Embassy Induction Seminar 2008 Review

Embassy Team | 29th February 2008

Welcome to London

On Friday 26 September, over 130 newly-arrived diplomats from more than 60 diplomatic missions descended on Dartmouth House, home of the English Speaking Union, for the first ever Embassy Induction Seminar.

It was a chance for newcomers to the capital to meet the new Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps, Charles Gray, who gave a talk on the role of the Marshal. The Dean, Kuwaiti Ambassador Khaled Al Duwaisan, also gave them tips that he has picked up following a successful 15-year posting in London, while former FCO Director of Protocol Charles de Chassiron gave diplomats a frank insight into protocol and privileges in London.

Envoys were then introduced to the various diplomatic networking associations in London, before heading off to specialist workshops on the themes of Politics and Press; Trade and Economics; Education and Culture; and Consular and Home Affairs.

Over lunch, the House was a hive of activity as diplomats and their families met trusted diplomatic suppliers in the Living in London Expo, sponsored by BMW Park Lane, IDS Diplomatic Supplies, Rowland Brothers International and Towergate Embassy Insurance. After that diplomats and their families attended a personal safety seminar hosted by Constable Brian Pitkin of the Diplomatic Protection Group. It was an intense day of networking, but all the delegates agreed it was the perfect launching pad for their London posting.