Back to the Table of Contents

Embassy Receptions

The Embassy of Mexico hosted nearly 40 guests at the historical Mexican Cultural Institute. After a brief introduction from F. Javier Diaz, Head of Section, Regional and Hispanic Affairs, participants were treated to a tour of the impressive artwork and given historical highlights of Mexican history and its relation to the United States. Scrumptious empanadas and fresh guacamole were among the traditional delicacies enjoyed.
—Jason Yarashes

The Ambassador of Germany, Klaus Scharioth, graciously

hosted NCIV National Meeting participants at his residence for a special evening of socializing and networking. Ambassador Scharioth expressed his gratitude to NCIV and its member organizations that have hosted nearly 4,800 German participants on the IVLP since 1958, noting that three former IVs went on to become Presidents of Germany and four alumni have served as German Chancellor. National Meeting participants shared stories of visitors they had hosted from Germany and enjoyed the panoramic view of Washington from the building's hilltop terrace.

—Mark Rebstock

For the second year, the Embassy of the Philippines offered hospitality to NCIV National Meeting participants. Carlos Sorreta, Deputy Chief of Mission, and Enrico Fos, Second Secretary and Consul, were gracious hosts for 30 guests. After a cordial welcome, Mr. Sorreta presented a short film about the Philippines that highlighted cultural diversity, natural beauty, and Filipino culture. The atmosphere of the reception was casual and inviting, and offered an excellent opportunity for participants to engage in discussions with embassy staff.—Leah Tomlins

Deputy Chief of Mission Miriam Teresa Mozgan hosted 25 guests at the recently renovated Embassy of Slovenia. Guests were treated to Slovenian food prepared by two gourmet chefs and enjoyed an exhibition by contemporary Slovenian artists. The new embassy has been quite useful for hosting delegations while Slovenia holds the EU presidency. Along with a gift presented by NCIV, Ms. Mozgan was presented with a “visa” to Texas by the North Texas Council for International Visitors.—Adam Kaplan


The reception at the Embassy of the State of Qatar was as warm as the country’s climate. We were treated to a wonderful video presentation about Qatar, which set the stage for a delicious dinner. Ambassador Kenton Keith presented the official NCIV gift of appreciation to our Qatari host. Then, Neal Morris, Vice President of the Board of the New Orleans Citizen Diplomacy Council, presented a plaque to thank the Emir of Qatar for his financial support to the City of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. Mohamed Kabir, a Moroccan-born American citizen who works as economic advisor to the Ambassador, engaged each guest in stimulating conversation – challenging CIV and NPA representatives to think of ways to create a world-wide cadre of citizen diplomats. —Jennifer Strauss

At the Embassy of Bahrain, His Excellency Naser Al Belooshi welcomed nearly 50 National Meeting participants. A delicious dinner, featuring authentic cuisine, was served and thoroughly enjoyed by all. Afterwards, the Ambassador gave his remarks on the importance of international understanding, and was presented with a book and an NCIV Gold Star by Jerrold Keilson, NCIV board member. A short film highlighting Bahrain and its past and future was shown. It was a memorable night for all as they enjoyed not only warm hospitality but the chance to learn more about Bahrain. —Deborah Whang

The Ambassador of Azerbaijan, His Excellency Yashar Aliyev, and the Azerbaijani embassy staff warmly greeted about 20 guests with friendly introductions and drinks. They provided an excellent buffet of traditional food and there was ample time for guests and embassy staff members to learn about one another's backgrounds and interests. The Ambassador also presented the guests with sleek desk planners with information about Azerbaijan and a calendar with months named in Azerbaijani. —Kaifi Jamil

At the residence of Ambassador Sir Nigel Sheinwald of the

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland nearly 40 NCIV network members were greeted by the Ambassador and his wife. The highlight of the evening came when Ambassador Sheinwald thanked NCIV for their support in promoting excellence in citizen diplomacy. NCIV Board Chair Larry Chastang, NCIV Board Member Jim Stockton, and Brad Minnick, Director of the U.S. Department of State’s Office of International Visitors were on hand to present the ambassador with the coveted NCIV Gold Star. The residence was elegant, the hors d'oeuvres were excellent, and the hosts (including the ambassadors dog) couldn’t have been more welcoming.

—Matt Kinshella

His Excellency Pierre Vimont, French Ambassador to the United States, welcomed nearly 50 persons to his residence for an evening of champagne, wine, and traditional hors d'oeuvres, including almond and chocolate macaroons. Ambassador Vimont was hosting a group of NCIV conference participants for the first time, and he spoke softly yet passionately about the enduring friendship between France and the United States and his belief in the importance of the work of all citizen diplomats. The Ambassador spent the remainder of the evening speaking with participants in small groups, while all guests were free to enjoy the food, cocktails, and beautiful decor of the residence.
—Mark Overmann

The embassy reception hosted by the Kingdom of Morocco was held at Ambassador Aziz Mekouar’s residence in Bethesda, Maryland. Though the Ambassador needed to attend to business unexpectedly, we were warmly welcomed by Ambassador Mekouar’s Moroccan colleagues from the Embassy. As usual, Moroccan hospitality was outstanding and the Moroccan chefs outdid themselves with a three-course sit-down dinner for all guests, featuring exquisite and authentic Moroccan cuisine. —Carol Engebretson Byrne

Back to the Table of Contents