Enayetullah Khan, Honorary Consul of Romania in Bangladesh and Editor-in-Chief of United News of Bangladesh (UNB), attended the World Federation of Consuls (FICAC) 2026 North America Regional Conference in Philadelphia, bringing together consuls and honorary consuls from across the world for discussions on contemporary diplomatic challenges and global cooperation.

He also met with World Federation of Consuls (FICAC) President Nikolaos Margaropoulos and exchanged pleasantries.

The three-day conference, held from November 2 to 4, was hosted by the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia and the Consular Corps College.

The event was attended by several prominent dignitaries and distinguished guests, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, President of the World Federation of Consuls (FICAC) Nikolaos Margaropoulos, Consular Corps College Dean Louis Vella, Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia President Krista Bard, former US Ambassador to Canada David L. Cohen, President of Foreign Policy Research Institute Aaron Stein, Chair of the Board of Directors of Sister Cities International Sheri Capehart, former US Chief of Protocol (2009-2013) Ambassador Capricia Marshall, and Honorary Consul of Spain Madeline Bell and Jerry Wind, Lauder Professor Emeritus and Professor of Marketing at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

The annual gathering provided a platform for consular representatives to exchange views on emerging diplomatic issues, strengthen international networks and explore opportunities for cooperation through high-level discussions, bilateral engagements and cultural activities.

The conference featured a series of panel discussions and presentations on a wide range of issues, including modern-day diplomacy, the power of protocol, public diplomacy, global philanthropy, nation branding, energy diplomacy and the role of artificial intelligence in understanding diplomatic history.

Participants also discussed the role of soft power in international relations, the importance of global partnerships and how countries can strengthen their international image and expand economic opportunities.

A session on the World Bank's Business Ready (B-Ready) Report highlighted the importance of improving national business environments to attract investment and promote economic cooperation.

Energy diplomacy in an increasingly fragmented world was another major focus, with experts examining the role of alliances and cooperation in addressing global energy challenges.

The programme also included discussions on women's participation in diplomacy, contemporary diplomatic and consular relations, and the importance of international friendship and cultural exchanges.

The conference concluded on November 4 with a black-tie gala dinner and a decorations reception at the historic Union League in Philadelphia, featuring a concert by the Curtis Institute of Music Orchestra and an honour guard by the First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry.

The conference offered consular representatives an opportunity to strengthen professional relationships while highlighting Philadelphia's rich diplomatic history and heritage.