As December unfolds, join host Sewar Quran, Associate Director at Global Counsel, along with colleagues, for a deep dive into three critical developments that are influencing global policy this month: Abu Dhabi Finance Week, the EU Summit, and the ongoing diplomatic dynamics between the US, Russia, Ukraine, and Europe.

First, Sewar is joined by Aliyah Dar, MENA Advisor on Financial Services, to explore Abu Dhabi Finance Week. The conversation highlights the significance of the event as a global platform for financial discussions, networking, and investment opportunities. They discuss how Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a central hub for global financial growth, innovation, and sustainable finance, alongside a focus on AI’s role in shaping the future of finance in the MENA region. Learn more about our MENA practice.

Next, Gosia Szczodrowska, Associate Director for Technology media & telecoms, provides insights from the EU Summit. Their conversation delves into the shifts in Europe’s economic model in response to global challenges such as energy prices, productivity stagnation, and geopolitical tensions. They discuss the importance of strategic investments in critical raw materials, defense capabilities, and technological innovation to enhance Europe’s resilience and future competitiveness. Learn more about our Technology, media & telecoms practice.

Finally, Denzil Davidson, Director, reflects on the intense diplomatic activity surrounding the US, Russia, Ukraine, and Europe. The conversation explores the key issues at stake for Ukraine and Russia, the impact of the US's new National Security Strategy, and the diplomatic maneuvering in Washington, Moscow, and European capitals. They discuss what the next month might reveal about the evolving dynamics of the war, its potential for escalation or resolution, and the role of transatlantic security moving forward. Learn more about our Europe politics and policy practice.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we look ahead to November, host Sewar Quran, Associate Director at Global Counsel, is joined by colleagues to unpack three major developments shaping the global policy agenda: the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, the COP30 climate conference in Brazil, and a shifting debate on European defence and transatlantic security.

First, Sewar is joined by Alexander Smotrov, Director, to discuss the upcoming G20 Summit in Johannesburg. Their conversation explores rising geopolitical tensions between the US and South Africa, Washington’s accusations of anti-Americanism, and President Cyril Ramaphosa’s strong rebuttal. They consider what the episode reveals about diplomacy in an era of fragmented power and competing global agendas, and how it tests the limits of cooperation among the world’s major economies. Learn more about our work in Europe and Eurasia.

Next, Evan Guy, Senior Associate, joins to examine preparations for COP30 in Brazil, a pivotal moment in global climate politics marking five years to 2030. They explore the evolving geopolitics of climate action post-COP29, the renewed focus on Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and efforts to agree a roadmap for climate finance through the new collective quantified goal (NCQG). The discussion also touches on biodiversity, nature conservation, and the growing intersection between environmental policy and international development. Learn more about our Climate, Energy and Net-Zero practice.

Finally, Denzil Davidson, Director, reflects on Europe’s emerging defence debate amid shifting transatlantic dynamics and questions about the US security guarantee under President Trump. Their discussion considers Europe’s need to enhance its own capabilities, reassess its dependence on American support, and chart a more autonomous strategic path for the decade ahead.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we look ahead to October, host Sewar Quran, Associate Director at Global Counsel, is joined by colleagues to unpack three major developments shaping international policy and investment this month: the IMF and World Bank annual meetings in Washington DC, presidential elections in Ivory Coast, and the Future Investment Initiative Summit in Riyadh.

First, Sewar is joined by Max Mandich, Senior Associate in our Washington office, to explore the agenda of the upcoming IMF and World Bank week. They discuss the key differences from the spring meetings, the Trump administration’s evolving policy agenda, and the international opportunities the meetings create for stakeholders engaging with finance ministers, central banks, and policymakers. Learn more about our US politics and policy practice.

Next, Alessandra Cassisi, Associate in our Brussels office, joins Sewar to examine the Ivory Coast’s October 25th presidential elections. Their discussion considers the political dynamics surrounding President Ouattara’s candidacy, the challenges facing the opposition, the risks of instability, and the economic opportunities and pressures shaping investor sentiment. Learn more about our work in the Middle East and North Africa.

Finally, Sewar speaks with Ahmed Helal, MENA Director, about the Future Investment Initiative Summit in Riyadh, widely known as “Davos in the desert.” The conversation highlights Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification drive, the growing global role of the Public Investment Fund, ambitions in AI and advanced technology, and the geopolitical context influencing investment sentiment. Learn more about our work in the Middle East and North Africa.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.