Astana Club:
Global Risks for Eurasia
Participants
- Hamid KARZAI
President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (2004-2014)
- Yves LETERME
Co-Chair of the European Division at the Global Coalition for Efficient Logistics (GCEL), Deputy Secretary General at OECD (2011-2014), Prime Minister of Belgium (2008, 2009-2011)
- José Luis ZAPATERO
- Vuk JEREMIĆPresident of the People's Party,
President of the Center for International Relationsand Sustainable Development (CIRSD), President of the UN General Assembly (2012-2013), Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia (2007-2012)
- Danilo TÜRK
President of the Club de Madrid, President of Slovenia (2007-2012)
- James T. BYRON
President and CEO, Richard Nixon Foundation
- Tedros GHEBREYESUS
Director-General of the World Health Organization
- Christopher Nixon COX
Member of the Board of Directors, Richard Nixon Foundation
- Sergey AFONTSEV
Deputy Director, Institute of World Economy and International Relations, Russian Academy of Sciences (IMEMO RAS)
- Kirill BABAEV
Director, Institute of China and Contemporary Asia, Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS)
- Tiberio GRAZIANI
Chairman, Vision & Global Trends, International Institute for Global Analyses
- Vladislav INOZEMTSEV
Special Advisor at the Washington-based Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI), Director, Center for Post-Industrial Studies (1996-2019)
- Krishna B. KUMAR
Executive Vice President of Research, National Opinion Research Center (NORC) at the University of Chicago
- James M. LINDSAY
Senior Vice President, Council on Foreign Relations (CFR)
- Ashok SAJJANHAR
President, Institute of Global Studies, Distinguished Fellow at Ananta Aspen Centre, Former Ambassador of India to Kazakhstan
- Thomas A. CELLUCCI
Founder & CEO, Cellucci Associates, Inc., US First Chief Commercialization Officer under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama (2007-2011)
- Evan A. FEIGENBAUM
Vice President for studies, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State (2006-2009)
- Suma CHAKRABARTI
Chair of Board of Trustees, ODI, President, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (2012-2020)
- YANG Cheng
Executive Dean of Shanghai Academy of Global Governance and Area Studies (SAGGAS), Professor of Shanghai International Studies University
- Rupert GOODMAN
Chairman of the British-Kazakh Society, Founder of FIRST Publishing House
- Nigel GOULD-DAVIES
Senior Fellow for Russia and Eurasia, International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)
- Kemal KIRIŞCI
Nonresident Senior Fellow in the Center on the United States and Europe‘s Turkey Project, Brookings Institution
- Ariel COHEN
Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, Managing Director, Energy, Growth and Security Program at the International Tax and Investment Center (ITIC)
- Damjan KRNJEVIĆ-MIŠKOVIĆ
Director for Policy Research and Analysis, Institute for Development and Diplomacy, Professor of Practice, ADA University
- Charles KUPCHAN
Senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), Professor of international affairs at Georgetown University
- Johannes F. LINNNonresident Senior Fellow
in the Center for Sustainable Development, Brookings Institution, Vice President of the World Bank (1991-2003)
- Edward N. LUTTWAK
Senior Associate, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
- Bruno MAÇÃES
Senior Adviser at Flint Global, Secretary of State for European Affairs of Portugal (2013-2015), author of the bestseller “The Dawn of Eurasia”
- Alessio PECORARIO
Vatican Official, Cybersecurity & New Tech Expert
- Urban RUSNÁK
Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic, Secretary General of the Energy Charter Secretariat (2012-2021)
- Leslie SIMM
Founder and Executive Director of International Forum for Mutual Understanding (IFOUND)
- Marc UZAN
Executive Director and Founder, Reinventing Bretton Woods Committee (RBWC)
- Nandan UNNIKRISHNAN
Distinguished Fellow at Observer Research Foundation
- Peter FRANKOPAN
Professor of Global History, University of Oxford, UNESCO Professor of Silk Roads Studies, King’s College, Cambridge, author of the bestseller “The Silk Roads: A New History of the World” (2015)
- ZHAO Long
Senior Research Fellow, Institute for Global Governance Studies, Shanghai Institutes for International Studies
- ZHAO Huasheng
Professor of the Center for Russian and Central Asian Studies, Fudan University, Senior Fellow, Beijing Club for International Dialogue
- ZHOU Bo
Senior Fellow of Center for International Security and Strategy, Tsinghua University
- CHUNG Rae Kwon
Nobel Peace Prize Laureate (2007), Director, Ban Ki-moon Foundation, member of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
- Nik GOWING
Founder and Director of Thinking the Unthinkable, BBC World News presenter (1996-2014), Visiting Professor at Kings College London
- Vladimir POZNER
Russian journalist and publicist, anchor of the “Pozner” program on Channel One (2008-2022)
- Pepe ESCOBAR
Journalist, Columnist at The Cradle, Editor-at-large at Asia Times
James T. BYRON
President and CEO, Richard Nixon Foundation
President and CEO, Richard Nixon Foundation
- Born in 1993.
- Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a Minor in History from the Chapman University (California, USA).
- Since November 2021, President and CEO of the Richard Nixon Foundation, and a member of the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
- Leads the American Civics Campaign, innovative educational institution launched in 2023 by the Foundation. Its goal to empower the upcoming generation of American students with a comprehensive understanding of citizenship rights and responsibilities, as well as insights into the functioning of the US government.
- In 2019-2021, Executive Vice President of the Nixon Foundation.
- Headed the strategic communications campaign to launch the New Nixon Library, which reached more than 100 million people and won five PR-industry association awards.
- From 2014 to 2017, worked as coordinator of the Foundation’s successful $25 million capital campaign.
- Author of “A President Comes Home”, the official Nixon Library souvenir guide (2018).
THOMAS A. CELLUCCI
Founder & CEO, Cellucci Associates, Inc., US First Chief Commercialization Officer under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama (2007-2011)
Founder & CEO, Cellucci Associates, Inc., US First Chief Commercialization Officer under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama (2007-2011)
- Born in 1958.
- A recognized expert in the practical commercialization of new and emerging technologies, as well as venture investment.
- Holds a PhD in physical chemistry from the University of Pennsylvania (1984), an MBA in strategic management and marketing from Rutgers University (1991) and a BS in chemistry from Fordham University (1980).
- In 1999, founded the consulting firm Cellucci Associates, Inc., focuses on developing business and marketing plans for worldwide hi-tech firms. Has offices in the USA, Canada, Sweden, Italy, Kazakhstan, and Indonesia.
- In 2007-2011, US First Chief Commercialization Officer, Director of Public-Private Partnerships Office and Executive Director of R&D Partnerships Group, US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the White House.
- Served in the Administrations of US Presidents George W. Bush (2007-2009) and Barack Obama (2009-2011) as a key advisor on science, innovation, and technology commercialization.
- Author or co-author of 30 books and more than 450 articles on innovative public-private partnerships, nanotechnology, laser spectroscopy, marketing, etc.
SIR SUMA CHAKRABARTI
Chair of the Board of Trustees, ODI,
President, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (2012-2020)
Chair of the Board of Trustees, ODI,
President, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (2012-2020)
- Born in 1959.
- After studying Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of Oxford, took a Master’s in Development Economics at the University of Sussex.
- Holds honorary doctorates from the Universities of Sussex, East Anglia, and the Bucharest University of Economic Sciences.
- Chair of the Board of Trustees of ODI, independent, global think tank.
- Sir Suma’s earlier career was in international development, starting as a ODI Fellow in Botswana in the early 1980s, and encompassing a range of economic and administrative posts in the Overseas Development Administration (Department for International Development’s predecessor) in London and in the UK office at the World Bank and IMF.
- In 2002-2007, served as Permanent Secretary at the Department for International Development.
- In 2007-2012, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Justice.
- In 2012-2020, served as the sixth President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). During his tenure at the EBRD, Sir Suma led the expansion of the institution’s geographical focus to the Middle East and Central Asia.
- Sir Suma was knighted in 2006 for his work in international development.
CHUNG RAE KWON
Nobel Peace Prize Laureate (2007),
Director, Ban Ki-moon Foundation,
member of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
Nobel Peace Prize Laureate (2007),
Director, Ban Ki-moon Foundation,
member of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
- Born in 1954.
- Expert on the environment and climate change.
- Holds a master’s degree in diplomatic relations from Georgetown University.
- Member of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
- 2007 Nobel Peace Prize laureate for work in the field of climate change together with the IPCC and former US Vice President Albert Gore.
- Served as Climate Change Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Principal Advisor on Climate Change to the Secretary-General of the UN and as Director for Environment and Development of the UN ESCAP (Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific).
- Under his leadership, ESCAP has become a leader in promoting the concept of a Green Growth Strategy since 2005.
- Director, Ban Ki-moon Foundation.
- Professor Emeritus at Institute of Convergence, Science and Technology of Incheon National University, South Korea.
ARIEL COHEN
Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council,
Managing Director, Energy, Growth and Security Program at the International Tax and Investment Center (ITIC)
Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council,
Managing Director, Energy, Growth and Security Program at the International Tax and Investment Center (ITIC)
- Born on April 3, 1959.
- Received a master's degree from Harvard University and a Ph.D. from the Fletcher School of Diplomacy and Law of Tufts University.
- Worked as a consultant to the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, the US House Armed Services Representatives Committee on the Air Force, the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, the US Agency for International Development, the World Bank, and the Pentagon.
- Since 1992, worked for 20 years as an employee of the Davis Institute for International Studies at the Heritage Foundation.
- Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council. Member of the Council on Foreign Relations of the United States and the International Institute for Strategic Studies (London).
- Senior Researcher at the International Tax and Investment Centre (ITIC), where heads the Energy, Growth, and Security (EGS) Program.
- Founding Director of The Centre for Energy, Natural Resources and Geopolitics (CENRG) at the Institute for Analysis of Global Security (IAGS).
- Founding Principal of International Market Analysis Ltd., a company engaged in business development and political risks in the field of energy and natural resources.
PEPE ESCOBAR
Journalist, Columnist at The Cradle,
Editor-at-large at Asia Times
Journalist, Columnist at The Cradle,
Editor-at-large at Asia Times
- Born in 1954.
- Brazilian journalist and independent geopolitical analyst focused on Eurasia.
- Since the mid-1980s he has lived and worked as a foreign correspondent in London, Paris, Milan, Los Angeles, Singapore and Bangkok.
- Since 9/11, has extensively covered Pakistan, Afghanistan, Central Asia, China, Iran, Iraq and the wider Middle East.
- Previously worked as an analyst for RT, Sputnik News, and Al Jazeera.
- Author of many books, including “Globalistan: How the Globalized World is Dissolving into Liquid War” (2007); “Obama does Globalistan” (2009), his latest one is “Raging Twenties” (2021).
EVAN A. FEIGENBAUM
Vice President for studies, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace,
US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State (2006-2009)
Vice President for studies, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace,
US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State (2006-2009)
- Born in 1969.
- Received his A.B. in history from the University of Michigan and his A.M. and Ph.D. in political science from Stanford University.
- In 1994-1995, lecturer on national security issues at the US Naval Postgraduate School, consultant on China to the RAND Corporation in 1993-1994.
- In 1997-2001, served as a lecturer on government in the faculty of arts and sciences at Harvard University.
- From 2001-2009, worked at the US State Department, in different years held the positions of Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia.
- Vice president for studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, where oversees research in Washington, Beijing, and New Delhi on a dynamic region encompassing both East and South Asia.
- Within the framework of nuclear non-proliferation programs, headed coordination groups, including agreements with the Governments of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.
- Received several honorary awards from the US State Department.
- Author of three books and monographs, including “The United States in the New Asia” (2009) and “China’s Techno-Warriors: National Security and Strategic Competition from the Nuclear to the Information Age”, which was selected by Foreign Affairs as the best book of 2003 on the Asia-Pacific.
- Member of the Astana Club’s Consultative Council.
PETER FRANKOPAN
Professor of Global History, University of Oxford,
UNESCO Professor of Silk Roads Studies, King’s College, Cambridge,
author of the bestseller “The Silk Roads: A New History of the World” (2015)
Professor of Global History, University of Oxford,
UNESCO Professor of Silk Roads Studies, King’s College, Cambridge,
author of the bestseller “The Silk Roads: A New History of the World” (2015)
- Born on March 22, 1971.
- British professor and historian.
- Director of the Oxford Centre for Byzantine Research. Professor of Global History, University of Oxford.
- Senior Research Fellow at Worcester College, Oxford. UNESCO Professor of Silk Roads Studies at King's College, Cambridge.
- Works on the history of the Mediterranean, Russia, the Middle East, Iran, Central Asia, and China.
- Author of international bestsellers “The Silk Roads: A New History of the World” (2015) and “The New Silk Roads: The Future and Present of the World” (2018), that have been translated into more than 30 languages.
- In his latest book, “The Earth Transformed: An Untold History” (2023), reveals how climate change has dramatically shaped the development – and demise – of civilizations across time.
JACOB FRENKEL
Chairman of the Frenkel-Zuckerman Institute for Global Economics at Tel Aviv University, Chairman of JP Morgan Chase International (2009-2019), Chairman of the Bank of Israel (1991-2000)
Chairman of the Frenkel-Zuckerman Institute for Global Economics at Tel Aviv University, Chairman of JP Morgan Chase International (2009-2019), Chairman of the Bank of Israel (1991-2000)
- Born on February 8, 1943.
- A well-known Israeli and world economist.
- Graduated with BA from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and an M.A. and Ph.D. in economics from the University of Chicago.
- Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Group of Thirty (G30) – an influential international organization that unites the world's leading economists and financiers, including the heads of the largest private and central banks of the world.
- From 2009 to 2020, served as Chairman of JPMorgan Chase International.
- In 2001-2011, worked as Chairman and CEO of G30, in 2004-2009 – Vice Chairman of American International Group, Inc., in 2000-2004 – Chairman of Merrill Lynch International Bank.
- In 1991-2000, served as Chairman of the Bank of Israel.
- Over the years, held the positions of Economic Adviser and Head of Research at the IMF, as well as professor of international economics at the University of Chicago.
- Received many awards and prizes in economics.
- One of the founders of the Frankel-Zuckerman Institute for Global Economics at Tel Aviv University (TAU).
- Member of the Astana Club’s Consultative Council.
TEDROS GHEBREYESUS
Director-General of the World Health Organization
Director-General of the World Health Organization
- Born on March 3, 1965.
- Graduated from the University of Asmara with a Bachelor of Biology, before earning a Master of Science in Immunology of Infectious Diseases from the University of London, a PhD in Community Health from the University of Nottingham (UK).
- Following his studies, returned to Ethiopia, served in Ethiopia’s federal government for over a decade as Minister of Health (2005-2012) and Minister of Foreign Affairs (2012-2016).
- Under his leadership, Ethiopia expanded its health infrastructure, developed innovative health financing mechanisms, and expanded its health workforce.
- Since 2017, Director-General of the World Health Organization. First person from the WHO African Region to head the world’s leading public health agency.
- Prior to his election as Director-General of WHO, held many leadership positions in global health, including as Chair of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria.
RUPERT GOODMAN DL
Chairman of the British-Kazakh Society,
Founder of FIRST Publishing House
Chairman of the British-Kazakh Society,
Founder of FIRST Publishing House
- Born on April 17, 1963.
- British publisher, international affairs expert, and entrepreneur.
- Studied at Eton College and Trinity College, Cambridge.
- After graduating from Cambridge worked at J. Walter Thompson in London.
- In 1984 founded FIRST, a multi-disciplinary international affairs organization. Currently chairman of FIRST.
- FIRST was presented the Queen's Award for Enterprise (the highest royal award for British business) in 2010 and 2013 for excellence in international markets.
- In 2000, founded the Responsible Capitalism Initiative and Annual Award to honour business leaders who have excelled in both commercial success and social responsibility.
- In 2012, was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant (DL) of Greater London.
- In 2016, was appointed a Deputy Chairman and a Trustee of Prince's Trust International, the international Charity founded by HRH the Prince of Wales.
- One of the founders and trustees of the British-Kazakh society, Director of Equilibrium, management-consulting firm.
- Chairman of World Petroleum and World Energy Insight – organisations providing information on the oil/gas and energy sectors.
- Member of the Astana Club’s Consultative Council.
NIGEL GOULD-DAVIES
Senior Fellow for Russia and Eurasia,
International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)
Senior Fellow for Russia and Eurasia,
International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)
- Born on March 1, 1966.
- Well known independent researcher on the politics, economics, and security of the former Soviet republics.
- Holds B.A. and M.A. from the from Oxford University, and a Ph.D. from the Harvard University.
- In 1996-2000, Professor at the Oxford University.
- In 2000-2010, joined the British Foreign Office, serving as the Research Analyst, the Head of the Economics Department in Moscow and Ambassador to Belarus.
- Since 2010, joined the BG Group, an international energy company. Served as the Vice President of the Policy and Corporate Affairs for Central Asia and Head of Policy and Corporate Affairs for South and East Asia.
- In 2016-2020, Associate Fellow at the Chatham House.
- Since 2020, Senior Fellow for Russia and Eurasia at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS).
- In 2021-2022, Fellow at the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Scholars.
- Author of the book “Tectonic Politics: Global Political Risk in an Age of Transformation”.
- Fluent in English and Russian.
NIK GOWING
Founder and Director of Thinking the Unthinkable,
BBC World News presenter (1996-2014),
Visiting Professor at Kings College London
Founder and Director of Thinking the Unthinkable,
BBC World News presenter (1996-2014),
Visiting Professor at Kings College London
- Born on January 13, 1951.
- British journalist.
- Graduated from the University of Bristol.
- Before joining the BBC, worked in ITN for 18 years in senior positions including diplomatic editor of Channel 4 News.
- In 1982, received the BAFTA Award for coverage of martial law in Poland.
- From 1996 to 2014 worked as a presenter of the prime-time international news edition on BBC World News.
- Moderated major international events, including the BBC World debates at the WEF in Davos, the Nobel Prize ceremony in Stockholm, etc.
- From 1998 to 2005, served as Vice-President of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy.
- Since 2014 serves as Professor at King's College in London.
- In 2014, founded the Thinking the Unthinkable project, aimed at forecasting global risks.
- Was a member of the boards of major analytical organizations such as Chatham House and the Royal Institute of Defence Studies (RUSI), the Global Agenda Council of the World Economic Forum, served as Advisor on Leadership issues to the President of the UN General Assembly (2017).
TIBERIO GRAZIANI
Chairman, Vision & Global Trends, International Institute for Global Analyses
Chairman, Vision & Global Trends, International Institute for Global Analyses
- Born on November 29, 1954.
- Graduated in chemistry from the Sapienza University of Rome.
- Director of magazine Geopolitica, founded in 2011.
- In 1998-2008, taught at the University of L'Aquila and the University of Perugia, Department of Engineering.
- In 2004-2011, directed the geopolitical magazine “Eurasia”.
- On behalf of the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) worked in various countries including Argentina, China, India, Libya, and Uzbekistan. Held position of the consultant to the European Investment Bank (EIB) in Tunisia.
- For about 20 years was director of the Bulletin of Technological Innovation (BIT), international multidisciplinary peer-reviewed scientific edition.
- For over 40 years specializes in geopolitical analysis. In this context lectured at the University of Teramo, the Oriental University of Naples, the Kore University of Enna, the University of Genoa.
- Was member of the scientific council in Geopolitics and Global Security of the Sapienza University of Rome.
- Member of several scientific committees of academic journals, including World Affairs (India), GeoPolitica (Romania) and Vice Chairman of Modern Diplomacy.
VLADISLAV INOZEMTSEV
Special Advisor at the Washington-based Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI), Director, Center for Post-Industrial Studies
Special Advisor at the Washington-based Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI), Director, Center for Post-Industrial Studies
- Born on October 10, 1968.
- Well-known economist.
- Holds a Ph.D. in Economics, Moscow State University.
- From 1995 to 2010, before entering politics, worked in the editorial office of magazines, in the banking sector for several years.
- In 1996, founded the Center for Post-Industrial Studies.
- In 2003-2012, served as Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Board of Russia in the Global Affairs journal.
- Since 2011, member of the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC), created by the President of the Russian Federation.
- Since 2012, for two years has been Chairman of the High Council of the party “Civilian Power”, which was among the parties that nominated Dmitry Medvedev for president of Russia.
- Since 2021, Special Advisor to Russian Media Studies Project at the Washington-based Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI).
- Member of the Presidium of the Council on Foreign and Defense Policy (Russia).
VUK JEREMIĆ
President of the People's Party, President of the Center for International Relations and Sustainable Development (CIRSD),
President of the UN General Assembly (2012-2013),
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia (2007-2012)
President of the People's Party, President of the Center for International Relations and Sustainable Development (CIRSD),
President of the UN General Assembly (2012-2013),
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia (2007-2012)
- Born on July 3, 1975.
- In 2003, graduated with master's degree in public administration and international development from the Harvard University (USA).
- In 2004-2007, served as a senior foreign policy advisor to President Tadić.
- In 2007-2012, served as Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia. Also chaired the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe.
- In 2011-2012, successfully led Serbia's campaign for the 2015 chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
- In 2012-2013, served as President of the United Nations General Assembly. In this position, negotiated the creation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty.
- In 2013, founded the Center for International Relations and Sustainable Development (CIRSD), analytical center for public policy based in Belgrade.
- Editor-in-chief of Horizons, a journal devoted to the broad theme of international relations and sustainable development.
- Since 2017, President of the People's Party.
- Fluent in English and German.
- Member of the Astana Club’s Consultative Council.
HAMID KARZAI
President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (2004-2014)
President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (2004-2014)
- Born on December 24, 1957.
- Afghan politician.
- Studied for a master's degree in international relations and political science at Himachal Pradesh University, India.
- In 2004, won the first free elections in Afghanistan.
- Served as President of Afghanistan from 2004 to 2014.
- During Karzai's leadership, Afghanistan has achieved success in restoring economy and education spheres.
- In 2018, Karzai supported the negotiations initiated by the Trump administration with the Taliban on the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan.
- After power in Afghanistan passed to the Taliban in August 2021, and President Ghani left the country, Karzai stayed in Kabul and entered negotiations with the Taliban to ensure a peaceful transition of power.
- In 2003, Karzai was presented an Honorary Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George by Queen Elizabeth II.
- In 2004, Karzai was awarded the Philadelphia Liberty Medal, one of the highest awards in the United States.
- Fluent in Pashto, Dari, Urdu, and English.
- Member of the Astana Club’s Consultative Council.
KEMAL KIRIŞCI
Nonresident Senior Fellow in the Center on the United States and Europe‘s Turkey Project, Brookings Institution
Nonresident Senior Fellow in the Center on the United States and Europe‘s Turkey Project, Brookings Institution
- Born in 1954.
- Holds a Ph.D. in international relations from the City University, London; an M.A. in international relations from the University of Kent at Canterbury, England; and a B.A. in finance and management from Boğaziçi University, Istanbul.
- In 2013-2020, Senior Fellow at the Turkish Industry & Business Association (TUSIAD) and Director of Center on the United States and Europe’s Turkey Project, Brookings Institution, Washington DC.
- Before joining Brookings, was a professor of international relations and held the Jean Monnet chair in European integration in the department of political science and international relations at Boğaziçi University in Istanbul.
- Areas of research interest include EU-Turkish relations, U.S.-Turkish relations, Turkish foreign and trade policies, European integration, immigration issues, ethnic conflicts, and refugee movements.
- His most recent book, “Turkey and the West: Faultlines in a Troubled Alliance,” was published by the Brookings Institution Press in 2017.
DAMJAN KRNJEVIĆ-MIŠKOVIĆ
Director for Policy Research and Analysis, Institute for Development and Diplomacy, Professor of Practice, ADA University
Director for Policy Research and Analysis, Institute for Development and Diplomacy, Professor of Practice, ADA University
- Born in 1975.
- Political strategist and crisis counselor.
- Holds a B.A. from the Middlebury College, graduated from the Harvard Kennedy School.
- In 2002‑2004, Managing Editor of The National Interest.
- Since 2004, Special Adviser to the President of the Republic of Serbia
- In 2007-2012, Senior Adviser and Chief Speechwriter to Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia.
- In 2012-2013, Senior Special Advisor to the President of the UN General Assembly.
- Since 2013, Executive Director of the Center for International Relations and Sustainable Development (CIRSD) and Editor of Horizons Journal.
- Since 2020, Professor of Practice at ADA University; Director for Policy Research, Analysis, and Publications at its Institute for Development and Diplomacy.
- Co-Editor of Baku Dialogues.
KRISHNA B. KUMAR
Executive Vice President of Research, National Opinion
Research Center (NORC) at the University of Chicago
Executive Vice President of Research, National Opinion
Research Center (NORC) at the University of Chicago
- Born on April 3, 1959.
- An internationally recognized economist.
- Holds a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Chicago.
- In 1997-2005, Assistant Professor of Finance and Business Economics, Marshall School of Business, University of Southern California.
- Since 2004, Visiting Professor, Indian School of Business.
- Since 2008, Visiting Associate Professor at the Fuqua School of Business, Duke University (North Carolina, USA).
- In 2005-2023, Director of International Research and a senior economist at the RAND Corporation.
- Since August 2023, Executive Vice President of Research of National Opinion Research Center (NORC) at the University of Chicago.
- NORC is a nonpartisan research organization that partners with government, corporate, and nonprofit clients around the world to inform the critical decisions facing society.
- Has been published in leading peer-reviewed journals focusing on economic growth and development and macroeconomics.
YVES LETERME
Co-Chair of the European Division at the Global Coalition for Efficient Logistics (GCEL),
Deputy Secretary General at OECD (2011-2014),
Prime Minister of Belgium (2008, 2009-2011)
Co-Chair of the European Division at the Global Coalition for Efficient Logistics (GCEL),
Deputy Secretary General at OECD (2011-2014),
Prime Minister of Belgium (2008, 2009-2011)
- Born on October 6, 1960.
- In 1981 studied law at the Catholic University of Leuven. Then studied at Ghent University where obtained a BSc degree in Political Science (1983), a LL.M. degree (1984), and a M.P.A. degree in 1985.
- In 2004, became Minister-President of the Flemish government (Belgium region). During his tenure, brought significant improvements to the economy and increased the social well-being of the region.
- Before becoming Prime Minister of Belgium in 2008, held the posts of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Budget, Institutional Reforms, Transport, and the North Sea.
- In 2009, joined the Government as Minister of Foreign Affairs and became Prime Minister of Belgium for the second time on November 25, 2009.
- During Leterme's tenure as Prime Minister, Belgium held the presidency of the European Union.
- In 2011-2014, served as Deputy Secretary General at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
- In 2014-2018, served as Secretary General at the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA).
- Fluent in Dutch, French, and English.
- Member of the Astana Club’s Consultative Council.
JAMES M. LINDSAY
Senior Vice President of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR)
Senior Vice President of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR)
- Born on November 29, 1959.
- Holds B.A. in economics and political science from the University of Michigan and an M.A., M.Phil., and Ph.D. from Yale University.
- Has been a fellow at the Center for International Affairs and the Center for Science and International Affairs, both at Harvard University.
- In 1987-1999, professor of political science at the University of Iowa.
- In 1996-1997, served as Director for global issues and multilateral affairs of the National Security Council.
- Served as a consultant to the United States Commission on National Security / 21st Century (Hart-Rudman Commission) and as a staff expert for the US Institute of Peace’s congressionally mandated Task Force on the UN.
- Senior Vice President of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), where he oversees the work of the more than 60 fellows in the David Rockefeller Studies Program.
- Author of numerous scientific articles and series of books on various aspects of American foreign policy and international relations.
JOHANNES F. LINN
Nonresident Senior Fellow in the Center for Sustainable Development, Brookings Institution,
Vice President of the World Bank (1991-2003)
Nonresident Senior Fellow in the Center for Sustainable Development, Brookings Institution,
Vice President of the World Bank (1991-2003)
- Born on October 22, 1945.
- German and international economist.
- Nonresident senior fellow in the Global Economy and Development program at the Brookings Institution.
- Graduated from Oxford University. In 1973, he received a Ph.D. degree from Cornell University. In the same year, he joined the World Bank team, where he was engaged in research on issues of urban development policy for 9 years.
- In 1991 he took the position of World Bank’s vice president for financial policy and resource mobilization, from 1996 to 2003 he worked as Vice-President for Europe and Central Asia.
- In 2019, he acted as the global facilitator for the first replenishment of the Green Climate Fund.
- Conducts research mainly on development effectiveness, global governance reforms and regional cooperation (with focus on Central Asia).
- Author of numerous books on governance reforms, finance and effective development solutions.
- Co-author and co-editor of well-known books: “Global Governance Reform: Breaking the Stalemate” (2007), “Kazakhstan 2050: Toward a Modern Society for all” (2014), and “Central Asia 2050: Unleashing the Region’s Potential” (2016).
EDWARD N. LUTTWAK
Senior Associate, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
Senior Associate, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
- Born on November 4, 1942.
- An expert in international relations and military strategy.
- In 1964 graduated from the London School of Economics with a degree in analytical economics.
- Currently, a Senior Associate at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a political consultant to the US Department of State and the US Department of Defense.
- Worked as an adviser to president in the Ronald Reagan administration.
- In 1964-1966, taught at the University of Bath (UK).
- After working in London, Paris, and Jerusalem, moved to the USA for graduate studies at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, where he graduated with a Ph.D. in International Relations (1975).
- As a visiting professor, taught at Johns Hopkins University and Georgetown University. Introduced such concepts as "turbo-capitalism" and "geoeconomics" into the social sciences.
- Books “The Rise of China vs. the Logic of Strategy” (Harvard University Press) and “Strategy: The Logic of War and Peace” are widely known. His books have been published in twenty-two languages.
- Fluent in Hebrew, French, Spanish and Italian.
BRUNO MAÇÃES
Senior Adviser at Flint Global,
Secretary of State for European Affairs of Portugal (2013-2015), author of the forthcoming book “Masters of the Metaverse”
Senior Adviser at Flint Global,
Secretary of State for European Affairs of Portugal (2013-2015), author of the forthcoming book “Masters of the Metaverse”
- Born in 1974.
- Portuguese politician, political scientist, business strategist and writer.
- Studied at the University of Lisbon. Received his Ph.D. in political science from Harvard University in 2007.
- A non-resident senior fellow at the Hudson Institute in Washington, DC, and a non-resident fellow at Renmin University in Beijing.
- Senior Advisor at Flint Global in London (consulting company in the field of markets, investments, politics, political analysis, competition, and regulation).
- Served as a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace (Europe) in Brussels.
- In 2013-2015, Secretary of State for European Affairs of Portugal.
- In his best-selling book “The Dawn of Eurasia: On the Trail of the New World Order” (2018), he argues that the best word for the emerging global order is 'Eurasian', and Europe cannot but react to China's “New Silk Road” initiative.
- Author of the forthcoming book “Masters of the Metaverse”.
CHRISTOPHER NIXON COX
Member of the Board of Directors, Richard Nixon Foundation
Member of the Board of Directors, Richard Nixon Foundation
- Born on March 14, 1979.
- Son of Tricia Nixon Cox and Edward F. Cox, grandson of the Former US President Richard Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon.
- Holds a B.A. in politics from Princeton University, a J.D. from the New York University School of Law and a certificate in finance from New York University Stern School.
- CEO of the private equity firm, Lightswitch Capital (biotech).
- Previously, was a corporate associate at the law firm of Weil, Gotshal & Manges in New York where advised major private equity fund clients on acquisitions.
- In 2008, the Executive Director for New York State Senator John McCain’s 2008 presidential campaign.
- Currently resides in New York City.
ALESSIO PECORARIO
Vatican Official, Cybersecurity & New Tech Expert
Vatican Official, Cybersecurity & New Tech Expert
- Born on April 11, 1980.
- Holds a PhD in Theory of the state institutions and comparative politics from Sapienza Università di Roma (2009).
- Official of the Vatican Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development (DPIHD), seconded also to the Second Section of the Secretariat of State, the government of the Holy See.
- Has over 15 years of experience in European and Vatican Institutions, including the coordination of the Security Task Force, within the Vatican COVID-19 Commission (VCC).
- Coordinates “The common good in the digital age” meetings, which encompasses experts in cybersecurity, blockchain, AI and new technologies (sponsored by DPIHD).
- In cooperation with the US Department of State performed two International Visitor Leadership Programs (IVLP).
- Member of the Minerva Dialogues, an assembly that brings together experts from the world of technology of the Silicon Valley and representatives of the Church with the aim of studying and fostering greater awareness of the social and cultural impact of digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence.
- Fluent in Italian, English, French and Spanish, and can read Arabic.
MICHAEL PILLSBURY
Senior Fellow for China Strategy at The Heritage Foundation,
consultant to the US Presidents, author of the bestseller “The Hundred-Year Marathon: China's Secret Strategy”
Senior Fellow for China Strategy at The Heritage Foundation,
consultant to the US Presidents, author of the bestseller “The Hundred-Year Marathon: China's Secret Strategy”
- Born on February 8, 1945.
- American statesman, defense policy adviser, one of the world's leading experts on China.
- Educated at Stanford University (B.A. in history with honours in social thought) and Columbia University (M.A., Ph.D.).
- Since January 2023, senior Fellow for China Strategy at The Heritage Foundation.
- In 2014-2023, senior fellow and the director for Chinese strategy at Hudson Institute. Before that, held various postings in the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. Senate throughout his career.
- Under President Reagan, was Assistant Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Planning and responsible for the implementation of the program of covert aid known as the Reagan Doctrine.
- Under President George H. W. Bush, was a special assistant for Asian affairs in the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
- In 2017, was invited as an adviser to President Donald Trump.
- Called an “architect” of Donald Trump's signature policy on China.
- Pillsbury is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, CFR (USA), and the International Institute for Strategic Studies, IISS (UK).
- Author of numerous scientific articles and three books on China. Pillsbury's book “The Hundred-Year Marathon: China’s Secret Strategy to Replace America as the Global Superpower” became a bestseller according to The Washington Post and has been translated into 7 languages, including Chinese.
VLADIMIR POZNER
Russian journalist and publicist, anchor of the “Pozner” program on Channel One (2008-2022)
Russian journalist and publicist, anchor of the “Pozner” program on Channel One (2008-2022)
- Born on April 1, 1934.
- Graduated from the Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University in 1958.
- In 1961, joined the Novosti Press Agency (News Press Agency) in Moscow, in 1970 joined the State Committee of Television and Radio Broadcasting (later Gosteleradio of the USSR) as a commentator.
- In 1986, appeared at Central Television as a political commentator, and in April 1991, due to disagreements with the management, left the Gosteleradio and resigned from the Communist Party.
- In 1991-1997, worked in the USA: together with Phil Donahue hosted the Pozner/Donahue program (1992-1995) on CNBC.
- In 1994-2008, was elected President of the Russian Television Academy.
- In 2000-2008, presenter of the leading weekly social and political talk show “Vremena” (Times) on Channel One (Russia).
- In 2008-2022, author and presenter of the Pozner program on Channel One.
- Author of several books, including “Parting With Illusions” (1990).
- Awarded the Order of Honor (1999), the Order for Services to the Fatherland, IV degree (2006). Commander of the Legion of Honor (2014), three times laureate of the American Emmy Award.
URBAN RUSNÁK
Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic, Secretary General of the Energy Charter Secretariat (2012-2021)
Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic, Secretary General of the Energy Charter Secretariat (2012-2021)
- Born on September 9, 1967.
- Slovak diplomat.
- In 1990, graduated from the Moscow Institute of Oil and Gas.
- Received a PhD from the Ankara University (1998). Holds an Honoris Causa doctorate from the Kiev Slavonic University (2009).
- In 1992-1999, worked in various positions at the MFA of the Slovak Republic, including Embassy in Turkey.
- In 2000-2003, was the Executive Director of the International Visegrad Fund. In 2003, returned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak Republic.
- In 2005-2009, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Slovakia to Ukraine, took part in negotiations on gas problems between Russia and Ukraine.
- In 2012-2021 – Secretary General of the Energy Charter Secretariat. Rusnák’s merit has been the adoption of the International Energy Charter in 2015, political declaration which addresses the energy challenges of the XXI century.
- Since 2022, serves as Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak Republic.
- Fluent in English, Russian, Turkish, Ukrainian, French, and Hungarian.
ASHOK SAJJANHAR
President, Institute of Global Studies, Distinguished Fellow at Ananta Aspen Centre, Former Ambassador of India to Kazakhstan
President, Institute of Global Studies, Distinguished Fellow at Ananta Aspen Centre, Former Ambassador of India to Kazakhstan
- Born in 1952.
- Graduated from the Delhi University.
- Since 1978, joined the Indian Foreign Service, serving for over 30 years. Held diplomatic positions in Washington DC, Brussels, Moscow, Geneva, Tehran, Dhaka, and Bangkok. Former Ambassador of India to Kazakhstan, Sweden and Latvia.
- In 2013-2015, Principal Executive Officer at the National Foundation for Communal Harmony, an autonomous Organization with Ministry of Home Affairs.
- Since 2016, President of the Institute of Global Studies.
- Since 2018, Distinguished Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation, and Ananta Aspen Centre.
- Holds National Awards from the governments of Kazakhstan and Latvia, Title of «Ambassador of Peace» by Universal Peace Federation.
- Fluent in English, Hindi and Russian, has working knowledge of French and Persian.
LESLIE SIMM
Founder and Executive Director of International Forum for Mutual Understanding (IFOUND)
Founder and Executive Director of International Forum for Mutual Understanding (IFOUND)
- Born in 1959.
- Former British Army late entry officer.
- His military career was focused on Human intelligence (HUMINT), Counter Terrorism, Security Sector Reform, Post Conflict Reconstruction, and Defense Diplomacy.
- Since leaving the military, worked for the UK Government, UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Afghanistan.
- Worked as Project Director for the Abu Dhabi Critical National Infrastructure Authority, Brazil based Crisis and Security Operations Manager, independent consultant for governments, INGOs and businesses in a wide range of sectors.
- Since November 2020, Executive Director of the International Forum for Understanding (IFOUND).
- Recently working on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation issues with the UN, international organizations, academic institutions, and the Norwegian Nobel Institute.
DANILO TÜRK
President of the Club de Madrid,
President of Slovenia (2007-2012)
President of the Club de Madrid,
President of Slovenia (2007-2012)
- Born on February 19, 1952.
- Slovenian diplomat.
- In 1978, graduated with an M.A. in Law from the University of Belgrade.
- In 1982, received a Ph.D. from the University in Ljubljana.
- In 1984-1992 served at the UN Sub-Commission on Prevention of Discrimination and Protection of Minorities.
- In 1992-2000, was the first Permanent Representative of Slovenia to the UN.
- In 2000-2005, served as UN Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs under Secretary General Kofi Annan.
- In 2007, won the presidential election.
- President of Slovenia from 2007 to 2012
- Founder of the Foundation “Let the Dream” (established in 2010) assisting children – victims of violence.
- In 2015-2017, chaired the Global High-Level panel on Water and Peace (Geneva).
- Emeritus Professor of International Law of the University in Ljubljana.
- President of the Club de Madrid.
- Member of the Astana Club’s Consultative Council.
NANDAN UNNIKRISHNAN
Distinguished Fellow at Observer Research Foundation
Distinguished Fellow at Observer Research Foundation
- Born in 1955.
- One of the leading Indian experts on the former Soviet space, particularly on India-Russia relations.
- Graduated from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).
- In 2004, joined the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) to initiate and subsequently head a Eurasian Studies Programme. During his tenure with ORF, participated in several National and International conferences, lectured in academic and specialized institutions in India and abroad.
- Area of expertise – Indian foreign policy, international relations specializing in Russia, Central Asia and other former Soviet territories.
- Prior to becoming an academic, was a journalist for almost 25 years.
- In 1995, joined Business India’s Television Channel (TVI) as the News Coordinator for International Affairs rising to head the channel by 1998.
- The bulk of his career was with India’s premier news agency The Press Trust of India (PTI), where he worked for 15 years.
- Edited and co-authored several books and monographs.
MARC UZAN
Executive Director and Founder, Reinventing Bretton Woods Committee (RBWC)
Executive Director and Founder, Reinventing Bretton Woods Committee (RBWC)
- Born on October 23, 1964.
- French financier and economist.
- Holds a master’s degree in international economics and finance from the University of Paris-Dauphine.
- Was visiting scholar at the Department of Economics of the University of California at Berkeley and visiting fellow at Harvard University.
- The founder and Executive Director of the Reinventing Bretton Woods Committee, a non-for-profit organization that has been dealing with issues related to the international financial system since 1994.
- Published several books on international finance, including “Bretton Woods: the Next 70 Years” (2015).
- Author of the academic papers on the new architecture for the international financial system.
YANG CHENG
Executive Dean of Shanghai Academy of Global Governance and Area Studies (SAGGAS), Professor of Shanghai International Studies University
Executive Dean of Shanghai Academy of Global Governance and Area Studies (SAGGAS), Professor of Shanghai International Studies University
- Born in 1977.
- One of the leading experts on Russia and Central Asia in China.
- Holds a PhD in Law, East China Normal University.
- Professor of Shanghai International Studies University, Deputy Director of the Russian Studies Center of East China Normal University, Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, and Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the Shanghai Russian Studies magazine.
- Part-time researcher of the China Foreign Affairs Research Center of Fudan University.
- For 7 years served in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of PRC and the Chinese Embassy in Moscow as a diplomat with a research focus on international security.
- Led various national projects focusing on relations between Russia and major powers, cooperation between China and Russia in neighboring regions, Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Central Asian issues and others.
JOSÉ LUIS ZAPATERO
Prime Minister of Spain (2004-2011)
Prime Minister of Spain (2004-2011)
- Born on August 4, 1960.
- Spanish politician and member of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE).
- In 1982, received his bachelor’s degree in law from the University of León, Spain, where then was professor of Constitutional Law before becoming a Member of Parliament for León in 1986.
- Holds Doctorates Honoris Causa from the universities in France, Bolivia, and the Dominican Republic.
- In 2000-2012, became the PSOE’s Secretary General.
- In 2004, won his first general elections.
- During his first term as Prime Minister, focused on the creation and extension of civic and social rights. In addition, initiated the gradual withdrawal of all Spanish troops from Iraq.
- On his second term, after 2008 victory, focused on reducing the effects of the 2008 international economic crisis in Spain.
- Internationally, Zapatero worked for the promotion of peace and poverty reduction, leaded the creation of the UN Alliance of Civilizations, the Water Fund in Latin America.
- Member of the World Leadership Alliance – Club de Madrid.
- Member of the Astana Club’s Consultative Council.
ZHAO HUASHENG
Professor of the Center for Russian and Central Asian Studies, Fudan University, Senior Fellow, Beijing Club for International Dialogue
Professor of the Center for Russian and Central Asian Studies, Fudan University, Senior Fellow, Beijing Club for International Dialogue
- Born in 1957.
- Leading Chinese expert on Central Asia.
- Holds an M.A. degree from Nanjing University in Russian literature and a B.A. from Shanghai Institute of Foreign Languages.
- Served as vice chairman of the Chinese Society for the Study of Sino-Russian relations since 2008. From 1989 to 1990, was visiting scholar at the Moscow Institute of International Relations and visiting fellow with the Russia and Eurasia Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in 2011 (CSIS, Washington DC).
- From 1986 to 2004, was a research fellow and director of the Department of Russia and Central Asia at Shanghai Institute for International Studies.
- His main research is focused on Sino-Russian relations, Russian foreign policy, relations between China and Central Asia, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Published analytical articles in Chinese, Russian, and English.
- Among his books: “Central Asia: Views from Washington, Moscow, and Beijing” (2007), coauthored with Eugene Rumer and Dmitry Trenin, “China’s Central Asian Diplomacy” (2008), “The Shanghai Cooperation Organization: Analysis and Outlook” (2012).
ZHAO LONG
Senior Research Fellow, Institute for Global Governance Studies, Shanghai Institutes for International Studies
Senior Research Fellow, Institute for Global Governance Studies, Shanghai Institutes for International Studies
- Born in 1983.
- One of the leading representatives of the new generation of Chinese experts in the field of international relations.
- Graduated from the Law Faculty at Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU) of Russia and received a bachelor’s degree in jurisprudence and M.A. in International Law.
- Also holds his Ph.D. degree in Law from East China Normal University.
- Assistant Director of the Institute for Global Governance Studies and Senior Research Fellow (Professor) at Shanghai Institutes for International Studies.
- Published several academic papers on Global governance, International Law, Arctic issue, Russian and Central Asian studies in major academic journals, which are listed on the Chinese Social Sciences Citation Index (CSSCI).
- Leads research projects supported by the National Social Science Foundation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, State Oceanic Administration of China.
ZHOU BO
Senior Fellow of Center for International Security and Strategy, Tsinghua University
Senior Fellow of Center for International Security and Strategy, Tsinghua University
- Born in 1963.
- Worldwide recognized Chinese expert on military strategy and international security.
- Senior Colonel Zhou Bo (retired) started his military service in 1979.
- Under-graduate of Air Force Engineering College and a postgraduate of St Edmund College of Cambridge University (Mphill in International Relations).
- Held position of visiting fellow to the Land Warfare Studies Centre of the Australian Army in 1999.
- Attended courses in Harvard University, Westminster University, PLA National Defense University, PLA University of Science and Technology for the National Defense and PLA Army Command College (Shijiazhuang).
- Since 1993, served on various positions in the PLA. Worked as staff officer, Deputy Director General of West Asia and Africa Bureau and then Deputy Director General of General Planning Bureau of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Ministry of National Defense of China, Chinese Defense Attaché to the Republic of Namibia and Director of the Centre for Security Cooperation in the Office for International Military Cooperation, Ministry of National Defense.
- Currently a senior fellow of Center for International Security and Strategy Tsinghua University and China Forum expert. Regularly represents China at major security dialog platforms, including the Munich Security Conference, etc.
KIRILL BABAEV
Director, Institute of China and Contemporary Asia, Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS)
Director, Institute of China and Contemporary Asia, Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS)
- Born on May 30, 1978.
- In 2000, graduated from MGIMO University with specialization in Eastern Studies and International Relations. In 2005, graduated from the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA) with a specialization in Financial Management.
- Holds a PhD in Philological Sciences (2013) and a Master’s degree in Public Administration (2019).
- Since 1999, served in Russian financial and industrial groups with a focus on international, public, and government relations.
- In 2003-2004, Cabinet Member and Head of the Information Policy Department of the Government of Murmansk Region.
- Since 2010, worked in various scientific institutes of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), including Deputy Director of the Institute of Linguistics, RAS.
- Since 2021, Director of the Institute of China and Contemporary Asia, Russian Academy of Sciences.
- Member of the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC).
SERGEY AFONTSEV
Deputy Director, Institute of World Economy and International Relations, Russian Academy of Sciences (IMEMO RAS)
Deputy Director, Institute of World Economy and International Relations, Russian Academy of Sciences (IMEMO RAS)
- Born on January 27, 1973.
- Russian economist.
- Graduated from the Lomonosov Moscow State University (1994).
- Holds a PhD in Economics (2010).
- Since 2015, Professor of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS).
- Since 2016, RAS corresponding member in the Department of Global Problems and International Relations (world economy).
- Head of the Economic Theory Department, RAS.
- Professor of the Department of World Politics, MGIMO University.
- Member, Higher Attestation Commission (VAK) under the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation (2016-2017); Chairman, VAK Expert Council for Economic Sciences (2018-2023).
- Laureate of the Varga Prize (2012) for outstanding scientific work in the field of world economy.
- Member of the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC).
