2024, September 13
NU now#NUgoesGLOBAL#NUnews
Memorandum of Cooperation with the World Federation of Consuls (FICAC)
2024, September 13
Share this articleNU and the World Federation of Consuls (FICAC) have strengthened their partnership by signing a memorandum of understanding and cooperation during the Eurasian Congress of Honorary Consuls.
The signing, which took place on the second day of the congress, marks a significant step in enhancing educational and cultural connections between the two organizations. The formal signing ceremony was attended by FICAC President Nikolaos Margaropoulos, Acting President of NU Ilesanmi Adesida, and Chairman of the Board of the “Society of Honorary Consuls” Denis Van den Weghe.
The President of the World Federation of Consuls emphasized the importance of the agreement: “It is a commitment to working together across borders, embracing differences, and finding common ground in our shared goals. This isn't just about connecting FICAC with NU. It's about bringing together our cultures, values, and aspirations. Education helps us see the world through different eyes, to appreciate the richness of our cultures, and to contribute in meaningful ways to our global community.”
Ilesanmi Adesida, in turn, highlighted NU’s achievements, noting that the university hosts students and staff from 60 countries. “Our educational programs, including the Department of Political Science and International Relations and the Graduate School of Public Policy, are designed to prepare students for diplomatic careers,” he added.
Denis Van den Weghe expressed confidence that the new partnership will yield significant results: “As honorary consuls, you play a pivotal role in fostering international relations and promoting cultural exchange. Your support and advocacy for educational initiatives help build bridge gaps between nations and enhance mutual understanding. By working together, we can create opportunities for students from different backgrounds to study, collaborate, and grow”.
Following the signing of the memorandum, a roundtable discussion titled “The Diplomacy of Knowledge – The Role of International Higher Education in the New Geopolitical Era” was held, featuring professors from NU and honorary consuls from various countries.
The Eurasian Congress of Honorary Consuls, running from September 11 to 15 in Astana, addresses current issues in diplomatic practice. The event is organized by the World Federation of Consuls (FICAC), the Society of Honorary Consuls, and is supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, the Akimat of Astana, and Kazakh Invest.
