Sister Cities International hosted a gathering of global leaders on Sunday, June 23, 2024, in Washington, D.C., to celebrate the UN International Day of Women in Diplomacy. The reception, chaired by Christine Warnke, Carole Feld, and David C. Levy, acknowledged women’s achievements in this field. Participants included diplomats, business leaders, professionals, civil society representatives, and members of the media.
Distinguished guests included Her Excellency Robie Kakonge, Ambassador of the Republic of Uganda to the U.S., Her Excellency Fatoumata Sidibe Kaba, Ambassador from the Republic of Guinea to the U.S., and Mrs. Tran Thi Bich Van, Wife of the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the U.S. amongst others.
Carole Feld opened the reception by welcoming attendees and setting the tone for the evening. She introduced Alexandria Maloney, President of Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA) and the Mistress of Ceremonies, who articulated the significance of the day and the crucial role of women leaders in diplomacy.
Following the welcoming remarks, Christine Warnke, a board member and D.C.’s State Representative for Sister Cities International, explained the purpose of the event. Warnke pointed out the critical importance of recognizing women’s involvement and contributions in diplomacy. She also took the opportunity to encourage the audience to learn more about Sister Cities International’s work.
Sophia Kounenaki Efraimoglou, President of the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the first honoree of the evening delivered her acceptance speech. “I am deeply honored to receive this award today. My work with the Athens Chamber of Commerce has focused on promoting international trade and empowering women in business. Together with our partners, we strive to create opportunities for women entrepreneurs globally,” she said.
The evening culminated with another address from Her Excellency Oksana Markarova, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States, as the 2nd award recipient. “In Ukraine, women are at the forefront of our nation’s development and resilience. As we face challenges, we also harness our strengths to build a better future. This award highlights the dedication of Ukrainian women in diplomacy and beyond…So, let’s stick together, let’s support women. Let’s support people to people connections, she emphatically stated.
Christine Warnke then presented Sophia and Ambassador Markarova with a proclamation from Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington, D.C. The proclamation lauded their outstanding contributions to diplomacy and women’s empowerment, further cementing their achievements in the annals of global diplomacy.
Carole Feld concluded the event by thanking all participants and reaffirming Sister Cities International’s crucial role in cultural exchange and global connections. Her closing remarks captured the spirit of the evening, focusing on networking and celebrating women’s accomplishments in diplomacy, while stressing the importance of international cooperation in tackling global challenges.
