Consular Corps of British Columbia Gathers in Victoria

Members of the Consular Corps of British Columbia were welcomed in Victoria, beginning with a luncheon at Government House hosted by BC Minister of Forests and Minister Responsible for the Consular Corps, Bruce Ralston, together with Her Honour the Hon. Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia.

The Corps then proceeded to the Legislative Assembly Building, where they observed Question Period and had the opportunity to be photographed at the Legislative Library Rotunda with the Premier of British Columbia, David Eby. Later, Premier Eby hosted a formal reception for the Consular Corps, providing an opportunity for direct dialogue on issues of common interest, strengthening cooperation between British Columbia and the countries represented, and exchanging views on advancing economic, cultural, and institutional ties.

Briefings followed at the Ned DeBeck Lounge, delivered by Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation Brenda Bailey, Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon, and Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation Murray Rankin. The day concluded with remarks by Consul General Berenice Diaz Ceballos of Mexico, Dean of the Consular Corps of British Columbia.

Among those in attendance was the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Serbia in Vancouver, Peter Vladiković, who, on behalf of the Republic of Serbia, met with Premier Eby and with representatives of the diplomatic and consular corps from across the province. Such gatherings traditionally form an important part of the province's diplomatic protocol and help foster friendly relations between the government of British Columbia and representatives of foreign states. Honorary Consul Vladiković's attendance once again affirmed his ongoing commitment to strengthening the Republic of Serbia's visibility in British Columbia, as well as his dedication to advancing relations between Serbia and Canada at every level.