, Pennsylvania’s Trade Representative in Poland. While David commented on PA’s international strategies, during the pandemic, Karolina focused on economic development in Poland and the successful attraction of Polish companies to Pennsylvania. DCED is an Associate Member of CCAP.

 

Link to Video

 

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November 12, 2020

“Diplomacy & Dialogue” Features Netherlands’ Ambassador to U.S.

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted its regular “Diplomacy & Dialogue” program in a virtual conversation with H.E. Andre Haspels, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United States. Wilfred Muskens, Netherlands’ Honorary Consul in Philadelphia and a CCAP Member formally introduced Ambassador Haspels who commented on a variety of subjects, many of which were inevitably related to the COVID pandemic. The central theme of the session was, of course, the strong relationship which exists between our two countries and the active ties with the Philadelphia region.

 

Link to Video

 

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November 12, 2020

Banker Alban Addresses Mexican Financial Forum

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Miguel Alban, HC of Peru and Senior Vice President and Director of Multicultural Banking at Customers Bank, was a featured speaker in the Mexican government’s national program on financial education. HC Alban coordinated with his colleague Carlos Obrador, Consul of Mexico in Philadelphia, and commented on Small Business Lending by Customers Bank, a subject of particular interest to the large Mexican community in the Philadelphia region. Consul Obrador is an active CCAP Member and HC Alban is Vice President of the association’s Executive Committee.

 

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November 10, 2020

‘Nordic Life Science’ Article Highlights Philadelphia

 

Thanks to the efforts of Ulf Akerblom, Honorary Consul of Sweden in Philadelphia, and the Commerce Department of the City of Philadelphia, the prestigious Swedish publication – “Nordic Life Science” – has featured Philadelphia as a prime life science innovation center, with cell and gene therapy becoming a local specialty.

 

Link to Issue

 

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November 10, 2020

Customers Bank Executives Describe Cash Management Products

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia hosted a virtual presentation by Customers Bank executives. Miguel Alban, SVP and Director of Multicultural Banking provided an overview of Customers Bank, a dynamic regional institution, and his colleague Larry Snow, SVP and Commercial Deposits Group Head, described in detail the wide range of cash management products offered by the bank. Customers Bank is an Associate Member of CCAP and Mr. Alban is also Honorary Consul of Peru in Philadelphia.

 

Link to Video 

 

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October 23, 2020

State Department’s OFM Names New Regional Director in New York

 

The U.S. State Department’s Office of Foreign Missions (OFM) has named Jeannette M. Juricic as Regional Director of the New York office. Ms. Juricic’s 20 years of experience in the U.S. Foreign Service has included postings in Asia, Caribbean, Europe, Middle East, North and South America. CCAP works closely with OFM, New York and welcomes Regional Director Juricic!

 

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October 22, 2020

“Diplomacy & Dialogue” Special Guest: Ciaran Madden, Consul General of Ireland, New York

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted “Diplomacy & Dialogue”, their regular program to feature important members of the international community for a virtual audience. Today’s Special Guest was CCAP Member Ciaran Madden, Consul General of Ireland in New York – a Consulate General with responsibilities including Pennsylvania. CG Madden inevitably commented on his office’s response to COVID 19 and on his country’s policies to address the pandemic.

 

Video Link

 

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October 16, 2020

Chile Expands Philadelphia Commercial Presence

 

Hon. Consul of Chile Benjamin Leavenworth announces the opening of a ProChile commercial office in Philadelphia, effective November 1, 2020. ProChile, a government entity which promotes international trade and investment, plans to leverage the existing relationship between Chile and the Philadelphia region which already produces thousands of jobs. HC Leavenworth, whose long term lobbying efforts have contributed to ProChile’s decision, foresees expanded staffing and service which will strengthen ties with important local partners, like the Consulate, Chilean and American Chamber of Commerce and PhilaPort.

 

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October 15, 2020

Austria Awards HC Montanaro with Silver Medal of Honor

 

In an intimate reception at the Union League, Austrian Consul General Helmut Böck, representing Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen, awarded Honorary Consul Gregory Montanaro the Austrian decoration “Silbernes Ehrenzeichen für Verdienste um die Republik Österreich” or Silver Medal of Honor for Services to the Republic of Austria. Among others in attendence were the Honorary Consul of Malta Frank Giordano and Mr. Montanaro’s brother, the Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic Alexander Montanaro.

 

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October 12, 2020

Jamaica’s HC Chaplin Leads Promotion of Carribean Restaurants in Philadelphia

 

Links to Press Coverage:

Jamaica Gleaner Article

Fox29 Video Coverage

 

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October 6, 2020

German American Friendship Day Celebrated by Conversation with New Yok CG Gill

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted its regular “Diplomacy & Dialogue” program in a virtual conversation with David Gill, Consul General of Germany in New York, which recognized October 6 as German American Friendship Day. Ralf Wiedemann, Philadelphia’s Honorary Consul of Germany and a CCAP Member, formally introduced CG Gill who commented on a variety of subjects, many inevitably related to the pandemic. The Consul General also shared his fond memories of law studies at the University of Pennsylvania and remarked on his role in the German unification process. The central theme of the session was, of course, the strong relationship between our two countries.

 

Video Link 

 

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September 22, 2020

CCAP’s First Virtual Quarterly Members Meeting & Reception Draws Record Turnout

 

In response to COVID-related restrictions, the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) hosted its Quarterly Members Meeting & Reception on a virtual basis. Turnout for this unique experience was robust and the discourse was lively as the usual business was covered in an efficient manner. While membership growth has been predictably limited by the pandemic, the schedule of virtual events has been dynamic and the association’s financial condition remains solid. The Members Meeting was followed by a Zoom Reception which featured speakers Dr. William Pinsky and Dr. Jeanette Mladenovic who described the certification and research activities of CCAP Associate Member – Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) and related institutions.

 

Link to Reception Video

 

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September 21, 2020

Obituary: Charles E. Mather III, Former Honorary Consul of Great Britain, dies at 86

Link to Obituary

 

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September 17, 2020

Nicaragua Celebrates National Day – Pandemic Style

 

Philadelphia’s Honorary Consulate of Nicaragua hosted a celebration of the country’s national holiday in a ceremony consistent with COVID 19 guidelines. Eli Gabay, Honorary Consul, provided comments and graciously received a Mayoral Proclamation from Sheila Hess, City Representative, for an audience of community members.

 

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September 15, 2020

PHL CEO Cameron Informs “Diplomacy & Dialogue”

 

“Diplomacy & Dialogue”, the regular Zoom-based program co-hosted by the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI), shared an informative conversation with Chellie Cameron, CEO of the Philadelphia International Airport, with an engaged virtual audience. PHL is, of course, one of our region’s traditional economic drivers, serving over 33 million passengers in 2019, including many international travelers. As we are all aware, however, the pandemic has caused dramatic declines in all travel, as total airport traffic declined by over 90% in April, 2020. While these numbers have improved notably since then and PHL will clearly benefit from the recent elimination of the “funneling airport” designation, Cameron believes that meaningful recovery may not occur until well into 2021. PHL is an active CCAP Associate Member.

 

Link to Video 

 

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September 9, 2020

PHL Leads Successful Initiative to Reopen Transatlantic Flights

 

The Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) led an aggressive lobbying campaign to reopen transatlantic flights again after a six month interruption of European service from Philadelphia. With support from the region’s international community, petitions were circulated, officials were contacted and, as a result, federal authorities have removed the restrictive designations which had excluded PHL from this important activity. Flights to European cities will commence shortly with major benefits to the airport and to the Greater Philadelphia market.

 

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August 28, 2020

Brahim Chennouf Returns to New York as Algeria’s CG

 

Effective August 5, 2020, Brahim Chennouf was appointed Algeria’s Consul General in New York, replacing Sabria Boukadoum. By way of background, Mr. Chennouf joined his country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1985, following his graduation from the University of Algiers. Since then, he has held a number of positions in both the Ministry and abroad, including a past posting at the Consulate General in New York. Algeria’s New York CG is responsible for Pennsylvania and has been an active Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP).

 

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August 19, 2020

CCAP Welcomes Randhir Jaiswal, India’s New CG in New York

 

The Consulate General of India in New York recently announced the appointment of Randhir Jaiswal as Consul General in that office. CG Jaiswal is a career diplomat with over 20 years of experience, including other overseas postings in Portugal, Cuba and South Africa. He has also held important positions at the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi and served as Joint Secretary to the President of India, managing his international portfolio. Rhandir’s wife, Dr. Abha Jaiswal, is a public health expert and they have two daughters.

 

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August 11, 2020

AA’s Moses Comments on PHL Prospects for International Travel

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted its regular “Diplomacy & Dialogue” program in a virtual conversation with Jim Moses, American Airlines’ Vice President of Hub Operations at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). Moses provided an overview of the airline industry’s difficulties with the COVID pandemic and focused on AA’s own dramatic decline in passenger volume. A resumption of international flights can hopefully be addressed by PHL’s designation as a “funneling airport” and Moses is optimistic that activity will resume in 2021 when the overall economy recovers. American Airlines is a CCAP Associate Member.

 

Link to Video

 

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July 30, 2020

OCSP Hosts Conversation with HC Franklin and Author Bell

 

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July 29, 2020

BMT Panel Informs CCAP Audience

 

Executives of Bryn Mawr Trust provided an informative presentation titled “The Difference Planning Can Make” to a virtual audience of CCAP members. The panel described BMT’s overview on banking and lending opportunities, financial planning in unprecedented times and international trade in Philadelphia. Bryn Mawr Trust is a CCAP Associate Member.

 

Link to Video

 

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July 26, 2020

Jamaica HC Chaplin Leads Alpha Capital Campaign

 

Alpha Music Institute (Alpha) has launched its campaign to raise funding for its music program that assists young at-risk boys in Jamaica. The campaign is supported by the Jamaica Social Stock Exchange (JSSE) and will culminate with Alpha’s listing on the exchange. Jamaica’s consulates in New York and Philadelphia are important partners to this initiative and Chris Chaplin, HC of Jamaica in Philadelphia, chairs the effort.

 

Link to Complete Article

 

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July 23, 2020

Lithuania Delivers Medical Equipment to PA

 

By way of follow-up to the CCAP website News article dated May 20, 2020, protective equipment manufactured in Lithuania for medical workers in Pennsylvania valued at EUR 100,00 arrived in Philadelphia today. This humanitarian aid is another example of the long standing partnership between the governments of Lithuania and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. As always, HCG Bard provided important leadership to this project.

 

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July 21, 2020

D&D Conversation with Canada CG in New York

 

“Diplomacy & Dialogue”, the virtual program co-hosted by the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI), engaged Khawar Nasim, Acting Consul General of Canada in New York, in a lively conversation which ranged from pandemic policy to trade agreements. Canada’s conservative approach to coronavirus containment is evidenced by the remote management of the New York office and Mr. Nasim’s emphasis on his country’s commitment to free trade. Joshua Dillard is Canada’s Trade Commissioner in Philadelphia and an active CCAP Member.

 

Link to Video

 

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July 6, 2020

French Ambassador Etienne Meets Philadelphia During Pandemic

 

Michael Scullin, Honorary Consul of France, introduced His Excellency Philippe Etienne, France’s recently appointed Ambassador to the United States, to Philadelphia in a visit which was inevitably impacted by the pandemic. While Ambassador Etienne presented his credentials to Mayor Jim Kenney in a virtual ceremony, he met in person with other appropriately masked and socially distanced officials and enjoyed a walking tour of the historic district. Francois Penguilly, Consul General of France in Washington, D.C., also attended the day’s activities.

 

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June 25, 2020

HC Franklin Leads CCAP Discussion Group on Racism in America and the Recent Protest Movement

 

In response to civil unrest in Philadelphia and throughout the U.S., Oliver St. Clair Franklin, Honorary Consul of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, led a group of CCAP consular members in a discussion titled “Conversation on Racial Equality and the Present Moment”. HC Franklin opened the session with comments on racial injustice throughout U.S. history and optimistic remarks regarding the broad-based participation in recent demonstrations. The audience then actively engaged in a conversation which considered many of the related issues.

 

Link to Video

 

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June 24, 2020

Jamaica HC Chaplin Speaks at Foreign Service Institute

 

Jamaica’s Honorary Consul in Philadelphia, Christopher Chaplin, spoke on a virtual panel titled “Contemporary Caribbean Challenges & Emerging Solutions”, as part of the U.S. State Department’s Foreign Service Institute Caribbean Area Seminar. HC Chaplin joined other United States diplomats working on Caribbean regional issues and focused his presentation on post-independence economic and business trends in Jamaica, including recent impacts of COVID-19.

 

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June 23, 2020

CCAP/CDI Co-Host Conversation with PIM CEO

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted a conversation with Edgar Vesga-Arias, Executive Director and CEO of Philadelphia International Medicine (PIM), on their weekly “Diplomacy & Dialogue” virtual event. PIM is an international marketing arm for several Philadelphia-based health care systems, including Jefferson and Temple. Vesga-Arias provided an overview of PIM activities which coordinate with Philadelphia’s many health care, academic, tourist and economic development institutions. PIM, Jefferson and Temple are CCAP Associate Members.

 

Link to Video

 

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June 11, 2020

CCAP Hosts Webinar on Immigration & Taxation During Pandemic

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia hosted a virtual webinar with Associate Member panelists from Green & Spiegel and Drucker & Scaccetti commenting on the special demands and necessary adjustments created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

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June 10, 2020

CG Athanasopulos Organizes Repatriation Trips to Panama

 

Georgia Athanasopulos, Consul General of Panama in Philadelphia, has played an integral role in a program to repatriate over 700 Panamanian citizens stranded in the U.S. by coronavirus-based restrictions on travel. In cooperation with Panama’s Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Health, HC Athanasopulos has partnered with consular counterparts in New York and Washington, D.C. and her Embassy to successfully organize three different flights to her country. The most recent was on June 10 when COPA Airlines transported a group of 157 Panamanians from Dulles international Airport.

 

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June 9, 2020

CCAP/CDI Host Virtual Conversation with Jerry Sorkin, HC of Tunisia

 

Link to Video

 

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June 7, 2020

Obituary: Yolanda Hartnett, Former HC of Costa Rica

 

The Honorable Yolanda Marin-Sanchez Hartnett passed away at her home in Toms River, New Jersey on June 7. Born in Costa Rica, Yolanda was a cousin of Oscar Arias, President of her country and Nobel Prize winner. After she moved to the Philadelphia area and married, she was appointed Honorary Consul of Costa Rica and was a long-time Member of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia where she was elected to the Executive Committee. Yolanda was predeceased by her husband Alexander and their daughter Florence. She is survived by her sons Alex, Jr., and George and their families. Her former CCAP colleagues and friends send sincerest condolences.

 

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May 26, 2020

Conversation with PIDC President Nevins

 

Anne Bovaird Nevins, President of PIDC, was this week’s special guest on the “Dialogue & Diplomacy” program regularly co-hosted by the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI). PIDC is, of course, Philadelphia’s economic development corporation and Anne provided an overview of its standard activities to a robust virtual audience. She also described in detail PIDC’s programmatic enhancements to address the special demands of the COVID-19 pandemic, e.g. Small Business Relief Fund. Finally, she expanded on PIDC’s role in planning and implementing a Regional Economic Recovery Plan.

 

Link to Full Video

 

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May 21, 2020

CCAP/CDI Co-Host Conversation with Israel’s CG Dayan

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) and Citizen Diplomacy International (CDI) co-hosted its weekly “Diplomacy and Dialogue” series with special guest Ambassador Dani Dayan, Consul General of Israel in New York. The conversation included reports on COVID-19’s impact on the Consulate General’s activities and an overview of Israel’s status in addressing the pandemic. Since Ambassador Dayan’s U.S. posting will end shortly, he was thanked for his dynamic engagement with his Philadelphia friends and constituents.

 

Link to Full Video

 

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May 20, 2020

Lithuania Supports U.S. in Fight Against Pandemic

 

Link to Article

 

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May 17, 2020

Norwegian Constitution Day

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May 14, 2020

CDI Features Swiss Perspective

 

Link to Full Video

 

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May 12, 2020

CCAP/CDI Co-Host Virtual Conversation with Italy’s CG Forlano

 

Link to Full Video

 

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May 6, 2020

Mexican Consul Obrador Reviews COVID-19 Challenges with CCAP/CDI Virtual Audience 

 

Link to full video

 

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April 29, 2020

Diplomatic Security Team Hosts Virtual Meeting with CCAP

 

Brian Leventhal, Philadelphia Police Department Officer, Dignitary Protection Section, Counter Terrorism Unit, and Brenden Hobson, Special Agent, U.S. Department of State, hosted a “Zoom” meeting for CCAP Members. This well attended virtual event opened with comments by the two officers regarding the special security challenges created by the coronavirus pandemic and included a lively Q & A session. CCAP is fortunate to have such accessible, responsive friends in Philadelphia’s international law enforcement community.

 

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April 15, 2020

CCAP Issues Certificates of Membership

 

The Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia (CCAP) will be issuing Certificates of Membership to all dues-paying members, on an annual basis. This formal recognition of association status is the “brain child” of Eli Gabay, HC of Nicaragua, and the product of design input by Susan Satkowski, HC of Norway and Secretary of the CCAP Executive Committee, and Krista Bard, Honorary Consul General of Lithuania.

 

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April 12, 2020

Happy Easter

 

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April 10, 2020

Customers Bank Drives PPP Applications

 

The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is a centerpiece of Congress’ Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, signed into law on March 27. Since then, Customers Bank, a CCAP Associate Member and active regional bank, has received 500 PPP applications, over half of which have been processed for submittal to the Small Business Administration. For details see LINK.

 

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April 8, 2020

Philly Shipyard Wins Major Training Ships Contract

 

Steinar Nerbovik, President and CEO of Philly Shipyard, Inc., a CCAP Associate Member, announced his company’s contract to construct up to five National Security Multi-Mission Vessels (NSMV) at a maximum value of USD1.5 billion. The initial order will include two vessels with deliveries in the Spring and Winter of 2023. The link “Philly Shipyard Wins Major Training Ships Contract” provides a detailed description of the transaction.

 

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March 14, 2020

Uruguayan Olympian Trains with Other Elite Runners in Philadelphia

 

Deborah Rodriguez has been voted Uruguay’s Athlete of the Year and has represented her country in the 800 meter running event at the 2012 (London) and 2016 (Rio) Olympic Games. She has been in Philadelphia for several months training with other elite runners from the U.S.  and England, under the tutelage of Coach Derek Thompson. In fact, the group includes several of the world’s best performers who have worked closely with Thompson throughout their careers. Obviously, uncertainty related to coronavirus has disrupted their training and Olympic scheduling expectations.

 

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