In commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the presence of the Consular Corps in Valparaíso, a significant ceremony was held in the Congress Hall of Honor on Tuesday, October 10. The event was attended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alberto Van Klaveren, the President of the Senate, Juan Antonio Coloma, and the Dean of the Consular Corps of Valparaíso, Ruth Engels, together with consular representatives, ambassadors, regional, military and ecclesiastical authorities.
The Consular Corps of Valparaíso has played a fundamental role in the development of Chile's international relations for two centuries, promoting cooperation and friendship among different nations. This celebration marks a historic milestone in the region and reaffirms the importance of Valparaíso as a strategic port for diplomatic and commercial relations.
During the ceremony, Minister Van Klaveren emphasized not only the importance of the Consular Corps in the diplomatic field, but also the historical role played by the city of Valparaíso as a port. He emphasized that Valparaíso has been, throughout its history, a meeting point for different cultures and nations, a place of exchange and connection between the American continent and the rest of the world.
The Minister emphasized how Valparaíso has witnessed crucial moments in the history of Chile and the continent, serving as a fundamental node for trade and international relations. He also underscored the importance of the city in the economic and cultural development of the region.
The President of the Senate, Juan Antonio Coloma, addressed the fundamental issue of the importance of diplomacy in international relations between countries. Coloma emphasized that diplomacy plays a crucial role in preserving peace, promoting understanding and finding solutions to global challenges.
During her speech, Ruth Engels, as Dean of the Consular Corps of Valparaíso, offered a retrospective look at the rich history of this institution. She recalled the first steps of the consuls who arrived in Valparaíso two centuries ago and their commitment to the promotion of international relations, highlighting the vital role they played at crucial moments in Chilean history.
In addition, Engels enthusiastically announced the forthcoming edition of a historical book that will chronicle the evolution and contributions of the Consular Corps of Valparaíso over the years. This book will become an invaluable source of knowledge about the international relations of Chile and the Valparaíso region, and will serve as a tribute to the work of the consuls who have worked tirelessly to strengthen ties between nations.
During the ceremony, the Symphony Orchestra of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso gave an outstanding musical performance that was warmly applauded by the audience. The classical music added a touch of sophistication to the event, highlighting the magnificent performance of the musicians.
The commemoration of the bicentennial of the Consular Corps of Valparaiso is a testimony of the trajectory and commitment of this institution to the promotion of peace, friendship and understanding among nations. The Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso is proud to participate in this event and collaborate in the edition of the historical book on the consular corps of Valparaíso and celebrate together with the consular community this important milestone in the history of the city and the country.
