Senate Resolution No. 818 BY: Senator SEPULVEDA WELCOMING the Society of Foreign Consuls to the Legislative Chambers in Albany on April 25, 2023 WHEREAS, Founded in 1925, the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York represents the world's largest consular corps, comprising Consulates, Consulates General and Honorary Consulates based in New York City; and WHEREAS, The Society of Foreign Consuls is a non-profit organization that welcomes current serving members of NYC-based consulates general, consulates, and honorary consulates recognized by the United States of America; and WHEREAS, The mission of the Society of Foreign Consuls is to protect the interests and rights of its members while fostering cultural and economic relations between their respective countries, the city of New York, and the host country, the United States of America; and WHEREAS, The Society of Foreign Consuls collaborates with various offices, including the US Department of State's Office of Foreign Missions and the NYC Mayor's Office for the United Nations, Consular Corps and Protocol, to arrange forums and seminars on issues of mutual interest; and WHEREAS, The Society of Foreign Consuls has taken the initiative to organize fundraising charity galas to support organizations, including the American Cancer Society, Special Olympics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Paul Newman's Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, and CARE International's international children's programs; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the New York State Senate and Assembly extends a warm welcome to the Society of Foreign Consuls to the legislative body's chambers in Albany on April 25, 2023; and be it further RESOLVED, That the Senate and Assembly acknowledges the Society of Foreign Consuls for its unwavering commitment to promoting cultural and economic relations between New York City, its member countries, and the United States of America; and be it further RESOLVED, That the Senate and Assembly commends the Society of Foreign Consuls for its efforts in organizing seminars and events on consular access, diplomatic security, immigration, document fraud, and airport protocol; and be it further RESOLVED, That the Senate and Assembly applauds the Society of Foreign Consuls for its contributions towards supporting charitable organizations and their missions.