Trinidad & Tobago’s Ambassador delivers keynote address at President Obama’s Inaugural Ball
By: Shama Harrysingh
WASHINGTON, DC – The 2013 Ambassadors Presidential Inaugural Ball themed on International Peace, Unity & Diplomacy took place on Monday January 21, 2013 at the Carnegie Library, in Washington DC in honor of United States President, Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama.
The event was attended by Heads of State, Governors, Members of Congress, Ambassadors, and key State Officials.
Ambassador Neil Parsan of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago delivered the keynote address.
Dr. Parsan accepted the position of Co-Chair of the Inauguration Ball along with the Ambassador of the Republic of Botswana. “I decided to accept the request to Co-Chair as I believe in this form neo-diplomacy; the international community engaging in philanthropic initiatives in host country.” explained Dr. Parsan. “Also, having done numerous interviews via television, radio, newspaper and twitter for this event, I repeated three words as often as opportunity permitted – ‘Trinidad and Tobago’ to audiences that are in the millions.”
Dr. Parsan shares his experience with us.
Shama: What was your experience working with other Ambassadors from around the world at this historical event?
Dr. Parsan: One that was most enjoyable – collaborative, engaging and purposeful in intent. The International Community from across various regions welcomed the opportunity to embrace philanthropic initiatives of this nature. This is neo-diplomacy at its finest.
Shama: For the sake of charity, to what extent did the locals participate?
Dr. Parsan: The participation was very encouraging. The diversity of the crowd traversed all creeds, races, ages and religions.
Shama: Do you think that this as an opportunity to improve social collaboration between Trinidad & Tobago & the United States?
Dr. Parsan: Surely yes. My country resonated across all forms of media to millions during the PR campaign. That is social engagement between host country and TT.
Shama: You have experienced a ‘once in a life time’ opportunity and was part of the 57th Presidential Inauguration, a historical event indeed. What have you enjoyed most?
Dr. Parsan: The planning process and meeting great people all engaged for a common cause.
Shama: What are the most memorable moments?
Dr.Parsan: Looking at the hundred of thousands on the mall in Washington DC.
Shama: What is your message for nationals?
Dr. Parsan: Let us all be ambassadors for TT, let us continue to show the world that we are indeed the model for managing diversity, let us think beyond the myopia of closed-mindedness and see the beauty in all around us and beyond our shores.
We live in an imperfect world often seeking perfect solutions. Let us accept each other for who we are and what we represent.
