A revised format. We deliberately chose to provide all our Ambassadors more time to give an overview of their markets and to answer specific questions. The feedback has been very positive to date, as was the attendance level, with over 600 attendees from 111 organisations participating actively in the sessions. The real value to us and our members is the way in which the Heads of Mission can give the broad geopolitical and regional picture, talk about the nature and scope of the UK’s influence in the country/region and then apply this to the handling of specific sector opportunities for our members.
The UK’s place in the world. From the collection of sessions we conducted, it is clear that the UK is still very much highly respected and valued, both for the what we do and the way that British companies and organisations operate - that hasn’t changed, even though we all know the competitive pressures the UK face are ever growing. So when we have to do more to remain preferred partners to our overseas customers, the broader UK network can really help.
·Geo-politics, economic and social development are inextricably linked. The triple challenges of the continuing war in Ukraine, the role China is playing and the real impact of climate change have combined to have a tangible impact on economic and social well-being globally – suppressing growth, fuelling inflation and creating (or reinforcing) hardship and humanitarian crises
South East Asia – exponential growth and opportunity. Clearly a region of massive economic potential, coupled with its criticality from a geo-political perspective, the breadth and diversity of opportunity in the region was palpable. We recently briefed the London-based Ambassadors and High Commissioners of ASEAN countries at Grafton Street and plan to continue working with them to develop a fully two-way approach to engagement.
Over-arching focus on sustainability and the journey to net zero Climate change mitigation and adaptation came up a lot in member questions, however we heard that in some of the developing markets especially, these are seen as fairly abstract topics – while if you have a specific practical solution that can address or support Climate Change Mitigation or Adaptation, this is easier to demonstrate/explain and win business. Some of the more developed markets are making great strides and there are many partnership opportunities in the climate space, with UK taking a leading role on policy.
Accelerating need for effective energy transition. Another common theme, with markets exploring various types of renewables, often with a future plan in mind to generate green hydrogen (when the tech moves on). Energy security however is a big worry in current geopolitical climate and many markets are struggling to balance demand/economic growth with weak infrastructure and investment needs. This is especially challenging in markets with energy subsidies.
Water, water everywhere. Water resilience, water security, WASH, wastewater management all came up as areas of need and opportunity.
An evolving approach, but an enduring focus on international development. ID continues to be a priority for FCDO with many of the Ambassadors presenting the priorities for aid. They also highlighted the changing model in ID – with reduced budgets, an increasing focus on partnerships and joint funded programmes will continue to be critical. Part. Our Autumn event series will continue to explore both relationships with a broad range of partners and the country-specific plans with our FCDO Development Directors series, with sessions on Ethiopia, Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh
Education reform held back by funding challenges. Many countries are highlighting education reform opportunities, however there is a visible lack of funding for the sector. Investment is needed, Ambassadors were actively discussing the possibilities afforded by PPPs
Richer and deeper support available for business. We were encouraged to hear how much the FCDO and DBT continue doing (despite budget cuts, departmental changes, etc.) to remove barriers to market access, reform policy, build capacity and connect British business with opportunities and stakeholders. Team GB is strong, with BIP becoming an increasingly useful tool for G2G engagement. It was also exciting to hear how much BII are doing globally, since the rebrand from CDC. They are actively exploring new priority markets and BEI are excited by the plans.
Challenging context but positive outlook. Our over-riding conclusion is that whilst there are major issues to be tackled and high levels of instability, the UK is well placed to grow its international footprint, anchored in our ‘soft power’ and reputation for excellence and innovation, and supported ably by FCDO/DBT and their agencies and partners.
