The Brussels Diplomatic Academy (BDA) is pleased to announce the signing of a Letter of Intent between the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and Fédération Internationale des Corps et Associations Consulaires (FICAC), on October 17th, 2023. The signing ceremony took place at the VUB Rector’s office with Rector Jan Danckaert,  and President Emeritus Dr. Aykut Eken signing on behalf of VUB and FICAC respectively. This Memorandum provides a much needed platform to facilitate the hosting of diverse activities by the BDA and FICAC to advance the scope of diplomacy and dialogue in bridging a divided world at a critical juncture in world affairs.

Other members of the FICAC Delegation in attendance included Mr. François Piers, Member of the FICAC Board of Directors, and FICAC’s Permanent Secretary Mr. Patrick Debrus. The BDA was represented by Director Gunter Gaublomme and Global Affairs Advisor Ambassador, Dr. Len Ishmael.  The signing ceremony marks the successful conclusion  of negotiations between Ambassador Ishmael, Mr. Gaublomme, and FICAC’s President Emeritus Dr. Eken. Ambassador Ishmael has previously served as FICAC’s Honorary Chairperson of The Women in Diplomacy Network.

The ceremony was followed by lunch hosted by Mr. Gunter Gaublomme.