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Writer's picturePARLIAMENT NEWS

Annual Diplomatic Soiree: An Unforgettable Evening at the House of Lords

Updated: Jul 19, 2023

by Rebeca Riofrio

Annual Diplomatic Soiree: An Unforgettable Evening at the House of Lords
Annual Diplomatic Soiree: An Unforgettable Evening at the House of Lords 17.07.2023

The enchanting halls of the House of Lords were adorned with elegance and prestige as distinguished guests gathered for the annual diplomatic evening organized by the CFCC (Commonwealth Foreign and Commonwealth Council). Hosted by the esteemed Lord Howell of Guildford, this remarkable event left an indelible mark on the attendees' hearts and minds.



Lord Marland is chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council.

Lord Howell of Guildford

The evening was graced by the esteemed presence of Lord Marland, the Chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, who delivered an eloquent speech that resonated with the gathering. Baroness Neville-Jones, Chairman, along with Lord Taylor of Holbeach and Baroness Nicholson of Winterbourne, added their voices to emphasize the significance and strength of the Commonwealth. With each address, a palpable sense of unity and shared purpose filled the air.


Chief Executive Office at HVA Miltiadis Gkouzouris and Business Attache for the Republic of Iraq

Melissa Crawshay-Williams, the event's meticulous organizer, ensured that every detail was flawlessly executed. The occasion was further elevated by the co-hosting of Mohamed Amersi, the visionary founder and chairman of Inclusive Ventures. Their combined efforts created an atmosphere of sophistication and camaraderie that permeated every corner of the venue.


Director of Techtadd Elvijs Plugis and a member of the CFCC

The event boasted a star-studded guest list, with influential business personalities and over 40 esteemed ambassadors in attendance. Among the dignitaries were the High Commissioners for Kenya and Barbados, and the Ambassadors of Honduras, Hungary, Lebanon, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. The distinguished gathering also included the High Commissioners for Rwanda, Uganda, and Namibia, and the Ambassadors of Switzerland, Chile, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Jordan, Romania, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Kyrgyz Republic, Palestinian Mission, Serbia, and Morocco. Additionally, the High Commissioners for Belize, Gambia, Lesotho, and Maldives, and the Ambassadors of Spain, Luxembourg, Afghanistan, Bolivia, El Salvador, Paraguay, Peru, Nicaragua, Iran, Zimbabwe, Angola, and Guinea graced the event with their presence. The Diplomatic Corps was well-represented, further adding to the international flair of the soirée.


Rebeca Riofrio Chairwoman for the Parliamentary Society for Arts & Fashion and Romanian Ambassador Laura Popescu

As the night unfolded, conversations flowed like fine wine, fostering new connections, and strengthening existing bonds. The exchange of ideas, perspectives, and cultural experiences created an ambiance of intellectual stimulation and mutual respect.


Ambassador of Philippines to UK Teodoro Locsin Jr. and a member of the CFCC

The fantastic event at the House of Lords stands as a testament to the power of diplomacy and collaboration. It served as a platform for fostering meaningful relationships, exploring common interests, and building bridges across nations.


Zimbabwean Head of Mission and Sharon Kaur Jandu OBE


With hearts filled with gratitude and memories that will endure, the attendees bid adieu to a night of enchantment and camaraderie. The echoes of this exceptional gathering will linger, serving as a reminder of the importance of international cooperation and the limitless possibilities that arise when diverse voices come together.


As the final notes of the evening's festivities faded away, the House of Lords stood as a testament to the enduring spirit of diplomacy, forging a path towards a brighter, more interconnected future.


In the words of Winston Churchill, "Diplomacy is the art of telling people to go to hell in such a way that they ask for directions." And indeed, this extraordinary gathering demonstrated the art of diplomacy at its finest, leaving a lasting impression on all fortunate enough to be part of this remarkable occasion.


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