Dear Honorable Colleagues,
The Government of Turkey and I are delighted that the 11th FICAC World Congress of Consuls will take place on November 18-22, 2015, in Istanbul, Turkey. Istanbul, located on two continents, is the country’s economic, cultural and historical center and is a unique crossroads between east and west.
The theme of our conference “BRIDGING THE WORLD” appropriately reflects the global imperative to overcome the unprecedented political, social and economic challenges that all countries in the world, now face.
Finding mechanisms to improve dialogue, economic opportunity, global equity, and human rights is only a first step towards assuring a better future for the world’s seven billion people. Improving and better disseminating knowledge to cope with our current global challenges are necessary concomitants for dealing with key issues such as poverty, growth, unemployment, health, education, social protection, human and women’s rights, climate change, immigration, and peace.
We, Honorary Consuls can contribute to building global solidarity and prosperity by working for the achievement of friendship and more equal rights, by fighting against racism and polarization, by using our influence to assist the international community in its efforts to promote higher levels of global peace, stability, and equality.
FICAC performs a key role in promoting international cooperation by fostering mutual understanding though the organization of meetings and events that provide Consuls from all around the world with the knowledge and global practices to influence their constituencies for the betterment of mankind.
Thanks to the leadership of our president, The Honorable Dr. Arnold Foote FICAC has not only increased significantly the number of its members, but has also organized successful Regional Conferences and events on all the continents. As we move forward, it is incumbent upon us to focus on impact.
I hope the 11th World Congress of Consuls will be a success and a step forward in promoting FICACs impact on fostering global social and economic cooperation and development.
WELCOME TO ISTANBUL!
WELCOME TO TURKEY!
Aykut Eken
Honorary Consul General of Jamaica
Secretary General & Treasurer of FICAC
Co-chairman of the Organizing Committee in Istanbul
