BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//World Affairs Council of Austin - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:World Affairs Council of Austin X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://wacaustin.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for World Affairs Council of Austin REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20180311T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20181104T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20190310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20191103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20200308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20201101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20210314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20211107T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20220313T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20221106T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20230312T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20231105T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20240310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20241103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20160313T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20161106T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20170312T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20171105T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20180311T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20181104T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20190310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20191103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20200308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20201101T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251209T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251209T190000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20251129T234417Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251129T234601Z UID:14745-1765303200-1765306800@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Venezuela and the U.S.: What Comes Next? DESCRIPTION:Gunboat diplomacy\, armed conflict\, or all-out regime change? As tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela continue to rachet up\, all outcomes and more seem to be on the table. \nThe U.S. has declared an armed conflict with Venezuela\, increased military pressure in the Caribbean\, and accused Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of heading Cartel de los Soles\, recently declared to be a foreign terrorist organization. Simultaneously\, President Trump has indicated an openness to talks with his Venezuelan counterpart. \nIs the U.S. headed towards war with Venezuela? \nFormer Ambassador to Venezuela\, Charles Shapiro\, joins us to unpack everything we know about the potential of further U.S. military action and what could come next. \nA career foreign service officer with 34 years of service\, Amb. Shapiro held a number of senior positions at the United States Department of State including Ambassador to Venezuela\, Acting Assistant Secretary for the Western Hemisphere\, and Coordinator for Cuban Affairs. \nREGISTER HERE\n  \n\nFeaturing\nAmbassador Charles Shapiro\nAmbassador (ret.) Charles Shapiro is a senior advisor at the Pendleton Group\, co-founder of Art of Diplomacy Tours\, and a Professor of Practice at the Nunn School of International Affairs at Georgia Tech. \nA career foreign service officer with 34 years of service\, Shapiro held a number of senior positions at the United States Department of State including Ambassador to Venezuela\, Acting Assistant Secretary for the Western Hemisphere\, and Coordinator for Cuban Affairs. \nIn 2011 Shapiro became the president of the Institute of the Americas\, a think tank at the University of California San Diego. In 2014 he became president of the World Affairs Council of Atlanta. While at the World Affairs Council\, he taught international business in the Executive MBA program at the Robinson College of Business at Georgia State University. \nShapiro’s op-eds have been published in the Toronto Star\, Efecto Cocuyo\, the Atlanta Journal Constitution\, the Atlanta Business Chronicle\, the Miami Herald\, the San Diego Union Tribune\, and the Los Angeles Times. URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/venezuela-and-the-u-s-what-comes-next/ LOCATION:ONLINE CATEGORIES:Ambassador,Americas,Geopolitics ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Venezuela-Event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250410T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250410T093000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20250401T224933Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250405T213949Z UID:14424-1744272000-1744277400@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Quebec Semiconductor Delegation Reception DESCRIPTION:You’re invited to a networking breakfast welcoming a trade delegation of Québec semiconductor companies \nThe Québec Government\, the World Affairs Council of Austin\, the Global Affairs Society\, and St. Edwards University would like to invite you to connect with companies in the semiconductor sector. This event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas\, build professional relationships\, and strengthen the connections that drive the Austin and Québec semiconductor industries forward. \nWe hope you will join us for a dynamic discussion as we continue collaborating to shape the future of global trade in this thriving industry. \n  \nPlease RSVP to: Eglantine Pauvarel Moss eglantine.pauvarelmoss@mri.gouv.qc.ca URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/quebec-semiconductor-reception/ LOCATION:St. Edwards University\, 3001 S Congress Avenue\, Austin\, TX\, 78704\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Business,Global Trade ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Quebec-Networking-2025.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241008T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241008T160000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20240801T234849Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240925T234807Z UID:14058-1728378000-1728403200@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Discover Global Markets - Argentina\, Brazil\, Chile\, Colombia\, Mexico\, and Uruguay DESCRIPTION:Discover Global Markets business development forum is the U.S. Department of Commerce’s annual flagship event series for U.S. exporters!   Join the World Affairs Council of Austin and the Texas Camino Real District Export Council members to:\n \n\nGain market insights from U.S. commercial diplomats and industry experts based at U.S. Embassies in the Americas.\nPaticipate in one-on-one meetings with U.S. government trade experts and other exporters.\nHear from private sector thought leaders about emerging sectors\, and regional strategies. \nLearn about updates to polices and regulations in the region relevant to your market growth.\nNetwork\, network\, network!\n\n\nCompelling reasons to do business in the region: \n\nClose Proximity – The Western Hemisphere region is a natural commercial partner of the United States\, tied closely together by geography\, history\, and culture.\nLargest Regional Market for U.S. Exports – The United States trades more with the Americas than any other region of the world. In 2023\, over $867 billion of U.S. merchandise exports went to the Western Hemisphere and trade with the region supports more than 3.2 million U.S. jobs (2021). Forty three percent of all U.S. merchandise exports flow to the Western Hemisphere.\nFree Trade Agreements – Twelve of our twenty free trade agreement partners are in the Western Hemisphere. In addition to tariff reduction\, free trade agreements also liberalize the services sectors and strengthen protections for U.S. investments\, patents\, trademarks\, and trade secrets.\nAffinity for U.S. Goods and Services – Countries in the region generally demonstrate a preference for U.S. goods and services so long as they are cost-competitive.\nNearshoring Trends Open New Opportunities – Recent nearshoring trends to the region are driving new opportunities for U.S. firms to sell into regional supply chains in key best prosect sectors including: aerospace & defense\, energy\, mining equipment\, environmental/clean technologies\, design & construction\, information & communication technologies\, healthcare and safety & security.\n\nRegistration Fee: $75 \n* This event is intended for exporters of U.S. goods and services. Priority for one-on-one meetings will be given to U.S. companies who are export-ready and follow the 51% U.S. content policy.    URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/discover-global-markets-brazil-chile-colombia-mexico/ LOCATION:Workforce Solutions North Career Center\, 9001 N IH 35\, Ste 110\, Austin\, TX\, 78753\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Mexico ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/DGM_2024-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240915T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240915T210000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20240407T234620Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240814T020041Z UID:13969-1726423200-1726434000@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Annual Fiesta de El Grito de Independencia Celebration DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin\, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Mexico\, the Austin-Saltillo Sister Cities Association\,  the City of Austin Econonic Development Department\, and Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation\, and El Mundo host the annual Fiesta de El Grito de Independencia. \nThis day marks the 214th anniversary of the declaration of independence from Spain by the Mexican priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. The event is free and open to the public. \nThe highlight of the evening will be when Consul General of Mexico Humberto Hernández Haddad reenacts the cry for independence.  Entertainment will feature the Roy Lozano Ballet Folclórico and Mariachi Capital. The event will include an artisan mercado with arts and crafts from México. \nThis project is supported in part by the City of Austin Economic Development Department. \nNo RSVPs necessary. URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/annual-fiesta-de-el-grito-de-independencia-celebration/ LOCATION:Republic Square Park\, 422 Guadalupe Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,cultural,Cultural Heritage Series,Mexico ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/bmp:http://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Mexico.bmp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240718T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240718T190000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20240705T221132Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240707T205251Z UID:14065-1721323800-1721329200@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:South Korea on the World’s Stage DESCRIPTION:On June 4th and 5th South Korea held its first ever Korea-Africa Summit. They hosted representatives from 48 African nations\, including 25 heads of state. South Korea would like to expand its geopolitical influence and forge deeper global partnerships throughout the world. What does this new global perspective mean as it relates to Putin’s recent visit to North Korea\, the role of China\, working with Japan\, the Philippines and Asia-Pacific region? Now South Korea hopes to play a role in Africa and even the Middle East. Finally\, what about their politics internally? How do the Koreans themselves see their new role in the world and even their neighbors\, near and far? \nPlease join us at the Neill Cochran Historical House Museum on Thursday\, July 18 th \, 5:30 p.m.\nfor a wine and cheese “social” followed by a joint presentation by two excellent scholars in this field: Rodger Baker and Dr. Jooyoun Lee. \n  \n \nRODGER BAKER \nExecutive Director\, Stratfor Center for Applied Geopolitics \nRodger Baker has spent more than two decades with Stratfor/RANE\, where he’s focused on the Indo-Pacific region\, with special attention to China and the Korean Peninsula. He addresses the strategic dynamics of an evolving world system — looking at great power competition\, the role of middle powers\, and the impacts of technological\, environmental\, and demographic changes on geopolitical relationships. His core emphasis is the multidisciplinary approach to geopolitics and the evolution of international relations to develop mid- and long-term forecasts to assist companies\, governments\, and other globally engaged organizations make informed decisions. \nRodger is a Senior Fellow at the George H. W. Bush Foundation for U.S.-China Relations\, a Steering Fellow for the Mackinder Forum\, and teaches a certificate program in Geopolitical Analysis at Florida Atlantic University. \nDR. JOOYOUN LEE \nDr. Lee is a Professor of Global Studies and Political Science at St. Edwards University\, where she teaches Global Issues\, International Relations\, International Security and Conflict Resolution. Her research interests include identity politics\, collective memory\, East Asian international relations\, international security\, gender\, and popular culture. Prior to undertaking her Ph.D. at Syracuse University\, she worked as a research fellow at the Korean Institute for Women and Politics and at the Institute of Civil Society and New Governance at Kyung Hee University in South Korea as well as serving as a program coordinator for the International NGOs conference held in Seoul in cooperation with the United Nations. URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/south-korea-on-the-worlds-stage/ LOCATION:Neill-Cochran House Museum\, 2310 San Gabriel Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78705\, United States CATEGORIES:Africa,Americas,Asia,Geopolitics,Middle East ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_1970.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20231019T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20231019T183000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20231008T220512Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231008T220512Z UID:13587-1697731200-1697740200@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:B2B Connect with Technology Decision Makers from Argentina DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin invites you to attend this exclusive B2B roundtable meeting with technology company decision makers from Argentina. \nOpportunity Austin and the Argentina Texas Chamber of Commerce will assist your company’s buyers by selecting suppliers from Argentina. Based on your buyer’s selections\, specific 10-min\, one-on-one meetings (speed dating) will be arranged.  Please register no later than October 10th. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThursday\, October 19th\, 2023 \n4:00 – 6:30 PM \n200 W 6th St\, Ste. 1750 | Austin\, Texas 78701\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nREGISTER NOW \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n4:00 – 4:30 PM Austin & Argentina Overviews\n4:30 – 4:45 PM Break\n4:45 – 5:30 PM Business Round\n5:30 – 6:30 PM Networking Reception\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen registering with the link above\, please indicate which suppliers or partners you’d like to meet and specify who will be representing your company. URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/b2b-connect-with-technology-decision-makers-from-argentina/ CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Business,Global Trade ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Argentina.png ORGANIZER;CN="Argentina Texas Chamber of Commerce":MAILTO:info@argentinatexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230915T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230915T200000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20220331T215456Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230903T022700Z UID:12286-1694797200-1694808000@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Annual Fiesta de El Grito de Independencia DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin\, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Mexico\, the Austin-Saltillo Sister City Committee\,  the City of Austin\, Univision\, Austin’s annual Fiesta de El Grito de Independencia is a musical celebration and historical re-enactment of Mexico’s call for independence from Spain. \nThis family-oriented celebration is alcohol free. Special programming includes Mexican and Tejano music\, folklorico dancers\, and food vendor booths.  The highlight of the evening is the re-enactment of “El Grito”\, by the Honorable Pablo Marentes\,  Cónsul General de México in Austin. \nNo RSVPs necessary. \nAGENDA \n5:00 pm Traditional Dance and Music \n7:50 pm Official Re-enactment of El Grito \n8:00 pm Event Concludes \n \nHere is a video of past celebration highlights: \nhttps://www.univision.com/austin/kakw/estilo-de-vida/fiestas-patrias/festeja-el-grito-de-independencia-en-el-capitolio-de-austin-video?layoutType=flex URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/annual-fiesta-de-el-grito-de-independencia-3/ LOCATION:Republic Square Park\, 422 Guadalupe Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,cultural,Cultural Heritage Series,Mexico ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/bmp:http://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Mexico.bmp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230822T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230822T180000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20230815T201951Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230815T201951Z UID:13493-1692720000-1692727200@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Bi-Lateral IT Business Round Table with Aguascalientes DESCRIPTION:Join us in welcoming the Government of Aguascalientes\, Mexico for a round table discussion on up & coming bi-lateral business opportunities.The State of Aguascalientes seeks to create a bridge relationship with the Austin Region and those interested in taking advantage of investment opportunities while doing business with and / or in Aguascalientes.Don’t miss this opportunity to meet Aguascalientes’ Deputy Secretary of Investment and Development\, Director of Investment Attraction\, and private sector IT & Business Services CEOs. \nAgenda \n4:00 pm – 4:15 pm Brief Introductions \n4:15 pm – 5:30 pm Roundtable Discussion \n5:30 pm – 6:00 pm Professional Networking URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/bi-lateral-it-business-round-table-with-aguascalientes/ LOCATION:Indeed Tower\, 200 W. 6th Street\, Austin\, Texas\, 78701\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Business,Global Trade,Mexico ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/aguascalientes-city3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230705T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230705T140000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20230627T165505Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230627T165630Z UID:13360-1688562000-1688565600@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Mercado Libre: Grow your E-commerce Sales in Latin America DESCRIPTION:Join this webinar and grow your e-commerce sales in Latin America. Learn how the U.S. Commercial Service supports U.S. companies as they access LATAM markets. Hear about available resources\, including marketing your product on the Mercado Libre e-commerce marketplace. \nAgenda:\n• Welcome by U.S. Department of Commerce\n– How does the U.S. Commercial Service support U.S. companies to access new markets?\n– Introduction to Mexico’s e-commerce landscape\n• Learn about Mercado Libre’s Global Selling program\n– Becoming a registered seller on Mercado Libre’s marketplace\n– Resources for sellers\n– Q&A \nSpeaker: Mariano Migues\, Cross Border Trade Manager\, has been working at Mercado Libre for over 7 years\, in various roles. As part of the Global Selling Program\, he has led the Account Management & Business Consultants Team with a customer-centric\, results-oriented philosophy. More recently\, he has been leading the USA Business Development Team\, expanding the program’s footprint and geographical reach\, while allowing international sellers to grow their business in one of the world’s fastest-growing regions for the e-commerce industry. URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/mercado-libre-grow-your-e-commerce-sales-in-latin-america/ LOCATION:ONLINE CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Business,Global Trade ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/MarianoMigues_mercadoLibre.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230621T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230621T140000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20230608T163208Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230608T163208Z UID:13334-1687348800-1687356000@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Victoria Australia Trade Update DESCRIPTION:Join the Austin Chamber of Commerce and the World Affairs Council of Austin as we welcome Nigel Warren\, Commissioner to the Americas in the State Government of Victoria\, Australia. \nDon’t miss this excellent opportunity to discuss foreign direct investment and trade facilitation of Australian companies into the Austin region. Help us welcome our Australian guest! \nNigel Warren is joint Commissioner to the Americas\, responsible for LATAM and west coast USA. Warren was a former Australian Consul-General in the US who also held Senior Trade Commissioner roles in San Francisco and Santiago\, Chile. He is also a member of the Council on Australia Latin America Relations and held foreign investment and trade roles across America for more than 20 years. Prior to this role\, Warren held executive positions at the Australian National Science Association CSIRO. \nLight hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served. URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/victoria-australia-trade-update/ LOCATION:Austin Chamber of Commerce\, 535 E. Fifth Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Australia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Nigel-Warren-Victoria.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20221027T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20221027T193000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20221009T214607Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221010T004613Z UID:12763-1666895400-1666899000@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Globalist Coffeehouse: Latin American Relations - Where is the U.S. now and what is its role in the future? DESCRIPTION:Recently\, U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken toured Latin America to reaffirm its commitment to the allies amid concerns that neglect of the hemisphere has let China make economic inroads. He hopes that Latin America’s new leaders will continue to maintain a free-enterprise-friendly approach to nurture U.S. ties. \nMeanwhile\, many counties have their own challenges to consider. In Brazil\, everyone waits anxiously to see what will happen with the country’s election results. In Venezuela\, a total of seven Americans\, five of which were held in captivity for over five years\, were recently released in a prisoner swap. In Ecuador\, prison gang violence has overwhelmed an under-resourced and overcrowded system leading to a state of emergency in three provinces. In Columbia\, peace talks between its government and the National Liberation Army are set to resume. In Chile\, the country just recently elected its youngest-ever president\, a former student activist. That is in addition to the fact that Peru is the number two copper producer in the world. \nWith an increasingly ambitious China\, the largest importer of goods and services from Brazil and Chile\, and the second largest from Argentina and Peru\, and the trend toward authoritarianism in this part of the world  (actually a global trend)\,  what are the options for the U.S. in the future?  How can we solidify our relationships with Latin American countries? \n \nPlease join us for what will be a lively discussion about a topic that evolves regularly. \nFor more details contact: \nEllen Murry: ellen@wacaustin.org \nPolina Anastassieva: polina@wacaustin.org  URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/globalist-coffeehouse-latin-american-relations-where-is-the-u-s-now-and-what-is-its-role-in-the-future/ LOCATION:Shoal Creek Saloon\, 909 N. Lamar Blvd\, Austin\, TX\, 78703\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,Geopolitics,Member Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Globalist-logo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20220510T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20220510T134500 DTSTAMP:20260428T165509 CREATED:20220321T190455Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220504T193105Z UID:12272-1652187600-1652190300@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Opportunity for Investment in the Republic of Panama DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin\, in collaboration with the Austin Chamber of Commerce\, is pleased to offer this informative session on Panama’s Digital Hub\, nearshoring advantage\, and special economic regimes.  Our honored guest speakers are: H.E. Juan Carlos Sosa\, Vice Minister – Foreign Trade\, Ministry of Trade & Industry for the Republic of Panama; Mr. Richard Kilborn\, National Director of Investment Promotion\, Ministry of Trade & Industry; and Ms. Carmen Gisela Vergara Mas\, General Administrator\, PROPANAMA. \n \nAbout the speakers: \nVice Minister Juan Carlos Sosa has over 23 years of experience in foreign trade and investments\, marketing\, operations\, management and franchises. Vice Minister Sosa has held high level positions in prestigious Panamanian companies such as Importadora Maduro and Super 99\, as well high-level regional positions in multinational companies such as Samsung and Dell Latin America. Before his position as Vice Minister\, Mr. Sosa was the CEO of Fun Franchise Group\, a company that manages US restaurant franchises in Panama. \nVice Minister Sosa has a Bachelor of Science in Advertising from The University of Texas at Austin\, as well as an MBA in International Business from Royal Holloway\, University of London. Other studies include a certification program in Innovation Management from The University of California Berkeley and a certification program in Advanced Marketing from Northwestern University. \n  \nRichard Kilborn is a graduate of the University of Colorado\, Boulder\, with a degree in Political Science. He currently holds the position of National Director of Investment Promotion for the Ministry of Commerce and Trade of Panama. \nHe has more than 24 years of experience in the financial sector\, and has held multiple positions on  boards of several financial institutions such as Financiera Familiar\, and Frontier Financial Services Inc. He has also been published in several magazines and is the author of the award winning novel “Good Money Gone”\, which won best novel in the International Latin Book Awards in the category of “Adventure – Drama” in 2014. \n  \nCarmen Gisela Vergara Mas graduated in Law and Political Science from the University of Panama.  She has a Master’s Degree in Banking and Financial Law from the University of El Externado in Colombia and a Postgraduate Degree in International Trade Negotiations from the University of Santiago de Chile. \nBefore holding the position of General Administrator at PROPANAMA\, the Authority for the Attraction of Investments and Promotion of Exports of the Panamanian State\, Ms. Vergara served as Executive Director of the Federation of Chambers and Industrial Associations of Central America and the Dominican Republic – FECAICA and as Secretary-General of the Central American Economic Integration Secretariat SIECA\, achieving important advances for the Central American integration process. Before holding this position\, she was a Director before the Board of Directors of the Central American Bank for Economic Integration – CABEI\, representing Panama. \nExpert in International Trade Law\, Business Development\, Trade Negotiations\, Integration\, and Trade Facilitation\, she has also served as Minister of Commerce and Industries\, Vice Minister of Foreign Trade\, and National Director of Investment and Export Promotion of the Ministry of Commerce and Industries. In addition\, Ms. Vergara has been Manager of the City of Knowledge Business Technology Accelerator. \nMs. Vergara has also represented Panama as Alternate Delegate before the Inter-American Commission of Women and a member of the non-permanent Specialized Commissions of the Organization of American States – OAS\, in the areas of Diversification\, Market Access\, and Economic Integration. She is a member of the Arbitration Center of Panama and has served as Facilitator of the Master for International Management (MIMLA) offered by Thunderbird University and the Monterrey Institute of Technology\, on the subject of International Trade Negotiations. At the private level\, she has worked as a Lawyer on commercial issues\, as an Advisor on investment issues\, and as a Consultant on multiple issues\, among which stand out: business development\, gender\, exports\, social responsibility\, trade negotiations\, competitiveness and facilitation of trade; among others. URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/panama/ LOCATION:ONLINE CATEGORIES:Americas,Business,Global Business Series,Global Trade ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Sosa-Kilborn-CGV-e1651692585466.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20211102T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20211102T130000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20211011T192626Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211011T195256Z UID:11994-1635854400-1635858000@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Kozmetsky Forum on Business Investment Considerations for LATAM DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin and the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence in Global Finance at St. Edward’s University host a series of Forums on Global Investment\, Finance\, Emerging Markets and Geopolitical Risk. Our next Forum will feature a lively discussion with Sebastian Gomez\, Co-Founder of Thorus Consulting\, and David Sandler\, Co-Founder at Remarks\, on the important details a business investor should consider when looking at expanding and selling into Latin America. Mexico and the rest of Latin America represent the United States’ second-largest trading partner and second-largest export market\, and interest is increasing from Texas corporations. \n  \n \nAbout the speakers: \nSebastian Gomez has been connecting Latanamerica to the world for more than 20 years. He consults U.S. companies on expanding in Latin-America where he supports them to understand the markets and opportunities they present. He is now an entrepreneur and consultant with Thorus Consulting that he founded in 2021 with his wife\, after being the Information Technology Trade Representative for the Colombian Government for 12 years supporting the international expansion of companies from Austin and Latam. \n \nDavid Sandler\, Co-Founder of Remarks\, is a skilled entrepreneur with experience in marketing\, internationalization and strategy building. His track record includes consulting for government\, universities\, private companies and cluster management organizations. \n  \n  \n  URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/kozmetsky-forum-on-business-investment-considerations-for-latam/ LOCATION:ONLINE CATEGORIES:Americas,Global Trade,International Trade Center,Kozmetsky Forum on Global Investment,Mexico ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Gomez-Sandler.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20210728T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20210728T170000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20210802T010510Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210802T010732Z UID:11855-1627473600-1627491600@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Kirsten Hillman\, Canada's Ambassador to the USA among Featured Speakers in July DESCRIPTION:  \n27th at 11am Canada & the US: Friends\, Partners and Allies featuring Amb. Kirsten Hillman\, Canada’s Ambassador to the USA // \n27th at 2 pm Export Compliance 101 featuring Mariana de Gorordo Rutherford\, the COO of Kieyos\, an international trade company and the Supply Chain / Export Compliance Director of AIRtec\, Inc.; and Sheriah Johnson\, Trade Compliance Manager for NCR Corporation in Atlanta\, Georgia. // \n28th at 12noon NET ZERO Leaders Summit Japan Business Conference featuring panels on Japanese Business Initiatives Toward Carbon Neutrality; Green Innovation; Sustainable Finance; Transition in Emerging Countries // URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/kirsten-hillman-canadas-ambassador-to-the-usa-among-featured-speakers-in-july/ CATEGORIES:Ambassador,Americas,Asia,Austin Center for Global Trade,Business ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Kirsten_Hillman_Canada.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20210615T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20210615T130000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20210511T022410Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210524T232502Z UID:11639-1623758400-1623762000@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Conversation with Todd Chapman\, U.S. Ambassador to Brazil DESCRIPTION:Join the World Affairs Council of Austin for a special conversation with Todd C. Chapman\, U.S. Ambassador to Brazil.  Ambassador Chapman will discuss current events in Brazil as well as the Texas-Brazil relationship with Political Officer Ian Brown at the U.S. Embassy in Brazil. \n \nTodd C. Chapman is the U.S. Ambassador to Brazil.  He was nominated by President Donald Trump on October 30\, 2019\, confirmed by the U.S. Senate on February 20\, 2020 and arrived in Brazil on March 29\, 2020.  A career member of the Senior Foreign Service\, Ambassador Chapman earlier served as U.S. Ambassador to Ecuador from 2016 – 2019. \nAmbassador Chapman’s career has focused on promoting economic development and security partnerships around the world.  He previously served as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Political Military Affairs at the Department of State (2014-2016); Deputy Chief of Mission\, U.S. Embassy Brasilia\, Brazil (2011-2014); Senior Deputy Coordinator for Economic Affairs\, U.S. Embassy Kabul\, Afghanistan (2010-2011); and Chargé d’Affaires at U.S. Embassy Maputo\, Mozambique (2007-2010).  Earlier assignments included Bolivia\, Costa Rica\, Nigeria\, Taiwan\, and several tours at the Department of State in Washington D.C. \nAmbassador Chapman first came to Brazil in 1974 when his father’s U.S. company transferred the family to Sao Paulo.  He attended Escola Maria Imaculada (Chapel School) where he graduated in 1980.  Before joining the Foreign Service\, he worked as a commercial banker in New York and Saudi Arabia\, and later as a business consultant in Brazil and his hometown of Houston\, Texas.  Altogether\, he has lived in Brazil for 11 years. \nAmbassador Chapman earned an A.B. in History from Duke University in 1983\, and a M.S. in Strategic Intelligence from the Joint Military Intelligence College in 2000. \nHe is joined in Brazil by his wife of 34 years Janetta Chapman and they are the proud parents of two sons\, Joshua and Jason\, and daughter-in-law Brooke\, all who reside in Denver\, Colorado. \n  \nEvent hosted by: URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/conversation-with-todd-chapman-u-s-ambassador-to-brazil/ LOCATION:ONLINE CATEGORIES:Ambassador,Americas,Geopolitics ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Amb-Todd-Chapman.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20201103T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20201103T130000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20200706T191337Z LAST-MODIFIED:20201028T000121Z UID:5772-1604404800-1604408400@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Kozmetsky Forum featuring Brazil DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin has partnered with the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence in Global Finance at St. Edward’s University to offer a series of Forums on Global Investment\, Finance\, Emerging Markets and Geopolitical Risk.  The focus of this Forum is Brazil. \nPolitical Officer Ian Brown at the U.S. Embassy in Brazil will serve as moderator for the presentation. Valerie Belon\, Economic Counselor\, will provide an overview of the U.S. Foreign Service. Joel Reynoso\, Deputy Senior Commercial Officer\, will discuss commercial engagement in Brazil. Economic Officers Scott Miller\, Greg Meier\, and Martiza Navarrete will provide brief overviews of the trade and investment\, energy\, and technology sectors in Brazil. URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/kozmetsky-forum-featuring-brazil/ LOCATION:ONLINE CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Business,Global Trade,Kozmetsky Forum on Global Investment ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/BrazilForumFlyer2020.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200909T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200909T133000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20200818T014457Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200818T021103Z UID:5853-1599656400-1599658200@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:The Honorable Rachel McCormick\, Consul General of Canada\, and Brian Haley\, Honorary Consul of Canada DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin is pleased to host this discussion with the Honorable Rachel McCormick\, Consul General of Canada and Brian Haley\, Honorary Consul of Canada.  Abdallah Mahmoud\, Emerging Markets Program Specialist with the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department\, will serve as moderator for this special event. \n \nRachel McCormick is Consul General of Canada to the state of Texas.  She was head of the Energy and Environment Section at the Canadian Embassy in Washington\, DC from 2014 to 2019.  She joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2004. In Ottawa she worked in divisions responsible for sustainable development\, energy\, climate change and circumpolar affairs. She represented the Government of Canada in a range of\ninternational forums\, including the Arctic Council\, the North American Commission for Environmental Cooperation and the United Nations.  Previously\, she held positions within the Canadian energy sector and at the World Trade\nOrganization in Geneva. \nHonorary Consul Brian Haley is the co-founder of CB Capital\, an investment and real estate development firm. Prior to co-founding CB Capital\, Brian served as a vice president at Limestone Capital Advisors\, an Austin based private equity firm founded by Admiral Bob Inman\, where he developed and managed energy related opportunities in the United States and Asia. \nAbdallah Mahmoud is the Emerging Markets Program Specialist with the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department. Prior to joining the City of Austin. Abdallah has extensive experience working on public/private partnership projects and local development programs. \n  \n  URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/the-honorable-rachel-mccormick-consul-general-of-canada-and-brian-haley-honorary-consul-of-canada/ LOCATION:ONLINE CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Business,diplomatic,Geopolitics,Global Trade ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Rachel-McCormick-e1597166090761.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200507T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200508T210000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20200509T024138Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200509T032033Z UID:5652-1588842000-1588971600@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:CxC Amplified Week of Global Issues Webinar Programming DESCRIPTION:World Affairs Council of Austin members have access to several daily webinars during the week of May 4th including: \n4th Ambassador (ret.) Bill Taylor\, EVP\, U.S. Institute of Peace\, and Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine \n5th Global Leadership in Crisis featuring General (ret.) David Petraeus\, Chairman\, KKR Global Institute \n5th Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking featuring Lynn Sanchez\, The Life Link \n6th UN Women Global Champion for Innovation featuring Dr. Nina Ansary\,  Visiting Fellow\, The London School of Economics Center for Women\, Peace & Security \n6th Current and Future NATO featuring David Epstein\, U.S. Department of State \n6th Economic Dignity featuring Gene Sperling\, Former Director of the National Economic Council under Presidents Obama and Clinton \n6th India on the Edge featuring Dr. Manu Bhagavan\, Professor of History at Hunter College \n6th Our Future in Space – Developments\, Commercialization and Governance featuring Evelyn Miralles\, Former Chief Principal Engineer\, NASA \n6th Join a Salsa Lesson with staff from the Embassy of Colombia \n6th Balancing Public Health and Privacy Concerns During a Pandemic Response featuring Dr. Sarah Kessler and Michael Tabman \n6th Europe in the Age of Corona featuring Ron Granieri\, FPRI Templeton Fellow\, Executive Director of the Center for the Study of America and the West \n7th The U.S. and China Now – Should We Confront or Cooperate? featuring Dr. Yanzhong Huang\, Dr. Susan Shirk\, and U.S. Representative Ted Yoho \n7th The TransAtlantic Agenda During and After the Corona Crisis – What’s at Stake featuring H.E. Emily Haber\, Germany’s Ambassador to the U.S.A. and Ambassador (ret.) John B. Emerson\, Chairman of the American Council on Germany \n7th Coronavirus in Conflict Zones featuring Jarrett Blac\, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace \n7th Libya in Chaos: Origins\, Players and Outcomes featuring Ambassador (ret.) Deborah Jones\, Former U.S. Ambassador to Libya \n7th Eurasian Nightmares: China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the Politics of Pandemic featuring Dr. Ian Oxnevad\, Editorial Boardmember for the Association of the Middle East and Africa \n7th China: The World’s Next Premier Superpower? featuring Ambassador Kishore Mahbubani (Singapore) \n8th Putting the World Back Together featuring General (ret.) John Allen\, President\, Brookings Institution \n8th Ambassador (ret.) Ronald Neumann\, Former U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan \n  \nThe Opening Plenary session is available for viewing here: \n \n______________________________________________________________ URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/cxc-amplified-week-of-global-issues-webinar-programming/ CATEGORIES:Africa,Ambassador,Americas,Asia,Business,cultural,Europe,Geopolitics,Global Trade,Middle East,peace and conflict ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/GenDavidPetraeus.png ORGANIZER;CN="World Affairs Councils of America":MAILTO:waca@worldaffairscouncils.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20191003T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20191003T170000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20190903T053655Z LAST-MODIFIED:20191001T195929Z UID:4934-1570107600-1570122000@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Fourth Annual Texas-Latin America Business Summit DESCRIPTION:Texas – Latin America Business Summit Helps Texas Companies Access Nearshore Expanding Markets\n \nThe World Affairs Council of Austin will present the Fourth Annual Texas-Latin America Business Summit on October 3\, 2019.  Forbes reported in March that LATAM’s economy has the potential to grow faster than that of Asia.  The Summit brings trade promotion experts and business decision-makers together for panels and meetings.  The event is a unique face-to-face opportunity for Austin corporate representatives to make connections and learn about current inbound and outbound business opportunities with  Latin American nations. \n \nDRAFT AGENDA \n1:00 PM Welcome by emcee Andrew (Andy) Martinez\, Business Development Executive\n \n1:02 PM Nearshoring in LATAM remarks by Anurag Kumar\, CEO & Co-Founder\, iTexico \n1:15 PM Secrets to Success in Latin America\n \nModerator: Doug Smith\, Assistant Director\, International Trade Center – UTSA \nPanelists: Sebastian Gomez\, Trade & Investment Representative\, PROCOLOMBIA; Kevin Koym\, CEO and Co-Founder\, Tech Ranch; and Jake Le\, Head of Jala Ventures Colombia \n2:20 PM Using Mexico as a Nearshore Base \nModerator: Roy Austin\, Business Development Director\, The ILS Company \nPanelists: Cindy Blanco\, Co-Founder & Executive Director\, StartupGDL; Alvaro Quezada\, CPA\, J.A. Del Rio; and Javier Lopez de Obeso\, Attorney\, ScottHulse \n3:25 PM Spotlight on Brazil \nModerator:  Bill Hulsey\, Principal\, HULSEY PC \nPanelists:  Elizabeth Jennings\, Principal\, Venture Atlas Labs; Mark MacBeath\, Senior Product Manager\, PerkinElmer; John L Howard Jr.\, Director of Global Public Policy\, DELL Technologies; and Felipe Costi Santarosa\, Deputy Consul General and Head of the Trade Section\, Consulate General of Brazil in Houston \n4:40 PM Closing Remarks \n5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Happy Hour Cash Bar Social at Gloria’s Latin Cuisine  300 W. 6th Street\, Suite 100\, Austin TX 78701 \n  \nSummit parking suggestions:\n \nhttp://www.bestparking.com/austin-parking/ \n  \nWith gratitude to our supporting partners: URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/fourth-annual-texas-latin-america-business-summit/ LOCATION:IBC Bank Community Suite 13th Floor\, 500 W. 5th Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Business,Global Business Series,Global Trade,Mexico ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/LATAM-Cover2-2017-e1535945855934.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190915T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190915T220000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20190519T175237Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200806T021022Z UID:4643-1568566800-1568584800@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Annual Fiesta de El Grito de Independencia DESCRIPTION:In collaboration with the Consulate General of Mexico\, the Austin-Saltillo Sister City Committee\,  the City of Austin\, Univision\, the State Preservation Board\, and the Mexican American Legislative Caucus\, Austin’s annual Fiesta de El Grito de Independencia is a musical celebration and historical re-enactment of Mexico’s call for independence from Spain.  The event takes place each year on the South Steps of the State Capitol. \nThe Fiesta de El Grito\, located on the grounds of the State Capitol since 2013\, has drawn crowds of over 10\,000. \nThis family-oriented celebration is alcohol free. Special programming includes Mexican and Tejano music\, folklorico dancers\, and food vendor booths.  The highlight of the evening is the re-enactment of “El Grito”\, by the Honorable Pablo Marentes\,  Cónsul General de México in Austin. \nNo RSVPs necessary. \nAGENDA \n5:00 pm Traditional Dance and Music \n9:00 pm Official Re-enactment of El Grito \n9:05 pm Event Concludes \n  \nHere is a video of 2016 celebration highlights: \nhttps://www.univision.com/austin/kakw/estilo-de-vida/fiestas-patrias/festeja-el-grito-de-independencia-en-el-capitolio-de-austin-video?layoutType=flex URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/annual-fiesta-de-el-grito-de-independencia-2/ LOCATION:State Capitol\, 1100 Congress Avenue\, Austin\, 78701\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,cultural,Cultural Heritage Series,educational,Mexico\ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/El-Grito-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190806T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190806T110000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20190722T193446Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190722T193446Z UID:4789-1565083800-1565089200@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:USMCA Trade Briefing DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin\, U.S. Commercial Service\, BBVA\, ITC at UTSA\, and the Texas Camino Real District Export Council invite you to a USMCA Trade Briefing featuring David Olsen\, Mexico Desk Officer\, Office of North America\, U.S. Department of Commerce\, and Katrice Kelly\, Senior International Trade Specialist\, Office of Trade Negotiations and Analysis/Industry & Analysis\, U.S. Department of Commerce. \nUSMCA was signed on November 30\, 2018 and Mexico’s legislative body voted in favor of the new trade agreement last month.  Attend this briefing for a general overview of the USMCA and to learn about the next steps in enacting this historic trade agreement. \nNo Cost to attend\, click on the button below to Register Now. \n \n  URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/usmca-trade-briefing/ LOCATION:BBVA Bank\, 1703 W. 5th\, Ste. 500\, Austin\, TX\, 78703\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Business,Global Business Series,Global Trade,Mexico\ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/USMCA-signing-11-30-2019.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190717T174500 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190717T190000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20190615T024234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190615T025927Z UID:4593-1563385500-1563390000@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:World Spins Series: Venezuela Humanitarian Crisis Briefing DESCRIPTION:Over the last three years\, approximately 3.4 million people have fled Venezuela for other countries around the world. It is estimated that of these\, approximately 2.7 million have fled to countries in Latin America and the Caribbean with the total number expected to exceed 5 million people by the end of 2019. This migration is the largest to affect the Western Hemisphere in modern history\, creating an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.  Access to health care\, education\, food and nutrition\, and safety and security are among the highest priorities. The Resource Foundation will provide a briefing on the situation on the ground and strategies to provide support to those affected. \nThe World Affairs Council of Austin is pleased to host our guest speaker\, Marcela Lopez-Macedonio\, Esq.\, President & CEO of The Resource Foundation.  Ms. Lopez-Macedonio is responsible for driving the strategic execution of The Resource Foundation and its programs. Building on her ties to Latin America and her decades of experience working with families\, corporations\, and organizations to achieve sustainable growth\, Marcela focuses on ensuring TRF’s mission is met now and in the future. \nPrior to joining The Resource Foundation\, Marcela worked as an Attorney at the New York City law firm of Goldfarb\,\nAbrandt\, Salzman & Kutzin\, where for over five years she assisted high net worth clients navigate complicated trust\nand estate issues and litigation. She often lectured on estate and tax planning and was published in the Practicing\nLaw Institute’s Trust and Estates publication and still found time to volunteer with The Resource Foundation. \nMarcela holds a Juris Doctor from New York Law School and B.A. degrees in Political Science and French from\nRutgers University. She is fluent in English and Spanish\, proficient in French\, and has a basic understanding of\nPortuguese. \nAgenda \n5:45 PM Registration and networking \n6:05 PM Speaker Presentation followed by Q&A \n7:00 PM Event Concludes \nJoin us! URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/world-spins-series-venezuela-humanitarian-crisis-briefing/ LOCATION:Neill-Cochran House Museum\, 2310 San Gabriel Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78705\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,diplomatic,Geopolitics,World Spins Series ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Venezuela-2017-e1560571124209.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20181004T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20181004T170000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20180807T214701Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180928T004523Z UID:3806-1538659800-1538672400@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Third Annual Texas-Latin America Business Summit DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin will present the Texas-Latin America Business Summit on Thursday\, October 4th.  The Summit brings trade promotion experts and business decision-makers together for panels and meetings.  The event is a unique face-to-face opportunity for Austin corporate representatives to make connections and learn about current inbound and outbound business opportunities with Mexico\, Honduras\, Jamaica\, Guatemala\, and other nations. \nOver the last decade\, the region experienced a deep economic and social transformation\, which lifted millions out of poverty and swelled the ranks of the middle class.   Latin America’s economy is expected to expand 2.0% against a backdrop of stronger global growth.  Attend the Summit and learn how your company may benefit from this growth. \n \nDRAFT AGENDA \n1:00 PM Registration Opens \n1:30 PM Welcoming Remarks \nBen Ramirez\, Executive Director\, World Affairs Council of Austin’s Center for Global Trade \nShirley Temple\, Office of Governor Greg Abbott \n1:35 PM Hispanic and Latin American Entrepreneurship (How startups can leverage the region and culture)\n \nPanelists: Valeria Aguerri\, Business Development\, OPINATOR; Ana Castelan\, Digital Trade Marketing Manager\, WaveMax; Monica Pena\, Founder\, MUNDU Media; Sara Mitran\, Senior Consultant-Transformational Healthcare\, Frost & Sullivan \nModerator: Estuardo Robles\, Partner\, Briggs Capital \n2:45 PM Spotlight on LATAM Founders \nPanelists: Adriana Aguilar\, Founder\, Yuxtem; Carlos Mats\, Founder\, Xchematic; Nicolene Tashnette Witter\, Co-Founder\, Enablers of Community Advancement Projects and Initiatives (ECAPI) \nModerator: Bill Hulsey\, Principal\, HULSEY PC \n3:50 PM U.S.-Mexico Trade Agreement \nPanelists:  Marcelo Lara\, CEO\, Pro Indie Music; Justin Yancy\, President\, Texas Business Leadership Council; additional panelists TBC \nModerator: Salvador Castañeda\, Partner\, Peek Toland & Castañeda PLLC \n4:55 PM Closing Remarks \n  \nDowntown Parking Options: \nhttp://www.bestparking.com/austin-parking/ \n  URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/third-annual-texas-latin-america-business-summit/ LOCATION:IBC Bank Community Suite 13th Floor\, 500 W. 5th Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Business,Global Trade ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/LATAM-Cover2-2017-e1535945855934.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180915T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180915T213000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20180521T225738Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180727T191138Z UID:3590-1537030800-1537047000@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Annual Fiesta de El Grito de Independencia DESCRIPTION:In collaboration with the Consulate General of Mexico\, the Fiesta de Independencia Foundation\,  the City of Austin\, Univision\, the State Preservation Board\, and the Mexican American Legislative Caucus\, Austin’s annual Fiesta de El Grito de Independencia is a musical celebration and historical re-enactment of Mexico’s call for independence from Spain.  The event takes place each year on the South Steps of the State Capitol. \nThe Fiesta de El Grito was relocated to the grounds of the State Capitol and taken to a historic level of participation in 2013.  Last year’s event drew a crowd of over 10\,000. \nThis family-oriented celebration is alcohol free. Special programming includes Mexican and Tejano music\, Folklorico Dancers\, and food vendor booths.  The highlight of the evening is the re-enactment of “El Grito”\, by the Honorable Carlos González Gutiérrez\, Cónsul General de México. \nNo RSVPs necessary. \nAGENDA \n5:00 pm Traditional Dance and Music \n9:00 pm Official Re-enactment of El Grito \n9:05 pm Event Concludes \n  \nHere is a video of 2016 celebration highlights: \nhttps://www.univision.com/austin/kakw/estilo-de-vida/fiestas-patrias/festeja-el-grito-de-independencia-en-el-capitolio-de-austin-video?layoutType=flex URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/annual-fiesta-de-el-grito/ LOCATION:State Capitol\, 1100 Congress Avenue\, Austin\, 78701\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,cultural,educational ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/El-Grito-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180823T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180823T160000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20180607T170129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180727T152911Z UID:3598-1535013000-1535040000@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Stop Fakes IPR Protection Conference DESCRIPTION:American companies lose over $600 billion annually due to theft of intellectual property.  If you want to learn more about how to protect against piracy of technology and theft of trade secrets\, join the World Affairs Council of Austin’s Center for Global Trade\, along with experts and attorneys from the Department of Commerce\, International Trade Administration (ITA) and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) offer this one-day seminar on how companies and individuals can protect and enforce intellectual property to get the most out of exporting abroad. \nThe STOPfakes.gov Road Show answers your questions about commercializing your creations and innovations\, includes strategies for protecting and enforcing a company’s intellectual property when exporting to foreign markets\, and advice for avoiding common pitfalls. Participants have the chance to ask export questions related to patents\, trade secrets\, trademarks\, copyrights and domain names. \nAt the conclusion of each Road Show\, participants take advantage of one-on-one consultations with intellectual property experts to get targeted advice. Small and medium-sized businesses in particular benefit from this unique opportunity.  More information and seminar registration is available here. \n  \n \n  URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/stop-fakes-ipr-protection-conference/ LOCATION:State Capitol\, 1100 Congress Avenue\, Austin\, 78701\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,Asia,Austin Center for Global Trade,Australia,Business,educational,Global Business Series,Global Trade,Law and regulations,Luncheon Series,Middle East,New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/StopFakes-Logos.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180625T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180625T133000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20180620T173306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180627T033900Z UID:3672-1529929800-1529933400@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:CANCELED: Mexico's Perspective on NAFTA Negotiations DESCRIPTION:DUE TO A FAMILY MEDICAL EMERGENCY\, OUR SPEAKER WILL NOT BE ABLE TO TRAVEL TO AUSTIN \n  \nThe World Affairs Council of Austin in collaboration with the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce\, Mexico’s Ministry of Economy\, and the Texas Camino Real District Export Council\, presents an exclusive executive briefing on the NAFTA negotiations featuring Guillermo Malpica Soto\, Head of the Trade and NAFTA Office in the Ministry of Economy at the Embassy of Mexico in Washington D.C. \nMr. Malpica will provide an update on the NAFTA negotiations\, Texas-Mexico trade\, and energy issues. His responsibilities include leading the energy negotiations in the NAFTA discussions. \nGuillermo Malpica Soto has served as Mexico’s Director General for International Trade in Services and Investment in Mexico’s Ministry of Economy since 2008. Since then\, he has been instrumental in formulating Mexico’s position in these areas in multilateral\, regional and bilateral fora\, including the Doha Round in the World Trade Organization\, the OECD\, ALADI\, APEC\, TISA\, the Pacific Alliance and the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP). He also led the negotiation of bilateral investment agreements (Agreements for the Promotion and Reciprocal Protection of Investments) with Singapore\, Kuwait\, the United Arab Emirates\, Turkey\, Haiti\, Saudi Arabia\, Qatar and Ukraine. \nMr. Malpica served as Counsellor in Mexico’s Permanent Mission to the World Trade Organization in Geneva in 2007\, and as Economic Affairs Advisor in the NAFTA Office of the Ministry of the Economy in Ottawa\, Canada in 2006. \n  \n \n  \n  URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/mexicos-perspective-on-nafta-negotiations/ CATEGORIES:Americas,Austin Center for Global Trade,Business,diplomatic,educational,Global Business Series,Global Trade,Law and regulations ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/MX-Logo.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180303T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180303T120000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20171206T225637Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180203T024645Z UID:3230-1520067600-1520078400@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Academic WorldQuest™ Competition DESCRIPTION:If your high school team is ready to compete in the Central Texas AWQ competition on Saturday March 3\, 2018\, REGISTER HERE. \nEach year\, Academic WorldQuest seeks to inform and engage high school teens and their teachers across the country in global affairs. More than 4\,000 students participate and test their knowledge of international affairs\, global current event issues\, and foreign policy. The winning high school teams at each local competition is invited to participate at the national contest in Washington DC.  Our competition consists of 10 rounds of 10 questions about specific global themes. \nSchools can register teams of 4 students in grades 9 – 12\, however; the contest is especially relevant to students in World Geography\, AP Human Geography and Economics. \nAWQ is a terrific opportunity to engage students in global affairs in a competition against fellow high school students in the area.  We have had great success and participation in this event in past years and want to make it even bigger! \n \n  \n  URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/academic-worldquest-competition/ LOCATION:Vandegrift High School\, 9500 McNeil Drive\, Austin\, TX\, 78750\, United States CATEGORIES:Africa,Americas,Asia,Australia,educational,Europe,Middle East,New Zealand,Women Empowerment ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Academic-WorldQuest-logo.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180228T070000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180228T180000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20180203T031947Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180205T202039Z UID:3371-1519801200-1519840800@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Houston Cyber Summit DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin\, a state partner with Cyber Houston and the Energy Conference Network\, is pleased to present the Second Annual Houston Cyber Summit.   This cyber security conference features industry experts and opportunities to network with over 200 business professionals. \nWorld Affairs Council of Austin members receive a $50 registration discount.  Click here and become a member today. \nThis event will be held in Houston. \n  \n\n\n\n Registration and Breakfast \n7:00am – 8:10am Feb 28\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n Opening Remarks \n8:10am – 8:40am Feb 28\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUmesh Verma\nPresident & CEO\, BLUE LANCE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Keynote Speaker \n8:40am – 9:10am Feb 28\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Live Hack Demonstration \n9:40am – 10:40am Feb 28\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJon Villanti\nVP\, Information Security Officer\, Allegiance Bank\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Panel 1: Legal & Risk Mitigation \n11:10am – 12:10pm Feb 28\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nElizabeth Rogers\nShareholder\, Cybersecurity\, Privacy & Crisis Management\, Greenberg Traurig\, LLP\n\n\n\nMark Goldberg\nVice President of Public Affairs\, Houston First Corporation\n\n\n\nAngela Haun\nSpecial Agent & Coordinator \, InfraGard\, Federal Bureau of Investigation\n\n\n\nMary Dickerson\nAssistant Vice President\, Assistant Vice Chancellor\, IT Security\, University of Houston\n\n\n\nNick Economidis\nUnderwriter\, Beazley\n\n\n\nJason Ritchie\nAssistant Vice President-Bank Administration\, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas\, Houston Branch\n\n\n\nPaul Farrell\nFounder and CEO\, Nehemiah Security\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Lunch \n12:10pm – 1:15pm Feb 28\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Panel 2: Cybersecurity and Innovation \n1:15pm – 2:00pm Feb 28\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGina Luna\nCEO\, Luna Strategies\, LLC.\n\n\n\nAmanda Edwards\nAt-Large Position 4\, Houston City Council\n\n\n\nPierluigi Stella\nCTO\, Network Box USA\, Inc.\n\n\n\n\n\nDick Williams\nInterim President and CEO\, Houston Exponential\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Panel 3: Cyber Security Assessment Essentials \n2:00pm – 2:45pm Feb 28\n\n\n\nModerator: Jesse Carrillo\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMel Nevarez\nManager Identity and Access Management and Compliance\, CenterPoint Energy\, Inc.\n\n\n\nJesse Carrillo\nSenior Vice President & CIO\, Hines\n\n\n\nPhil Beckett\nChief Expansion Technology Officer \, HASA\n\n\n\nPeter Thomas\nCTO\, BLUE LANCE\n\n\n\nAndy Sawyer\nDirector of Security\, Locke Lord\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n Panel 4: Federal\, State and Local Cyber Updates \n3:00pm – 4:15pm Feb 28\n\n\n\nModerator: Mary Dickerson\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGary Spurger\nManager\, High Tech Crime Unit\, Harris County Sheriff’s Office\n\n\n\nLenny Schad\nChief Information Officer\, Houston Independent School District\n\n\n\n\n\nJack Hanagriff\nMayor’s Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security\, City of Houston\n\n\n\nMary Dickerson\nAssistant Vice President\, Assistant Vice Chancellor\, IT Security\, University of Houston\n\n\n\nBrian Wilson\nVice President\, Citi\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Panel 5: Cyber Workforce Development \n4:15pm – 5:20pm Feb 28\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDr. Doug Rowlett\nDean \, HCC Digital & Information Technology Center\n\n\n\nDaniel Ragsdale\nFounding Director\, Texas A&M Cybersecurity Center\n\n\n\nStan Napper\nFounding Dean of Engineering\, Houston Baptist University\n\n\n\nTom Winn\nInterim Director – MSM Program\, University of Houston-Downtown Marilyn Davies College of Business\n\n\n\nLouanne Harvey\nCTE Chair\, Digital Forensic Science/Cyber Security\, Eastwood Academy High School\, Houston Independent School District\n\n\n\nArthur Conklin\nAssociate Professor\, University of Houston\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Closing Remarks and Prize Drawing \n5:20pm – 6:00pm URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/houston-cyber-summit/ LOCATION:George R. Brown Convention Center\, 1001 Avenida de las Americas\, Houston\, TX\, 77010\, United States CATEGORIES:Africa,Americas,Asia,Australia,Business,Europe,Global Trade,International Trade Center,Law and regulations,Middle East,New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/CyberSummit-e1517627479828.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180125T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180125T133000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20180117T022510Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180117T023754Z UID:3216-1516881600-1516887000@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:World Spins Series: Freeze! Drought! Mudslide! Hurricane! Heat Wave! Managing Climate Change Now that the Feds Have Left the Room DESCRIPTION:The United States is the only country in the world opposed to the United National Climate Change accord. Despite President Trump’s decision to pull out of the agreement\, Austin is taking a lead in tackling climate change\, and we are fortunate to have a leading international expert on climate change to launch a new series\, “World Spins.” \nThe rest of the world\, including China\, India and the European Union\, reaffirmed their commitments. Challenging the federal decision\, 346 U.S. governors\, mayors – including Austin’s own Mayor Steve Adler — and struck a defiant pose\, the Federal government declined to make a commitment. \n“With the Paris agreement\, we finally developed a global approach to climate change that had the best chance of success. What we need is for the rest of the world and state and local actors in the U.S. to hold the line in the hopes that we will once again have leadership at the national level in the United States that recognizes the severity of the problem\,” said Dr. Josh  Busby\, an internationally-recognized authority on climate change and delegate to the last November’s Conference of the Parties (COP23) to the U.N. Convention on Climate Change\, held Nov. 6-17 in Bonn\, Germany. \nWhile climate change is often perceived as a partisan issue\, national security experts are taking a closer look at its implications. In written testimony provided to the Senate Armed Services Committee\, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis asserted that climate change is a driver of instability. Former CIA director James Clapper also stated that climate change contributes to instability\, and as population centers compete for dwindling resources\, governments will find it increasingly difficult to maintain order. \n“The security consequences of climate change include large-scale humanitarian emergencies that may require military mobilization to protect people from dying both at home and abroad\, as we saw after Hurricane Katrina and more recently after Hurricane Maria\,” Busby said. “We may also see climate change exacerbate social tensions and undermine political stability in conflict-prone countries around the world through its effects on rainfall and food production\, economic growth\, disasters and migration.” \n  \nDr. Joshua Busby\, an associate professor of public affairs at the LBJ School and a Distinguished Scholar at the Strauss Center\,  began studying climate and security in 2004\, is the lead researcher on a three-year\, $1.9 million Department of Defense (DoD) funded project called “Complex Emergencies and Political Stability in Asia” that explores the causes and dynamics of complex emergencies in Asia and options for building government capacity to prevent and respond to such situations. This project follows a similar five-year\, $7.6 million DoD-funded project in Africa called “Climate Change and African Political Stability” (CCAPS)\, on which Busby was a lead researcher. \n  URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/the-world-spins-series-facebook-as-the-new-state-department/ LOCATION:Neill-Cochran House Museum\, 2310 San Gabriel Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78705\, United States CATEGORIES:Africa,Americas,Asia,climate change,educational,Europe,Law and regulations,World Spins Series ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/JBusby.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20171108T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171108T213000 DTSTAMP:20260428T165510 CREATED:20170823T190120Z LAST-MODIFIED:20171105T022302Z UID:2944-1510167600-1510176600@wacaustin.org SUMMARY:Perspectives on Cuba’s Future: Exploring Policy Options & Paths for the U.S.-Cuba Bilateral Relationship DESCRIPTION:Held in collaboration with the Kozmetsky Center at St. Edward’s University\, this session will feature leading specialists of the academic and business communities on various aspects of Cuban society\, economy and foreign policy offering a diversity of perspectives on Cuba and the United States-Cuba bilateral relationship.  Our objectives for this evening event are to heighten student and public awareness of political and economic circumstances in contemporary Cuba\, and to explore various policy options for achieving long-term desired end-states in the United States relationship with our geographically close neighboring nation of Cuba.  The session will devote significant focus to assessing the state of Cuba’s economy\, investment opportunities and potential contributions of the American and Texas private sector and civic engagement to Cuba’s future and the development of the United States relationship with the island of Cuba.  Our confirmed expert contributing speakers: \n\nCarmelo Mesa-Lago\, Professor Emeritus of Economics\, University of Pittsburgh\nRafael Velazquez Perez\, Professor of Law at the University of Holguín (Cuba) and University of Vigo (Spain)\nEmilio Morales\, President and CEO of The Havana Consulting Group in Miami\nMargaret Crahan\, Senior Research Scholar and Director of the Cuba Program at the Institute of Latin American Studies at Columbia University (former Director of the Kozmetsky Center\, St. Edward’s University)\nJorge R. Pinon\, Director\, Latin America and Caribbean Energy Program\, Jackson School of Geosciences\, The University of Texas\, Austin\n\nThe forum will be in the Jones Global Events Center from 7:00-9:30 PM. \n\nCarmelo Mesa-Lago is Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus of Economics and Latin American Studies University of Pittsburgh\, has been a visiting professor in 8 countries and lecturer in 39\, founder and editor for 18 years of Cuban Studies\, and author of 95 books pamphlets and 318 articles published in 7 languages in 34 countries\, on Cuban economy\, social security and comparative economic systems. Recent books on Cuba: Market\, Socialist and Mixed Economies: Comparative Policy and Performance (Johns Hopkins\, 2002); La economía y el bienestar social en Cuba a comienzos del siglo XXI (Colibri\, 2003); Cuba’s Aborted Reform (with Jorge Perez-Lopez\, U. P. Florida\, 2005); Cuba en la era de Raúl Castro: Reformas economico-sociales y sus efectos (Colibri\, 2012); Sistemas de Protección Social en America Latina: Cuba (ECLAC\, 2013); Cuba Under Raul Castro: Assessing the Reforms (with J. Perez-Lopez\, Lynne Reinner\, 2013)\, and main author of Voices of Change in Cuba from the Expanding Non-State Sector (forthcoming University of Pittsburgh Press\, Fall 2017). He has worked throughout Latin America as an ECLAC regional advisor\, consultant with most international financial organizations\, several U.N. branches and foreign foundations. Was President of LASA\, is member of the National Academy of Social Insurance and has received: ILO International Prize on Decent Work (shared with Nelson Mandela)\, Alexander von Humboldt Stiftung Senior Prize\, two Senior Fulbrights\, Arthur Whitaker and Hoover Institution Prizes\, Distinction of ASCE\, Best Cuban Educator of the Year\, LASA Proze for excellence on research on Cuba\, University of Pittsburgh Bicentennial Medallion\, Homage for his life work on social security (OISS\, CISS) and the Cuban economy (ICS\, Encuentro\, FIU); selected among the 50 most influential Iberoamerican intellectuals of 2014; finalist in Spain’s Prince of Asturias Prize on Social Sciences 2009\, 2014\, 2015 \n\nDr. Rafael Velazquez Perez received his PhD in Sustainable Development and Environmental Strategies from the University of Extremadura and a second PhD in International Private Law from the University of Vigo. He has been a visiting scholar to the law faculty of University of Holguin (Cuba)\, University of Belgrano in Buenos Aires (Argentina) and the University of Columbia in New York. His most recent works include authorship of a book “Inversiones extranjeras sostenibles” and an editorial\, “Las inversions extranjeras sostenibles en la litigacion commercial internacional: formas de solucion de conflictos” (Memorias – 14º Encuentro Internacional de Derecho Ambiental). He has also co-authored “La obligacion de alimentos en el Derecho internacional privado de la Unión europea” (Quantex\, Orense\, 2009\, pp. 271)\, and “Fundamentos de Derecho procesal civil internacional” (Quantex\, Orense\, 2009\, pp. 217).  Apart from being a permanent partner for the Caribbean\, Argentina Environmental Foundation (Fundama)\, he is a member of the Scientific Society of Constitutional Law of the National Union of Jurists of Cuba and of the World League of environmental lawyers. \n  \n\n \nDr. Margaret E. Crahan is a Senior Research Scholar and Director of the Cuba Program at the Institute for Latin American Studies at Columbia University. From 2007-09 she was the Kozmetsky Distinguished Professor and Director of the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence in Global Finance at St. Edward’s University\, from 1982-1994 she was the Henry R. Luce Professor of Religion\, Power and Political Process at Occidental College and from 1994-2008 the Dorothy Epstein Professor of the City University of New York.  She serves on the Executive Committee of the Inter-American Institute of Human Rights and is a member of the Boards of St. Edward’s University and the Latin American Program of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.  In 2013 she was recognized by the government of Brazil for her work on human rights.   Dr. Crahan has received grants from the Fulbright Program\, Social Science Research Council\, American Council of Learned Societies\, Open Society Foundations\, the Ford Foundation\, and the National Endowment for the Humanities\, among others.   She has visited Cuba over 50 times since 1973 for research.  Dr. Crahan has published over one hundred articles and books including Human Rights and Basic Needs in the Americas; Religion\, Culture and Society: The Case of Cuba; The City and the World: New York’s Global Future and The Wars on Terrorism and Iraq: Human Rights\, Unilateralism\, and US Foreign Policy (with Thomas G. Weiss and John Goering). \n  \n\nEmilio Morales is President & CEO of HAVANA CONSULTING GROUP (THCG and Tech\, LLC)\, a Miami-based consulting firm specializing in market intelligence and strategy for U.S. and non-U.S. persons doing business in Cuba. Born and raised in Cuba\, Mr. Morales was formerly the Head of the Strategic Marketing Planning Department for the Marketing Division for CIMEX Corporation\, Cuba’s largest state enterprise holding company\, with more than 80 subsidiaries across Cuba engaged in 35 different retail and wholesale businesses and annual revenues of more than US$2.2 billion. Prior to CIMEX\, Morales worked for the Cuban government on a range of bilateral projects in Argentina\, Canada\, Mexico\, and South Africa.   Recognized for his unique insights into the dynamics of the Cuban market and economy\,  Morales has produced dozens of related research papers and written over 50 articles on various sectors of the Cuban economy\, including remittances\, the market for mobile phones\, real estate opportunities\, tourism\, energy\, logistics and transportation\, health care services and biotechnology\, agriculture\, food industry\, retail opportunities\, sugar industry\, exports of rum and cigars\, and Cuba’s growing opportunities for entrepreneurs (known in Cuba as cuentapropismo).  He has also conducted several studies on the Cuban economic model\, including studies on Cuba’s internal economic consumption in various sectors (both at the state and non-state levels).  Morales is the author of two books: “Cuba: A Silent Transition to Capitalism?” (2009) and “Marketing without Advertising: Brand Preference and Consumer Choice in Cuba\,” Routledge Advances in Management and Business Studies\, 2011. \n\nJorge R. Piñon is the Director at Latin America and Caribbean Energy Program\, Jackson School of Geosciences\, The University of Texas at Austin and Interim Director\, Center for International Energy and Environmental Policy\, Jackson School of Geosciences\, The University of Texas at Austin. Piñon began his thirty-two-year career in the energy sector when he joined Shell Oil Company’s supply and transportation organization in 1975. He was president and CEO of Transworld Oil USA prior to joining Amoco Corporation in 1991 as president of Amoco Corporate Development Company Latin America. In this position Piñon represented the business development and joint venture efforts in Latin America between Amoco Corporation and state oil companies. In 1994 he was transferred to the downstream oil sector to serve as president of Amoco Oil de México and president of Amoco Oil Latin America\, based in Mexico City. He was a member of the board of INROADS de Mexico\, an organization developing underserved youth in business and industry and preparing them for corporate and community leadership. In 1997\, while vice-president and member of the board of directors of the American Chamber of Commerce of Mexico -AMCHAM-\, Piñon received the “Yiacatecutli” award for distinguished service in the promotion of U.S.-Mexico business relations. With international experience in business development\, joint ventures and relationship management in emerging and transitional markets\, and a network of senior energy contacts in Latin America; he is recognized as an independent analyst of regional energy issues\, as well as the geopolitics of oil and natural gas in Latin America. He has conducted research and country risk assessments as a Visiting Energy Fellow at the University of Miami’s Center for Hemispheric Policy (2005-2010) and at Florida International University’s Latin American and Caribbean Center (2010-2011) prior to joining the University of Texas at Austin in 2012. He holds a degree in International Economics and a certificate in Latin American Studies from the University of Florida\, Gainesville. URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/perspectives-on-cubas-future-exploring-policy-options-paths-for-the-u-s-cuba-bilateral-relationship/ LOCATION:St. Edwards University\, Jones Auditorium\, 3001 South Congress\, Austin\, TX\, 78704\, United States CATEGORIES:Americas,Business,diplomatic,educational,Global Trade ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/CubanMarket-2013-e1482202319424.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR