A farewell and welcome reception was held in Shangri-La Singapore to honor distinguished diplomats for their exceptional service and to welcome new ambassadors to the city-state.
Singapore, 7 June 2024 – In a heartfelt farewell and welcome reception held at Shangri-La Singapore, notable diplomats were honored for their exceptional service and contributions, while new ambassadors were welcomed to the diplomatic community in the city-state. The event featured speeches from H.E. Agustin Garcia Lopez Loaeza, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and the Ambassador of Mexico to Singapore, who honored the diplomats’ outstanding careers.
Her Excellency Kara Owen, the British High Commissioner to Singapore since June 2019, was among those honored. During her tenure, she demonstrated remarkable sensitivity and diplomatic skills, earning accolades such as the CVO (Commander of the Victoria Order) and the CMG (Companion of St Michael and St George) from HM the Queen for her services to diplomacy. Ambassador Lopez Loaeza highlighted her extensive experience, including roles as Director for the Americas at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy in Paris.
Another distinguished diplomat recognized was His Excellency Ambassador Alfonso Valencia, who made history as the youngest Ambassador to Singapore and was instrumental in establishing the Embassy of El Salvador in the city-state. With a background in political science and public administration, Ambassador Valencia has served in various countries, including Türkiye, Israel, the United Kingdom, and Russia. His departure from the diplomatic service to enter the private sector marks the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
Additionally, the reception honored His Excellency Ambassador Enrique Villegas González of Panama. Ambassador Villegas González, a graduate of the Universidad Santa María La Antigua with a Bachelor of Science in Structural Architecture, has significantly strengthened Panama-Singapore relations. His efforts in areas such as maritime cooperation, logistics, and technology have been highly appreciated. His background in structural architecture and construction management has uniquely positioned him to build both literal and metaphorical bridges.
The event also served as a welcome reception for the new Ambassadors of China, H.E. Cao Zhongming, Thailand, H.E. Ureerat Chareontoh, and Uzbekistan, H.E. Alisher Kayumov, who were introduced to the diplomatic community in Singapore. This dual celebration was a testament to the enduring friendships and professional achievements of the departing diplomats and a warm welcome to the new representatives whose contributions are anticipated to further enrich the diplomatic landscape in Singapore.
A heartfelt goodbye and best wishes for their future endeavors from IN Diplomacy, and a warm welcome to the new ambassadors.
Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters
