Modern Diplomacy - Your Complete Guide to Embassy Row - October 2015

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German Ambassador Peter Wittig and Huberta von Voss-Wittig

MODERN DIPLOMACY Your complete Guide to Embassy Row

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he beautiful embassies that line Massachusetts Avenue and its environs make that area of Washington a real-life (yet much more cerebral) Epcot Center. Inside their sometimes fortress-like buildings, ambassadors and representatives of nations around the globe are forging ties with Washington lawmakers and their international colleagues to help bring solutions to some of the biggest issues that face our world today.Yet, these diplomats are also adding to our city’s culture by inviting us to events at their embassies, and inversely, taking in our culture and contributing to the local economy by supporting museums, sponsoring exhibits and dining at our restaurants. They support our philanthropic causes on a large scale, hosting balls, donating time and

AFGHANISTAN AMBASSADOR: Dr.

Hamdullah Mohib Lael Mohib EMBASSY: 2341 Wyoming Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-483-6410 RESIDENCE: 3208 Cleveland Ave. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

AFRICAN UNION MISSION CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES : Tarek

Ben Youssef

EMBASSY: 1640

Wisconsin Ave. NW, 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-293-8006

ALBANIA AMBASSADOR: Floreta

Faber Edmond Faber EMBASSY: 2100 Street, NW DC 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-223-4942 SPOUSE:

ALGERIA AMBASSADOR: Madjid

Bouguerra Bouguerra EMBASSY: 2118 Kalorama Rd. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-265-2800 SPOUSE: Nora

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RESIDENCE: “The Elms,� 4040 52nd St. NW, 20016

ANGOLA

helping to raise funds. Essentially, diplomats are Washingtonians, too, so it seems the only neighborly thing to do is to get to know them better. In the following pages, you’ll not only find a comprehensive listing of ambassadors and embassies, but also profiles of, interviews with and fun facts about envoys posted to Washington.You’ll learn which ambassador is most prolific on Twitter, who likes American football, who commutes to work on a bicycle and who is a big fan of Looney Tunes. We also ask some serious questions about world affairs and profile the Pope’s man in Washington, Papal Nuncio Carlo Maria Viganò. Read on and we guarantee, the next time you’re at an embassy event you’ll be more than ready to make some small talk. >> Hampshire Ave, NW 20009

SPOUSE:

TELEPHONE: 202-238-6400

EMBASSY: 2741

ARMENIA

AMBASSADOR: Agostinho

AMBASSADOR: Tigran

Tavares da Silva Neto SPOUSE: Prudencia De Sousa Carneiro Silva

SPOUSE:

Sargsyan Gohar Sargsyan EMBASSY: 2225 R St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-319-1976

EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE:

16th Street, NW 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-785-1156

AUSTRALIA AMBASSADOR: Kim

Christian Beazley Susanna Annus EMBASSY: 1601 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-797-3000 RESIDENCE: 3120 Cleveland Ave. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA AMBASSADOR: Ronald

Sanders New Mexico Ave, NW 20016 TELEPHONE: 202-362-5122 EMBASSY: 3216

Lala Abdurahimova 34th St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-337-3500 RESIDENCE: 4039 Highwood St. NW, 20007

BAHAMAS AMBASSADOR: Eugene

Glenwood Newry Francoise Jeanne Ma Torchon Newry EMBASSY: 2220 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-319-2660 RESIDENCE: 5100 Warren Pl. NW, 20016 SPOUSE:

BAHRAIN THE ARAB LEAGUE AMBASSADOR: Hussein

Hassouna EMBASSY: 1100 17th Street, NW Suite 602, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-265-3210

ARGENTINA Cecila Nahon Sergio Garcia Gomez EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE: 1660 New

AUSTRIA

AMBASSADOR: Shaikh

AMBASSADOR: Hans

Peter Manz EMBASSY: 3524 International Court NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-895-6700 RESIDENCE: 2419 Wyoming Ave. NW, 20008

AMBASSADOR: Maria SPOUSE:

Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Khalifa SPOUSE: Latifa Mohamed Alkhalifa EMBASSY: 3502 International Dr. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-342-1111 RESIDENCE: 4646 Hawthorne Ln. NW, 20016

AZERBAIJAN AMBASSADOR: Elin

Suleymanov

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DIRECTORY BANGLADESH AMBASSADOR: Mohammad

Ziauddin SPOUSE: Yasmeen Ziauddin EMBASSY: 3510 International Dr. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-244-0183 RESIDENCE: 4 Highboro Court, Bethesda, MD 20817

THE POPE’S MAN IN WASHINGTON Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò BY ROLAND FLAMINI

BARBADOS AMBASSADOR: John

Ernest Beale Leila Mol Beale EMBASSY: 2144 Wyoming Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-939-9200 SPOUSE:

RESIDENCE:

BELARUS Pavel Shidlovsky Irina Shidlovsky, EMBASSY: 1619 New Hampshire Ave. NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-986-1604 RESIDENCE: 12 Farmington Court, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES: SPOUSE:

BELGIUM AMBASSADOR: Johan

Verbeke Catherine Antoine Dubois EMBASSY: 3330 Garfield St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-333-6900 RESIDENCE: 2300 Foxhall Rd. NW, 20007 SPOUSE:

BELIZE AMBASSADOR: Patrick

Andrews Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-332-9636 RESIDENCE: 1686 Chain Bridge Rd., McLean, VA 22101 EMBASSY: 2535

BENIN AMBASSADOR: Omar

Arouna Yolanda Chanterra Richardson EMBASSY: 2124 Kalorama Rd. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-232-6656 RESIDENCE: 2201 Sorrel Ave., Potomac, MD 20854 SPOUSE:

BOLIVIA Gen Freddy Bersatti Tudela SPOUSE: Rosayda Bersatti EMBASSY: 3014 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 2008 TELEPHONE: 202-483-4410 RESIDENCE: 3012 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 CHIEF OF MISSION:

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES: Adnan

Hadrovic E St. NW, 20037 TELEPHONE: 202-337-1500 EMBASSY: 2109

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In robes from L to R: Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, Cardinal Donald Wuerl and Pope Francis. Photo by Tony Powell.

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he diplomat with the key role in organizing Pope Francis’ trip to the United States last month was a senior Vatican churchman who was said to have resisted being sent to Washington in the first place. He is Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, papal nuncio (ambassador) to the United States and at the same time the Vatican’s liaison with the American bishops. As such it was his task to coordinate the pope’s complicated itinerary with the White House, the U.S. Congress, and the American episcopate, and to host the pontiff’s Washington stay at the apostolic nunciature, his official residence on Massachusetts Avenue. A seasoned member of the diplomatic corps of what in international language is called the Holy See, Italian-born, 74-year-old Viganò had previously served in Britain, Iraq and Nigeria, but in 2009 was appointed secretary general of the Vatican Governorate, a department that administers Vatican City and handles much of its operational budget. Viganò introduced a series of structural reforms to eliminate waste and established accountability for cost overruns, which helped turn a $10.5 million deficit into a $44 million surplus in one year. But two years into Viganò’s tenure, Pope Benedict XVI unexpectedly appointed him (in Viganò’s view) as Holy See’s fifth nuncio in Washington since diplomatic relations were re-established, after a long break, in 1984. Letters leaked to the press revealed that he tried to reverse the appointment by writing directly to Pope Benedict XVI.“My transfer at this moment would provoke confusion and discouragement for those who thought it was possible to clean up so many situations of corruption and abuse of office,” he told the pope; and he sent a similar protest to the cardinal secretary of state. The correspondence was published in the Italian papers, but the pope

| O C T O B E R | washingtonlife.com

apparently took no action, and in 2012 Archbishop Viganò came to Washington. In an interview shortly after his arrival Viganò made what appeared to be an attempt to Archibishop Carlo Maria Viganò. Photo courtesy Aplostolic correct the initial Nunciature of the Holy See. impression that he was in Washington under protest. Being nuncio in the U.S, he said, was an “important, vast and delicate” assignment and “a call to know this people, this country, and come to love them.” His open opposition to the Obama administration on such controversial issues as birth control and same sex marriage is unusual for a foreign diplomat but reflects the sometimes conflicting dual nature of his post. He has spoken at Right to Life rallies in support of his other constituency, the American episcopate — including one recent appearance on the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court. Speaking at a conference on religious freedom at Notre Dame University, he called Obamacare “a great threat to the vitality of Catholicism in the United States” because in the eyes of the church hierarchy the program imposes the availability of birth control on Catholic institutions. He has said same sex marriage undermines family values and is “morally unacceptable.” But many who know him say he has a cheerful personality, with a twinkle in his eye and a sense of humor. At the Notre Dame conference, following a rather lengthy introduction by the chairman, he began his speech with the words, “You know more about my life than what I remember myself.”

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special feature | Ambassadors Directory

Residence: 1508 22nd St. North, Arlington, VA 22209

Dr. Hamdullah Mohib, Afghanistan

Tigran Sargsyan, Armenia

Eugene Newry, Bahamas

Floreta Faber, Albania

Elin Suleymanov, Azerbaijan

John Beale, Barbados

BOTSWANA AMBASSADOR: David

John Newman Embassy: 1531-33 New Hampshire Ave. NW, 20036 Telephone: 202-244-4990 Residence: 10001 Bent Cross Dr., Potomac, MD 20854

Elena Petrova, Bulgaria

Omar Arouna, Benin

Jose Luis Fialho Rocha, Cabo Verde

Alberto Figueiredo Machado SPOUSE: Maria Angelica Ikeda Embassy: 3006 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 Telephone: 202-238-2700 Residence: 3000 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM Dk Norhashimah Dg Mohd Hassan Embassy: 3520 International Ct. NW, 20008 Telephone: 202-237-1838 CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES:

Chum Bun Rong, Cambodia Juan Gabriel, Chile

Borislavova Poptodorova Petrova SPOUSE: George Petrov Embassy: 1621 22nd St NW, 20008 Telephone: 202-387-0174 Residence: 3516 Rittenhouse St. NW, 20015

BURKINA FASO Mr.

Seydou Sinka SPOUSE: Benedicte Rosine Sinka Yehouenou Embassy: 2340 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 Telephone: 202-332-5577 Residence: 6338 16th St. NW, 20011

BURMA (MYANMAR) AMBASSADOR: Kyaw

Myo Htut SPOUSE: Khin Myint Kyi Embassy: 2300 S St. NW, 20008 Telephone: 202-332-3344 Residence: 2223 R St. NW, 20008

Cui Tiankai, China

Daouba Diabate, Cote D’Ivoire 48

Juan Carlos Pinzon, Colombia

Nuno Brito, Portugal

Luis Fialho Rocha Dr. Yamile Luque Tamayo Saco Rocha Embassy: 3415 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20007 Telephone: 202-965-6820 Residence: 6509 Kenhill Rd., Bethesda, MD 20817 SPOUSE:

AMBASSADOR: Chum

Bun Rong Embassy: 4530 16th St. NW 20011 Telephone: 202-726-7742 Residence: 4500 16th St. NW, 20011

CAMEROON AMBASSADOR: Bienvenu

Joseph C. Foe-Atangana Veronique Foe Biloa Embassy: 3400 International Dr. NW, 20008 Telephone: 202-265-8790 Residence: 2825 Normanstone Dr. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

CANADA

AMBASSADOR: Elena

CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES:

AMBASSADOR: José

CAMBODIA

BRAZIL AMBASSADOR: Luiz

BULGARIA Johan Verbeke, Belgium

CABO VERDE

BURUNDI AMBASSADOR: Ernest

Ndabashinze SPOUSE: Marie Gloriose Kankindi Embassy: 2233 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Suite 212, 20007 Telephone: 202-342-2574 Residence: 2233 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Suite 212, 20007

AMBASSADOR: Gary

Albert Doer Ginny Devine Embassy: 501 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 20001 Telephone: 202-682-1740 Residence: 2825 Rock Creek Dr. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC AMBASSADOR: Stanislas

Moussa-Kembe Ontario Rd. NW, 20009 Telephone: 202-483-7800 Residence: 1840 Redwood Terrace NW, 20012 Embassy: 2704

Residence: 2305 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008

CHINA AMBASSADOR: Cui

Tiankai Ni Peijun Embassy: 3505 International Pl. NW, 20008 Telephone: 202-495-2266 Residence: 2301 S St. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

COLOMBIA AMBASSADOR: Juan

Carlos Pinzon Bueno SPOUSE: Pilar Lozano Embassy: 2118 Leroy Pl. NW, 20008 Telephone: 202-387-8338 Residence: 1520 20th St. NW, 20036

CONGO, DEM. REPUBLIC OF AMBASSADOR: Francois

Nkuna Balumuene M St. NW, Suite 601, 20036 Telephone: 202-234-7690 Embassy: 1726

CONGO, REPUBLIC OF AMBASSADOR: Serge

Mombouli Stella Corine Mombouli Embassy: 1720 16th St. NW, 20009 Telephone: 202-726-0825 Residence: : 10809 Riverwood Dr., Potomac, MD 20854 SPOUSE:

COSTA RICA AMBASSADOR: Román

Macaya Hayes Thais Gonzalez Carballada Embassy: 2114 S St. NW, 20008 Telephone: 202-499-2991 Residence: 2324 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

COTE D’IVOIRE AMBASSADOR: Daouda

CHAD AMBASSADOR: Hassane

Mahamat Nasser Fariss Anaime Embassy: 2401 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 Telephone: 202-652-1312 Residence: 16833 Harbor Town Dr., Silver Spring, MD 20905 SPOUSE: Ahmat

Diabaté Cecile Diabaté Embassy: 2424 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20007 Telephone: 202-797-0300 Residence: 5111 Broad Branch Rd. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

CROATIA AMBASSADOR: Josip

Paro Jasna Paro Embassy: 2343 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 Telephone: 202-588-5899 Residence: 4871 Glenbrook Rd. NW, 20016 SPOUSE:

CHILE AMBASSADOR: Juan

Gabriel Valdés Soublette SPOUSE: Antonia Echenique Celis Embassy: 1732 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20036 Telephone: 202-785-1746

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| OCTOBER

2015

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BAYAN SAMI ABDUL RAHMAN - Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Representative PHOTO BY TONY POWELL

D

o you feel limited in any way because you are the KRG representative rather than a fully credentialed ambassador to the U.S.? It is to the U.S.’s benefit as well as ours that the Kurdistan Regional Government has a representative and a mission in Washington, D.C. This makes our job easier. There are occasions when the situation is unhelpful, for example, when my government is excluded from anti-ISIL coalition meetings even though Kurdish forces are the tip of the spear against the terrorists and we are sheltering 1.8 million refugees and displaced people. What are your most important diplomatic goals at this time? Our immediate goals are to continue to strengthen the partnership with the United States in the fields of security and humanitarian assistance. Kurdistan has seen a 30 percent increase in its population due to the arrival of refugees and displaced people and both the displaced and host communities need help. Why does Kurdistan wish to achieve independence? Every nation wants to be a

master of its own destiny and the people of Kurdistan are no different. We wish to navigate our own course rather than have our fate tied to the whims of dictators, like Saddam, or Iraqi rulers that control all powers in the center. Kurdistan has proven itself as a stabilizing force in a sea of Middle East turbulence. Describe your career prior to taking up your current post. I worked as a journalist for about 17 years before joining the KRG as its representative to the UK. After 10 years in London, I was posted to Washington at the beginning of this year.. How has your own family’s experience influenced your mission? My father was in the Kurdish leadership and he and my mother devoted their lives to the Kurdish cause. They made many sacrifices. My father and elder brother were killed in a terrorist attack. Their lives and not their deaths, the words and deeds of my parents and brother, are what provide me with inspiration and the determination to persevere, no matter what the obstacle.

@KRG_USA

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CUBA

AMBASSADOR KIM BEAZELY Australia Tell us something people don’t know about you and would be surprised to hear. When I was five I had polio and the knock-on effects of that were pretty difficult to contain, but it has left me very sympathetic to the campaign to end polio globally and it seems to be on the verge of success. What would you like to accomplish in your time in Washington? The two top issues on my agenda are the completion of the TPP trade agreement and Australian participation in the continuing struggle in the Middle East to give decency a chance to prevail in the areas currently controlled by ISIL. What do you like to do in your free time? Visit Civil War battle fields. I recently visited Gettysburg for the ninth time. My hobby is collecting bronze medallions and icons.

EGYPT

AMBASSADOR: Jose

Ramon Cabanas Rodriguez SPOUSE: Edilia González EMBASSY: 2630 16th St. NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-797-8518

CYPRUS AMBASSADOR: Georgios

Chacalli R St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-462-5772 RESIDENCE: 2346 S St. NW, 20008 EMBASSY: 2211

CZECH REPUBLIC AMBASSADOR: Petr

Gandalovic Pavlina Gandalovicova EMBASSY: 3900 Spring of Freedom St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-274-9100 RESIDENCE: 2612 Tilden St. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

DENMARK AMBASSADOR: Lars

Gert Lose

EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE: 3200

Whitehaven St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-234-4300

DJIBOUTI CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRS AD INTERIM: EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE: 1156

15th St., NW, Suite 515, 20005

Tell us something people don’t know about you and would be surprised to hear. I am interested in history and have co-edited a unique book of historical documents. The book is a selected collection of the original copies of treaties and agreements, including the so-called Unequal Treaties signed by China’s late Ch’ing government with foreign countries. When I was the deputy foreign minister four years ago, I had the rare honor to sort and compile them into an album in celebration of the centennial of the Republic of China. What do you like to do in your free time? Read diplomats’ memoirs. Which person, dead or alive, would you like to most have dinner with and why? Julie Andrews or Audrey Hepburn, for their movies “Sound of Music” and “My Fair Lady.”

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Reda Abdalla Ali Said EMBASSY: 3521 International Ct NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-895-5400 RESIDENCE: 2301 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008

EL SALVADOR AMBASSADOR: Francisco

Roberto Altschul Fuentes Melinda Delashmutt Altschul EMBASSY: 1400 16th St, Suite 100, NW, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-595-7500 RESIDENCE: 5171 Macomb St. NW, 20016 SPOUSE:

EQUATORIAL GUINEA Miguel Ntutumu Evuna Andeme SPOUSE: Purificacion Eki Mba Anguesomo EMBASSY: 2020 16th St NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-518-5700 RESIDENCE: 4044 27th St., Arlington, VA 22207 AMBASSADOR:

ERITREA Berhane G. Solomon, First Secretary SPOUSE: Hiwet Sebhatu Tesfazzghi EMBASSY: 1708 New Hampshire Ave NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-319-1991 RESIDENCE: 7127 16th St. NW, 20012 CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES:

Issa Daher Bouraleh

REPRESENTATIVE LYUSHUN SHEN Republic of China (Taiwan)

AMBASSADOR: Yasser

TELEPHONE: 202-331-0270 RESIDENCE: 1010 Sorrel Ave., Potomac, MD 20854

DOMINICA AMBASSADOR: Hubert

John Charles SPOUSE: Sylvia Charles EMBASSY: 3216 New Mexico Ave. NW, 20016 TELEPHONE: 202-364-6781 RESIDENCE: 17639 Charity Lane, Germantown, MD 20874

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AMBASSADOR: Jose

Tomas Perez Vazquez SPOUSE: Caridad De Jesus Santos De Perez EMBASSY: 1715 22nd St NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-332-6280 RESIDENCE: 2930 Edgevale Terrace NW, 20008

ESTONIA AMBASSADOR: Eerik

Marmei Birgit Volmer EMBASSY: 2131 Massachusetts Ave NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-588-0101 RESIDENCE: 3633 Albemarle St. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

ETHIOPIA AMBASSADOR: Girma

Birru Geda Lydia Getaneh Belay EMBASSY: 3506 International Dr NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-363-1200 RESIDENCE: 2209 Wyoming Ave., NW 20008 SPOUSE:

EUROPEAN UNION

ECUADOR AMBASSADOR: Francisco

Jose Borja Cevallos 15th St NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-234-7200 RESIDENCE: 2320 Bancroft St. NW, 20008 EMBASSY: 2535

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David Sullivan Agnes Elizabeth O Hare EMBASSY: 2175 K St. NW, 20037 TELEPHONE: 202-862-9500 RESIDENCE : 2534 Belmont Rd. NW, 20008 Head of delegation: SPOUSE: :

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FIJI Mr. Akuila Kamanalagi Vuira, First Secretary EMBASSY: 2000 M St NW #700, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-466-8320 RESIDENCE: 1435 Carrington Ridge Lane, Vienna, VA 22182 CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES:

FRONTLINE DIPLOMACY Ambassador of Greece Christos Panagopoulos

FINLAND

BY ROLAND FLAMINI

AMBASSADOR: Kirsti

Helena Kauppi EMBASSY: 3301 Massachusetts Abe, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-298-5800 RESIDENCE: 3001 Woodland Dr. NW, 20008

FRANCE AMBASSADOR: Gerard

Roger Araud Reservoir Rd NW, 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-944-6000 RESIDENCE: 2221 Kalorama Rd. NW, 20008 EMBASSY: 4101

GABON AMBASSADOR: Michael

Moussa-Adamo Brigitte Moussa-Adamo EMBASSY: 2034 20th St NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-797-1000 RESIDENCE: 1630 Connecticut Ave. NW, 20009 SPOUSE:

GAMBIA AMBASSADOR: Sheikh

Omar Faye Marie Faye Nee Jobe EMBASSY: 2233 Wisconsin Ave NW, 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-785-1379 RESIDENCE: 1941 Westchester Dr., Silver Spring, MD 20902 SPOUSE:

GEORGIA AMBASSADOR: Archil

Gegeshidze Dea Gadua EMBASSY: 1824 R St NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-387-2390 RESIDENCE: 2807 Chesterfield Place NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

GERMANY AMBASSADOR: Hans

Peter Wittig Huberta von Voss-Wittig EMBASSY: 4645 Reservoir Rd NW, 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-298-4000 RESIDENCE: 1800 Foxhall Rd. NW, 20007 SPOUSE:

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o have 250,000 refugees arrive in our country right in the middle of the worst economic crisis we ever had – you hardly know what to do,” Greek Ambassador Christos Panagopoulos observes. “But the European Union is slow to react to crisis situations, and this takes collective action. We have a national action plan, we are willing to take our quotas: others are not.” After more than two years of dealing with the fallout of his country’s epic debt crisis, in September Panagopoulos, 61, faced a new challenge, but at least this one doesn’t have him on the defensive. “We didn’t create this crisis, and most of the refugees don’t want to remain in Greece,” he says. “The will is there. There are many stories of people going out of their way to help. Faced with this despicable human trafficking you can’t think twice about what you have to do.” Meanwhile, the bigger national problem of Greece’s failing economy has entered a new and perhaps promising phase. The European Union and other lenders have committed $90 billion over three years to meet the country’s immediate debt requirements and at the same time boost the economy: $30 billion will be used to create growth. This, Panagopoulos says, is a significant shift from the European lenders’ insistence – especially the Germans – on an austerity policy as the path to Greece’s survival. “Austerity is an ancient Greek word, and its initial meaning was a very positive one, not to strangle people” he says. “To close hospitals and schools I don’t think is austerity. Some reforms have already taken place. The public sector in Greece has shrunk by a considerable amount.”

To put the Greek perspective of his nation’s fiscal woes the ambassador has spent a good part of his time criss-crossing the country. When interviewed in September he was planning to visit the south, and talking of making his first trip to Alaska to meet the Greek community in that state. The U.S. is a country he already knew well both from both college and two earlier diplomatic appointments. He has a degree from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University; and he had served as consul and then consul-general in Boston from 1983-1989, and later as consul-general in Los Angeles from 1994-1999. Left unsaid most of the time in his meetings is the fact that his official, three-floor residence on Embassy Row is a casualty of the financial crisis. The government can’t afford much needed repair and renovation, and Panagopoulos is living in a rented house elsewhere. He finds that “our American friends understand us better than our European partners in some cases. If you spend some time [explaining] they fully understand what [our] position is.” He credits the Obama administration with trying to make the Greek case in Europe. He just returned from a visit to Greece where he indulged his passion for water polo (he used to be a member of the Greek national water polo team), and reports that record numbers of tourists visited his country this summer, boosting the prospects of economic recovery. One of the toughest challenges has been battling over Greece’s image with the American press. “The American media sees part of their role is to criticize everything,” he says. “But the whole picture has improved a lot.”

GHANA AMBASSADOR: Joseph

Henry Smith Douha Yehia Smith EMBASSY: 3512 International SPOUSE:

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Dr NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-686-4520

NW, Suite 4M, 20008

ITALY

TELEPHONE: 202-966-7702

AMBASSADOR: Claudio

Bisogniero Laura Denise Noce Benigni Olivieri Bisogniero EMBASSY: 3000 Whitehaven St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-612-4400 RESIDENCE: ”Villa Fiirenze” 2800 Albemarle St. NW, 20008

RESIDENCE: 5312

Lars Gert Lose, Denmakr

Francisco Roberto Altschul Fuentes, El Salvador

GREECE Panagopoulos Massachusetts Ave NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-939-1300 RESIDENCE: 4740 Foxhall Crescent NW, 20007

Gerard Araud, France

SPOUSE:

AMBASSADOR: Christos EMBASSY: 2217

Eerik Marmei, Estonia

Portsmouth Rd., Bethesda, MD 20816

GRENADA AMBASSADOR: Ethelstan

HUNGARY AMBASSADOR: Reka

Szemerkenyi Szabolcs Ferencz EMBASSY: 3910 Shoemaker St NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-362-6730 RESIDENCE: 2215 30th St. NW, 20008 SPOUSE: Istvan

JAMAICA AMBASSADOR: Ralph

Samuel Thomas New Hampshire Ave. NW, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-452-0660 RESIDENCE: 3101 Rolling Rd., Chevy Chase MD, 20815 EMBASSY: 1520

Angus Friday EMBASSY: 1701

New Hampshire Ave NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-265-2561

GUATEMALA AMBASSADOR: Jose

Peter Wittig, Germany

Budi Bowoleksono, Indonesia

Arun Kumar Singh, India

Lukman Al Faily, Iraq

Julio Alejandro Ligorria Carballido SPOUSE: M. Quezada Niederheitmann EMBASSY: 2220 R St NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-745-4953 RESIDENCE: 2839 Woodland Dr. NW, 20008

GUINEA AMBASSADOR: Mamady

Condé SPOUSE: Odya K. Condé EMBASSY: 2112 Leroy Pl NW TELEPHONE: 202-986-4300 RESIDENCE: 2948 Edgevale Terrace NW, 20008

GUYANA Anne Anderson, Ireland

Andris Razans, Latvia

AMBASSADOR: Bayney

R. Karran Donna Karran EMBASSY: 2490 Tracy Pl NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-265-6900 RESIDENCE: 6911 Bradley Blvd., Bethesda MD 20817 SPOUSE:

Antoine Chedid, Lebanon

Asterio R. Takesy, Micronesia

HAITI AMBASSADOR: Paul

Getty Altidor Meghan Altidor EMBASSY: 2311 Massachusetts Ave NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-332-4090 SPOUSE:

ICELAND AMBASSADOR: Geir

Hilmar Haarde Jona Thordardottir EMBASSY: 2900 K St. NW Suite 509, 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-265-6653 RESIDENCE: 2443 Kalorama Rd. NW, 20008 SPOUSE: Inga

Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò

NUNCIO:

Kaare Reidar Aas, Norway

Jalil Abbas Jalani, Pakistan

EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE: 3339

Massachusetts Ave NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-333-7121

INDIA Kumar Singh Chawla Singh EMBASSY: 2107 Massachusetts Ave NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-939-7000 RESIDENCE: 2700 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 SPOUSE: Maina

AMBASSADOR: Jorge

Alberto Milla Reyes Tilden St

EMBASSY: 3007

Hersey Kyota, Palau

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JORDAN AMBASSADOR: Dr.

Alia Hatough Bouran SPOUSE: Ishaq Bouran EMBASSY: 3504 International Dr. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-966-2664 RESIDENCE: 2456 Tracy Pl. NW, 20008

INDONESIA AMBASSADOR: Budi

Bowoleksono Reshanty Bowoleksono EMBASSY: 2020 Massachusetts Ave NW, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-775-5200 RESIDENCE: 2700 Tilden Lane NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

KAZAKHSTAN AMBASSADOR: Kairat

Umarov Galiya Umarova EMBASSY: 1401 16th St. NW, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-232-5488 RESIDENCE: 2910 Edgevale Terrace NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

IRAQ AMBASSADOR: Lukman

Abdulraheem Abdulkareem Al Faily SPOUSE: Ms. Lameis Faily EMBASSY: 3421 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-742-1600

IRELAND Anderson Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-462-3939 RESIDENCE: 2244 S St. NW, 20008 EMBASSY: 2234

KENYA AMBASSADOR: Robinson

Njeru Githae Alice Wanjiku Njeru EMBASSY: 2249 R St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-387-6101 RESIDENCE: 10201 Serrel Ave., Potomac, MD 20854 SPOUSE:

KOREA AMBASSADOR: Ho

ISRAEL AMBASSADOR: Ron

HONDURAS

Sasae Nobuko Sasae EMBASSY: 2520 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-238-6700 RESIDENCE: 4000 Nebrask Ave NW, 20016 SPOUSE:

AMBASSADOR: Arun

AMBASSADOR: Anne

THE HOLY SEE

JAPAN AMBASSADOR: Kenichiro

Dermer Rhoda Michelle Dermer EMBASSY: 3514 International Dr. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-364-5500 SPOUSE:

Igor Vera, Paraguay

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Young Ahn Seon-Hwa Lee Ahn EMBASSY: 2450 Massachussetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-939-5600 RESIDENCE: 4801 Glenbrough Ave., 20017 SPOUSE:

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RYSZARD SCHNEPF - Ambassador of Poland PHOTO BY TONY POWELL

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hat role would you like to see Poland play on the International stage in the coming decade? Poland’s role grows first of all within the European Union. It is not just a coincidence that a new president of the European Council is our former Prime Minister Tusk. It reflects the growing economic power and a growing influence within the EU and its politics, its defense system and a lot of life and that means of course that we can be a great supporting power within Europe for the transatlantic cooperation. With the current Russian-Ukrainian conflict, does Poland have any security concerns? I would say that everyone feels that simply because it’s right on our border. We joined other democratic countries claiming that every country has a right to decide its future. The Ukrainian people expressed a strong to join the EU and the NATO system. As we know, it ended up with the straight, direct aggression from the Russian Federation, so President Putin’s policy toward Ukraine creates a real threat, perhaps not to Poland in the first place, but to the smaller much more exposed countries, the Baltic countries. But of course, this is our neighborhood and also our responsibility as a EU member and NATO member to defend all allied countries and its citizens so we should of course, look for the peaceful solution. We are not in favor of the military conflict solution. We would like to see a real diplomatic outcome, which would be a cease-fire. What role do you feel Poland should be playing in the current Syrian refugee crisis? This morning three ministers of the Visegrad group, which is Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Poland, met in Prague together with Germany to discuss the possible solution. It’s not easy simply because we have no structures that would be prepared to adopt a bigger number of refugees from the South, but Poland will fuel solidarity with its people and other EU countries facing the wave of people coming

and looking for shelter. Polish people had waves of exodus and the last big one was just before the Martial Law in Poland was [imposed] in 1980. We received substantial help from many governments. We don’t forget that our people, even if they were not facing death and danger as many do in Syria, were oppressed; they felt like there was no future in communist Poland at that time. We will participate in the joint action to support the people coming from the South who are in great need. Why is it important to you that Poland be included in the Visa Waiver program? It’s mutually beneficial, simply for the human reasons of letting people get together more easily. We are not considered to be a country from which a real threat comes to the U.S. The old times when Polish people were coming to look for a job are over. Now the question is why Polish people can go to such distant places as Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic but cannot go to the U.S. They don’t need a visa to visit those countries. It blocks an important part of the business. You’ve been a big proponent of promoting Polish culture, including sports. Do you have a favorite Polish athlete? My favorite and my personal friend is Marcin Gortat, no doubt. Not only because he’s a great sportsman, but he’s also doing a wonderful job promoting the relationship between Poland and the U.S. He’s bringing kids here to show them what real basketball is like. Perhaps I should be jealous, but I’m not, that he is a better ambassador than I. What accomplishment are you most proud of in your post so far? I’m very proud that President Obama visited [Poland] a year ago. Also, when I was arriving to Washington things seemed to be cold and all of a sudden there’s interest in our Eastern border. I’m very proud that we played a small role in bringing American attention to what’s going on there.

@PolishEmbassyUS

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special feature | Ambassadors Directory

The Making of an Ambassador

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B Y A M B A S S A D O R P E T E R A . S E L F R I D G E , c h ief of proto c ol of t h e U n ited S tates

he presentation of credentials ceremony at the White House is one of the most important days in the tenure of a chief diplomat posted to the United States. Not only does this age-old exercise allow the now fully accredited chiefs of mission to exercises their full authority, it is also marks the moment they attain the full title of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary – admittedly one of the most impressive titles in a city full of impressive titles. Arriving at the White House

The first step in the highly choreographed day is the arrival of the black, chauffeured sedan transporting the ambassador and close family members and proudly displaying the flags of the United States and the dignitary’s home country. The vehicles are lined up in order of precedence, an arrangement literally derived from the diplomats’ arrival dates in Washington. This is not as easy as it sounds. Just recently we welcomed two ambassadors at the airport both of whom deplaned the same aircraft within minutes of one another. All envoys must also possess all the proper credentialing documentation, to include the Letter of Credence signed by their head of state or government, the Letter of Recall of their predecessor (if applicable) and their written remarks to the president of the United States. The final precedence order is followed precisely throughout the day, and there are never any exceptions made based on the size or perceived prominence of a country. The official ceremony fittingly begins with a slow procession through an honor cordon made up of the five branches of military service. As the vehicle approaches the diplomatic entrance to the President’s residence, trumpets play fanfares and the car comes to a halt between

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Amb. Kadyr Toktogulov of Kyrgyzstan

U.S. soldiers in dress uniform, hoisting the flags of the United States and the country of the distinguished visitor. There, among these amazing displays of honor and national pride, I greet the ambassadors and their families and welcome them into the White House. Waiting for the big moment

In the Cabinet Room, the guests of honor are invited to sign the President’s official guestbook. From there, they are escorted into the Roosevelt Room where all the credentialing ceremony participants meet and mingle as they await their credentialing with the President in the Oval Office. The nervous energy is palpable as the VIPs mingle with one another and get to know some of their fellow diplomats, along with senior members of the President’s staff. Inside the Oval Office

The big moment arrives. The President is ready to receive his important guests. My staff again places the dignitaries in their order of precedence. One by one, the ambassadors and their eager families are led into the Oval Office where I have the honor of introducing them individually to President Obama. After a warm welcome by the President, the ambassadors present their credentials and the

President responds by presenting the ambassador a welcome document in return. Officially, only the President may receive ambassadorial credentials as stated in Article II, Section 3 of the United States Constitution. After the exchange of documents, official photographs are taken in front of the famous Resolute Desk to memorialize the special moment. After exchanging brief remarks, the newly credentialed ambassadors and their families have the opportunity to engage in conversation with the President. Often it is the younger children who have the most confidence when meeting the commander-in-chief. Sometimes I am pre-empted in my introductions by these youngest of diplomats as they step ahead first to receive that famous warm handshake. When the presentation of credentials has concluded, the protocol officers lead the newly minted ambassadors back to their waiting vehicles and I head back to my office, thankful for another successful ceremony and for adding a new group of friends and colleagues to the ever-impressive Washington Diplomatic Corps. Tips for Ambassadors presenting Credentials • Ambassadors should wear either business attire or national dress. (Their families come dressed to the nines!) • Children should be prepared to respond to questions from the President once in the Oval Office … not that it takes a lot of coaching. • Reminders to bring credentialing paperwork are frequent. • Most of all, I tell them to relax and enjoy the special day.

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

| OCTOBER

2015

| washingtonlife.com

AMBASSADOR GARY DOER Canada Tell us something people don’t know about you and would be surprised to hear. People think that all Canadians love hockey and hockey only, but I love NFL football and have followed it for years. I am a huge Minnesota Vikings fan. What is your favorite region in your home country? I love Churchill. I love kayaking with the beluga whales in July and seeing the magnificent polar bears in October. What was the best advice given to you as an incoming ambassador? Make sure you don’t get consumed with the great social invitations that you receive in this world-class city and keep focused on the economic and security priorities of your country.

KOSOVO

LATVIA

AMBASSADOR: Vlora

Citaku EMBASSY: 2175 K St. NW Suite 300, 20037 TELEPHONE: 202-450-2130

KUWAIT AMBASSADOR: Sheikh

Salem Abdullah Al Jaber Al-Sabah SPOUSE: Rima Al-Sabah EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE: 2940 Tilden St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-966-0702

KYRGYZSTAN AMBASSADOR: Kadyr

Toktogulov Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-449-9822 RESIDENCE: 4101 33rd Rd., Arlington, VA 22207

AMBASSADOR: Andris

Razans Gunta Razane EMBASSY: 2306 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-328-2840 RESIDENCE: 4525 Foxhall Crescent NW, 20007 SPOUSE:

LEBANON AMBASSADOR: Antoine

Chedid Nicole Chedid EMBASSY: 2560 28th St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-939-6300 RESIDENCE: 2841 McGill Terrace NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

EMBASSY: 2360

LAOS AMBASSADOR:

Mai Sayavongs

EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE:

2222 S St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-332-6416

LESOTHO AMBASSADOR: Eliachim

Molapi Sebatane Lois Anne Sebatane EMBASSY: 2511 Massachusetts Ave NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-797-5533 RESIDENCE: 7013 Loch Lomond Dr., Bethesda, MD 20817 SPOUSE:

AMBASSADOR MAGUY MACCARIO DOYLE Monaco Tell us something people don’t know about you and would be surprised to hear. I am a passionate oenophile and proud that I’m one of only two women admitted as “Chevalier de la Commanderie de Bordeaux” in their prestigious New York chapter. Also, I started my career at age 18 at Monaco’s Tourism Board, among other things greeting guests at the Monaco F1 Grand Prix. A week after passing my driving test and receiving my license, I was asked to drive the legendary racer Sir Jackie Stewart and his wife to the airport. I was so nervous, but he said I drove very well. What do you like to do in your free time? I love playing tennis and have recently taken up golf – I (luckily) scored a hole-in-one on my very first tee-off during coaching classes! Do you have a favorite restaurant in Washington? I love Nora’s Restaurant. Chef Nora Pouillon is a true pioneer in the organic food movement and a wonderful, inspiring lady.

AMBASSADOR RACHAD BOUHLAL Morocco What would you like to accomplish in your time in Washington? Morocco was the first country to recognize the independence of the United States. I would like my efforts in promoting our bilateral relations to help carry on the legendary promise that was drafted in our Treaty of Peace and Friendship negotiated by Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and King Muhammad III in 1786. What do you like to do in your free time? What are your hobbies? I love to play golf, and by the way, a little known fact is that Morocco has some of the greatest golf courses. What is your favorite book? “World Order” by Henry Kissinger.

LIBERIA AMBASSADOR: Jeremiah

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Luis Miguel Castilla Rubio, Peru

Jose L. Cuisia, Jr, Phillipines

Congbeh Sulunteh SPOUSE: Kabeh Sulunteh EMBASSY: 5201 16th St NW, 20011 TELEPHONE: 202-723-0437

LIBYA Wafa M. T. Bughaighis, Minister EMBASSY: 2600 Virginia Ave. NW, 20037 TELEPHONE: 202-944-9601 RESIDENCE: 2201 Wyoming Ave. NW, 20008 CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES:

Mohammed Al Kuwari, Qatar

George Cristian Maior, Romania

MALDIVES

MOLDOVA

AMBASSADOR: Ahmed

Sareer SPOUSE: Fathimath Athifa EMBASSY: 800 Second Ave. Suite 400E, New York, NY, 10017 TELEPHONE: 212-599-6195

CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES AD INTERIM:

Veaceslav Pituscan EMBASSY: 2101 S St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-667-1130

MONACO MALI

AMBASSADOR: Maguy

AMBASSADOR: Tiena

Coulibaly Dicko EMBASSY: 2130 R ST. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-332-2249 RESIDENCE: 2131 R St. NW, 20008

Maccario Doyle Connecticut Ave. NW 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-234-1530 RESIDENCE: 2315 Wyoming Ave. NW, 20008

SPOUSE: Aminata

EMBASSY: 4000

LIECHTENSTEIN AMBASSADOR: Claudia

Sergey Ivanovich Kislyak, Russia

Mathilde Mukantabana, Rwanda

Fritsche

AMBASSADOR: Marisa

K St. NW, Suite 602B, 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-331-0590

Maria Louise Micallef EMBASSY: 2017 Connecticut Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-462-3611 RESIDENCE: 4501 29th St. NW, 20008

LITHUANIA AMBASSADOR: Rolandas

Krisciunas, 16th St. NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-234-5860 RESIDENCE: 1112 Ingleside Ave., McLean, VA 22101 EMBASSY: 2622

LUXEMBOURG AMBASSADOR: Jean-Louis

Babacar Diagnen, Senegal

Djerdj, Matkovic, Serbia

Wolzfeld Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-265-4171 RESIDENCE: 3933 Fordham Rd. NW, 20016 EMBASSY: 2200

MACEDONIA AMBASSADOR: Vasko

Ashok Kumar . Singapore

Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu, South Africa

Naumovski SPOUSE: Emilija Naumovska EMBASSY: 2129 Wyoming Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-667-0501

MADAGASCAR

Ramón Gil-Casares Satrústeguin, Spain

Prasad Kariyawasam, Sri Lanka

MALTA

EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE: 2900

CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES: Ms. Velotiana Rakotoanosy Raobelina, Counselor SPOUSE: Querry Raobelina EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE: 2374 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-265-5525

AMBASSADOR: Necton

Darlington Mhura Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-721-0270 EMBASSY: 2408

Björn Olof Lyrvall, Sweden

Martin Dahinden, Switzerland

MARSHALL ISLANDS

Adek Bin Hussin Datin Latifah Mohd Yusof EMBASSY: 3516 International Ct NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-572-9700 SPOUSE:

Farhod Salim, Tajikistan

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Wilson Mutagaywa Masilingi, Tanzania,

MONTENEGRO

Junior Aini, First Secretary SPOUSE: Rosina Riklon Aini EMBASSY: 2433 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-234-5414 RESIDENCE: 3212 Brooklawn Terrace, Chevy Chase, MD 20815

AMBASSADOR: Srdjan

Daermanovic Aneta Spaic EMBASSY: 1610 New Hampshire Ave. NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-234-6108 SPOUSE:

MOROCCO AMBASSADOR: Mohammed

MAURITANIA Lemine El Haycen Naha Rgueiby EMBASSY: 2129 Leroy Pl NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-232-5700 RESIDENCE: 2339 S St. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

Rachad Bouhlal Fatiha Bennani EMBASSY: 1601 21st St. NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-462-7979 RESIDENCE: 9109 Clewerwall Dr., Bethesda, MD 20817 SPOUSE:

AMBASSADOR: Mohamed

MOZAMBIQUE Eduardo Candido Albino Zaqueu EMBASSY: 1525 New Hampshire Ave., 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-293-7146 CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES:

MAURITIUS AMBASSADOR: Sooroojdev

Phokeer N St NW, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-244-1491 EMBASSY: 1709

MEXICO Basanez Ebergenyi SPOUSE: Tatiana Beltran-Basanez EMBASSY: 1911 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 20006 TELEPHONE: 202-728-1600 RESIDENCE: 4925 Loughboro Rd. NW 20016

NAMIBIA AMBASSADOR: Martin

Andjaba Caroline Andjaba EMBASSY: 1605 New Hampshire Ave. NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-986-0540 RESIDENCE: 10108 Iron Gate Rd., Potomac, MD 20854 SPOUSE:

NAURU

MALAYSIA AMBASSADOR: Awang

Bulgaa Chuluuntsetseg Erdenee EMBASSY: 2833 M St. NW, 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-333-7117 RESIDENCE: 1021 Iron Gate Rd., Potomac, MD 20854 SPOUSE:

CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES:

AMBASSADOR: Miguel

MALAWI

MONGOLIA AMBASSADOR: Altangerel

MICRONESIA R. Takesy Justina Yangilmau Takesy EMBASSY: 1725 N St. NW, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-223-4383

AMBASSADOR: Marlene

AMBASSADOR: Asterio

Inemwin Moses

SPOUSE:

EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE:

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

800 2nd Ave., #400-D, New York, NY 10017 TELEPHONE: 212-937-0074

| O C T O B E R | washingtonlife.com

CECILIA NAHÓN - Ambassador of Argentina PHOTO BY TONY POWELL

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ow is Argentina dealing with its debt restructuring? After a default in 2001, Argentina successfully restructured its debt with 93 percent of its bondholders and is committed to finding a solution for 100 percent of them under fair, equitable, legal and sustainable conditions. The global community has overwhelmingly supported Argentina’s position. Recently, the United Nations approved a historic resolution outlining “Basic Principles on Sovereign Debt Restructuring Processes” which promotes a more stable and predictable international financial system and represents a relevant step towards a world free from vulture funds’ highly speculative behavior. How has uncertainty in the global economies impacted your country’s ability to pay off debt? Argentina’s economy has proven to be resilient to the persistent global economic crisis. The government implemented a sustainable debt strategy based on the premise that “it is necessary to grow in order to repay our debts”. Hence, Argentina has kept paying all its debts and reduced its debt to GDP ratio from 166 percent in 2002 to only 40 percent in 2014. What other world issues are most important to Argentina? Argentina’s economic model over the past decade has been one of growth with social inclusion promoting these views both at the domestic and global levels. Argentina also plays a key role in some of the world’s most crucial issues, among them championing for disarmament and nonproliferation and the promotion and protection of human rights, as well as supporting dialogue and negotiations as the way for solving international disputes and conflicts.

How are you working with or contributing to the Washington community this year? The Embassy has a very active agenda that includes many cultural events: movie screenings, tango lessons, concerts and art exhibits as well as partnerships with the Washington Chorus, the Washington Ballet, Choral Arts Society and the Pan American Symphony, among others. How do your countrymen feel about having a new pope who is one of their own? The whole country received the news with great happiness and joy. We take this profound honor recognizing Pope Francis’s humility, his concern for the poor, and his commitment to interfaith dialogue, as a symbol of Argentina’s message to the world. What’s one thing Americans don’t know about Argentina that they should? Science and technology is a top priority for our country. Argentina is the Latin American country with the highest number of Nobel Prizes in sciences, ranking fourth among emerging economies. What’s the best spot to find authentic Argentinian food here? Certainly, the Embassy offers the best “empanadas” in D.C.. And soon we will be able to enjoy our world renowned beef in the U.S. since beef imports from Argentina have been recently reauthorized after a 14 year old unfair ban. What’s one book and/or film from Argentina everybody needs to know about? The Oscar-winning movie “The Official Story”, among many other internationally acclaimed Argentine films produced in our growing film industry.

@ARGembassyinUSA

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NEPAL AMBASSADOR: Arjun

Kumar Karki Gauree Thakuri EMBASSY: 2131 Leroy Pl. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-667-4550 RESIDENCE: 2730 34th Pl. NW, 20007 SPOUSE:

‘IRISH BUT ALSO EUROPEAN’

Ambassador David O’Sullivan keeps track of 28 countries, not just one

NETHERLANDS BY GAIL SCOTT

I

’m not their boss, I’m their colleague,” says European Union Ambassador David O’Sullivan speaking of the 28 fellow envoys whose member states belong to the EU and represent their home countries to the White House. “Once a month, we get together for breakfast at the EU Residence to talk about trade and other things.” (The palatial Kalorama residence, it should be noted, was once the home of Douglas Dillon, President Kennedy’s treasury secretary.) O’Sullivan is only the second diplomat to occupy the position of EU ambassador to the United States since the Treaty of Lisbon came into force on Dec. 1, 2009. The Treaty called for a more democratic, transparent and efficient Europe, a continent of rights, values, freedom, solidarity and security that was meant to be an actor on the global stage. Prior to arriving in the United States, Ambassador O’Sullivan served as the chief operating officer of the European External Action Service. The EEAS supports the high representative/vice president of the European Commission. “I tell Brussels what’s going on in Washington” he says, and “tell everyone here about the EU.” According to O’Sullivan, the EU general mission includes humanitarian assistance and helping member states manage political problems, economic growth and legal migration. “It’s about sharing, not just being on the front line like Italy and Greece still are with the asylum seekers,” he says of the gigantic migration hitting European shores from Libya, Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan. The European Union, he notes, is the largest donor to the refugee camps and has given four billion euros to help the Syrians at home or in neighboring countries. To combat the smugglers’ use of unworthy sea vessels, the

AMBASSADOR: Hendrik

EU has created a naval force. Italy and several countries have helped. O’Sullivan likes to remind people that the migration in Europe is just one of many recent difficult situations. “We had the crisis in Greece, then Ukraine, Russia, Iran and now this migration since May.” Guaranteed peace and economic renewal are the keystones of the European Union’s goal to ensure Europe’s place in the world. “It only makes sense if we approach everything all together,” O’Sullivan says. “We are not the United States of Europe. We are 28 sovereign democracies.” An Irishman used to cool, damp weather; O’Sullivan loves Washington, “especially when it’s a bit cool with blue skies and this special quality of light. Washington is on a human scale with so much green. Cultural life is fantastic and the Smithsonian is a joy. Plus you have the excitement of politics. Sometimes I feel like an American. As a child, age eight or nine, I came over with my mother to visit relatives in California. Later, I was a camp counselor for two other summers. “My mother and I flew over on Pan Am. They served me a 7-Up and I had no idea what it was. Then my mother asked for tea and got a teabag. She had never seen that in her life; she was in a state of shock. Then we flew on with TWA and I met the captain. He gave me “Captain’s Wings” which I kept forever.” Although he has only been here since November, O’Sullivan already knows about the huge success EU Day on the Ninth of May. “That’s when we open all our embassies to the people of Washington. We have performances and everything is complimentary. “We build our identity in layers, he concludes. “I’m Irish but I’m also European.”

Jan Jurriaan Schuwer EMBASSY: 4200 Linnean Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 877-388-2443 RESIDENCE: 2347 S St. NW, 20008

NEW ZEALAND CHARGE D’AFFAIRES: Carl

Robinson Worker Observatory Circle, NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-328-4800 RESIDENCE: 2347 S St. NW, 20008 EMBASSY: 37

NICARAGUA AMBASSADOR: Francisco

Obadiah Campbell Hooker SPOUSE: Miriam Hooker EMBASSY: 1627 New Hampshire Ave. NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-939-6570 RESIDENCE: 6434 Brookes Lane, Bethesda, MD 20816

NIGER AMBASSADOR: Hassana

Alidou R St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-483-4224 RESIDENCE: 3100 Argyle St. NW, 20011 EMBASSY: 2204

NIGERIA CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRS AD INTERIM:

Hakeem Toyin Balogun EMBASSY: 3519 International Ct. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-986-8400

NORWAY AMBASSADOR: Kaare

Reidar Aas 34th St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-333-6000 RESIDENCE: 3401 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20007 EMBASSY: 2720

OMAN AMBASSADOR: Hunaina

Sultan Ahmed Al Mughairy SPOUSE: Fuad al-Hinai EMBASSY: 2535 Belmont Rd NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-387-1980 RESIDENCE: 2000 24th St. NW, 20008

PAKISTAN AMBASSADOR: Jalil SPOUSE:

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Abbas Jalani Shaista Jilani

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EMBASSY: 3517

International Ct. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-243-6500 RESIDENCE: 2343 S St. NW, 20008

PROFESSOR TURNED AMBASSADOR

PALAU AMBASSADOR: Hersey

Kyota, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps SPOUSE: Lydia Shmull Kyota EMBASSY: 1701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Suite 300, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-349-8598 RESIDENCE: 6423 13th St. Alexandria, VA 22307

Miguel Basanez heads Mexico’s embassy BY ROLAND FLAMINI

PANAMA AMBASSADOR: Emanuel

Arturo Gonzalez Revilla Lince SPOUSE: Luc Miro Tode De Gonzalez Revilla EMBASSY: 2862 McGill Terrace NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-483-1407 RESIDENCE: 2601 29th St. NW, 20008

PAPUA NEW GUINEA AMBASSADOR: Rupa

A Mulina Numa Mulina EMBASSY: 1779 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Suite 805, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-745-3680 SPOUSE:

PARAGUAY AMBASSADOR: Igor

Alberto Pangrazio Vera Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-483-6960 RESIDENCE: 3238 Broad Branch Terrace NW, 20008 EMBASSY: 2400

PERU AMBASSADOR: Luis

Miguel Castilla Rubio Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-833-9860 RESIDENCE: 3001 Garrison St. NW, 20008 EMBASSY: 1700

PHILIPPINES AMBASSADOR: Jose

L. Cuisia, Jr. Maria Victoria Cuisia EMBASSY: 1600 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-467-9300 RESIDENCE: 2253 R St. NW 20008 SPOUSE:

POLAND AMBASSADOR: Ryszard

Marian Schnepf Dorota Anna Schnepf EMBASSY: 2640 16th St. NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-234-3800 RESIDENCE: 3041 Whitehaven St. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

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M

iguel Basanez, Mexico’s ambassador to Washington, didn’t have far to go to reach his new post. A pollster and academic, he has for the past seven years been teaching Culture, Human Values, and Development at Tufts University’s Fletcher School. His appointment to head Mexico’s mission ends an unprecedented five-month gap since his predecessor resigned to become a judge of the Mexican supreme court. Basanez has no previous diplomatic experience, but is politically close to Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto – a qualification that should make him feel right at home in Washington where the top ambassadorial appointments are routinely doled out to non-careerists as presidential favors. The 65-year-old envoy is a member of Atlacomulco, Mexico’s secretive, powerful inner circle that has for decades played musical chairs with political posts: he is also credited with introducing opinion polling in Mexico starting with an election in 1985. In announcing his appointment, the Mexican government called Basanez “ideal to represent us in Washington.” Why he is ideal was not specified except perhaps for the fact that he has spent 12 years in the United States, seven of them in Boston at Tufts. In his remarks to the Mexican Senate hearing on his nomination he suggested that in moving to Washington from Boston he had simply moved from one American capital to another. In reality, he said, “the United States has three capitals: the political capital in Washington, the information capital in Silicon

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Valley, but the latter was miniscule compared with the knowledge capital in Boston.” But it’s in Washington that he faces a full workload of urgent repairs to the damage in the bi-lateral relationship between the United States and its neighbor south of the border, some of them issues in the U.S. presidential elections – for example, finding common ground on border security and the war on drugs, advancing trade ($534 billion), making sense on immigration.. Also muddying the water is the deeply embarrassing escape of the drug boss Joaquin “El Chapo” from a maximum security prison where the U.S. had helped put him after 14 years on the run. “El Chapo’s” escape exposed the government in Mexico City as incapable of effectively fighting corruption. At the same hearing Basanez said “the U.S. has been in the world’s driving seat for 25 years, since the fall of the Berlin Wall,” but Mexico had undergone positive changes, and as ambassador he intended to publicize them. The embassy laster said other items on the ambassador’s agenda included “designing a new architecture in the bi-lateral relationship,” and empowering the 11.4-million Mexican community in the United States. Not surprisingly, Mexico’s new ambassador has been quick to respond to Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump’s scathing comments on Mexican immigrants. Trump, he says, “knows very well that what he is saying is totally false, and sooner or later he is going to have to ask the Mexicans for forgiveness.”

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PORTUGAL AMBASSADOR: Nuno

Pisan Manawapatn, Thailand

Limbiye Edawe Kadangha Bariki, TOGO

Domingos Sarmento Alves, Timor Leste

Mahe’uli’uli Sandhurst Tupouniua, Tonga

Filipe Alves Salvador e Brito SPOUSE: Rofa Batoreu Brito EMBASSY: 2012 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-350-5400 RESIDENCE: 2125 Kalorama Rd. NW 20008

QATAR AMBASSADOR: Mohammed

Jaham A. A. Al Kuwari Ali S A Almaadeed EMBASSY: 2555 M St. NW, 20037 TELEPHONE: 202-274-1600 RESIDENCE: 4839 Indian Lane NW, 20016 SPOUSE: Aisha

Serdar KĹlĹç, Turkey

Yousef Al Otaiba, UAE

REPUBLIC OF CHINA TAIWAN AMBASSADOR: Lyushun

Shen Christine Shen EMBASSY: 4201 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 20016 TELEPHONE: 202-895-1800 RESIDENCE: 3225 Woodley Rd. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

Oliver Wonekha, Uganda

Peter Westmacott, United Kingdom

ROMANIA AMBASSADOR: George

Cristian Maior Anamaria Maior EMBASSY: 1607 23rd St. NW 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-332-4848

SAINT LUCIA AMBASSADOR: Elizabeth

Darius Clarke EMBASSY: 3216 New Mexico Ave. NW, 20016 TELEPHONE: 202-364-6792

Valerii Chalyi, Ukraine

Carlos Alberto Gianelli Derois, Uruguay

AMBASSADOR: Sergey

Ivanovich Kislyak Natalia M. Kislyak EMBASSY: 2650 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-298-5700 RESIDENCE: 1125 16th St. NW, 20036 SPOUSE:

Bakhtiyar Gulymov, Uzbekistan

Maximilien SĂĄnchez Arvelaiz, Venezuela

RWANDA AMBASSADOR: Mathilde

Mukantabana EMBASSY: 1875

Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 540, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-232-2882 RESIDENCE: 1752 Sycamore St. NW, 20012

Pham Quang Vihn, Vietnam

Ahmed Awad Ahmed Bin Mubarak, Yemen

SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS Mr. Justin Kareem Hawley EMBASSY: 3216 New Mexico Ave. NW, 20016 TELEPHONE: 202-686-2636 RESIDENCE: 1016 Laurel Leaf Pl., Potomac, MD 20854

Feturi Elisaia SPOUSE: Maria Lei Sam-Elisaia EMBASSY: 800 2nd Ave., Suite 400-J, NW, 10017 TELEPHONE: 212-599-6196

SAN MARINO Rondelli N St. NW, 2nd f loor, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-2232418 or 202-250-1535

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Ammon Mutembwa, Zimbabwe

SINGAPORE AMBASSADOR: Ashok

Kumar Gouri Uppal Mirpuri EMBASSY: 3501 International Pl. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-537-3100 RESIDENCE: 2620 Rock Creek Dr. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

AMBASSADOR: Paolo EMBASSY: 1711

SĂƒO TOMÉ AND PRĂ?NCIPE AMBASSADOR: Carlos

Filomeno Azevedo Agostinho das Neves SPOUSE: Ilva de Oliveira Cassandra Das Neves EMBASSY: 1211 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 300, 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-775-2075

SAUDI ARABIA CHARGÊ D’AFFAIRES: Sami

Alsadhan New Hampshire Ave. NW, 20037 TELEPHONE: 202-342-3800 EMBASSY: 601

SENEGAL AMBASSADOR: Babacar SPOUSE: Hadja

Diagne Hassiatou

Diop Diagne EMBASSY: 2215

M St. NW, 20037 TELEPHONE: 202-234-0540 RESIDENCE: 4500 Linnean Ave. NW, 20008

SLOVAK REPUBLIC AMBASSADOR: Peter

Kmec Monika Kmecova EMBASSY: 3523 International Ct. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-237-1054 RESIDENCE: 7718 Carlton Pl., McLean, VA 22102 SPOUSE:

SLOVENIA AMBASSADOR: Bozo

Cerar California St. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-386-6601 RESIDENCE: 2412 California St. NW, 20008 EMBASSY: 2410

SOLOMON ISLANDS AMBASSADOR: Collin

D. Beck Helen Beck EMBASSY: 800 2nd Ave., Suite 400L, NY 10017 TELEPHONE: 212-599-6192 SPOUSE:

SOMALIA AMBASSADOR: Ahmed

Isse Awad DeSales St. NW, Suite 300, 20036

EMBASSY: 1705

SOUTH AFRICA

SERBIA AMBASSADOR: Djerdj

Matkovic Markovic Matkovic EMBASSY: 2134 Kalorama Rd NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-332-0333 RESIDENCE: 4935 Loughboro Rd. NW, 20016 SPOUSE: Vera

CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES:

Palan Mulonda, Zambia

Kortu Stevens Musu Stevens EMBASSY: 1701 19th St. NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-939-9261 RESIDENCE: 4821 Colorado Ave. NW, 20008 SPOUSE:

SAMOA AMBASSADOR: Ali’ioaiga

SPOUSE:

RUSSIA

SIERRA LEONE AMBASSADOR: Bockari

SEYCHELLES AMBASSADOR: Marie-

Louise Cecile Potter SPOUSE: Clement Potter EMBASSY: 800 Second Ave., Suite 400, NY 10017 TELEPHONE: 212-687-9766

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AMBASSADOR: Mninwa

Johannes Mahlangu Nomaswazi Christina Mahlangu EMBASSY: 3051 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-232-4400 RESIDENCE: 4847 Rockwood Parkway, 20016 SPOUSE:

SOUTH SUDAN AMBASSADOR: Garang

Diing Akuong Nyimeda Baak Macham Angui EMBASSY: 1015 31st St. SPOUSE:

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NW, Suite 300, 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-293-7940

SPAIN

‘JUMPING HIGHER’

Ramón GilCasares Satrústegui EMBASSY: 2375 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 20037 TELEPHONE: 202-452-0100 RESIDENCE: 2350 Foxhall Rd. NW 20007 AMBASSADOR:

SRI LANKA AMBASSADOR: Prasad

Kariyawasam Kariyawasam EMBASSY: 2148, Wyoming Avenue NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: (202) 483 4025 RESIDENCE: 2503 30th Street, NW 20008 SPOUSE: Kanthi

SUDAN AMBASSADOR: Emad

Mirghani Abdelhamid Altohamy SPOUSE: Maha Abdelmonim Ibrahim EMBASSY: 2210 Massachusetts Ave NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: (202) 338-8565

SURINAME CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES: Sylvana

Elvira Simson 4301 Connecticut Ave.NW, 200008 TELEPHONE: 202-244-7488 RESIDENCE: 7000 31st street nw 20015 EMBASSY:

SWAZILAND AMBASSADOR: Reverend

Abednego Ntshangase Phindile Futhi Ntshangase EMBASSY1712 New Hampshire Ave. NW, 20009 TELEPHONE: 202-234-5002

SPOUSE:

SWEDEN AMBASSADOR: Björn

Olof Lyrvall K. Anderson Lyrvall EMBASSY: 2900 K St. NW, 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-467-2600 RESIDENCE: 3900 Nebraska Ave, NW

SPOUSE:

SWITZERLAND AMBASSADOR: Martin

Werner Dahinden Anita Dahinden EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE : 2900 Cathedral Ave, NW 20008 TELEPHONE: 202- 745-7900 SPOUSE:

TAJIKISTAN AMBASSADOR: H.E.

Farhod Salim Marhabo Bilolova EMBASSY 1005 New Hampshire Ave. NW, Washington D.C., 20037 TELEPHONE: 202-223-6090

Netherlands Ambassador Henne Schuwer BY ROLAND FLAMINI

T

here’s a peripatetic flavor to your typical not the ambassador of the U.K. so I have to jump a diplomatic career, with postings in several little higher,” he adds. countries and moves every four or five Even so, our relationship works., Schuwer years; so Henne (Hendrik) Schuwer’s long says, citing burgeoning trade figures. In 2012, stretch in Belgium is something of a legend in the Dutch investments in the U.S. economy passed Netherlands Foreign Service. “I am slightly the the $275 billion mark, an increase of $35 envy of my colleagues because I spent 13 years in billion from the previous year, and American Brussels,” he said (not without a certain smugness) investments in the Netherlands were $645 shortly after his arrival as the new Netherlands billion, an increase of $50 billion. Trade of goods ambassador to Washington. and services between the two countries rose to Actually, the real total is 17 years: he served $90 billion, an increase of $9 billion. in his country’s Brussels Schuwer says embassy for four years the Hague hopes for earlier in his career. Washington’s support Fourteen years later, in taking action on the he was deputy chief of findings of the current the Dutch mission to inquiry into the downing the European Union in last year of Malaysia the Belgian capital from Airlines flight MH17 in 2002-2006, remained eastern Ukraine near there as chief of staff the Russian border. One to NATO Secretary hundred ninety-eight General Jaap de Hoop Dutch passengers were Schaffer (2006-2009), among those who lost and – following a year their lives in the crash, back at the Hague widely believed in the – was appointed West to have been Holland’s ambassador caused by a Russianto Belgium from 2010 supplied missile fired by to this summer. the rebels (the Russians And Brussels is blame Ukrainian Photo courtesy Royal Netherlands Embassy where Schuwer, 62, and government forces). his Swedish-born wife Findings of the Lena will retire after Washington to play golf and inquiry will be handed to the Dutch prosecutor for tennis and see what the future brings. In interviews action. “We’re not going to war over this, but for us he has called the Belgian capital one of the least the issue is almost a holy task,” says Schuwer. “It’s a efficient cities where a person can end up, “but I political situation where you need your friends.” have fallen in love with it.” Like many Europeans from the six EU founding This is not Schuwer’s first American posting countries he laments how hard it has become to either. He was consul general in Los Angeles in reach consensus among the 28 nations on such the late 1980s and then deputy chief of mission in major problems as the euro crisis and the Syrian Washington (1997-2002). “Having been here before immigrants. “It was much easier to be solid when is a big advantage because otherwise it takes you a we were six,” he says. The “narrative of Europe” has year to adjust,” he observes. Not that Washington changed, he says. “Germany has become the center itself remains the same. Every election brings new of Europe; the German way of doing business is changes in the administration and “you have to re- dominating Europe at the moment.” invest in new contacts.” But not everyone is willing to accept that reality. In the nation’s capital big countries have easier “Maybe if you live in Greece you don’t want to live access by virtue of their relative importance. “I’m like a German.”

SPOUSE:

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PRASAD KARIYAWASAM Ambassador of Sri Lanka

AMBASSADOR KÅRE R AAS Norway Tell us something people don’t know about you and would be surprised to hear. I really enjoy running. In the next month, I will be running in three different half-marathon and marathon races – and they’re all for a good cause!

(Embassy Photo) What did you do prior to being posted to Washington I served as my country’s high commissioner (ambassador) to India for nearly 4½ years until I was posted to Washington in June 2014. I am familiar with the United States because I was minister in the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington from 1995 to 1998 and later was Sri Lanka’s ambassador to the United Nations from 2005 to 2008. I have also served in Riyadh and Geneva, in the latter as ambassador to the U.N. What do you most want to accomplish here? Sri Lanka has enjoyed a robust relationship with the United States, but intermittent stress and dissonance has affected its sustained progress. The United States is the most powerful maritime nation in the world. Sri Lanka is a strategically located island nation and we have the potential to develop greater maritime co-operation for mutual benefit. I would like to bring our bilateral relations to a state of irreversible excellence based on, among other matters, Sri Lanka’s renewed commitment to democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights. How has Sri Lanka most changed since the defeat of the Tamil Tigers and the end of the long civil war in 2009? Since the conclusion of the 30-year conflict in 2009, Sri Lanka has achieved phenomenal economic growth and is now poised to become a vibrant regional hub for shipping, aviation and service industries based on its location, natural and human resources and the stability that prevails throughout the island. The election of the new president in January and re-affirmation of his reform agenda at the parliamentary election in August will further consolidate the transformation of Sri Lanka to a modern nation with even higher quality of life and sustainable prosperity.

What are your favorite places in Washington? D.C. has so much to offer, so I can’t say I have just one favorite but I do look forward to the inauguration of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2016. I think the museum will contribute to the nation’s capital by highlighting the important African-American culture and history. What would you like to accomplish in your time in Washington? What are the top issues on your agenda? I would like to maintain and strengthen the excellent cooperation Norway has with the U.S. on a broad area of common interests. This includes climate change and Arctic cooperation, education with an emphasis on education for girls in conflict zones, trade and promotion, defense and security

AMBASSADOR MARTIN DAHINDEN Switzerland What is your favorite book? I always read several books at the same time, and I always have many favorites. But when I met President Jimmy Carter earlier this year, he gave me a signed copy of his book “The Hornet’s Nest” on the American Revolution in the South. It was a fascinating read! What do you like to do in your free time? History and food are among my great interests. I am about to write a book on the Swiss contribution to culinary history. But I am also fascinated by the culinary footprint so many Swiss have left in the United States.

The new government is a coalition of center-right and socialist parties. How do you think that will work? The new national government reflects the general will of the people for good governance, political stability and reconciliation among communities and will help sustain high economic growth for the benefit of all. Different political views of the constituent elements of the national government can be easily harmonized for the nation’s benefit. Is Sri Lanka’s foreign policy shifting away from China toward India and the West? Since Independence in 1948, Sri Lanka has consistently followed a foreign policy of “friendship with all and enmity toward none” and has succeeded in that effort. Successive governments continue in this path and in this context have made adjustments whenever necessary in the national interest. Our relations with major powers in our region and globally is not a zero sum game.

What are your favorite places in Washington? I love the Library of Congress and sometimes work in the main reading room in my spare time. I like the National Gallery and silent encounters with masterpieces of art, and Washington is so rich in wonderful places! And I am still discovering new ones every day.

@EmbassyofSL

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RESIDENCE: 4629 2nd St. South, Arlington, VA 22204

TANZANIA AMBASSADOR: Wilson

Mutagaywa Masilingi 1232 22nd St. NW, Washington D.C 20037 TELEPHONE: 202-884-1080 EMBASSY:

THAILAND AMBASSADOR: Pisan

Manawapat Wanchana Manawapat EMBASSY: 1024 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007 TELEPHONE: 202-944-3600 RESIDENCE: 2145 Decatur Place, NW 20008 SPOUSE:

TIMOR-LESTE EAST TIMOR AMBASSADOR: Domingos

Sarmento Alves Odete Genoveva Victor de Costa EMBASSY: 4201 Connecticut Ave NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: (202) 966-3202 RESIDENCE: 1220 East West Hwy, Apt. 1105, Silver Spring, Md., 20910 SPOUSE:

TOGO AMBASSADOR: Edawe

Limbye Kadangha Bariki SPOUSE: Essozimana Kadangha Bariki EMBASSY: 2208 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-234-4212 RESIDENCE: 1615 Crittenden St. NW, 20010

PHOTO BY TONY POWELL

TONGA AMBASSADOR: Mahe’uli’uli

Sandhurst Tupouniua 250 E 51st St, New York, NY 10022 TELEPHONE: (917) 369-1025 EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE:

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES: Colin

Michael Connelly EMBASSY: 1708 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036 TELEPHONE: (202) 467-6490 RESIDENCE: 7530 17th Street, NW 20012

TUNISIA AMBASSADOR: Faycal

Gouia Massachusetts Ave NW, 20005 TELEPHONE: 202-862-1850 RESIDENCE: 5131 Broad Branch Rd. NW, 20008 EMBASSY: 1515

PAUL ALTIDOR - Ambassador of Haiti

W

hat are the most important diplomatic goals on your agenda right now? Bear in mind that Haiti suffers the most from an imsge problem at least when it comes to the outside world. A lot of times when people think of Haiti they think only of poverty, instability and charity. Haiti has a very long and prosperous history, a very vibrant culture, so we’re trying to actually offer that other view that most people are not accustomed to when hearing about Haiti. There are a lot of things happening in the country and part of reshaping the image is also trying to distance ourselves from being a destination for visitors mostly from the United Kingdom. Back in the ‘60s and ‘70s, Haiti was a major tourist destination. American tourists and many celebrities used to flock to Haiti to find leisure. That helped bring a lot of currency for the country. In trying to rebuild we are relying on a number of sectors, including tourism. Do you think the image problem stems from the earthquake or is it something more than that? Some of it preceded it, but unfortunately the earthquake brought the devastation to the forefront and it’s really hard for people to disassociate the earthquake, charity and poverty from the country of Haiti as a whole. We’re working with the

friends and allies of Haiti to encourage people to actually come and discover the richness of our culture, and tourism sector so the country can really begin to rebuild itself and not be dependent on the charity of others. How are you working to promote Haiti as a travel destination? We’re building a lot of infrastructure; hotels are being built, big and small. And I’m spending a lot of time in the states touring universities, going to business conferences, talking to the business community, not only to get people to invest in Haiti but also for folks to take leisure destination trips to Haiti. In what ways is Haiti rebuilding its economy? We must put people to work first and foremost. Until most Haitians have the ability to find jobs, the economy isn’t going to grow. There are some critical sectors for the country’s long-term recovery: tourism, energy, agriculture and so forth. The state has been aggressive in trying to attract investment dollars into these sectors as well. The gift that is going to keep giving at the end of the day isn’t charity money, but investment dollars that can provide real jobs and opportunities for Haitians, which in turn grows the economy.

@EmbassyOfHaiti

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DIRECTORY

EXCEPTIONAL ENVOYS Former Chief of Protocol Selwa S. (“Lucky”) Roosevelt’s short list of the most outstanding ambassadors to serve in Washington over the past 50 years

Jose Maria Areilza, Count of Motrico, (right), was the Spanish ambassador assigned to Washington just as relations with Spain were being normalized following the rupture in bilateral relations after the Spanish Civil War. I was a young reporter writing a column about Washington society, with emphasis on the diplomatic corps. Thus I had a chance to observe the way this extraordinary man wooed the movers and shakers of the capital. He and the Countess entertained with great elegance after refurbishing the embassy on 16th Street NW and creating a beautiful ballroom. Their New Year’s Eve party became the most prized invitation in Washington. Cordial diplomatic relations between the United States and Spain were gradually restored and much of it was due to this brilliant and dedicated diplomat. He brought some outstanding junior diplomats with him as well, such as Luis de Pedroso (left), who later became the Count of Madan as well as Spanish ambassador to the O.A.S. British Ambassador Sir Antony Acland (pictured here with me when I was chief of protocol during the Reagan years) was a handsome widower. All the great hostesses vied for his attention, but later he married the adorable Jenny and together they were an exceptional couple that represented the very best of Britain. I will never forget the ball they gave at the embassy in my honor. After his tour of duty in Washington he returned to the U.K. and became the Provost of Eton at the time when Prince William and Prince Harry were students there.

TURKEY AMBASSADOR: Serdar

Kılıç Sinem Kılıç EMBASSY: 2525 Massachusetts Ave. NW 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-612-6729 RESIDENCE: 1606 23rd St. NW, 20008 SPOUSE: Zeliha

TURKMENISTAN AMBASSADOR: Meret

Bairamovich Orazov Irina Borisovna Orazova EMBASSY: 2207 Massachusetts Ave. NW 20008 TELEPHONE: 202 588 1500 SPOUSE:

TUVALU Aunese Makoi Simati Sunema Pie Simati EMBASSY: : 800 Second Ave., Suite 400D, New York, NY, 10017 TELEPHONE: 212-490-0534 AMBASSADOR SPOUSE::

UGANDA AMBASSADOR: Oliver

Wonekha 16th Street NW 20011 TELEPHONE: 202-726-7100 RESIDENCE: 4000 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 20016 EMBASSY: 5911

UKRAINE Ambassador of France Emmanuel de Margerie, known as “Bobbie,” was the epitome of French panache with a pixie sense of humor. I relied so much on him when I was chief of protocol, because he saw me through two visits of President François Mitterand of France. He needed all his skills as a diplomat to handle both a 10-day state visit taking us from Washington to San Francisco, with several stops in between, as well as a trip to New York to celebrate the centenary of the Statue of Liberty (which had been given to the U.S. by France). I will always be grateful to Bobbie for his astuteness and diplomatic skills and will always remember his incredible charm. Hélène de Margerie was a perfect match for her husband—a talented hostess and delightful company. Another Spanish ambassador, Antonio Oyarzabal, and his beautiful American wife, the former Beatrice Lodge (daughter of John Davis Lodge, onetime U.S. ambassador to Spain, Switzerland and Argentina) were very special to me because I had been at her debut and their wedding. They were very popular and also experts in their roles as ambassador and châtelaine of the Spanish embassy. Count Wilhelm Wachtmeister of Sweden was dean of the diplomatic corps during my time in the State Department and I relied upon him through many very delicate negotiations with the diplomatic corps. I could always depend on Willie’s wisdom and discretion. He was the perfect diplomat and his wife, Ulla, a consummate hostess noted for the wonderful smorgasbord that was a mainstay of their many glamorous parties.

AMBASSADOR: Valerii

Chalyi Liudmyla Mazuka EMBASSY: 3350 M St NW 20007 TELEPHONE: 202349 2944 RESIDENCE: 4744 Foxhall Crescent NW, 20007 SPOUSE:

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AMBASSADOR: Yousef

Al Otaiba Abeer Al Otaiba EMBASSY: 3522 International Court, NW, Suite 400, 20008 TELEPHONE: (202) 243-2400 SPOUSE:

UNITED KINGDOM AMBASSADOR: Sir

Peter Westmacott Lady (Susie) Westmacott EMBASSY: 3100 Massachusetts Avenue, NW 20008 TELEPHONE: 202 588 6500 SPOUSE:

URUGUAY AMBASSADOR: Carlos

Alberto Gianelli Derois EMBASSY: 1913 I St NW, 20006 TELEPHONE: 202-331-1313 RESIDENCE: 9001 Clewerwall Dr., Bethesda MD, 20817

UZBEKISTAN AMBASSADOR: Bakhtiyar

Gulymov

Selwa S. (“Lucky”) Roosevelt served as chief of protocol of the United States from 1982 to 1989.

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AMBASSADOR SALAM AL-SABAH Kuwait Tell us something people don’t know about you and would be surprised to hear. I am a big fan of the old Looney Tunes cartoons and I watch them regularly with my 7-year-old son. What would you say are common misconception in your country about Americans and inversely, what are common misconceptions Americans have about your country? In the Arab world, the common misconception is that all Americans are anti-Arab, and in America, the common misconception is that all Arabs are anti-American. The media on both sides is largely to blame. What are your some of favorite places in Washington? I never get tired of the Air and Space Museum. I am also a big fan of dining out and my favorite restaurants are Et Voila, Fiola Mare, Sushiko, Cafe Milano, Makoto and Setté Osteria.

AMBASSADOR CLAUDIA FRITSCHE Liechtenstein

Tell us something people don’t know about you and would be surprised to hear. I used to be a practicing lab scientist in the biotech industry. I led a team in the development of a pre-clinical drug candidate for blood clots, for which the company filed a patent. What would you like to accomplish in your time in Washington? I would like to achieve greater cooperation in scientific research between Costa Rican and U.S. scientists, and greater educational exchange between both nations. What are your favorite places in Washington? I like to walk to the Mall and visit the monuments and the museums, especially the Air & Space museum. I love to go out to eat in Arlington. A favorite restaurant is Mussel Bar.

AMBASSADOR CLAUDIO BISOGNIERO Italy

What was the best advice given to you as an incoming ambassador? Learn as quickly as possible how Washington works. If you don’t have access where you need it, make sure you know someone who does.

What is the best book you’ve read recently? I loved “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand (Louis Zamperini’s incredible story) and my friend Chris Matthews’ “Jack Kennedy – Elusive Hero.”

What do you like to do in your free time? What are your hobbies? I love travelling in the U.S. (I have visited all 50 states) and beyond. It is my everlasting passion. I like hiking, films and reading.

What was the best advice given to you as an incoming ambassador? Subscribe to Washington Life!

What are your favorite places in Washington? I like the National Gallery – the only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in the U.S., “Ginevra de’ Benci,” is there, it used to belong for centuries to the princely family of Liechtenstein. My all-time favorite is the National Museum of Women in the Arts.

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

AMBASSADOR ROMAN MACAYA HAYES Costa Rica

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Are you on Twitter? Naturally, I actively use Twitter (@ CBisogniero). I don’t think anybody can function effectively as a diplomat in the 21st century without being an active part of social media. This is why the Italian Embassy strives to play a leading role in this field: please feel free to visit our Social Media Hub (www. twiplomacy.it) and share your ideas with us today!.

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SPOUSE:

Nargiza Irkinovna Gulyamova

EMBASSY AND RESIDENCE: 1746

Massachusetts Ave NW 20036 TELEPHONE: 202-887-5300

BICYCLE DIPLOMACY

VENEZUELA CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES Maximilien

One on One with Ambassador of Finland Kirsti Kauppi

Sánchez Arvelaiz 30th St NW 20007 TELEPHONE: (202) 342-2214 EMBASSY: 1099

BY GAIL SCOTT

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his diplomat bikes to work as do most Koukku was the first female ambassador to people back home. Newly arrived represent Finland in Washington and Kauppi Ambassador of Finland Kirsti Kauppi wears is the second. It is surprising that Finland heels and business clothes – even short skirts – on didn’t send a female envoy sooner. The her two-wheeler. “When I have any free time,” she Nordic country’s first female president, Tarja says, “I also like to take a bike ride.” Halonen, held office from 2003 until 2011 and Besides having several bicycles at the two different female prime ministers served embassy available to staff wanting to commute during that same period. to meetings and conferences around town, the “We punch above our weight,” Koukku says. Finns are the only embassy in Washington with “We have cutting-edge technology. Basically, a sauna. Although Kauppi has been in Finland’s our societies [the U.S. and Finland] are very ministry of foreign affairs since 1983, she admits similar. We understand each other. The she doesn’t like saunas. transatlantic link is very That doesn’t mean other important to us.” Finnish diplomats don’t She notes that the take “Sauna Diplomacy” Nordic countries share seriously. They are known deep common values: to eagerly turn up the democracy, equality, rule heat on their guests until of law and human rights an agreement is reached. that go back centuries. She makes up for this Finland and Sweden are by drinking lots of coffee. not in NATO and Norway “Finns are the first or second and Iceland are not in the heaviest coffee drinkers in EU” the world. The Dutch could “Washington is a be number one.” demanding post,” says Kauppi was born in Koukku, who served Oulu in Northern Finland. as a political officer in “As a young student I Washington from 1997 Finish Ambassador Kirsti Kauppi on an wanted to be a primary to 2000 during the embassy bicycle. (Embassy Photo) school teacher,” she says, Clinton years. “You have because “professional teachers are the most to choose what to concentrate on. There are popular in Finland.” infinite possibilities; you can use your time in By the time she went off to college she had 100 different ways. Competition is very tough changed her career choice. Kauppi studied in for attention and what you have to offer.” the Helsinki School of Economics and Business She enjoys being back in the United States Administration and received her Master’s and Washington again. “The first thing is the degree in Economics in 1981. “My mother asked friendly atmosphere and easy-going attitude. me ‘What happened?’ I loved history and she I just love it.” expected me to be a teacher. I didn’t just want Finland’s mission on Massachusetts Avenue to know what was happening in our village or NW, nick-named “The Green House,” was our country but what was happening in the inaugurated in 1994. It immediately stood out world.” on Embassy Row as a perfect example of public Throughout her distinguished career she diplomacy because it so succinctly represents has served in Geneva, Bangkok, Brussels, its home country. According to a small but Washington, Helsinki and Vienna. “My handsome book about this LEED Platinum predecessor, Ambassador Ritva Koukku-Ronde, embassy, the building is “simultaneously is now in Berlin and I was already there. We laugh understated and bold, humble and dramatic” about following each other around the world.” — and as such unapologetically Finnish.

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VIETNAM AMBASSADOR: Vinh

Quang Pham Lien Bich Hoang EMBASSY: 1233 20th Street, NW Suite 400, 20036 TELEPHONE: (202) 861-0737 during 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM - 5:00 PM from Monday - Friday SPOUSE:

YEMEN AMBASSADOR: Ahmed

Awad Ahmed Bin Mubarak EMBASSY: 2319 Wyoming Avenue, NW 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-965-4760 RESIDENCE: 4850 Glenbrook Rd. NW, 20016

ZAMBIA AMBASSADOR: Palan

Mulonda Mutinta Valerie Mululuma Mulonda EMBASSY: 2200 R Street, NW, 20008 TELEPHONE: 202-265-9717 SPOUSE:

ZIMBABWE AMBASSADOR: Ammon

Mutembwa Priscilla Panichai Mutembwa EMBASSY: 1608 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, TELEPHONE: 202-332-7100 RESIDENCE: 7116 Helmsdale Rd., Bethesda, MD 20817 SPOUSE:

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RÉKA SZEMERKÉNYI - Ambassador of Hungary PHOTO BY TONY POWELL

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ow are you dealing with the repercussions in the U.S. about how Hungary is handling the European migrant crisis? My aim is to inform the U.S. decision makers and public of the actions of the Hungarian government, to highlight the motivations behind them and raise awareness of the complex challenges and dilemmas facing us in dealing with this unforeseen crisis. The current migration crisis is unprecedented, it poses humanitarian as well as security challenges and raises fundamental questions about European immigration policy. Hungary’s answers reflect the complexity of these challenges. Hungary pays a special attention to comply with all international humanitarian obligations and provides food, water, emergency medical supplies and shelter to all migrants seeking asylum. Hungary is also responsible for our common European external border and therefore erected a fence to protect those borders. It is in line with EU law that clearly stipulates the responsibility of Hungary to protect the Schengen borders. At the same time Hungary has consistently called for focusing on the root causes of the migration wave. We firmly believe a long-term solution has to be developed which addresses the root causes of the crisis to help protect the lives and human rights of the affected people in their home countries.

Outside of the migrant crisis what global issues are most important to Hungary? Hungary has traditionally played an important role in regional security and EuroAtlantic integration and we continue to do so. Hungary has been active in cyber security, helping to promote regional and international cooperation in combatting cybercrime. Sustainable global water use has emerged as an issue where Hungary has played an outsize role and the country has been very active in the UN process on formulating the new Sustainable Development Goals, especially with regards to water management and sanitation.

Does your background as the prime minister’s chief advisor on security policy play a role in your duties as ambassador? Yes. Security policy is one of the most important building blocks of U.S. – Hungarian bilateral friendship, so my background in this area is very important in the work I do here. As a professional, I am very proud of our military working closely with our American allies previously in Afghanistan and now in Northern Iraq, fighting ISIL, as well as of Hungary currently contributing to the air defense of the Baltic states. My relationship with the prime minister also allows me to be more effective as ambassador.

What are some things Americans don’t know about Hungary that they should? Recently Budapest has emerged as one of the most important IT startup hubs in Europe. But Hungarian innovations offer an equally fascinating insight into what work is being done there. And of course, Budapest is home to excellent cuisine, wine tasting and pastry shops that serve delicious cakes often named after major historical figures. I would highly recommend everyone to go, visit us and check these out

What local and cultural issues are you focusing on in Washington this year? We always strive to add a special Hungarian flavor to the thriving D.C. cultural life. Of the programs we are planning to organize this Fall, I would highlight the screening of the new Hungarian movie “Son of Saul” in D.C. in December, before the U.S. premier. This critically acclaimed gripping movie about the Holocaust will represent Hungarian cinema at the Oscars this year and has won the Grand Prix at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival

@HungaryinUSA

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TWIPLOMACY’S HONEST FUN AND LIKABLE VOICES From selfies to puppy pictures, friendly sports wagers to today’s “must-read,� ambassadors bring personal flair to digital diplomacy BY DA R A K L AT T

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n “obsessionâ€? is what France’s ambassador to the U.S. GĂŠrard Araud (@GerardAraud) calls Twitter. Tweeting over 11,000 times, he has used the social medium to discuss and eagerly debate topics on refugees in Europe, ISIS’ use of the Internet, climate change, the Greek crisis, the Iran Deal, NSA spying, Israeli policy in occupied territories, and what he sees as misleading coverage of events in the U.S. media. He also uses it to decree that a Rolling Stone cover with Kim Kardashian is “the death of rock’n’roll;â€? voice his frustration with public transportation delays; enlighten a foreign policy reporter about Bastille Day (noting: “you owe me a bottle of Champagneâ€?); and retweet Calvin and Hobbes cartoons. As “a good Frenchman,â€? Araud also tweets when he’s anticipating a vacation, when he is on vacation (but still tweeting, of course) ‌ and three weeks later, when he is begrudgingly back from vacation. Call him a master strategist or a colorful diplomat that rages against clichĂŠs, his enthusiastic use of Twitter — and brush of assumed political protocol with sharp wit — has gained him 17,000 followers. It’s also earned him plenty of admirers, especially

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from fellow ambassadors to the U.S. who are following his lead. With varying degrees of panache, some of the most active ambassadors to the U.S. on Twitter, according to a recent Exploring Digital Diplomacy study sample, include those from Italy, France, the European Union, Germany, Switzerland, Norway, Turkey, Sweden, Qatar and the U.K. As far as attracting an audience, Israel’s Ambassador Ron Dermer (@ AmbDermer) leads the charge with more than 40,000 followers, trailed by Araud at 17,100, Italy’s Claudio Bisogniero (@CBisogniero) at 7,200 and the U.K.’s Sir Peter Westmacott (@ PeterWestmacott) at 6,200. While most ambassadors focus on behindthe-scenes diplomacy or presenting their own stance of an issue, some diplomatic Twitteratis have steadily gained followers by letting their personalities peer through. Move over staid digital diplomacy. It’s time for selfies and puppy pictures. German ambassador to the U.S. Peter Wittig (@AmbWittig), Westmacott, Iraq’s Lukman Al Faily (@FailyLukman) and Qatar’s Mohammed Al Kuwari (@Amb_AlKuwari) have all posted selfies. Wittig’s photo of his adopted puppy Mikosch got 41 likes and 14 retweets. Westmacott and the EU’s David

O’Sullivan (@EUAmbUS) couldn’t help posting pictures with celebrities like Dame Judith Dench and Shaq. There’s #WineWedesday for Switzerland’s Martin Dahinden (@Martin_Dahinden) on a California tour, Westmacott bike riding at Google headquarters, and O’Sullivan at the Grand Ole Opry. They might sport red socks for New York Fashion Week, penguin ties for World Penguin Day, four-leaf-clover cuffs on St. Patrick’s Day and wear ’60s costumes to a Beatles cover band concert. You’ll find via tweets that one of Araud’s preferred writers is Jane Austen, Wittig’s favorite composer is Bach, Al Kuwari’s favorite song is “We are the World,� Westmacott waited 50 years for his first Rolling Stones concert, and Switzerland’s Dahinden’s online quiz result was “Switzerland Expert.� But sports bring out the pride and humility. Israel’s Ron Dermer was forced to tweet his “Pacers Pride� after losing a bet with the governor of Indiana. And during the FIFA World Cup, the German and Norwegian ambassadors took part in a friendly twitter wager with the loser owing a case of national beer. Hey, diplomacy is complicated.Twiplomacy is just favorited.

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Botswana Amb. David Newman and Changu Newman

Annie Boutin King, Mike Manatos and Laura Evans Manatos

Amb. Capricia Marshall, Chief of Protocol Amb. Peter Selfridge

AMBASSADORS BALL Marriott Marquis | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

Kimberly Holland, RenĂŠ Augustine, Carrie Marriott and Russell Parker

DIPLOMATIC EVENING: Former President Bill Clinton opened the 37th annual Ambassadors Ball with a video welcoming newly assigned ambassadors and their spouses to the city. Co-chaired by Erica Castro, Brian Rodgers and Capricia Marshall, the annual ball honoring the Washington diplomatic corps drew more than 500 attendees and benefited the National MS Society—more than $20 million has been raised since the event began for research into multiple sclerosis. Guests participated in a silent auction with items that included opportunities to dine with ambassadors at their embassies, exotic getaways and world-wide cultural experiences. Illustrious guests included Sen. John McCain, who made a surprise appearance to accept an award.

Rep. Fred Upton, Rep. Cathy McMorris-Rodgers and Rep. Diana DeGette

VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM

Russia Amb. Sergei Kislyak and Natalie Kislyakand Joe Ruzzo Mark Lowham, Tori Thomas

Ginny Doer and Canada Amb. Gary Doer

Sen. John McCain and Russell Parker

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Mike and Tisha Hyter

Julian and Erica Castro

Ireland Amb. Anne Anderson 69

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DIRECTORY

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D C WITHOUT EMBASSIES A FANTASY SCENARIO – OR IS IT? Photo Caption

BY ROLAND FLAMINI

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n late 2016, a group of European countries facing serious economic problems following the collapse of the euro amalgamated their respective embassies in Washington with their U.N. Missions into single diplomatic operations based in Manhattan. Left behind were the Photo Caption Photo Caption embassy brass plaques as a symbolic presence, and a number of service apartments and hotel suites available for visiting diplomats. Within six months, other embassies had seen that – after initial American huffing - the relocation had done no lasting harm to the bi-lateral relations of the departed Photo Caption Photo Caption missions, and a real exodus began -- greatly helped by the timely introduction of a new high- speed rail service bringing Washington closer to New York City than Pelham, N.Y. A sea of For Sale signs went up on Photo Caption

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Embassy Row and elsewhere as some 180 foreign missions attempted to unload various residences and chanceries. In a buyer’s market, what had started life as Millionaires’ Row before the Depression and then became Embassy Row was Millionaires’ Row again as the grand ambassadorial mansions were snapped up by leaders of the computer aristocracy. A fleet of more than 6,000 cars with diplomatic plates flooded the used car market. A number of Washingtonians cut off suddenly from their transfusion of embassy receptions and social functions had to go into therapy to treat their withdrawal symptoms… RELAX! Not Happening -- except perhaps in Mayor Muriel Bowser’s worst nightmares. Not yet anyway. Embassies enrich a

country’s capital, culturally as well as financially. Yet in these days of terrorism and advancing technology who can say when nations might decide to substitute holograms for human diplomats? Holograms need neither food nor shelter; they get paid no salary, and no lives are lost if they get blown up. Not that there’s any sign of ambassadors with briefcases being replaced by ambassadors inside briefcases. Washington’s diplomatic community is growing still. In 2001, 169 foreign missions employed a total of 9,681 personnel, according to a study prepared at the time by George Mason University for the National Capital Planning Commission. Their combined payroll and non-payroll expenditure totaled $547.67 million, or three percent of Washington’s $57.2 billion

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P H OTOS BY TO N Y P OW E L L

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(Photo courtesy Embassy of Haiti) The 2015 Opera Ball was held at the German ambassador’s residence.

economy (gross state product), according to the report. No public study along the same lines has been undertaken since – an indication that perhaps the city takes its diplomatic community too much for granted. In 2014, when the U.S. Treasury showed the District’s GSP or gross state product had grown to $113.3 billion, the number of foreign missions had increased to 180, their collective work-force to close to 11,000, and based on available data a variety of financial experts estimated that the payroll-plus-expenditure numbers skyrocketed to $881.5 million. A typical mission consists of a handful of foreign diplomats plus a locally hired support staff of U.S. citizens and non-American permanent residents holding jobs like secretary to the ambassador of Kuwait, commercial officer in the French Embassy, press attaché in the British Embassy, social secretary to the Spanish ambassador, as well as cook, chauffeur, security staff, translator, and receptionist. In 2001, according to the report, local payrolls were $292.5 million. The report also estimated that personal consumer spending by employees in the District was $32.4 million –

Something surprising people don’t know about you? I am very interested in design, architecture andArab home renovation. The embassy of the United Emirates at night.

Something surprising Americans don’t know about country? including $3.411 million on groceries. Nonday celebrations each year – your Bastille Day for That Haiti has an abundance of tourist destinations. payroll spending by foreign missions was the French, St. Patrick’s Day for the Irish, the estimated at $257.7 million, of which nearly Birthday Favorite vacationQueen’s spot in your country?for the British, the Pope’s Jeremie becausebirthday it is homefor andthe is apapal quiet, nuncio peaceful-location. 40 percent was funneled to District-based are a major businesses. prop of Washington’s catering trade, and the Historical figure you most admire? With at least one new embassyToussaint residence number of former chefs who over Louverture because against allembassy odds he had the political acumen or chancery built every year, notosector of the years independence. have quit their jobs and gone into set the stage for Haiti’s Washington business has benefited more business for themselves has been a factor in the Washington social event you look forward to the most every year? than the construction business. Some notable quality leap of Washington restaurants. Also, it’s Passport DC because I enjoy welcoming the general public to the embassy. examples: the Spanish Embassy residence, estimated that the embassies receive hundreds Howmillion, do you like to your free time? completed in 2004, at a cost of $10 of spend official visitors from their respective home Playing and–when I haveof a free moment joining the $80 million Swedish chancery onwith themy 1-year-old countriesdaughter, every year a benefit $361 million a pickup soccer game. Potomac at Georgetown Harbor in 2006, the in hotel revenue alone last year. new Pakistani Embassy at $15 million, the There is, however, one revenue the Languages you speak? French, Creole and English.has I also learned Spanishcollecting while spending time in fortress-like Italian chancery. Then there is District had problems from Central America, but I don’t get to practice it very often. the cluster of 17 new embassies built between diplomats for decades – parking tickets. From 1985 and 2014 at the InternationalDish Chancery time, member of home? the media obtains you miss thetime mostto when youaare away from a Haitian Center off Van Ness Street NW Legume, on parcels thevegetable latest stew. unpaid figures from the State of land leased by the State Department. Department’s Diplomatic Motor Vehicles Favorite Washington restaurant? Range. Austria, the United Arab Emirates, Israel, and Office using the Freedom of Information Egypt were among the foreign missions that andAct Why violations need causes/ to Ambassadors their(FOI). embassies haveparking a long tradition of supporting institutions championed by the Washington community. What will you relocated there, and the resulting potpourri be kept secret is anybody’s guess, but in 2011, and the embassy be involved with in the coming year? Step Afrika!, Roots of of national styles gets mixed reactions. Critics the radio station WTOP made headlines with Development and the Smithsonian African Museum of Art. have described the Center as “Embassy its revelation that foreign diplomats owed the Acres” and “Disneyland for contemporary Top issue on yourcity agenda? $340,000 in unpaid parking fees and Strengthening Haiti’s economic withimmunity the U.S. — to enticing architecture buffs.” invoked their relations diplomatic avoidmore U.S. companies to come and do business in Haiti. Embassy events, including over 100 national paying them. @EmbassyOfHaiti

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