Aïssa Christophe Agostini’s Post

3 questions for Dharshana M. Perera, who in March 2024 will take on a new post at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Colombo, ending three intense years as Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the Nordic and Baltic countries. Dharshana M. Perera has a long diplomatic career and prior to his career in diplomacy had worked as an academic and in the international Sri Lankan business community. What do you take away from your three years as Ambassador to the New Nordics? Among the important features I observed, were the values Sri Lanka shares with the region we refer to as the New Nordics which is covered by the Embassy in Stockholm. It includes Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Shared values of democracy, open economic orientation as well as the climate & environment are so critical to our societies to nurture. Sri Lanka is one of the oldest democracies in Asia and we share this heritage with this region. We are also open, export-oriented economies. We share similar views on climate and environment – deeply committed to reaching climate goals. This is a solid foundation for generating business with Sri Lanka and I am pleased to see that this area has particularly strengthened in recent years. Read rest the interview - https://lnkd.in/dg_3wePw #srilanka #threequickones Sweden Sri Lanka Business Council Dharshana M. Perera Embassy of Sri Lanka in Stockholm, Sweden

Yesterday, the Embassy hosted the closing reception for the Southeast Asia Young Leaders’ Programme, celebrating another highly successful Shangri-La Dialogue organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). The IISS Southeast Asia Young Leaders’ Programme brings a new generation of strategic thinkers from Southeast Asia and countries of strategic importance to the region to the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue each year. They engage in high-level discussions on complex regional security challenges and expand their networks through meetings with ministers and high-ranking officials. The region holds significant importance for Norway, with next year marking a decade since we became a sectoral dialogue partner with ASEAN. This partnership is highly valued and prioritized by both sides, and our collaboration has yielded substantial benefits, particularly in the maritime field and driving the green transition. Shared visions and close cooperation continue to strengthen the bonds between Norway and ASEAN. Photo: Norwegian Embassy

Peru has been part of APEC since 1998. Membership of this forum represents a relevant milestone for Peruvian foreign policy as it has allowed our economy to consolidate its international projection in the Asia-Pacific region, the most innovative, dynamic, and fastest growing in the world. The more than 160 events planned for APEC 2024 will contribute to the post-pandemic economic reactivation.... This forum has further opened the doors of the world to us, connecting us with the largest markets and fostering opportunities for more inclusive and sustainable development. In addition, it has contributed to inserting Peruvian companies in regional and global value chains and to the internationalization of SMEs. In short, the APEC 2024 presidency represents the opportunity to favor the development of energy and societal diplomacy to face the great economic-social challenges of Peru, through economic, health, environmental and technical cooperation.

𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭: 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐜𝐨 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐬 The report proposes a likely scenario where Morocco’s development accelerates, driven by automotive, tourism, digital growth, and the 2030 World Cup, strengthening its global position.

I recently had the privilege of meeting with the newly appointed 🇬🇷 Secretary General for International Economic Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Enterprise Greece SA, Mr. Dimitris Skalkos. Our dialogue focused on shaping the 2025 agenda for the Hellenic-ASEAN Business Council (HABC), underscoring a mutual commitment to strengthening Greece-ASEAN collaboration in trade and economic growth. We both recognized the transformative potential within Southeast Asia, where expanding opportunities can significantly benefit both our regions. I highlighted Southeast Asia’s immense resources and untapped markets, which we believe will drive fundamental advancements in the coming years. A pivotal point was establishing a strategic alliance between Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic - Enterprise Greece SA and the Hellenic-ASEAN Business Council (HABC), setting a foundation to amplify our shared initiatives and elevate future business delegations. It is encouraging to know our goals and vision are well aligned, setting the stage for a prosperous engagement with a region full of dynamic potential and mutual benefit. ✒️✒️✒️ __________________________________ #hellenicasean #hellenicrepublic #mfa #asean #enterprisegreece #trade #business #mission #delegation #alliance #economic #sociocultural #relations #aseanontherise #southeastasia #greece

#Unpacking Djibouti's Concerns Over the Ethiopia-Somaliland MOU# Observing the unfolding dynamics in the Horn of Africa, the Ethiopia-Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) offers a striking example of how geopolitical shifts can impact regional powers, particularly Djibouti. Djibouti's strategic position as a key maritime hub has historically been pivotal, serving as the primary gateway for nearly all of Ethiopia’s maritime trade. This economic dependency on Ethiopian trade has fortified Djibouti’s role in regional and international maritime affairs, contributing significantly to its economy. The recent MOU between Ethiopia and Somaliland, aimed at enhancing the Port of Berbera, introduces potential competition for Djibouti. This development could divert a substantial portion of maritime traffic from Djibouti to Berbera, potentially diluting Djibouti's economic stronghold and its influence over landlocked Ethiopia's access to the sea. In response, Djibouti has proposed granting Ethiopia management control over the Port of Tadjourah—a strategic move intended not only to keep Ethiopia engaged but also to mitigate the impact of the Berbera port development. This gesture underscores Djibouti’s concern over losing its near-monopolistic position and highlights its proactive steps to remain a relevant player in the region’s economic and security landscape. These strategic shifts are crucial for stakeholders in maritime security and international trade to monitor, as they have profound implications for regional stability and the balance of power in the Horn of Africa. #MaritimeSecurity #HornOfAfrica #Geopolitics #TradeDynamics

Summary: Morocco, guided by King Mohammed VI's vision, is set to enhance partnerships with Indonesia and African nations, focusing on South-South cooperation. Key initiatives include regional growth, food security, and health investment. Meta Description: Discover Morocco's commitment to strengthening partnerships with Indonesia and African countries. Explore key initiatives for regional growth, food security, and health investment, as outlined by Minister Nasser Bourita at the Indonesia-Africa Forum 2024.

Kazakhstan's strategic move to deepen its Caspian ports marks a significant step in enhancing the Trans-Caspian Transport Route, positioning the nation as a pivotal hub in Eurasian trade. By improving maritime connectivity, Kazakhstan is not only bolstering its economic prospects but also strengthening regional cooperation. This development underscores the nation's commitment to diversifying its trade routes, reducing reliance on traditional paths, and embracing a forward-thinking approach to global commerce. As the world increasingly looks towards Central Asia, Kazakhstan’s investments in infrastructure could play a crucial role in shaping the region's economic future. https://lnkd.in/dhb2P2bP

Here are some key takeaways from an article titled “The Ankara Consensus: How #Turkey is Boosting Influence in Rising #Africa” * Teresa Nogueira Pinto argues that “As a result of its realization that it would be difficult to join the European project, Turkey launched its “Action Plan for Africa” and implemented it” Some of the concrete results of this increased African engagement: 1) Turkish-African bileteral trade went up from $5bn in 2003 to $40bn in 2022 2) Turkish construction companies are working on projects worth $85bn 3) Turkish Airlines is operating in 60 destinations in Africa 4) Turkey’s defence industry is exported more than $288m to Africa in 2021 Federico Donelli argues that “Turkey’s success is partly beacuse of its unique and hybrid image in Africa” “Rather than creating new relations of dependence, Turkey’s approach tends to focus on political equality, mutual economic development and a long-term social partnership” “Turkey’s distinctive approach to Africa (ANKARA CONSENSUS) is an alternative to both Washington Consensus and Beijing Consensus” Moreover, some other reasons for Turkish success are: -> Increased Diplomatic Presence -> Turkey’s geographic proximity to the continent -> Turkish criticism towards global governance institues -> Turkish insistance towards African and Global South inclusion in the global decision-making processes An important note: Mehmet Ozkan argues that “defence ties are very important for Turkey and will become even more important in the bear future” *Article is published in African Business Magazine ‘s March 2024 issue

We are thrilled to see the strategic location of our country catching the attention of world superpowers. Our unique position at the crossroads of Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian Ocean makes us an invaluable player in global geopolitics. It’s no wonder that powerfull countries are taking notice of Somaliland’s potential as a key player in international affairs. Our access to vital shipping lanes and proximity to crucial trade routes give us a significant advantage in the global arena. I firmly believe that our government’s focus on fostering strong diplomatic relations with these world powers will only further enhance Somaliland’s standing on the world stage. By leveraging our strategic location, we can attract investment, promote economic growth, and ensure the security and stability of our region. Republic of Somaliland is proud of its positioning as a key player in the global community. Let’s continue to work together to harness the potential of our nation and solidify our place on the world stage. By collaborating with other nations and organizations, we can address common challenges and achieve shared goals. Together, we can build a brighter future for Somaliland and contribute positively to the global community. #RepublicofSomalilnd #StrategicNationStateinHornofAfrica