Asia Global Institute

Our AsiaGlobal Fellows 2024 recently conducted a sharing session on entrepreneurship and innovation at Lap Chee College in early October. Agita Pasaribu, Felipe Oriá and Rumbidzai Sithole shared insights from their entrepreneurial journeys to assist students in navigating the opportunities and challenges associated with starting a new business. It’s truly inspiring to see our fellows imparting their knowledge and expertise to the younger generation. Don't miss the chance to engage with our fellows while they are in Hong Kong until November 23! AsiaGlobal Fellows 2024 - https://lnkd.in/gcUP4CGu

The inaugural BRICS+ conference, hosted by the Asia Global Institute, took place successfully in September. Scholars and policymakers from around the globe came together to explore critical issues, opportunities, and challenges shaping the future of #BRICS. With the addition of new members — Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, the 10 BRICS nations now represent nearly 50% of the world’s population and account for over 35% of global GDP. Check out the insights from our speakers. Speakers: Thitinan Pongsudhirak - Senior Fellow and Professor of International Relations, Institute of Security and International Studies, Chulalongkorn University Lucie Qian Xia, Ph.D. - Departmental Lecturer, Politics and International Relations of China, University of Oxford Anoop Singh - Distinguished Fellow, NITI Aayog, Government of India; Distinguished Fellow, Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP)

I have enjoyed meeting a remarkable group of 14 bright Azerbaijani students who have just arrived at The University of Hong Kong to pursue their academic degrees, thanks to the Azerbaijani government fully funded scholarship program. 🎓✈️🇦🇿 This is the first time ever that such a large number of Azerbaijani students will be studying in Hong Kong. While I was initially disappointed by the gender imbalance within the group, their passion for studying Finance, Computer Science, IT, Chemistry, and other applied sciences at one of Asia’s premier institutions truly inspired me. The University of Hong Kong is home to some of the world’s leading scientists and innovators, ranking as Asia’s 2nd best university and among the top 20 globally. 📚 During our conversations, we discussed their career aspirations and the key roles they can play in shaping future relationships between Hong Kong, China, and Azerbaijan. We also shared some delightful culture shocks—like their surprise at not finding bread served with every meal! 🍞😄 These moments highlight the wonderful blend of traditions and new experiences awaiting them as they immerse themselves in a rich and diverse cultural landscape. Reflecting on my own journey, I’m amazed at how much higher education has evolved in just 15 years. My generation primarily looked to Europe, the UK, and the US for advanced studies, but today, more talented individuals are turning their sights toward Asia. This shift not only highlights the growing prestige of Asian universities but also underscores the dynamic and interconnected nature of our global education ecosystem. 🌏📚 Wishing these exceptional students great success on their journey. I am confident they will positively impact and contribute to a brighter, more interconnected world 🌍

The inaugural BRICS+ conference, hosted by the Asia Global Institute, took place successfully in September. Scholars and policymakers from around the globe came together to explore critical issues, opportunities, and challenges shaping the future of #BRICS. With the addition of new members — Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, the 10 BRICS nations now represent nearly 50% of the world’s population and account for over 35% of global GDP. Check out the insights from our speakers. Speakers: Amitav Acharya, Distinguished Professor, School of International Service, American University Cheng-Chwee Kuik, Professor of International Relations, Institute of Malaysian and International Studies, National University of Malaysia Keun Lee, Distinguished Professor, Department of Economics, Seoul National University Kian-Ming Ong, Pro Vice Chancellor for External Engagement, Program Director, Philosophy Politics & Economics Program, Taylor's University

This week, I had the privilege of meeting some brilliant and passionate young individuals from CarbonCare InnoLab (CCIL) - a local NGO in Hong Kong who are preparing to travel to Azerbaijan for the upcoming COP29 Azerbaijan. 🇦🇿 🤝🇭🇰 Our discussions delved into Azerbaijan’s ambitious journey toward a greener future and its comprehensive renewable energy initiatives, including concrete measures to uphold its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2050. 🍀 Azerbaijan is not only dedicated to its environmental objectives but is also eagerly and meticulously preparing to host COP29 Azerbaijan this year in November. Through this critical event, the country aims to create a dynamic platform for global collaboration, implement impactful policies, and foster a collective effort toward building a sustainable and resilient planet. 🌎 🌳 Witnessing the enthusiasm and dedication of these young leaders as they engage in vital global conversations about climate action is truly inspiring. I am excited to see the outcomes of COP29 Azerbaijan and the profound impact these emerging leaders will have, as well as the knowledge and experiences they will gain in Azerbaijan. 💡 Wishing the CarbonCare InnoLab (CCIL) all the best as they embark on this significant journey toward shaping our planet’s future. #Sustainability #ClimateAction #YouthLeaders #COP29 #Azerbaijan

Professor Heiwai Tang, Director of the Asia Global Institute, was interviewed by CNA about the prospects and challenges of the #GreaterBayArea (GBA) amidst the increasing geopolitical rivalry in the region. Tang emphasized that the GBA is a substantial market and a resilient region with excellent academic institutions and a comprehensive supply chain. Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, Tang advocates for collaboration between US and Chinese companies. Watch the interview here, https://lnkd.in/gX-tQkva (starting at 07:39)

Desirée Viteri Almeida, AsiaGlobal Fellow 2024, shared her views in South China Morning Post SCMP discussing Hong Kong's steadfast commitment to safeguarding women. She sheds light on how Hong Kong's reputation as a secure city enables women to engage actively in public life, contrasting with the challenges faced in Latin America, where gender-based violence remains prevalent. She underscores that Hong Kong's achievements in this area can be credited to robust legal frameworks, public policies, and education promoting #genderequality. Read the full article via https://lnkd.in/gGMtAxUS

We are delighted to announce that AGI Director, Heiwai Tang, will deliver the opening remarks and moderate the panel discussion on digital trade transformation at the HKIMR 14th Annual International Conference on the Chinese Economy. Stay tuned for updates and insights from the conference! Hong Kong Institute for Monetary and Financial Research (HKIMR) Asian Development Bank Institute

Andrew Sheng, AGI Distinguished Fellow, discusses the potential and challenges of #AI in driving global economic growth in South China Morning Post SCMP. AI innovations, such as #ChatGPT, offer opportunities for increased productivity but also risks of inequality and industrial concentration. In addition to a proper set of policies, collaboration between governments and the private sector is crucial for implementing AI solutions and overcoming bureaucratic obstacles while harnessing the benefits of AI. Read the full article via https://lnkd.in/gfhsJeMy

Sebastian Contin Trillo-Figueroa, AsiaGlobal Fellow 2022, co-authored an article in the South China Morning Post SCMP discussing the Spanish Prime Minister's reversal on tariffs for Chinese electric vehicles. The article explores the implications for Spain's relations with China and the EU and questions the initial tariff support rationale. Read more via https://lnkd.in/gkxEEjef