Message from the President of F.I.C.A.C. aisbl
Arnold Foote

Dear Honourable Colleagues
 
On behalf of the Board of Directors of the World Federation of Consuls,
It is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to you to the upcoming 9th World Congress of Consuls (WCC) to be held in Izmir, Turkey from 14th to 18th November 2009.

This World Congress promises to be our most exciting and largest to date. We sincerely hope that you will be a part of it.

Through FICAC, peoples of the world have come to experience the diversity of culture that characterizes the widely contrasting world in which we live. It has enhanced understanding of the varied social and political nuances of the nations of the world. The Izmir experience will open yet another window into one of the most unique and outstanding among them.

At our November Congress you will experience the warm Turkish welcome; the contrasting beauty of the landscape; the infectious rhythm of Turkish Music, but most importantly, the genuine hospitality of the Turkish people.

Lectures, discussions and debates that characterize our Congress will, I am sure, find easy acceptance in this setting.

I must note with appreciation the full and enthusiastic endorsement of the Government of the Republic of Turkey. We have also been assured of the full support of the Governor, Mayor and the people of Izmir.

I feel sure that you will benefit from and enjoy this Congress.

We, the Board of Directors of the World Federation of Consuls, hope to make it for you a truly and unforgettable experience.

Welcome to Turkey!

Hon. Arnold Foote C.D., J.P.
President of F.I.C.A.C. aisbl
Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Turkey to Jamaica

Message From the Chairman of the Consular Corps of Turkey
Turgut Koyuncuoğlu

Dear Ficac Members,

Where the world seems to be in a worst tumble in Economy all through we will be organizing The  9th FICAC World Congress of Consuls in November 2009 in Izmir, Turkey.

Izmir, which contains some of the world’s most historical places and which is Turkey’s and Middle East’s most Democratically inclined City will be wellcoming WorldWide Honorary Consuls and Consuls.

You will see history, fine living, sunshine and the most democratic and most friendly people.

I wellcome you to our Beautiful City of Izmir and hope you will have the most favorable remembrances when you will leave.

God Bless You All .

Hon. Turgut Koyuncuoğlu
Dean of the Consular Corps of Turkey
Honorary Consul General of India to Izmir

Message from the Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the 9th F.I.C.A.C. World Congress of Consuls
To The Consuls of the World

Dear Honourable Colleagues:

My Government and I are delighted that the 9th FICAC World Congress of Consuls will take place in the historic city of Izmir on November 14-18, 2009. It is with great pleasure that I welcome all of you.

The theme of our congress, “Collaboration for Economic and Social Prosperity” is indeed timely, given the unprecedented challenges that all countries in the world are now facing. We are confronted by the worst economic situations since the great depression, and all countries, rich and poor alike, are facing their most severe socio-economic challenges in almost a century. Tens of millions of the world’s needy are being driven into poverty, and the global commitment to achieve the Millennium Development Goals is in jeopardy. While many countries over the past decade reaped the rewards of globalization, we are now witnessing the globalization of misery and despair.

This is an especially important time for us. With the rise of protectionism and self interest, the current situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity for us Consuls to make a difference. We must ‘walk the talk’ by focusing not only on relations, but also on results.

This meeting provides us with the opportunity to lay the foundation to enhance our efforts. Thanks to the leadership of our President, The Honorable Arnold Foote our membership and regional activities have increased. Building on these efforts, this meeting provides us with the opportunity to meet and exchange views, not simply about our roles as Consuls, but more importantly about using our roles for achieving real results to end global poverty and despair.

I warmly welcome you all to Turkey.

Aykut Eken
Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the 9th FICAC W.C.C.
Secretary and Treasurer of FICAC aisbl
Hon. Consul General of Jamaica to Turkey