German embassy in Caribbean hosts conference for Honorary Consuls

On 10th and 11th October, 2011 the German Embassy in Port of Spain hosted a conference for their Honorary Consuls.

The German Ambassador Stefan Schlüter who is accredited to ten countries in the region (Trinidad and Tobago as well as Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Suriname) and covering Anguilla the British Virgin Islands and Montserrat in consular matters, welcomed eight Honorary Consuls, one person of trust and four assistants of the Honorary Consuls in Port of Spain.

Honorary Consuls are extremely important for an Embassy with multiple accreditations in the region. The German Embassy is fortunate to be represented by a very dedicated group of professionals in every country of our jurisdiction. Honorary Consuls help German nationals in cases of emergency facilitate passport as well as visa applications. With their vast knowledge about their respective countries they are also a first point of contact for German companies seeking advice, they assist with networking and many other questions one might have.

The conference, which is held every two years, gives them the opportunity to exchange experiences among each other and with the staff of the Embassy and get an update on different matters as trade, law and consular affairs or the possibility to study in Germany. For a second time after 2009, the meeting was held in the Hyatt, Port of Spain.

This year’s conference ended with a special highlight, as the Honorary Consuls were invited to attend the Oktoberfest held at the Hilton Trinidad in collaboration with the German Embassy. The Consuls welcomed the opportunity to immerse themselves in German cuisine, entertainment and beer.