FICAC South Asia Regional Conference 2026: Strengthening Consular Diplomacy in Colombo

The FICAC South Asia Regional Conference recently convened in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 1 to 4 February 2026. The event brought together distinguished members of the global diplomatic and consular community for four days of high-level dialogue, institutional reflection, and intercultural engagement.

Organized by the Association of Consuls in Sri Lanka in partnership with the International Federation of Consular Corps and Associations (FICAC) and hosted at the Cinnamon Life — City of Dreams, the conference served as a strategic platform for strengthening cooperation across South Asia and beyond.

PRESS RELEASE HERE.

Cultural Welcome and Informal Diplomacy

The conference commenced on 1 February with a focus on informal diplomacy. Foreign delegates were honored to witness the Navam Perahera at Gangaramaya Temple—Sri Lanka’s most vibrant cultural procession—offering participants a profound immersion into the island’s spiritual heritage.

The day concluded with an authentic Sri Lankan dinner at Nuga Gama, reinforcing the role of culture as a cornerstone of diplomatic understanding.

Official Opening and High-Level Addresses

The official proceedings began on 2 February with ceremonial protocol and the traditional Oil Lamp Lighting Ceremony.

• Hon. Dr. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the vital role of consular cooperation in addressing global challenges.
• Hon. Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive development and sustainable reform as the Chief Guest.
• Hon. Nikolaos K. Margaropoulos (FICAC President) and Hon. Mahen Kariyawasan (President of the Association of Consuls in Sri Lanka) underscored the conference as a venue for capacity-building and global partnership.

Strategic Dialogues and Partnerships

A key moment was the presentation by VFS Global, illustrating how technology solutions—including generative artificial intelligence—are expanding the effectiveness of consular and visa operations worldwide.

2nd Green Diplomacy Forum

Moderated by Hon. Gönül Oray Eken and Hon. Dr. Aykut Eken, speakers explored climate diplomacy and the strategic role of consular actors in navigating global polycrises, reaffirming FICAC’s leadership in environmental responsibility.

Economic Vision and Training

On 3 February, Sri Lankan policymakers delivered presentations on the national economic outlook, positioning the country as a dynamic gateway to South Asian markets. In parallel, the FICAC Training Program, moderated by Vice-President Hon. Asif Chowdhury, provided a framework for ethical responsibilities and cultural diplomacy.

National Significance and Conclusion

The conference concluded on 4 February with delegates participating in Sri Lanka’s 78th National Independence Day Celebrations at Independence Square. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake addressed the nation, highlighting progress, national unity, and the importance of international cooperation.

Presidential Report: Strategic Vision

President Hon. Nikolaos K. Margaropoulos articulated a comprehensive vision for the Federation’s future based on four pillars:

1. Global Engagement: Strengthening influence in economic diplomacy and trade facilitation.
2. Capacity Building: Institutional excellence through the Executive Diploma in Consular Practice.
3. Innovation: Modernizing functions through private-sector partnerships.
4. Sustainability: Championing global environmental stability.

“Collectively, these strategic pillars chart a course for FICAC that is at once global in reach and deeply rooted in regional engagement—uniting diverse constituencies in a shared pursuit of cooperation, peace, and mutual prosperity.”