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📌 Exploring how Canada could strengthen and leverage its transatlantic ties with Eastern and Central Europe countries involved in The Three Seas Initiative. Ambassador of Lithuania to Canada Darius Skusevicius made a presentation of Lithuania’s perspective at the conference „The Three Seas Initiative: An Opportunity for Canada“ on November 21, 2023. The event in Ottawa was co-hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Poland and Macdonald-Laurier Institute and in partnership with the Embassy of Lithuania and the Embassy of Romania.   💡 The Three Seas region has great potential, as it is one of the fastest growing regions in the world with forecast GDP growth of 35% by 2030. The Initiative seeks to bolster investment in Central and Eastern European transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure to improve regional connectivity and bolster development.   📝 Canada as NATO member and strategic partner of the EU also has a role to play in The Three Seas region both on political level and in business cooperation.    📍 As Lithuania is getting ready to host the next Three Seas Initiative Summit in Vilnius next year, we look forward to building partnerships with Canada. #EconomicDiplomacy #ThreeSeasInitiative #InfrastructureDevelopment #3SI

Learn about the past, present, and future of 80 years of relations between Mexico and Canada in my interview with the Canadian Ambassador. Today in MND.

🌍✨ Reflecting on an Enlightening Panel Discussion: Foreign Policy in Action for Atlanta ✨🌍 A special thank you to Rickey Bevington, President of the World Affairs Council of Atlanta, for organizing a truly enlightening event today! The "Foreign Policy in Action: How Diplomacy Works for Atlanta" panel provided invaluable insights into the intersection of global affairs and our local community. I'd also like to thank Jose W. Fernandez, Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, for making a compelling case for Georgia's growing importance to the United States in terms of foreign investment. His insights into key areas such as green energy, supply chains, and electric vehicles highlight the immense opportunities for collaboration and growth here in Georgia. Today's discussion underscored the indispensable role of foreign service officers, including Consulate Generals, in catalyzing and advancing two-way economic development. Their efforts in fostering partnerships and facilitating dialogue between Atlanta and the global community are instrumental in promoting innovation, prosperity, and mutual understanding. It was a privilege to represent Belgium at this event, highlighting the longstanding ties and opportunities for collaboration between Belgium and Atlanta. As we navigate a rapidly evolving global landscape, events like this serve as critical platforms to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and build bridges across borders. It's clear that by harnessing the power of diplomacy, we can unlock countless opportunities for economic growth and sustainable development, both locally and globally. I'm inspired by the commitment of organizations like the World Affairs Council of Atlanta to bringing together diverse perspectives and fostering meaningful dialogue on issues of global importance. #ForeignPolicy #Diplomacy #GlobalEngagement #EconomicDevelopment #WorldAffairs #Atlanta #Collaboration #Sustainability #WorldAffairsCouncilAtlanta #InternationalRelations

The Only Path for Romania’s Development is Transatlantic Today marks 144 years of diplomatic relations between Romania and the United States, a milestone that resonates deeply with us as Romanians. The historical and strategic significance of our relationship with the United States underscores a shared commitment to democracy, freedom, and prosperity. Reflecting on this anniversary, it is clear that Romania's path to growth and modernity is intrinsically linked to our transatlantic alliance. The U.S. has consistently been a steadfast partner, offering support in various sectors—be it in economic development, security, or cultural exchange. The transatlantic bond is not just a diplomatic nicety; it is a cornerstone of our national development and international strategy. On a personal note, my admiration for the United States began during my childhood, captivated by the iconic urban bridges showcased in films like The Streets of San Francisco. These structures epitomized the American spirit of innovation and progress. Growing up, American movies inspired us with visions of democracy and capitalism, fueling our aspirations for a brighter future. The grandeur of American urban infrastructure became a symbol of what was possible, a beacon for nations aspiring to evolve. The American values of freedom, innovation, and resilience have not only shaped global norms but have also served as guiding principles for Romania's own journey towards a dynamic, market-oriented society. In this light, our diplomatic ties are more than historical; they are a living, evolving partnership that continually drives us towards a shared vision of progress and mutual respect. As we celebrate this significant milestone, it is crucial to recognize the pivotal role that our transatlantic relationship plays in securing a prosperous future for Romania. Let us reaffirm our commitment to this partnership and continue to strengthen the bonds that have proven essential for our nation's development. The American dream represents freedom and equality for all. The strength of our transatlantic relationship reflects the enduring values of democracy and freedom. #Romania #UnitedStates #TransatlanticRelations #Diplomacy #EconomicGrowth #Innovation #Development #USRomaniaPartnership #FutureProspects In acknowledging 144 years of Romanian-American diplomatic relations, we also acknowledge the shared journey and aspirations that have brought us to this point. Together, we look forward to continuing this partnership, committed to a future of mutual prosperity and shared values.

💡 NEW: Highlighting Canada's engagement with Latin America, IPD Advisor Matthew Levin outlines that "history illustrates how Canada has proven able to pursue an independent foreign policy while simultaneously maintaining good relations with its American neighbour." The former Canadian Ambassador to Colombia, Cuba, and Spain writes, "We should not underestimate the extent to which Canada’s international reputation and influence, and the admiration that has historically existed for Canada in Latin America and much of the world, has derived from our ability and willingness to speak with an independent voice." 📖 Read the full commentary now: https://lnkd.in/gw4Vr-sR #canada #latinamerica #foreignpolicy #internationalrelations

💡 NEW: The international order has transformed in the last decade, and so has Canada's place within it. In a new in-depth publication, IPD Senior Fellow Andrew Latham writes that Canada has to adopt a grand strategy of restraint, "rooted in a sober appraisal of Canada’s core national interests, a more realistic understanding of contemporary geopolitical realities, and a less romantic vision of what Canada can actually do on the world stage." 📖 Read to find out what a grand strategy of restraint looks like for Canada: https://lnkd.in/gYGrKx9V #canada #internationalrelations #geopolitics #foreignpolicy

San Francisco's hosting of the #apecceosummitusa is an important occasion to remember four key principles guiding how cities shape foreign policy today, brought you to by my piece in Journal of International Affairs (which I'm grateful to see gave me a shoutout below!): (1) When nations fail to uphold or directly violate universal norms, cities can and do intervene to affect justice in foreign policy, particularly in democracies (in what I call, the "Animus of the Underling") (2) Democratic regimes enable local defiance of national foreign policy, while non-democratic regimes such as China harness a more restricted sort of city diplomacy as an extension of national diplomacy. Not all city diplomacy is equal or for the same purpose. (3) Local officials need to be aligned with their constituents on foreign policy issues before making decisions: My example in the piece is then-Irvine mayor Don Wagner's backfired attempt to revoke Irvine's sanctuary city status, which resulted in droves of globally-minded constituents marching on city hall (myself included) to push for keeping the sanctuary status (we succeeded). (4) Cities implementing climate action are increasingly teaming up with local companies who have adopted their own climate action efforts (i.e., ESG) to force multiply and reach climate goals together (think CDP, C40 Cities & WBCSD – World Business Council for Sustainable Development's "City-Business Climate Alliance" that's harnessing such partnerships). Thanks for the shoutout, Journal of International Affairs!

Every day, as we get one step closer to the Sister Cities International All-Americas Summit, our anticipation grows for the event and the transformative potential it holds. Today, let's explore the summit's core goals and the ripple effect of positive change we expect to unfold from this gathering of minds and hearts. 🌍✨ 🌟 #Goals of the Summit 🌟 The summit is poised to be a crucible for change, with specific objectives that resonate with the very essence of Sister Cities International. These goals include: 🏛 Strengthening #Partnerships: By bringing together cities across the Americas, the summit aims to reinforce existing relationships and lay the groundwork for new ones, fostering a network of support and collaboration. 🏛 Fostering #Trade and #Diplomatic Opportunities: A key focus is creating avenues for economic growth and diplomatic exchanges, recognizing that strong economies and open dialogue are foundational to peaceful societies. 🏛 Promoting #Peace Through #Understanding: At its heart, the summit seeks to underscore the power of cultural exchange and mutual respect in building a more peaceful world. It's about turning the diversity of our communities into our greatest strength. 🔍 The Impact: #Local Actions, #Global Diplomacy 🔍 The potential impact of the summit is profound and far-reaching. By focusing on these goals, we're reminded of the significant role local communities play in the broader context of global diplomacy. Here's what we hope to achieve: 🕊 Enhanced International #Collaboration: With strengthened partnerships, cities can work together on shared challenges, from climate change to economic development, amplifying their impact. 🕊 New Pathways for #Peace: By promoting understanding and respect across cultures, we lay the groundwork for a more peaceful global community, demonstrating that diplomacy begins with people, not just policies. 🕊 A Showcase of #Unity and #Diversity: The summit serves as a living example of how our differences make us stronger, celebrating the unique contributions of each city and country. 🌐 The Power of Local Actions 🌐 The All-Americas Summit exemplifies the power of local actions in shaping global outcomes. It's a testament to the belief that when cities and communities come together, united in their #diversity and driven by mutual #respect, there's no limit to what can be achieved. As we look forward to the summit, let's remember that each of us plays a part in this global tapestry. Our actions, no matter how small, contribute to a larger narrative of #peace, #understanding, and #cooperation. Join me in celebrating the potential of the Sister Cities International All-Americas Summit to transform our world, one community at a time. Let's embrace the opportunities it presents to create lasting impacts for our generation and those to come! 🌟🤝 Register Here: https://lnkd.in/gNbgJr8d Shahrzad (Sherry) Dowlatshahi Martha Vera City of San Antonio Carlo Capua

𝗔 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗺 𝗥𝘂𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗹 𝗥𝘂𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗼 𝗔𝘁𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮, 𝗚𝗲𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗮 Today marks an important day as we warmly welcome President #WilliamRuto and First Lady #RachelRuto of the Republic of #Kenya to Atlanta, Georgia. This visit signifies the commencement of Kenya’s diplomatic engagement with the United States, setting the stage for the upcoming State Visit to Washington, D.C. on May 23. Atlanta's selection as the starting point for this visit underlines its burgeoning global stature and its pivotal role in furthering America's journey towards an inclusive democracy. The city's vibrant #AfricanDiaspora and dynamic civic landscape make it an ideal locale for meaningful exchanges on democratic governance, public health, and educational initiatives. President Ruto’s agenda in #Atlanta is packed with engagements that reinforce our shared values and aspirations. His interactions with civic leaders and the community are geared towards deepening our people-to-people ties and exploring avenues for mutual prosperity. These discussions are crucial as they resonate with #PresidentBiden’s vision from the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, where he emphasized that "The future of Africa and the United States depends on what we can achieve together." The President’s visit is more than a diplomatic formality; it embodies our joint commitment to a 21st-century partnership that extends beyond capital cities, touching lives and making a tangible impact on the ground. We are eager to witness the fruitful discussions and outcomes that will emerge from his engagements in Atlanta, especially those involving our robust African diaspora community. As we look forward to President Ruto's visit to Washington, D.C., I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the #MayorofAtlanta and the city’s civic leaders for their gracious hospitality. This visit not only strengthens our bilateral relations but also highlights the significant contributions that American cities like Atlanta make to U.S. foreign #policy and international #cooperation. #USKenyaRelations #Diplomacy #GlobalAtlanta #InclusiveDemocracy #PublicHealth #EducationalExchange

[KCCI chief renews will to play bigger role in boosting economic diplomacy] Marking 140th year, business group hosts networking dinner for foreign envoys, multinational companies Marking the 140th anniversary this year, the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry or KCCI, the nation's largest business lobby, hosted the Global Business Networking Night event in Seoul on Tuesday to further promote foreign investment and attract global companies to nurture the country as the business hub in Asia. “Starting with tonight's event, the KCCI will further strengthen its role as an economic and diplomatic platform,” KCCI Chair Chey Tae-won, who also serves as chairman of SK Group, said in his opening remarks at the event. “We are getting ready to launch the KCCI’s economic diplomacy platform in July, where the public and private sectors can exchange substantive cooperation information,” he further hinted. He called to share ideas between private and public sectors globally to come up with better solutions to borderless dilemmas such as low birth rates, polarization and the climate crisis through the event. The KCCI head also pointed out that global competition is intensifying over cutting-edge technologies and future industries such as artificial intelligence. Tap below to read full story. #KCCI #KoreaChamberofCommerceandIndustry #business #lobby #private #public #global #competition #AI #technology #industry #economy #climate #diplomacy #cooperation https://lnkd.in/grYzzzA7