This year, the Diplomatic Council celebrated a beautiful and uniquely intense New Year's reception in its fine tradition. Engaging in inspiring conversations, forging new connections, nurturing old friendships, exchanging ideas, discussing joint projects, and debating current developments... much of what is discussed at such a DC evening traditionally takes shape throughout the year.
Europe and the Emerging New Global Order
Ambassador Prof. Dr. Heinrich Kreft, President of the Diplomatic Council, and Jochen M. Richter, Chairman of the Global Security Forum, presented the brand-new book "Europe and the Emerging New Global Order." This latest standard work on all security issues in Europe also serves as a guide for the future thematic direction of the Diplomatic Council, particularly at the United Nations.
Diplomatic Council Future Academy
Another highlight of the event was the introduction of the new Diplomatic Council Future Academy, led by Dr. Harald Schönfeld as Academic Director. In an era of rapidly evolving developments, lifelong learning is more crucial than ever. Global knowledge transfer has been a core concern of the Diplomatic Council since its inception, from events at UN conferences to the Diplomatic Council Publishing House, which celebrated its 100th book publication at the event.
Diplomacy meets Business
Diplomacy, as befits a diplomatic organization, naturally played a significant role at the New Year's reception. The Consuls General of Brazil, where this year's COP30 will take place, France, Japan, and Greece invited guests to open exchanges at "nation tables." Ambassador Prof. Dr. Heinrich Kreft reaffirmed how pleased he is to bring his international network into the Diplomatic Council, much like founding ambassador Buddhi Athauda. The international nature was further emphasized by the presence of the Diplomatic Council Heads of Missions from India and the Netherlands, who traveled specifically for the event.
Broad Range of Topic Groups
Many topic groups used the occasion, as they traditionally do, for intensive discussions. The range was broad: security, boards and advisory councils, interim management, artificial intelligence, and quantum technology. The Diplomatic Council Global Security Forum finalized its preparations for its participation at the Munich Security Conference on February 12th. The Diplomatic Council Quantum Leap initiative is gearing up for its presentation at the United Nations' annual meeting of the UN Commission for Science and Technology in April in Geneva. At the authors' meeting, ideas for several new books were born.
See you soon!
The customary skillful moderation by Diplomatic Council Secretary General Hang Nguyen, combined with the elegant ambiance and excellent cuisine of Villa Bonn in Frankfurt, contributed to a highly successful evening. As one participant remarked upon leaving, “The two major events of the Diplomatic Council, at the start of the year and in the summer, always have a fixed spot in my calendar.” See you soon!