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New York City is host to the largest consular corps in the world. Each consulate enhances the City's status as an international center for culture, trade, commerce, and tourism. The main purpose of a consulate is to serve its country's interests in a foreign country, as well as its foreign nationals residing in New York City. The 114 consulates in New York perform consular functions (within states of their jurisdiction) including, but not limited to, issuance and renewal of passports and visas, vital records services, legalization of documents, powers of attorney, and the circulation of publications. In addition, many consulates promote awareness and understanding through their media and information services, libraries, and various cultural events open to the public.
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