download entire issue here

65

Upload: buicong

Post on 13-Feb-2017

241 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Download entire issue here
Page 2: Download entire issue here
Page 3: Download entire issue here
Page 4: Download entire issue here
Page 5: Download entire issue here
Page 6: Download entire issue here

The „New Economy” term concerns in particular the current transformations of economic activities as a result of the use of digital technologies, which provide access, processing and storage of information in a cheaper and easier manner. The construction of the new society model raises major socio-political issues – both nationally and internationally – the mitigation of „digital divide” phenomenon (the exclusion of some categories and regions or geographical areas from the benefits of new technologies), the social cohesion, the conservation and promotion of the specific culture of each nation and local communities, the protection of citizens and consumer. The only way that these problems could be solved is through a broad dialogue between the governmental authorities, the representatives of bussiness environment, of the academia and also of the civil society. This path would be accelerated with the help of commercial diplomacy as a variation of the international economic diplomacy. Unfortunately, the Governments of states are not all of them yet ready to stimulate, conduct and control the transition process to the informational society, as they lack a specific regulatory framework and action programs that would lead to a wise governance process. In the same time, the international bussiness community in the field of information and communications technologies should provide high-tech products and services, at the most affodable prices and rates. The civil society has an active role in formulating requirements and priorities regarding the use of new technologies to the benefit of the whole society, as well as an responsive role to the policies and governmental regulations. These roles can be exerted both at group level (non-governmental organizations, professional associations, etc.) and at the individual level. The mission of IUBCCI is to build a unified entity of all bilateral chambers of commerce and to provide a form of business network, an international organization of business cooperation whose purpose is to further a common economic interest and develop the opportunities offered by the Global Economy. In its activity, IUBCCI is deeply interested in developing the economic relations between states and sustaining a global economic harmony, being therefore interested in continuous communication with worldwide embassies, involving them in discussions on the identification of a common economic and complementary interest for the good of the nations. On September 30th, 2015, at the Palace of Parliament from Romania was held “The 1st Congress of Bilateral Economic Diplomacy of International Union of Bilateral Chambers of Commerce and Industry" which marked the official opening of the international activity of this organization. The event enjoyed the presence of representatives from more than 45 Embassies, domestic and international senior officials, as well as numerous representatives of bilateral chambers of commerce worldwide. We conclude by saying that IUBCCI is a real integrator for all the activities conducted from the perspective of implementing and developing the concept of commercial diplomacy as a variation of economic diplomacy, both regionally and internationally.

Page 7: Download entire issue here

Editor’s Note We are honored and it is a privilege to publish the second issue of the Global Ambassador’s Journal with the support and under the aegis of the International Union of Bilateral Chambers of Commerce and Industry (IUBCCI). As you all may already know by now, IUBCCI has been involved since its establishment in many successful projects that bring to the forefront the diplomatic activity conducted by the embassies around the world. Organizing frequent meetings at the bilateral level between Ambassadors and leading representatives of IUBCCI, meetings with the business environments, as well as offering opportunities for exposure on the IUBCCI platform, are all matters found always on the agenda of IUBCCI. All this, because we believe in a global economic harmony, without which the current globalized society can no longer flourish. Therefore, to show empathy toward the unfortunate events that occurred in the world lately, and which affect all of us, or to enjoy together the achievements some countries made, we considered not only timely, even useful, making publicly available a specialized journal where all the Ambassadors can share their ideas, the challenges encountered, the resilience of their countries, and the joy of success. And how the international community can find the latest news, and other countries can be inspired to succeed, if not from the highest ranking diplomatic representatives of the countries? The Global Ambassador’s Journal’ aim is to raise public awareness on the important role of Ambassadors and offer a regular source of information and insights regarding the latest achievements or challenges encountered by countries, so as to give a role model or to be aware of what is happening around us. We mention that the first issue of GAJ was very appreciated at international level, as it is characterized by diversity, bringing together Ambassadors from various corners of the world who had the desire to become a voice for their country and to share with the international community both successes and challenges encountered in a globalized world as today.

I conclude by thanking first and foremost to Their Excellencies Ambassadors who have contributed to this issue of the journal, to the Chairman of IUBCCI, the President of IUBCCI, to U.S. ISSN Center, and to all those involved in this unique project and who have helped bringing it to fruition. Sincerely,

Isabelle Vladoiu

Editor-in-Chief Secretary General of IUBCCI

Page 8: Download entire issue here
Page 9: Download entire issue here

TABLE OF CONTENTS Foreword

PhD. Prof. Nasty Marian Vladoiu, Chairman of IUBCCI

Turkey: The night of the everyday's hero. The democracy was protected by ordinary citizens who

came together to oppose the coup.

H.E. Mevlut Çavuşoğlu, Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Republic of Turkey …………….……………....….. 1

Why Ukraine is important for the European Union and the US

H.E. Liubov Nepop, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Hungary

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………...…...…… 7

The UK – Azerbaijan Relationship

H.E. Dr. Carole Crofts, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to the Republic of Azerbaijan

………………………………………………………………………………………………..………….....………. 11

Opportunities to Usher in Ecological Civilization in China and Elsewhere

H.E. Irene Giner-Reichl, Ambassador of Austria to the PR of China, Beijing

………………………………………………………………………………...………………………...…...…….. 16

Cyprus:Turning a crisis into an opportunity

H.E. Constantinos Eliades, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary the Republic of Cyprus to

the Republic of Serbia …………………………………………………………...………………...…………...... 19

Digitalization – a new challenge

H.E. Freddy Svane, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark to Japan ………….……………………….. 22

The Best Time to Invest in Ecuador: A decade of stability, development and upward mobility

H.E. Francisco Borja, Ambassador of Ecuador to the United States of America …………...…………..…. 25

Page 10: Download entire issue here

Economy of Peace

H.E. Mohammed Jaham Al Kuwari, Ambassador of the State of Quatar to the United States of America

….….…………………………………………………………………………………………...……………….….. 29

Turkey after the Failed Coup Attempt

H.E. Hakan Olcay, Ambassador of the Turkish Republic to Belgium ……………………….………....….. 32

Beyond Brexit: the EU Presidency of Malta

H.E. Pierre Clive Agius, Ambassador of the Republic of Malta to the United States of America

……………………………………………………………………………………………………….………....….. 36

* The views expressed in the articles contained therein are exactly as sent by the authors and represent their views in the entirety. The order in which they were inserted into the content of GAJ is random, without meeting any priority order.

Page 11: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

Foreword

H.E. PhD. Prof. Nasty M. Vladoiu*

Founder & Chairman of the International Union of Bilateral Chambers of Commerce and Industry

The 2nd edition of Global Ambassador’s Journal configures the interest of certain personalities in the international diplomacy in presenting appealing opinions and ideas of a real topicality about the world’s economic development and beyond.

The economic development of all countries through commercial diplomacy as a variation of the economic diplomacy is a real desideratum for all diplomatic missions of the countries that realize the importance of the concept of wise governance.

The promotion of trade relations through knowledge and innovation, through proactive and participative attitude, taking into account also the development of technological and scientific resources, creates the prerequisites of a new model of informational society towards each developed country heads to.

*Phd. Prof. Nasty Marian Vladoiu is a widely recognized expert in law and author of various monographs, articles and studies of law. Currently, he operates in the Chambers of Commerce system, where he acts as a leader of several international and national NGOs. Starting with 2006, Phd. Prof. Vladoiu has acted as the President of the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce Romania-Great Britain, the President of the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce Romania-Israel, the Prime Vice President of the Union of Bilateral Chambers of Commerce of Romania. In 2010 Phd. Prof. Nasty Marian Vladoiu was elected the President of Bilateral Chamber of Commerce Romania-Ukraine and since May 2012 is the President of the Union of Bilateral Chambers of Commerce from Romania. In 2012 at the International Conference of the Bi-National Chambers of Commerce hold in Israel, Tel Aviv, Prof. Vladoiu launched the idea of having an international organization fostering the worldwide bilateral chambers of commerce and industry, idea that was welcomed by those who are now forming The International Union of Bilateral Chamber of Commerce and Industry, entity legally established in United States in January 2014. Phd. Prof. Vladoiu was elected by the Board of Directors to be also the Chairman of the International Union of Bilateral Chambers of Commerce and Industry. To promote and defend the interests of worldwide investors, PhD. Prof. Nasty Marian Vladoiu has established in 2014, in United States, the entity of International Ombudsman for Investors Corporation.

Page 12: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

Last but not least, chief diplomats from certain countries around the world draw attention to the manner in which some changes are desired by interested parties and to the particular phenomenon they face.

All the above listed offer a substantial and special content of this 2nd Edition of the Global Ambassador’s Journal, giving us the opportunity to assert, without fear of error, that the journal published under the aegis of IUBCCI, will have an obvious future and will be developed effectively in terms of the content made up generously of ideas, opinions and remarkable analysis of several illustrious personalities of international diplomacy.

Page 13: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images

On behalf of the International Union of Bilateral Chambers of Commerce and Industry (IUBCCI), we

congratulate President-elect Donald J. Trump and the newly elected members of the Congress and we are looking

forward to working together and help create a worldwide economic stability.

IUBCCI Team

Photo by Kobi Gideon/ GPO/Getty

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he is looking forward to working with President-elect Donald Trump on “the twin interests of peace and security.”1 1 http://www.breitbart.com/jerusalem/2016/11/16/netanyahu-looking-forward-working-trump-twin-interests-peace-security/

Page 14: Download entire issue here
Page 15: Download entire issue here
Page 16: Download entire issue here
Page 17: Download entire issue here
Page 18: Download entire issue here
Page 19: Download entire issue here
Page 20: Download entire issue here
Page 21: Download entire issue here
Page 22: Download entire issue here
Page 23: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

7

Why Ukraine is important for the European Union and the US

H.E. Liubov Nepop*

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine

to Hungary

n 2013, the Ukrainians took to Maidan to defend the conclusion of the Association Agreement. It was not only and not so much about the agreement as a document, but more about value benchmarks and a practical guide on the road to the European

way of life, level of development and prosperity.

Despite the Russian aggression, which resulted in the illegal annexation of Crimea and in the sending of the Russian soldiers and weapons to the east of our country, which led to the loss of thousands of lives of our soldiers and civilians, the destruction of a large part of industrial capacity and infrastructure, the Ukrainian society remains committed to its European future. Ukraine, which belongs to Europe geographically and mentally, is now undergoing difficult and dramatic changes to transform this affiliation into appropriate standards of living and development.

This path goes in two directions. On one hand, it is the restoration of the territorial integrity and peace. On the other hand it is a path of deep and comprehensive reforms. These two processes are parallel. At the same time, of course, they influence each other. Ukraine needs the support of the West – primarily the EU and the US in order to maintain political and sanctions pressure on Russia for the sake of the implementation of Minsk agreements and the return of Crimea to Ukraine. Equally important is the support to the reforms process.

* Liubov Nepoop was born on 23 August 1971, in Kyiv, Ukraine.Education; Faculty of Linguistics, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv . Professional Career; 1996-1997 – Attaché of the Department for Europe and America of the MFA of Ukraine; 1997-2000 – Attaché, Third Secretary of the Embassy of Ukraine in Hungary, Budapest; 2000-2004 – Second, First Secretary, Counsellor of the Department for Political Analyzing and Planning of the MFA of Ukraine; 2004-2007 – Counsellor of the Embassy of Ukraine in Bulgaria, Sofia; 2006-2007 – Chargé d’affaires a.i. in Bulgaria, Sofia; 2007-2008 – Minister-Counsellor of the Embassy of Ukraine in Hungary, Budapest; 2008-2011 – Deputy Director-General of the Directorate General for NATO of the MFA of Ukraine; 2011-2016 – Minister-Counsellor, Deputy Head of the Mission of Ukraine to the EU; July 2015 – February 2016 – Chargé d’affaires a.i., Acting Head of the Mission of Ukraine to the EU; From 30 May 2016 – Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Hungary; Knowledge of languages: Hungarian, English, Bulgarian, Polish, Spanish, Russia

I

Page 24: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

8

However, the key element of this support must be the clear understanding that Ukraine needs Europe as much as Europe needs Ukraine. From the security point of view, to allow Russia to violate international law with impunity means to create a direct threat to the European security interests. From the economic point of view, to support the reforms process in Ukraine means to strengthen the area of stability around the EU and to create conditions for expansion of market sales for EU and US goods, to enhance opportunities for investments and thus for new revenue not only to Ukrainian budget, but also to the budgets of the partner countries.

Recently, there is a lot of talk about the impact of the Russian embargo, introduced in response to the EU sanctions against Russia for the violation of the territorial integrity of Ukraine, Moscow’s failure to keep Minsk agreements as well as for continued aggression against Ukraine. However, the right answer to these talks should be further diversification of markets for both EU’s and Ukrainian products, as well as the strengthening of bilateral trade and economic relations and the usage of opportunities, which arose with the entering into force of the Ukraine - EU free trade zone. Let us not forget that besides military aggression, Russia also leads a trade war against Ukraine, not only by banning our exports, but also by restricting the transit of our goods through Russia to the third countries.

One should not believe that by abandoning principles economic benefits could be gained. Such benefits would be only temporary, because they would undermine the security principles. And who knows, which country, after Ukraine, could be the next object of the Russian aggression, if today we create a false belief that the West could give up the respect for the primacy of international law for the sake of economic gain, if we let ourselves be convinced that the current economic profit can be more important than long-term security strategy and respect for shared democratic values.

It is quite clear what the EU and the United States can offer Ukraine today. It is solidarity, political and sanctions pressure on Russia as well as assistance in the process of reforms.

What could Ukraine offer Europe? Despite the fact that we currently do not control 7% of our territory and have lost 20% of our GDP in the result of Russian aggression, we are committed to the reforms process and have achieved results as well, trying to make the Ukrainian market not only large, but also attractive.

We have adopted the Strategy of Reforms – 2020, which contains 62 reforms. 42 of these reforms are already under way; the rest 20 reforms (for example, the reform of social security system, electoral legislation, statistics, as well as land reform) will be launched after proper preparation. All the reforms are being implemented in full compliance with the provisions of the Association Agreement, and thus are aimed at introducing the European standards. The realization of this

Page 25: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

9

fact is important not only for our internal development, but also for foreign entrepreneurs and investors coming to the Ukrainian market.

We have established the National Council of Reforms, the main tasks of which are the prioritization, coordination and monitoring of the implementation of reforms. Why did I bring this up? In its framework one can very clearly see the process of transformations, our priorities and achieved results. Through the analysis, carried out by the Council, one can follow the direction in which Ukraine is heading and the results it has already managed to achieve.

Among the key results that have already been achieved and which make our state more attractive to business is the forming of a system of anti-corruption bodies.

New police has been formed. This reform was probably the most popular among the population, because people have witnessed not just a new uniform, but also a new style of work and communication, which corresponds to the European standards.

Financial system has been stabilized. In this regard I would like to point out that the legislation changes have been adopted to ensure that the protection of rights of consumers of financial services are in line with the European standards, as well as to protect the rights of creditors.

The reform of the energy sector, the adoption of the new Law on Natural Gas Market, the reduction of the deficit of the NJSC Naftogaz of Ukraine became major changes. We have managed to solve an extremely complicated assignment, well known for European countries – to get rid of total dependency on Russia in the issue of gas consumption. Today over 60% of gas supplied to Ukraine comes from Europe.

Deregulation reform has helped to simplify doing business in Ukraine.

The introduction of electronic public procurement through ProZorro system has not only allowed saving at least 2 billion UAH, but also became an important element of elimination of corruption component in the procurement process. By the way, ProZorro system was recognized as the best in the world and won the most prestigious international award in the field of procurement – World Procurement Awards 2016.

So, we have attained real results and witness progress in the improvement of business environment in Ukraine.

And this is confirmed by the confidence of the leading companies, which invest in Ukraine.

Let me give you just few examples.

Page 26: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

10

In July 2016 BUNGE Ukraine invested 180 million USD to build a modern production and handling complex on the territory of Mykolaiv seaport. The complex includes an oilseed refinery, oil handling terminal and expanded grain terminal.

The ArcelorMittal, a world leader in steel production, is planning to invest between 2016 and 2020 1.2 billion USD in the industry development on the basis of existing capacities in Kryvyi Rih.

One of the world's leading suppliers of food, personal care products and household products, Unilever has decided to build a tea factory in Ukraine.

Leoni, a global supplier of wires, cables and wiring systems is planning to build another plant in Western Ukraine.

All investors are worried about the rule of law, protection of legal principles of business and the general functioning of economy and state. The steps already taken and the changes initiated in law enforcement and judiciary spheres, as well as a clear plan for the future provide our partners with confidence. We hope that this will contribute to further development of trade and economic cooperation.

To sum up, I would like to emphasize that the current situation in and around Ukraine, the challenges we are facing cannot be considered separately from the general European and world context, both in terms of security and economics. However, the key question we are answering while defining the algorithm of our actions is which approach we choose to these challenges. Either we shall just move by inertia, not seeking new answers to new threats, or we shall concentrate our efforts on finding new opportunities in these challenges – both to strengthen political solidarity and security guarantees and to unleash the potential of new trade and economic opportunities. The answer is up to us. And we shall decide what our future will be. For my part, I am convinced that the current situation is not only a challenge, but also a chance which we have to use in order to strengthen the respect for international law, the unity of Europe and the entire civilized world, and to demonstrate that in the development of our trade and economic relations, we do not sell our values and the lives of those who are now at the forefront of the struggle for the ideals of Europe.

Page 27: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

11

The UK - Azerbaijan Relationship

H.E. Dr. Carole Crofts *

Ambassador of the United Kingdom to the Republic of Azerbaijan

am delighted to be here in Baku as Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan. The UK is the single largest investor in Azerbaijan and we are seen as a stable and trusted partner. Building on this reputation and our solid bilateral relationship, we are well placed to strengthen, broaden and deepen these links as the Azerbaijani economy diversifies.

Currently there are around 3500 UK nationals living in Azerbaijan and about 400 UK companies doing business here. UK companies also have government finance support from UK Export Finance which means that UK companies can now bring a full package of support and benefits when exporting to and investing in Azerbaijan.

In addition to our strong commercial ties, we are extending our partnerships in many areas, including education, culture, defence and security. And of course our political dialogue is based on years of trust and friendship, dating from the early days of Azerbaijan’s independence.

The UK

The UK is a great trading nation and we are very much open for business. We have today one of the strongest major advanced economies (currently 5th largest) in the world and low, stable inflation. The employment rate remains the highest it has ever been.

*Dr. Carole Crofts has been appointed Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Republic of Azerbaijan in succession to Mr Irfan Siddiq OBE. Dr. Crofts took up her appointment during May 2016. Previously (2012-2015) Dr. Crofts held a substantial role in the UK Trade & Investment, Energy, Transport & Construction as Director, was Head of Policy Making & Working in Government in the National School of Government (2010-2011), and had several leadership positions in the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO).

I

Page 28: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

12

We are also very serious about our international commitments. We are the only major country which will simultaneously meet the NATO target of spending 2% of our GDP on defence and the UN target of spending 0.7% of our GNI on development.

UK Industry & Skills

The oil and gas sector is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of our commercial relationship with Azerbaijan and the UK is proud to be a partner in Azerbaijan’s hydrocarbon success, providing considerable experience and technology know-how. Our oil and gas companies remain keen to bring their unique skills and experience to help Azerbaijan develop this sector.

The UK’s oil production capacity is the largest in the European Union and the second largest in the European Economic Area (EEA) after Norway. It is within the top 25 oil producers worldwide. There are 300 offshore fields in production and the sector provided 68 percent of the UK’s primary energy in 2014, whilst directly and indirectly supporting around 375,000 jobs across the UK.

The UK is legally committed to producing 15 percent of its energy from renewable sources by 2020 and reducing its carbon emissions by 80 percent (from 1990 levels) by 2050 and is the global leader in offshore wind power, supporting more offshore wind than anyone else in the world.

But the UK is a world leader in so many other areas. Let me share a few key facts with you about UK Industry.

The UK has world-leading capabilities in Aerospace, Automotive and the full range of engineering disciplines – from advanced materials to manufacturing technologies. UK engineering companies of all sizes do business across the world, supplying a wide range of end-users that include the Aerospace, Automotive, Chemicals, Construction, Food, Healthcare,

Key Facts

• The UK is the 5th largest economy in the world and was the second fastest growing G7 economy in 2015 after the US. The World Economic Forum Competitiveness Report assesses the UK to be in the top ten for competitiveness.

• London is regarded as the world’s leading financial hub; we have the largest market share in the world for financial services. We also lead other countries in insurance, computer and information services.

• Our business and popular culture continues to draw in the best and brightest students and businesspeople year after year. We have a world leading reputation for creativity, which represents 10% of our exports.

• We are home to 18 of the world’s top 100 universities, and four of the top ten.

• The BBC World Service is the world's largest international broadcaster, broadcasting news, speech and discussions in 28 languages and reaches 246 million people worldwide.

• The Premier League is the most watched football league in the world!

Page 29: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

13

Marine, Mining, Oil and Gas, Pharmaceutical, Power, Printing and Publishing, and Steel industries.

The UK is home to major international manufacturing brands, such as BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Airbus, GKN, Cobham, AgustaWestland, Boeing, Bombardier, JCB, Caterpillar, Jaguar Land Rover, Ford, BMW, Toyota, Nissan and Honda, with UK advanced manufacturing companies supplying all these businesses.

The UK is Europe’s leading financial services hub. Secure, stable yet constantly innovating. London’s excellence in financial and business services makes the UK an ideal location for international activity. Our capital vies with New York for the status of the world’s leading financial centre, with the Global Financial Centres Index barely able to separate the two cities in its assessment of their competitive strengths.

The UK is one of the world’s most innovative and receptive markets for information communication technologies (ICT). UK technology is reliable. We have a long history of innovation in electronics and IT hardware, with world-leading businesses in fields such as processor core technology, mixed signal devices, sensors and lighting. The consumer electronics market in the UK is one of the most developed and dynamic in the world. The UK has a reputation as a global centre for digital technologies, with world-leading academics and businesses working in media, internet, communications and cyber security, and a growing open data movement.

Over the past few years, huge public and private investment in construction in Azerbaijan has resulted in opportunities for UK companies. The UK was the first country in the world to develop the concept of public-private-partnerships (PPP) for public infrastructure and services projects and is now an acknowledged world leader in PPP, and we are keen to share this experience and work even closer with Azerbaijan in future infrastructure and iconic building projects.

The National Health Service (NHS) is the world’s largest integrated health system and one of the most efficient healthcare providers globally, treating 1 million patients every 36 hours. The NHS in England delivers 300 million family doctor consultations per year, conducts over 6 million day case procedures per year. The Commonwealth Fund rates the NHS as the best healthcare system out of those studied in 11 countries. The UK is home to 5 of the world’s top 10 universities for clinical, pre-clinical and health subjects.

The life sciences sector is the third largest contributor to economic growth in the UK, accounting for 183,000 UK jobs and with a total annual turnover of over £56 billion. More than 3 million patients have been recruited for clinical research over the last 6 years, and there has been a 500

Page 30: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

14

percent increase in industry-sponsored trials in the last 5 years. About a seventh of the top 100 medicines in use today originated from research in the UK. The UK currently has 78 Nobel Prizes for contributions to biomedical science.

Retail is Britain’s largest private sector employer, with 3 million workers employed in the sector. The UK enjoys a world-class reputation for its quality and innovation-driven retail industry. With a vast range of brands readily available to the consumer, and clusters across the country for each type of retail subsector, the UK competes with the very best global retail destinations. Many of our best known brands and products can be seen in Baku e.g. Ted Baker, Burberry, Marks & Spencer, Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, Top Shop and Waitrose.

However, the key ingredient for business success is human capital. Governments need to create a positive environment which clearly supports and values technical and vocational education. The UK produces 46,000 engineering graduates each year. About 25,000 students are studying for degrees in subjects ranging from multimedia computer science to microwave engineering. There is also a highly skilled workforce within UK companies.

The UK has a global reputation for excellence in the field of education and skills that is enhanced by a number of truly international educational brands, many of them with a long tradition behind them. Its independent school sector has been attracting students from all over the world for decades. Four of the world’s top 10 universities are in the UK and around 700,000 people come to the UK each year to learn English. More than a third of Nobel Prize winners who studied abroad were educated at UK universities.

The British Council is very active in Azerbaijan in the arts and culture, English language teaching & learning, education & curriculum reform. For example, half of Azerbaijan’s English teachers will receive British Council professional and skills development under our partnership with the Ministry of Education.

I am delighted that there is such keen interest in the higher education sector from both Azerbaijani students and from UK Universities. The UK remains the destination of choice for Azerbaijani students wishing to study abroad. And several UK universities already have significant education programmes here in Azerbaijan, e.g. the Universities of Reading, Heriot Watt, Aberystwyth and Nottingham Trent. I am looking forward to seeing these links grow as they are so important in sowing the seeds for long term, mutually beneficial and sustainable partnerships.

Future Opportunities

The effect of the drop in oil prices has been felt particularly acutely in Azerbaijan. As the Government in Baku intensifies its efforts to diversify the economy, the UK stands ready to

Page 31: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

15

share its knowledge and experience in this area. Earlier this year we set up a new Joint Intergovernmental Commission between our two countries which provides a government framework for policy makers and businesses to explore future opportunities for cooperation. I am looking forward to the second meeting of the JIC in Baku early next year.

Page 32: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

16

Opportunities to Usher in Ecological Civilization in China and Elsewhere

H.E. Irene Giner-Reichl*

Ambassador of Austria to the PR of China, Beijing

hen China and the US together announced the early ratification of the Paris agreement on Climate Change at the opening hours of the G-20 Summit in Hangzhou earlier in September, a strong signal was sent to the world at large about leadership and about what matters for leaders these days.

As the Austrian Ambassador to the PR of China for more than four years I have been privy to watch how ecological awareness has grown in China, the much-maligned “worst polluter” among the emerging economies. Traditionally much of the political discourse in China is dominated by buzz-words: “reform and opening up” (改革开放 gai ge kai fang), still harkening back to DENG Xiaoping’s rapid industrialization and international trading drive starting in the 1980s, “one belt, one road”, the initiative of President XI Jinping to enhance the connectivity between Asia and Europe taking inspiration from a revival of ancient silk roads, to mention but two of the most frequently heard.

A new buzz-word has become important as of late: “the new normal”. When economic growth shrank to 6.5 or 7 percent in 2014, President XI Jinping coined this phrase and the figures lost

* Dr Irene Giner-Reichl has been a member of the Austrian Diplomatic Service since 1982. Her main areas of expertise are economic and social development, women’s rights’ issues, environment, energy, and development cooperation. Irene Giner- Reichl has held numerous international bureau functions. From 1995 to 1998 she was director of the international department of the Austrian Ministry for the Environment. From 1998 to 2001 she was Austria’s permanent representative to the UN, IAEA, UNIDO and CTBTO in Vienna. From 2001 to 2004 she headed the UNIDO office in New York in the rank of assistant director general. From 2005 to 2012 she was director general in charge of Austria’s development policy and cooperation. Since January 2012 she has been the Austrian ambassador to the People’s Republic of China and Mongolia. Irene Giner-Reichl is president of the Global Forum on Sustainable Energy (GFSE), which she founded in 1999 as a multi-stake-holder platform for dialogues on energy in the service of sustainable development, and vice-president of the REN21 steering committee. She has published books and articles on international relations and global issues. She has lectured at the Diplomatic Academy in Vienna for several years on human security and development policy.

W

Page 33: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

17

much of their threat. The goals of the Chinese government for their people – moderate wealth for all by 2021, China reaching the status of a fully developed economy by 2049 – would remain the same. But hitherto other means would be used to achieve these goals. The economy would grow slower, but the quality of the growth would be higher. The preservation of the natural environment and the sustainable management of resources would become more important. Instead of more investments into infrastructure and exports of manufactured goods, domestic consumption and transitioning to a service economy would be promoted.

The change in the economic paradigm is supported by a very Chinese concept, that of “ecological civilization” (sheng tai wen ming). This concept, on the rise for several years, is given strong operational expression in the overall guidance to the Chinese economy as embodied by the 13th Five-Year-Plan, adopted by the National People’s Congress in spring 2016.

Protection of the natural environment and sustainable management of natural resources continues to offer great challenges for China. Already now, China experiences severe water-stress, in particular in the northern regions. Many of the water-courses and even the ground water is highly polluted. Wide areas of agricultural soils are contaminated. Air pollution in large Chinese cities is frequently reported on, in domestic as much as in international media, including statistics on shortened average life-expectancy and higher morbidity connected to prolonged exposure to severe air-pollution. Earlier this year, the Paris-based International Energy Agency published a report on Energy and Air Pollution (World Energy Outlook Special Report, IEA 2016.) One of the 7 geographic chapters is on China (the others are on the U.S., Mexico, the European Union, India, Southeast Asia and Africa). According to this report, some 6.5 million premature deaths are attributed each year to poor air quality globally. In China, average life expectancy is reduced by almost 25 months due to poor air quality.

Improving air quality, cleaning up dirty rivers and lakes and rehabilitating contaminated agricultural soil is increasingly seen and defined as a major policy priority. China’s civil society, which operates more than 300 million blogs, focusses a lot on these quality of life issues. Personally I think the future approval rates of the current Chinese leadership will be linked to a high degree as to whether progress can be demonstrated on environmental protection and sustainable development.

The Sustainable Development Goals which the international community adopted by consensus in September 2015 will all require a strong effort by China. All efforts to usher in a truly “ecological civilization” in China are therefore not just in the enlightened self-interest of Chinese citizens, but also in the interest of the international community at large.

Page 34: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

18

A key area where change needs to occur is energy. Therefore, China’s climate-related commitments to rely to a much smaller extent than until now on coal-based power, to raise the percentage of renewable energies in the end use to 20 % by 2030 and to peak its GHG emissions by 2030 at the latest is to be praised and supported. For years already, international energy statistics – such as the yearly REN21 Global Status Report (www.ren21.net) – show China as the country with the largest additions of installed capacity of renewables. In 2014 China invested more into renewables than Europe and the US taken together. In 2015, for the second time in a row, there was the desired global de-linking of GHG emissions from economic growth: GHG emissions did not rise in sync with global economic growth. Investment in renewables in developing countries outstripped investment in renewables in industrialized countries. A lot still is needed to move towards a true energy revolution, however, especially in the areas of transport as well as heating and cooling.

It has been my experience in working in China that cooperation opportunities are bountiful in practically all the areas of environmental technologies and processes. European countries can share with their Chinese counter-parts our own painful history of environmental degradation and sub-sequent costly clean-up in the second half of the 20th century. We also are home to some of the most advanced technology holders and developers.

Especially integrated solutions that combine regulation with economic incentives and education of the public, are of great interest in China. An example are the so-called “climate active communities of Austria” (www.klimaaktiv.at ). Under this concept, a village or town is helped to conduct a professional analysis on how to optimize the de-carbonization of the village’s services in a realistic way. This tailor-made approach recognizes that not all situations are alike and favors high levels of participation, thus enhancing ownership of the local population vis-a-vis the change process. The town is then coached through the process of de-carbonization, including education of the general public. Specialized funding institutions subsidize measures to enhance energy efficiency and to decarbonize the energy supply.

As China embarks on international initiatives – such as One Belt, One Road which encompasses over 60 countries with two thirds of the world’s population – the benefits of working with China on environmental issues are getting even greater for all of humanity. Imagine what the world could look like if the considerable infrastructure investments along the “One Belt, One Road” corridors were all truly green and had a very light carbon foot-print?

Page 35: Download entire issue here
Page 36: Download entire issue here

EximBank has been actively involved for almost 25 years in supporting and promoting the Romanian business environment by endorsing the local companies’ projects. Starting up as an export agency, EximBank has evolved and extended this role keeping its unique profile on the market. Following the recent operational adjustments that support the bank’s adaptation to the national and international challenges, as well as its increase in efficiency and responsiveness to clients’ needs, EximBank is now a complex financial institution having an accessible portfolio, available to any kind of company either SME or large company, involved in international transactions or only operating locally.

Along with the public institutions that have traditional roles in implementing coherent strategies, EximBank is continuously following the essential coordinates of its strategic mission of supporting the Romanian business environment and the international transactions of local companies.

For additional information:www.eximbank.ro

[email protected]

We have a portfolio of banking products and services that may be accessed by any company, either SME or big company, involved in international transactions or exclusively present on local market.

We offer to commercial banks state guarantees and insurance policies facilitating the speeding up of crediting towards local

companies with better risk mitigation conditions.

FOR THE BEST BUSINESS. TOGETHER.

CORPORATE

BANKING

Page 37: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

19

Cyprus:Turning a crisis into an opportunity

H.E. Constantinos ELIADES*

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Cyprus to the Republic of Serbia

hree years ago, in 2013, Cyprus was faced with an unprecedented economic crisis which was literally threatening to bring down not only the entire banking system but the economy as well. The Cypriot economy was on the brink of total collapse and the dilemma faced by the Government was to either swallow the bitter, indeed the very bitter pill

prescribed by the European Union, the IMF and the European Central Bank -the so called "troika" - or have the island's banks cash dry, with all the negative consequences such an outcome would entail. At that period, the following facts were clear: - The financial sector had run an unsustainable credit boom for more than a decade which fuelled a property and construction boom.

* Constantinos Eliades, EDUCATIONAL & PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS (1977-1980) ''Licence''(Bachelor's)Degree in Business Administration, Université d'Aix-en-Provence, France; (1980-1981)''Maîtrise''(Master's) Degree in Economics, Université d' Aix-Marseille II; (1981-1982) Diplôme d'Etudes supérieures spécialisées, (DESS) in Tourism Economy, Université d' Aix-Marseille II; (1983-1989) Worked in the private sector; (1989) Joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus; SERVICE: (1989-1990) Economic Affairs Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs ; (1990-1993) Served in the Embassy of Cyprus in Belgrade as deputy Head of Mission; (1993-1996) Served in the Embassy of Cyprus in Paris as Second Counselor; (1996-1999) Served in the Embassy of Cyprus in Moscow as First Counselor; (September-December 1999) Deputy Director, Political Affairs Division (Bilateral) Ministry of Foreign Affairs; (January 2000-July 2001) Deputy Director, Political Affairs (Cyprus Question), Ministry of Foreign Affairs; (July 2001) Deputy Director, Political Affairs, (Multilateral) Ministry of Foreign Affairs; (January 2002-2006) High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in Nairobi (Kenya) and Permanent Representative to UNEP and UN HABITAT; (August 2006-January 2011) Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the Kingdom of Belgium; (January 2011-November 2015 ) Head of the Americas Dept., MFA; (From December 2015 ) Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the Republic of Serbia (resident) and to Montenegro (non resident); LANGUAGES: Greek, English, French, some Russian and some Serbian.

T

Page 38: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

20

- The impact of the decision to impose a "haircut" on Greek sovereign debt left the island's banks on the brink of collapse. - There was a severe fiscal crisis. The public coffers were literally on the brink of exhaustion and the economy, cut off from the markets since 2011, was still running excessive deficits year after year. - The structural and chronical weaknesses of the Cypriot economy were also exposed by the crisis. - The economy was already in recession and unemployment had already risen by a staggering 400% within the past five years. Knowing that Cyprus was facing a situation of extreme severity, the Government went to the meeting of the Eurogroup to negotiate a bailout, as had been offered to other EU member states in crisis. Unfortunatelly, things did not unfold the way the Government expected and the majority of the euro-area countries took a disproportionally harsh stance. This disproportionality is better understood when one takes into consideration the fact that Cyprus is a small and non systemic country, representing just 0, 2% of the Eurozone’s GDP. Cyprus, as well as all other countries affected by the crisis, paid the price of an incomplete economic and monetary Union, lacking a strong economic government framework with strict fiscal rules as well as a banking union. Faced with these sad and pressing realities, the Government was forced to accept an unprecedented and questionable Euro group decision which included a severe "haircut" of bank deposits. Cyprus swiftly agreed on a program of economic reform and fiscal consolidation. With this being the harsh reality, the Cypriot government decided to take ownership of the programme, turn it into an opportunity for true reform and consolidate the system by correcting chronic weaknesses. In this framework, the Government persistently conveyed the message to its citizens that this was not a programme imposed on us but rather one owned by Cyprus for the benefit of the country and its people. Measures, not only those dictated by EU directives, but deemed necessary for “tiding up" the economy were implemented. One of the main goals of the Government was not only to get the country out of the "troika" programme the soonest possible, but to set it on a course of sustainable development and growth. The path towards a healthier, stronger economy was not easy but three years later, Cyprus, on 31st March, exited the programme without needing to make full use of the bailout funds and is registering:

Page 39: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

21

- A 2,9% GDP growth in the second quarter of the current year. This is the strongest growth rate since 2008! - A healthy, balanced budget with a primary surplus of around 2,5%. - A well capitalized banking sector. With a courageous, bold reform programme aiming at restoring the credibility of the island’s economy, as well as investors’ confidence, the Government of Cyprus managed to turn the crisis into an opportunity, address and correct long term weaknesses and to re-build a strong economy based on solid foundations. To achieve this and turn the tide around, the Government took decisive and bold actions in the following four broad areas: 1. Restoration of the credibility of the State. 2. Restoration of the credibility of the banking sector. 3. Measures for re-kindling the economy. 4. Efforts to attract foreign investment. Moreover, a policy of privatization and licensing is underway which includes the ports, an integrated casino resort, new marinas, the National lottery and semi - privatization within the telecom sector. In general, there has also been a strategic reorientation of the business and financial services sector which no longer relies on an oversized banking sector and notably high foreign deposits. Despite the impressive progress and results achieved (also witnessed through the upgrading of the credit rating of the Cypriot economy by international rating agencies, the record FDI amount of 4,7 billion euros in 2015, the forecast 2% growth rate for 2016) Cyprus is not completely out of the woods yet and important challenges still remain such as high unemployment and non performing loans (NPL). But even on these issues, the trends are positive and encouraging since both unemployment and NPL’s are on a downward trend following the overall improvement of the economy. To conclude, and to put things in a nutshell and into perspective, the vision of the Cypriot Government is to make the island’s economy business and investment friendly, flexible and adjustable to a constantly shifting international, and not only, environment. Our track record in the last few years vouches for our success on this path.

Page 40: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

22

Digitalization – a new challenge

H.E. Freddy Svane*

Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark to Japan

lobalisation gave rise to new structures in our societies and among countries. Economic growth has been a driver for societal changes that gave rise to the middle class and secured a stronger alleviation of global poverty. Will

digitalisation fracture decades of positive gains?

Globalisation has changed the World by interconnecting developed and developing countries. It has led to substantial transfer of technologies through outsourcing and offshoring, creating millions of jobs in even the most remote countries. Though driven by the search for cheaper production costs, it accelerated economic progress and helped build democratic forces through aspiring middle classes. The ever-increasing demand for natural resources gave traditional industries like shipping a global renaissance. Global logistics secured commodities for the manufacturing of consumer goods. New trading patterns emerged and the World seemed perfect. Basically, globalization only secured a better and cost-driven division of labor. Yet technology and innovation once again game changed our future.

In a few years the World – once again - will be disrupted technologically with huge

impacts on our societies and relations among countries.

* Professional career: Entered the Danish Foreign Service 1982. Secretary of Embassy, Permanent Mission to the EC, Brussels 1988-1991. Head of section, Ministry of Foreign Affairs 1991-1993. Councellor (Economic Affairs) Paris. Head of North Group's 3rd department 1997-1999. Head of North's Group's 1st department 1999-2000. General manager, A.P. M¯ller 2000-2003. Under-Secretary of the Trade Council, Ambassador, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Trade Policy and Globalization) 2004. Ambassador to Japan 2005-2008. CEO of the Danish Agriculture & Food Council 2008-2010.; 2010 Ambassador, Ministry of Foreign Affairs ( EU/EPA); 2010 (from September) Ambassador to India, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives till mid-August 2015; Education: Graduated in History, University of Copenhagen (1981)

G

Page 41: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

23

Digitalisation is our new future. Within a decade 3D printing, artificial intelligence, humanoid robots and drones will lead to drastic changes. Localization will replace globalization and alter needs for transporting goods. Industries and businesses of globalization will disappear, and new ones will surface. Globalization will see growth with no jobs being created, products will be manufactured locally, but the technologies will be globalized. The changes will be dramatic and only those adapting rapidly and in time will survive.

Unfortunately it will also have deep repercussions on our societies and for the

relationship among countries. It is widely accepted that globalization through transfer of technologies and economic activities gave – and gives - developing countries new opportunities. It became a lifeline and supplemented or even replaced the predominant development assistance. Millions of jobs were created and for the emerging markets it catalysed the creation of a viable middle class.

The middle class, though often driven by individualistic egoism - "what's in for me" – “I

want a well-paid job and good education for my children”, became a driver for economic growth and democratic aspirations. The rise of middle classes laid down the vital DNA for political, economic and social stability.

Globalization made the world global and global poverty was alleviated. Millions of

people were given a hope. Parents believed and realized that their offsprings had a chance to get a better life than they had themselves. The world got its own global factory and back office.

Technology became the driver. Globalization was automated and increasingly

digitalized. Digitalization will minimize the importance of labor costs and consequently reduce the need for manpower. Global growth will gradually become jobless. For the developing countries and emerging markets - often having millions of aspirants joining their labor market every month - it will stress test the societal structures and unprecedented fractures will erupt.

This monumental challenge will endanger the middle classes and ultimately the

economic growth and the democratization process in many countries. Additionally it could give rise to new and irreversible inequalities.

The world has not yet developed any response or strategy to counter this new

fundamental challenge that for many new generations of aspirants will leave them with fewer options than their parents.

Page 42: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

24

Can the International community deal with this challenge, or will it be left to the individual countries, or perhaps even the metropolises. The latter seems to be the appropriate answer. Huge metropolises like Tokyo, Seoul and New York have an economic strength that outnumbers many, even industrialized countries. Tokyo is, GDP-wise, bigger than the Republic of Korea and the Nordic countries together. Future growth will be concentrated in and around these megacities. Digitalization will help them cope with the gigantic challenges through smart technologies. Supply of water, energy, sewage systems and logistics can be handled much more efficiently with a limited footprint.

Megacities will seek closer ties in order to optimize solutions and to develop new

technologies. Certainly it will make megacities livable and lovable, but people living in rural areas will be left behind, if no proper political response is found.

Digitalization will happen, and the challenge is how to channel this into forces that will

secure continued growth of the Middle class. Only through that can we expect to keep seeing the advantages of globalization benefit democratization, alleviation of poverty and - perhaps most importantly – better opportunities for our children and their children.

Page 43: Download entire issue here
Page 44: Download entire issue here
Page 45: Download entire issue here
Page 46: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

26

Ecuador approved a new Constitution in 2008 and passed a development strategy -the National Plan for Good Living – outlining its priorities to bring Ecuador into the 21st Century, placing citizens at the center of every decision. Both documents have become a benchmark in Latin America. Their innovating and pioneering characteristics include granting rights to nature and making human beings, and not capital flows, the center of activity of the State. They also try to achieve the right balance between the public and private sectors to promote development and economic growth, while reducing poverty and inequality. Through this development strategy the government has made important social investments in health, education, public infrastructure, jobs, and fighting poverty, while giving incentives to the private sector to invest in strategic sectors. These policies have resulted in significant improvements in the wellbeing of Ecuadoreans. Extreme poverty was reduced by half, to 7.7 percent in 2014 from 16.9 percent in 2006. Ecuador gives particular importance to human capital. Close to 14,000 students are studying in the top universities of the world, fully funded through an excellence program introduced by the Correa Administration. Ecuador is a high human development country and ranks among the top four countries in Latin America with the highest Human Capital Index and Poverty Reduction. Between 2000 and 2015, Ecuador climbed 5 positions improving its Human Development Index to 0.732. In order to move towards a social knowledge economy over one billion dollars will be invested in four new universities: Yachay (technology, research in the core sciences), Ikiam (life sciences and biotechnology), Uniartes (Arts) and UNAE (pedagogy). Each of these entities is directed to meet the needs of professionalization to ensure sustainable long-term development. Current Investment Climate in Ecuador Ecuador is going through a favorable process of structural transformation, according to ECLAC/Cepal. the Ecuadorean economy has grown on average 4.5 % per year and the non-oil economy has grown on average 5% per year in the last ten years. Ecuador’s adoption of the dollar as its official currency since 2000 eliminated exchange rate risk and facilitates investments and returns for investors. The political stability achieved during the last decade under the Correa Administration has provided markets and investors with more certainty. In 2015 the Ecuadorean economy reached an important milestone by surpassing the USS 100 billion mark for the size of its economy, reaching the status of an upper middle income country with a Gross Net Income per capita on purchasing Power Parity of $11,388 (2015), and a GDP per capita of $6,196 (2015). Ecuador also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in South America, 5.3% as of June 2016, and a projected inflation rate of less than 2% for 2016. Improving competitiveness and productivity have become guiding principles of the government efforts, and have resulted in placing Ecuador among the 10 most competitive countries in Latin America. Some of the strategic investments made between 2007 and 2015

Page 47: Download entire issue here
Page 48: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

28

• Exemption of tariffs and custom duties for imported merchandise and 0% VAT for imported goods for companies operating in a ZEDE • Possibility of applying the same incentive to businesses; outside the special zones for economic development that sign an investment contract. • Incentives for Public – Private Partnerships (PPP): Under the PPP model the private party is subject to a similar treatment in taxes and duties, as is the government. Another avenue for investors, included in the Production Code, is an agreement (contract) signed between the government and the investor to protect new productive investments larger than USD 1 million dollars and that generate new jobs. This contract modality offers stability over the tax incentives for 15 years, renewable once (maximum validity 30 years). Once the investment contract is signed, the company can request reduction of customs duties for imported capital goods, the reduction may be a total or partial. The contract establishes clear mechanisms for dispute resolution, including the possibility for international arbitration. Public and private investments are necessary to promote the industrial and economic development of the country, thus the Public Private Partnership Law and the Production Code intend to build additional tools to boost investment, employment and competitiveness. In 2015 more than 32 investment contracts were signed for more than 2,100 million dollars, of which 43% belongs to investments in the not oil sector. Private investment reached about 6,000 billion between 2007 and 2014. After 10 years of uncertainty, political instability and economic contraction, Ecuador has experienced a decade of growth, social inclusion, political stability and economic development. The important investments in human capital, infrastructure, and productivity have dramatically changed the investment landscape of Ecuador. We are moving beyond an extraction economy, diversifying our economic sectors, supporting agro-industry entrepreneurs, and consolidating the tourism sector. The new investment climate in Ecuador, with its economic incentives, and political stability, simply shows that Ecuador is open for investments. This is certainly the best time to invest in Ecuador.

Page 49: Download entire issue here
Page 50: Download entire issue here
Page 51: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

32

Turkey after the Failed Coup Attempt

H.E. Hakan Olcay* Ambassador of the Turkish Republic to Belgium

n July 15, Turkey descended into a night of chaos and violence as a failed bloody coup attempt gripped the country, killing more than 240 and wounding in excess of 2,000 people. The group responsible for the unsuccessful coup belonged to a small

faction within the Turkish military. Testimony given by junta officers and other pieces of tangible evidence point to Fethullah Gülen, the leader of Fethullah Terror Organization (FETO) as the mastermind behind this attempt. This was more than a treacherous plot: It was a terrorist campaign to overthrow the democratically elected government, the President and abolish the constitutional order of Turkey. President Erdoğan’s upright stance against the coup as well as his call to the nation to take to the streets to resist the heinous attempt were decisive steps that changed the course of the events. Eventually, it was the people of Turkey from all backgrounds and political views who thwarted the plot. They displayed a historic solidarity as they stood bravely in front of the tanks and reclaimed their democratic rights.

* Education: High School: 1979 - University High School ; College / Department: 1983 – University of California, Los Angeles, Faculty of Science and Letters, Economics; Post Graduate: 1989 – University of Amsterdam, School of Economics, European Integration ; Career History› 1986-1989 - Department of International Economic Issues, Career Diplomat, Attaché, Third Secretary›; 1989-1992 - The Hague Embassy, Third Secretary; › 1992-1994 - Havana Embassy, Third Secretary, Second Secretary›; 1994-1995 - Department of Slavic Countries, Second Secretary›; 1995 - Department of Far Eastern Countries, Second Secretary, First Secretary›; 1995-1996 - Department of Far Eastern Countries, First Secretary›; 1996-2001 - Belgrade Embassy, First Secretary, Counsellor›; 2001-2002 – Counsellor at Embassy in Skopje (Chief of Mission in Prishtina/Kosovo)›; 2002-2003 - Head of Department for Cyprus›; 2003-2004 - Prime Ministry, Diplomatic Advisor to the PM, Head of Department›; 2004-2008 - Düsseldorf Consulate General, Consul General›; 2008-2010 - Prime Ministry, Diplomatic Advisor to the PM, Head of Department›; 2010-2013 - Prime Ministry, Diplomatic Advisor to the PM, Minister Plenipotentiary›; 2013 - present - Brussels Embassy, Ambassador

O

Page 52: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

33

Regretfully, many friends of Turkey fail to grasp the true colors of the FETO. This hesitation to believe that Gülen is not the peaceful Islamic scholar and preacher he pretends to be is somewhat understandable considering the money and other resources spent on intense lobbying of the movement for years throughout the world, especially in the U.S. Therefore, characteristics and real intentions of this "sui generis" criminal organization should be exposed. Fethullah Gülen is a preacher with no religious scholastic background, a graduate of primary school. He established his movement in early 1970’s. From 1974 onwards, Gülen formed his own network and has transformed himself a leader of a cult, based on the belief that he was the Messiah, the awaited one. After the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union, Gülen expanded his network in Caucasia, Central Asia and the Balkans, and eventually established presence in around 160 countries across the world. Starting from mid-1990s, Gülen began to present himself and his movement as an enlightened and pro-Western face of progressive, moderate Islam. However, this was just window dressing. In reality, he was leading a radical, secretive cult. His final purpose is to replace the democratic, secular regime in Turkey with a sharia state and thereafter to reach out to the other corners of the Muslim world. As a matter of fact, he had to leave Turkey and moved to the U.S. subsequent to a trial that charged him with attempting to topple the secular state in 1999. Since then Gülen lives in Pennsylvania and runs, through clandestine networks, a huge empire consisting of educational institutions, companies, media centers and civil society associations. The organization uses the interfaith dialogue as an instrument in order to be tolerated in the Western world. It must be emphasized that “concealment” is the key tactic of Fethullah Gülen. The members of his cult are ordered to disguise their affiliation with him. Although they live a very pious life, they are permitted to violate religious codes in order to blend in with the mainstream majority in certain organizations they are asked to infiltrate. A video of Fethullah Gülen released in 1999 shows him calling on his followers to “move within the arteries of the system, without anyone noticing your existence, until you reach all the power centers… You must wait until you seize the entire state power. ” Indeed, the members of FETO have infiltrated all critical state institutions in Turkey: Armed forces, police, intelligence, judiciary, central bank, treasury, etc. The FETO then used this vast network, first through covert then recently overt action, to advance its anti-secular and perverted hidden agenda and to take over the Turkish state. Senior government officials, businessmen, political party leaders, journalists, actors, heads of nongovernmental organizations have been targeted by the FETO when they refused to cooperate. Blackmail, extortion, corruption, criminal plots and even murder were the methods used by the

Page 53: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

34

organization to achieve its goals. The coup attempt of 15 July must be seen as the last display of this unlawful chain of events. Therefore, it is only natural that Turkey is determined to take all necessary measures within the limits of the rule of law respecting the fundamental rights and freedoms, in full observance of its international obligations to counter this organization. In the aftermath of the putsch, the response of the Turkish government – like that of many other European countries that face terrorist attacks -- was to declare a three month state of emergency in the country. Turkey has demanded that the U.S. extradite Gülen to Turkey so he can be brought to a fair trial in the Turkish criminal court system. Cleansing every cell in the state from the influence of this terrorist organization, as well as the extradition of its leader Gülen to Turkey in accordance with an existing agreement between the U.S. and Turkey, will be important steps for reinstating state order in Turkey. Rule of law, democracy and human rights represent the fundamental principles on which Turkey is founded. The resistance of political parties, NGOs and civilians to the coup attempt has shown to the world that democracy is a non-negotiable value beyond any argument for the Turkish people. Turkey is now united in a spirit that has not been witnessed since the foundation of the Republic. 7 August rally in Istanbul which gathered more than 3 million people from all political backgrounds to condemn the coup attempt was a historic and unprecedented milestone for Turkish democracy. We hope that the international community has heard loud and clear the messages given by millions of people and all major political parties in this rally. This message is also a commitment for protecting common democratic values of the civilized world. The defeat of the July 15 coup attempt in Turkey was not only crucial for democracy, but also for the world economy at large. If the coup attempt had been successful, it could have caused a great economic depression in the country and its negative effects would spill over to the global scene. Thankfully, Turkey’s economic base is solid. It has repeatedly surprised observers with its resilience during previous global economic crises and geopolitical rifts and will do so again during these hard times. The negative impact of the July 15 failed coup attempt on Turkey’s economy has been minimal. There are no obstacles for foreign investors to continue their economic activities in safety. From now on, Turkey is looking forward to succeed in delivering its citizens the well-deserved prosperity and opportunities for development, as well as contributing to the world economy without having to deal with detrimental elements within the state structures.

Page 54: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

35

Turkey passed a very harsh test that night in order to establish peace and democracy. Turkish people deserve and expect solidarity of the international community in their endeavor to fight with those who have planned and executed this ordeal. I am confident that our friends and partners will do their part in eliminating this security threat once and for all from the global agenda.

Page 55: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

36

Beyond Brexit: the EU Presidency of Malta

H.E. Pierre Clive Agius*

Ambassador of the Republic of Malta to the United States of America

1. Malta: Fullfiling an European Role n 17 December 1943, towards the end of WWII the then President of the United States Franklin D. Roosevelt sent a scroll to the Maltese who had endured most

severe bombing. He ended his tribute with the following words: “What was done in this Island maintains the highest traditions of gallant men and women who from the beginning of time have lived and died to preserve civilization for all mankind.”1 These are inspiring words that recognise the important and influential role Malta played during WWII.

* AMBASSADOR PIERRE CLIVE AGIUS is currently the Ambassador of the Republic of Malta to the United States of America, and resident in Washington d.c. He previously served as Ambassador to the Republic of Poland from October 2013- January 2016. Ambassador Agius is a career diplomat who joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1993 as a First Secretary. Ambassador Agius was first appointed as Ambassador of Malta to the Kingdom of Belgium in December 2008 and to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in March 2009. During this same period Mr. Agius, was also appointed as Ambassador of Malta to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. In March 2012, Mr. Agius was appointed Ambassador to the France and to the Principality of Monaco. Previously, Mr Agius, was appointed as Special Envoy of Malta to the Slovenian Presidency of the European Union in Ljubljana, Slovenia in 2007. Mr Agius had also been posted from 2004-2007 as Deputy Head of Mission at the Permanent Mission of Malta to the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the United Nations Organisation (UNO), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other International Organisations. Mr Agius had served from 2002-2004 as Diplomatic Counsellor to the late President of the Republic, H.E. Prof. Guide de Marco. Mr Agius had prior served from 1999-2002 at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations Office and other International Organisations in Geneva, during which term he served also as Consul General. From 1995-1999, Mr Agius had also served as a First Secretary at the Embassy of Malta in Paris. Mr. AGIUS reads a Masters in Diplomatic Studies (M.Dip) from the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies in Malta, where he studied in 1994-95. Mr. AGIUS had previously obtained a Post-Graduate Diploma in Environmental Management in 1994 and graduated from the University of Malta in 1992 with honours after completion of the course of Bachelor in Education (B.Ed. Hons). Mr. AGIUS was decorated by the President of the Republic of Italy Ufficiale Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana in January 2004. Previously he served as Ambassador of the Republic of Poland (2013-2016). Mr. AGIUS is fluent in Maltese, English, Italian and French and has good knowledge of Slovene and Arabic. 1 Franklin D. Roosevelt, dd. 8 December 1943

O

Page 56: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

37

On the 1 of January 2017 Malta again has a date with history. This time it will not be dramatic but it will have its challenges: on that day Malta will take the helm of the Council of the European Union. Malta will give it all. Malta will preside with true European spirit and with Europe’s interest at heart. Europe is undoubtedly a great success: it is the most thriving political and economic union ever. Malta is testimony of this for since it joined the European Union, it flourished, it grew stronger and even more influential. This success of our block is currently overshadowed by the several crisis that landed on Europe – the unexpected vote by the people of the United Kingdom, the terrorist attacks in Europe, the conflict in Syria, migration challenges, the weak economic performance ... an incomplete list of the challenges facing Europe at the time when Malta will take the Presidency. Malta is in full preparation for the Presidency and in cooperation with the two preceding Presidencies it defined its areas of priorities where it hopes to achieve concrete results. The programme of Malta, is the last leg of the EU Presidency Trio cycle which started in January of 2016 with the Netherlands and, as from last June with Slovakia.

2. The Mediterranean Dimension: an Organic Element

Malta is equidistant from mainland Europe and North Africa. It is at the very center of the Mediterranean Sea. The famous French historian, Fernand Braudel described Malta as follows: “The Mediterranean belongs to her since always. Malta is a part of Africa and she is in Europe. She is in the East and she is the West.”2 In short, the Mediterranean Sea defines Malta ... the issues hovering around this region are organic elements of the psychic of Malta’s Foreign policy since its very Independence in 1964 – issues like the Middle East Peace Process, migration, instability in Libya, Syria, terrorism, climate change, marine environment, poverty and socioeconomic challenges, radicalisation and others. Since a long time Malta understood that the security of Europe is tightly linked with that of the Mediterranean. This is what had prompted Malta to insist on its proposal at the OSCE

2 1972, Fernand Braudel, Historiens méditerranéen

Page 57: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

38

Conference of Helsinki in 1972.3 The security element intrinsically linked with Mediterranean is also what prompted Jacques Delors then President of the European Commission to reflect in 1992 when he said: “We must not displace Europe too much towards the North while forgetting the South, we would risk losing our sensitivity to the Mediterranean world which is our world, but which at present emulates the dangers for the future of all of us.”4 Indeed, therefore, both expectedly and understandably the Presidency of Malta will address these challenges in a bid to contribute towards their resolution together with its European partners. Malta, however, will do this with a sense of realism sustained by with a sense of fairness. The framework for the contributions of Malta will be the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) which, together with the High Representative and the European External Action Service (EEAS) provide the main structure for European Diplomacy. Malta will also continue to invest in other regional initiatives like the 5+5, the Union for the Mediterranean, the OSCE, and the League of Arab States. Malta will also seek to strengthen the North-South dialogue of which it was a pioneer and a believer.

3. Beyond Statistics: The Migration Challenge

Undoubtedly one of the main challenges Malta had to face since it joined the European Union is the phenomena of migration and asylum issues. This will certainly occupy a priority standing on the agenda of the Maltese EU Presidency. Malta will strive tirelessly for the implementation of the May 2015 European Agenda on Migration as well as the package of measures announced in the Commission Work Programme for 2017. Complementary to this is the Common European Asylum which is strongly supported by Malta who, like other EU Member States wants to see within the European Union a fairer system for the distribution of responsibilities in migration issues. The Presidency of Malta, therefore, will work on the proposal updating the Dublin Regulation and the Proposal supporting the European Asylum Support Office. Incidentally, coinciding with the Maltese Presidency will be

3 Helsinki Final Act 1972 4 Jacques Delors, la Liberation 14 September 1992

Page 58: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

39

the end of the two-year period for the implementation of the Council decisions for the relocation of 160,000 people deserving international protection. This is an opportunity for the Presidency of Malta to ensure such that such issues are treated with the respect they deserve. Contemporaneously, Malta will also manifest sensitivity towards maintaining the link between internal and external dimensions of migration. It will do this by following up on the 2015 Valletta Summit on Migration and by seeking the implementation of the Global Approach to Migration and Mobility’s external proposals.

4. A Vision for our Seas: The European Integrated Maritime Policy

The EU Integrated Maritime Policy, aware of the EU’s increasing dependency on the seas, has brought all the diverse marine and maritime issues together into one unified policy. This anticipates opportunities for Blue Growth Initiatives, whereby a variety of high value added jobs and innovative research projects can be plugged into, whilst honouring European cultural links to the seas. Malta’s geographic existence provides a context to the enthusiasm and ambitions with which the Maltese Presidency would seek to advance this policy. International Ocean Governance will be recognised on the Maltese agenda of priorities: Malta will emphasise its argument that any ocean exploitation must be sustainable. Malta will use its EU Presidency cycle to work towards brokering a pan-European political endorsement on this issue. Malta, therefore, plans to provide the environment and the setting to encourage an inter-ministerial discussion on the subject. Coinciding in parallel with the EU Presidency of Malta will be the launching of the 2017 Western Mediterranean Sea Basin Strategy. If endorsed, this strategy will develop existing Blue Economy structures. The result will be the amelioration of maritime governance. Malta supports this process because it believes that it will contribute towards a sustained approach in addressing regional maritime imbalances.

5. The Evident Success: The European Single Market

The challenges faced by the European Union in driving sustainable economic growth are shared by Malta. Malta has been very successful economically in reaping opportunities stemming from

Page 59: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

40

the Single European Market. It is no wonder, therefore, that the Presidency of Malta will seek to prioritise issues connected to the Single Market, issues like the innovation of the market, the Single Digital Market, the strengthening of the services market, the modernisation of certain industries and of course, the European Small and Medium Sized enterprises and industries which are the backbone of Europe’s economy.

6. Europe’s Security: Upholding its Values An immediate and very visible task for Malta during its Presidency will be the European agenda on security. The issue goes far beyond simple security arrangements and initiatives at domestic, regional and global spheres but includes the protection of Europe’s core principles. This will require a coherent and holistic approach as is outlined in the EU Global Strategy.

7. A Europe of Peoples: A Europe for Peoples

The prolonged systemic challenges endured by women hindering economic independence are the obvious reason for chronic low participation of women in several aspects of life ranging from political ambitions to economic initiative. The Maltese Presidency will work towards ending this unfair situation. Together with the European Institute for Gender Equality, Malta will encourage efforts to address this gender deficit. Stress shall also be placed on seeking an end to gender-based violence, in pursuit of the broader objectives of ensuring the full enjoyment by women of their human rights and of achieving economic growth in truly inclusive societies. The exchange of information between Member States will be key to seeing this implementation through – whether it be existing legislation, policies and strategies, or statistical data on violence against women. The European Pact for gender equality for the period 2011 – 2020 will be foremost as a guideline principle in this regard. Within the framework of “New Start to Address the Challenges of Work-Life Balance Faced by Working Families”, the Maltese Presidency will continue the active pursuit of the objectives set out by the proposed Equal Treatment Directive. This will involve the undertaking of further discussions between Member States, the European Commission and the European Parliament such that existing files on equal treatment, particularly with regard to the proposed Directive on improving gender balance among directors of companies listed on the stock exchange, are brought up to speed. Effective negotiations will be a priority in this regard. Malta will

Page 60: Download entire issue here

Global Ambassador’s Journal l Vol. I, Issue 2, Oct 2016

41

furthermore consolidate efforts leading up to the coordination of an EU position and presence at the UN Commission on the Status of Women. A Ministerial Level Conference on LGBTIQ issues will pick from where the Dutch Presidency left up and explore the Commission’s options in this regard.

Page 61: Download entire issue here

PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY. ZIM’s 81 40.5% ALC./VOL. (81 Proof) • ZIM’s 59 29.5% ALC./VOL. (59 Proof)are imported from Poland by The Rebel Spirits Group, LLC, Grosse Pointe, Michigan USA • ZimsVodka.com

Client: RSGClient Contact: Terry OlsonTitle: “Love Your Vodka.” #1Date: January 3, 2017

29205 Ryan Rd., Suite 100 Warren, MI 48092Agency Contact: Jim ToccoPhone: 586.907.3290Email: [email protected]

ZIMs Ad 2016210x297mm_GlobeAmbass.indd 1 1/3/17 6:29 AM

Page 62: Download entire issue here

The courtesy visit from Son Altesse Sérénissime

Nicolas 1er, PRINCE DE SEBORGA and his

delegation. 

With this ocassion, Chairman of IUBCCI awarded

S.A.S. Nicolas 1er with the IUBCCI Star.

Page 63: Download entire issue here
Page 64: Download entire issue here
Page 65: Download entire issue here