Indonesian Ambassador to South Korea John Prasetio hosted a reception for the Corea Image and Communication Institute celebrating “graduates” of past sessions and the start of the 17th session of the group’s CQ Forum at his residence in Yeouido on Tuesday.

CQ has some 300 members from various countries, including several foreign envoys. Many of them have completed one session or more of the group’s forums.

“I admire what CICI is trying to do by assembling the international community in Korea. This allows them to meet up with the locals,” Prasetio said. “We are creating a win-win situation. It creates a positive image for Korea. If you want to succeed, you have to have this networking. As you know, it is not only what you know, but who you know.”

Since 2003, CICI has brought together leaders from various walks of life to the CQ Forums to share cultural experiences. The group has done the program twice a year since 2006.

“This is the 30th alumni meeting of CICI. So, the launch of CQ17 this year is particularly special,” said CICI president Choi Jung-wha, adding that 25 people have signed up to participate for this session.

The “CQ” in CQ Forum includes five categories of what Choi has described as one’s “cultural quotient,” such as culture, concentration, communication, creativity and cooperation.

“The Indonesian ambassador was a superb host and professor Choi Jung-hwa did a magnificent job summoning guests from all walks of Korean life,” said Panamanian Ambassador to South Korea Aram Cisneros.

There were several heads of diplomatic missions on hand at the alumni party. Irish Ambassador Aingeal O’Donoghue and Kuwaiti Ambassador Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi were in attendance.

The 17th session of CQ Forum includes visits to Hyundai Card to get a sense of Korean corporate culture and Min’s Kitchen in March for a taste of modern Korean cuisine, as well as lectures on healthy living and calligraphy.

(ephilip2011@heraldcorp.com)