JG - From Russia with love: Ambassador, wife host National Day reception

From my archive of press clippings:

Jamaica Gleaner

From Russia with love: Ambassador, wife host National Day reception

published: Sunday June 15, 2008

Chester Francis-Jackson Gleaner Writer

Russian Ambassador host Victor Zotin (right) toasts his country's National Day with Governor General Sir Kenneth (second left) and Lady Hall, and Energy Minister Clive Mullings, at his Norbrook Drive residence, last Thursday. - photos by Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

Luvs, in the world of diplomacy, parties, receptions and entertaining generally plays a most vital role in projecting a positive image of the host and country.

They often serve as the springboard from which many a bilateral and/or multilateral deal is negotiated and not just between nations, but also between businesses and individuals.

In this respect, parties are not just all about social-profiling for the diplomatic, political and/or social elite. But more importantly, they are crucial to the diplomatic swirl and appreciated as such, by true diplomats. Luvs, this appreciation has not been lost by successive Russian envoys here over the years, as they have completely understood the importance of this tool in the diplomatic arsenal, and have used it when appropriate, especially on the occasion of Russia's National Day.

Read the whole article here.

Snippet(s):

"Ambassador Zotin is no neophyte to the fine art of diplomacy.

With nearly 40 years of service with the Russian foreign service, the affable diplomat has proved during his stint here, to be a man of unimpeachable character, style and substance, and above all else, a friend of Jamaica with an understanding of the complexities and nuances that form the platforms from which our politics and world views are formed.

It is an understanding that has earned him the respect of those in government as well of those with whom he interacts."

"Ambassador Zotin and wife completed the welcoming formalities, and guests joined the buzzing mix of national leaders, members of the diplomatic and consular corps as well as leading citizenry to the lawns accented by low-hung mango trees."

"The dignitaries and notables out sharing the very fab occasion included Governor General Sir Kenneth and Lady Hall; Senate president Oswald Harding and wife, Marigold; National Security Minister Trevor MacMillan and wife, Dr Olivia McDonald; HE Ambassador Douglas Saunders and wife, Angela Robertson; HE Ambassador Maxine Roberts; Chinese Ambassador HE Chen Jinghua and Madam Xiao Linhua; French Ambassador HE Francis Hurtut; Spanish Ambassador HE Jesús Silva and his charming wife, Sara Silva.


Young guests Margareta Vlasova (left) and Yulia Chazshina have that supermodel look already, don't they? Jo Ann Kingsley (centre) beams with Elena Dorofeeva (right) and Alyona Morozova."