A MONMOUTHSHIRE man from Chepstow, Keith Dunn OBE has been appointed the new President of the Consular Association in Wales.

Mr Dunn will head up the Consular Association in Wales – which helps further the commercial, academic and cultural activities of Wales around the world.

He was appointed at the association’s Annual General Meeting, held on Thursday, 8 April.

Speaking following the announcement of his appointment he said: “I could not be more proud to have been appointed the new President of the Consular Association in Wales. My mission is a simple one, to build on what has already been achieved and to raise the profile of Wales internationally.

"The world changes constantly and Wales changes with it.”

He added: “Ensuring a commercial and cultural link with the world and continued investment is essential if Wales is to grow on the international stage. Wales is a dynamic country and stronger links with the countries the Honorary Consuls represent will be vital to its future prosperity.”

One of the main duties of the President is to convene the meetings of the Association, and work with the UK Government, Welsh Government, Councils, and other public bodies.

A number of countries use Honorary Consuls to develop relationships with Wales.

The Association is a grouping of honorary consuls who are appointed by, and are responsible to, the government of the country they represent.

Mr Dunn was appointed as the Honorary Consul for Japan in Wales by the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs in 2017 and will continue with those duties. He succeeds Mr Michael Rye, Honorary Consul for Belarus. Mr Theo Coliandris, Honorary Consul for Thailand was appointed Vice-President.