FICAC President, Arnold Foote, honoured at the House of Lords.
FICAC (the World Federation of Consuls) agreed a statement of understanding with education charity CVQO at the House of Lords in London, during a meeting hosted by CVQO Chairman Lord Lingfield.
The statement between the two organisations formalised an agreement to identify opportunities in the territories represented by the members of FICAC to improve the lives of young people in those regions.
To commemorate the occasion, FICAC President Arnold Foote was presented with a medal by Lord Lingfield, who said: “President Foote has been keen to make education an important part of the work of FICAC and it is his enthusiasm to make this happen that has resulted in the signing of a statement of understanding between FICAC and CVQO.
“It is President Foote’s leadership, innovative thinking, determination and willingness to find new ways of improving the lives of young people that has made this partnership possible and I am confident it will be an incredibly positive lasting legacy of his outstanding time as President of FICIC.”
President Foote said: “It is a real privilege to be here in the historic and exclusive setting at the House of Lords. I am indebted to Lord Lingfield for so very generously hosting our meeting and allowing us to experience this wonderful building.
“Through vocational education, CVQO helps improve the lives of young people and, as a result, improves prospects for local communities and businesses alike.
“It’s a pleasure to be associated with CVQO and to see the truly remarkable work that the charity undertakes. I am sure there are opportunities in other territories, such as some of those represented by our members.”
“President Foote has been keen to make education an important part of the work of FICAC and it is his enthusiasm to make this happen that has resulted in the signing of a statement of understanding between FICAC and CVQO. Thanks to President Foote’s vision we have a hope that the lives of thousands of young people around the world can be improved, giving for the first time some real hope to young people in countries all around the world.
“It is President Foote’s leadership, innovative thinking, determination and willingness to find new ways of improving the lives of young people that has made this a partnership possible and I am confident it will be an incredibly positive lasting legacy of his outstanding time as President of FICAC. I would therefore like to award him the Sir Robert Balchin Medal in recognition not only for all that he has achieved with you but for his enthusiasm and support for education; his desire to create a practical response to the challenges of young people; his vision in setting up this very strong link with CVQO; and for all the positive things that he represents. President Foote I salute you. This medal is a personal one form my family and goes back to the seventeenth century and my ancestors. It is awarded on rare occasions to those who have made a real difference. President Foote you are such a man – thank you.”
