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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180417T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180417T213000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042905
CREATED:20180131T222930Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180402T182519Z
UID:3352-1523991600-1524000600@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Challenges to the Western Liberal Order
DESCRIPTION:The Kozmetsky Center at St. Edward’s University\, in collaboration with the World Affairs Council of Austin\, is  offering a series of sessions titled “Challenges to the Western Liberal Order”.  The session on Tuesday April 17th will feature leading policy officials and academics representing nations of the transatlantic community\, Russia and China to discuss challenges to the rules and traditions and values of the existing Western liberal order.  Forum participants will explore the pressures on domestic and international political and financial institutions and communities to adapt to the changing global power configuration and rapidly evolving international security\, economic\, financial and social developments. \nFeatured international speakers include: \nDr. Jamie Shea\, Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Emerging Challenges\, NATO and Professor at the London School of Economics\, \nDr. Gao Fei\, Assistant President and Dean\, China Foreign Affairs University\, \nAmbassador Vesko Garcevic\, Professor of Practice of International Relations\, Boston University\, \nDr. Dmitry Suslov\, Program Director Valdai Group and National Research University Higher School of Economics Moscow and \nDr. Igor Zevelev\, George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies. \nThis will be the fourth conference event on transatlantic security funded by a U.S. Department of Education Title VI National Resource Program grant in cooperation with the Center for European Studies and Center for Russian\, East European\, and Eurasian Studies at University of Texas\, Austin.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/challenges-to-the-western-liberal-order/
LOCATION:St. Edwards University\, Jones Auditorium\,  3001 South Congress\, Austin\, TX\, 78704\, United States
CATEGORIES:cultural,diplomatic,educational
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/atomic-clock.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180312T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180312T143000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042905
CREATED:20180321T180802Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180321T180802Z
UID:3451-1520861400-1520865000@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Cities without Borders: From Austin to Bologna and the EU to Central Texas
DESCRIPTION:Join the European Union\, the City of Austin\, and the World Affairs Council of Austin for a gathering of those working in and with cities interested in exploring the growing opportunities available for international city-to-city cooperation. The meetup will showcase Austin’s partnerships with Bologna\, Italy and Lulea\, Sweden around sustainable development\, economic development\, and cultural relations. We’ll also introduce EU and Central Texas trade reps working to expand their respective international trade relationships. \nIn addition to a sandwich lunch and networking\, the meetup will include: \n\nBrief remarks by Austin and Bologna representatives participating in the EU’s International Urban Cooperation initiative\nBrief remarks by Austin and Lulea representatives participating in their economic and cultural partnership\nCultural presentation from Austin’s House of Songs\nConcluding remarks by representatives from the European Union\n\nWe very much hope that you’ll be able to join us! \n#EUatSXSW
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/cities-without-borders-from-austin-to-bologna-and-the-eu-to-central-texas/
CATEGORIES:Business,cultural,diplomatic,educational,Europe,Global Trade,International Trade Center,Luncheon Series
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180311T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180311T150000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042905
CREATED:20180227T191714Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180227T191714Z
UID:3425-1520776800-1520780400@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Conversation with Leo Varadakar\, T.D. Prime Minister of Ireland
DESCRIPTION:SXSW\, the Consulate General of Ireland in Austin and the World Affairs Council of Austin are pleased to announce a conversation featuring Taoiseach Leo Varadkar\, with Evan Smith of the Texas Tribune.  During the event attendees will learn how tech made Ireland become one of the most open and globalized economies in the world. Mr. Varadkar will also discuss Irish innovation at this year’s SXSW and how the Irish tech sector is increasingly impacting the US economy. \nLeo Varadkar was elected in June 2017 as Ireland’s youngest ever Taoiseach (Prime Minister). Born in 1979\, the son of an Indian father and Irish mother\, Mr. Varadkar personifies the dynamic\, youthful and diverse Ireland of today. He is one of the few LGBT Heads of Government in the world. Having studied medicine at Trinity College Dublin\, Mr. Varadkar qualified as a medical doctor but soon ventured into the world of politics\, in which he has risen rapidly to the leadership position he holds today. He heads a Government that is shaping the Ireland of the 21st Century\, a country at the heart of the European Union\, and an island at the center of the world. Mr. Varadkar is visiting the United States to further deepen and advance the bilateral relationship between the two countries; he will attend SXSW before meeting with President Donald Trump in Washington DC later in the week. \nMr. Varadkar is the only Head of Government speaking at SXSW in 2018. Ireland is one of the oldest international participants at SXSW.   Event is available to all SXSW badge holders.  www.sxsw.com
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/conversation-with-leo-varadakar-t-d-prime-minister-of-ireland/
LOCATION:Hilton Hotel\, 500 E. 4th Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States
CATEGORIES:Business,diplomatic,educational,Europe,Global Trade,International Trade Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/LeoVaradkar-e1519439990746.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20171207T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171207T140000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042905
CREATED:20170823T191326Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171120T181019Z
UID:2946-1512649800-1512655200@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Invisible:  Surviving the Cambodian Genocide
DESCRIPTION:In collaboration with the Kozmetsky Center at St. Edward’s University\, we will offer a lecture by Dr. Fran Pilch\, Professor Emeritus of the United States Air Force Academy.  Dr. Pilch’s lecture will incorporate insights from the course she developed for the Air Force Academy entitled “War Crimes\, Genocide\, and Human Rights\,” and extensive research included in her book released on this topic in 2017. \nDr. Pilch’s lecture will concentrate on the actual accounts of survivors of Pol Pot’s genocide which claimed the lives of an estimated two million people—more than one-fourth of the total Cambodian population. \nDr. Pilch served as a Fulbright-Hays Scholar in South Africa and a Fulbright Scholar in Mongolia\, where she taught International Law at the School of Diplomacy\, National University of Mongolia\, in Ulaanbaatar.  In 2011-12\, she was named the Case Carnegie Colorado Professor of the Year.  She was awarded her B.A. from the University of Connecticut and her M.A. and Ph.D. in International Relations from Yale University. \n  \n \n 
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/invisible-surviving-the-cambodian-genocide/
LOCATION:St. Edwards University\, Carter Auditorium\, 3001 S. Congress Ave\, Austin\, TX\, 78704\, United States
CATEGORIES:Asia,author,cultural,diplomatic,educational
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/cambodia.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20171207T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171207T130000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042905
CREATED:20170713T201410Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171205T022904Z
UID:2839-1512646200-1512651600@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:A Conversation with Ambassador Thomas Pickering about the Iran Nuclear Deal
DESCRIPTION:Join the World Affairs Council of Austin for a luncheon featuring Ambassador Thomas Pickering\, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. \nSince President Trump set the stage for eventual US withdrawal from the nuclear agreement\, how the Congress now deals with sanctions against Iran will define the nature and pace of US potential withdrawal. What’s next with the Iran deal? How might a US withdrawal impact relations with Europe and the Middle East? \nThe program will be conducted in an interview style with an opportunity for questions from the audience. The discourse will focus on the Iran Deal and its implications for the region and global peace. Roy E. Casagranda\, PhD and Professor of Government at Austin Community College will conduct the interview. \n  \nRecent Opinion by Ambassador Thomas Pickering published in San Antonio Express News on November 30\, 2017: \nU.S. must be wary in choosing sides\, Saudi Arabia vs. Iran\n \n##################### \nAmbassador Thomas R. Pickering is Vice Chair of Hills & Company. He holds the rank of Career Ambassador\, the highest in the U.S. Foreign Service. In a diplomatic career spanning five decades\, he was U.S. ambassador to Israel\, the Russian Federation\, India\, El Salvador\, Nigeria\, and Jordan. From 1989 to 1992\, he was Ambassador to the United Nations in New York\, and he then served as Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs. Earlier in his career\, he was Special Assistant to Secretaries of State William P. Rogers and Henry Kissinger. He also served in the U.S. Navy and Naval Reserves.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/a-conversation-on-iran-with-ambassador-thomas-pickering/
LOCATION:ACC Eastview Campus MultiPurpose Room 8500\, 3401 Webberville Road\, Austin\, TX\, 78702\, United States
CATEGORIES:Ambassador,Business,diplomatic,educational,Global Trade,International Trade Center,Luncheon Series,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/pickeringthomas-hillscomp.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20171108T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171108T213000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042905
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
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20171106T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171107T140000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042905
CREATED:20171028T155631Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171028T155631Z
UID:3124-1509955200-1510063200@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Democratic Reform in Europe
DESCRIPTION:The LBJ School of Public Affairs\, and the Center for European Studies – the University of Texas at Austin\, in partnership with the World Affairs Council of Austin present a conference on Democratic Reform in Europe. \nThis conference will bring to Austin the leading figures of the new movement for Democratic Reform in Europe\, including the former finance minister of Greece and author of the global bestseller\, Adults in the Room\, Yanis Varoufakis\, the recent French presidential candidate\, Benoit Hamon\, the rising Labour MP from Yorkshire\, Chi Onwurah\, the former Vice Prime Minister of Poland\, Grzegorz Kolodko. These leaders will join distinguished academic experts including Kunibert Raffer (University of Vienna)\, Giuseppe Sacco (LUISS University of Rome)\, Brendan O’Leary (University of Pennsylvania)\, Jorge Uxo (University of Madrid) and Henning Meyer of Social Europe\, among others. \nThis is the fourth in a biennial series of Texas conferences on European issues\, which have in past years explored the crisis of the Eurozone\, the Greek crisis and the relationship of the South American Summer to European problems. It will engage senior American experts as well\, including Michael Lind\, Jeremi Suri and James Galbraith of the University of Texas at Austin\, Damon Silvers\, Policy Director of the AFL-CIO\, and Pavlina Tcherneva of Bard College\, a leading advocate of Modern Monetary Theory. \nAn additional  focus of this conference is the emergence of young leaders in addressing the European crisis. These will include Philip Pilkington of Ireland\, Clara Mattei of Italy and the New School\, Daniel Munevar (a Colombian resident in Sweden and former adviser to the Greek finance ministry)\, and Tuomas Malinen of the University of Helsinki\, Finland. \nKeynotes will be given by Benoit Hamon and Chi Onwurah\, and a special panel will be devoted to the Democracy in Europe Movement\, led by Yanis Varoufakis — who is\, in addition\, a former member of the faculty of the LBJ School. \nFree and Open to the Public.  Agenda and RSVP here.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/democratic-reform-in-europe/
LOCATION:Bass Lecture Hall\, 2315 Red River Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78712\, United States
CATEGORIES:author,diplomatic,educational,Europe,Law and regulations,Luncheon Series
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/DemoReformEurope-e1509209307299.png
ORGANIZER;CN="UT Center for European Studies":MAILTO:ces@austin.utexas.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20171025T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171025T193000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042905
CREATED:20170817T021539Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171102T001342Z
UID:2926-1508954400-1508959800@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Hot Topic: China’s Increasing Role in the Middle East
DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin is pleased to have David Oualaalou (pronounced Walalou\, known also as Dr. O) discuss China’s growing influence in the Middle East.  Dr. O is a global-affairs consultant\, analyst\, blogger\, author\, educator\, and former international security analyst in Washington\, DC. \nHis 15 years of experience in support of the US government’s foreign policy initiatives have given him a valuable perspective. His duties included providing regional orientation\, mediating cultural differences among the U.S. and its allies\, helping parties understand differing religious beliefs and values\, assisting with foreign internal defense\, offering insights into countries’ politics and economics\, and disseminating information to high-level officials during negotiations with foreign officials of targeted countries. Similarly\, he framed U.S. government policies and interests within the proper cultural and political context of countries engaged while facilitating cultural\, political\, economic\, and religious awareness between the U.S. and its counterparts. \nDavid worked in the field with elite U.S. military forces carrying out operations at the behest of U.S. policymakers. On many occasions\, he worked in and visited many countries in the Middle East and around the world in an official capacity representing the United States government. He speaks Arabic/French fluently\, grasp the depth of the Middle East’s economic\, social\, cultural\, and religious interactions\, and\, from both abstract and practical perspectives\, know how the region’s internal politics work. His assignments took him to Afghanistan\, Bolivia\, Cambodia\, Canada\, Denmark\, Djibouti\, England\, Finland\, France\, Germany\, Holland\, Iraq\, Ivory Coast\, Japan\, Kuwait\, Mexico\, Poland\, Romania\, Saudi Arabia\, Spain\, Sweden\, Switzerland\, Thailand\, and Yemen. \nDavid has written numerous analyses on global affairs issues which have appeared in many newspapers and online journals\, including the Slovak Atlantic Commission (SAC)\, an affiliate of the European Atlantic Council\, The HuffPost\, the Waco Tribune-Herald\, South China Morning Post (SCMP) in Hong Kong\, Eurasia Daily\, Journal on European Perspectives of the Western Balkans\, Defense Alert Journal\, MSN News\, Al-Jazeera\, Middle East & North Africa (MENA) Forum\, Security News Wire\, and Freedom and Justice Gate Journal in the Middle East\, among others. \nDavid has an international audience that spans the political spectrum. Some of his 140 plus articles have been translated into Arabic\, Chinese\, Farsi\, French\, German\, Malay\, Russian\, Spanish\, Thai\, Turkish\, and Vietnamese. \nDavid is the author of the Ambiguous Foreign Policy of The United States toward the Muslim World: More Than a Handshake (2016). His forthcoming book\, Volatile State: Iran in the Nuclear Age due for release in Jan/2018. Currently\, he is working on his third book\, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: the Hidden Truth. David has also co-authored other books including: Dying to Eat: Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Food\, Death\, and the Afterlife\, (January\, 2018). \nDavid’s academic\, linguistic\, and cultural background\, coupled with his substantial experience\, has proved vital to understanding the geopolitical trends and the political\, economic\, and security risks organizations face when operating overseas. His insights are key to organizations’ long-term strategic planning and access to new markets not only in the Middle East but also in the world writ large. \n  \nAgenda \n6:00 PM Registration and networking \n6:15 PM Speaker Presentation followed by Q&A \n7:15 PM  Additional networking \n7:30 PM Event Concludes
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/chinas-increasing-role-in-the-middle-east/
LOCATION:ACC Highland Business Center 2nd Floor Boardroom\, 5930 Middle Fiskville Road\, Austin\, TX\, 78752\, United States
CATEGORIES:Asia,author,Business,diplomatic,educational,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/DavidO-e1502939675585.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170926T164500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170926T181500
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20170817T023244Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170919T201338Z
UID:2930-1506444300-1506449700@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Truth Stranger Than Fiction?  How Thrillers are a Window into how U.S. Foreign Policy Really Works
DESCRIPTION:In collaboration with the Austin School Lecture Series\, the World Affairs Council of Austin is pleased to feature a presentation by Todd Moss\, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs\, now senior fellow at the Center for Global Development in Washington DC and a nonresident scholar at Rice University’s Baker Institute in Houston.  Todd’s work focuses on US-Africa relations\, energy policy\, and private investment. Previously\, he has been a professor at the London School of Economics (LSE) and Georgetown University and has worked at the World Bank and the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). He’s the author nonfiction books including African Development: Making Sense of the Issues and Actors (2011) and Oil to Cash: Fighting the Resource Curse with Cash Transfers (2015).  Todd also writes an international thriller series for Penguin’s Putnam Books about a State Department crisis manager including The Golden Hour (2014)\, Minute Zero (2015)\, Ghosts of Havana (2016)\, and The Shadow List (2017). \nAgenda \n4:45 PM Networking \n5:15 PM Speaker Presentation followed by Q&A \n6:15 PM Event Concludes
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/truth-stranger-than-fiction-how-thrillers-are-a-window-into-how-u-s-foreign-policy-really-works/
LOCATION:ACC Eastview Campus MultiPurpose Room 8500\, 3401 Webberville Road\, Austin\, TX\, 78702\, United States
CATEGORIES:Africa,author,cultural,diplomatic,educational
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/ToddMoss-e1502940687327.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170425T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170426T170000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20170206T204539Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170417T210229Z
UID:2530-1493146800-1493226000@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Russia & the West: Significance\, Challenges\, and Potential
DESCRIPTION:In collaboratation with the World Affairs Council of Austin\, the Kozmetsky Center will co-sponsor a conference on Russia & the West: Significance\, Challenges\, and Potential. Distinguished experts of the United States\, European\, and Eurasian academic\, policy and private sector communities will assess contemporary and future security and economic relations between Russia and the West. \nSpeakers will share perspectives on the importance of Russia’s bilateral and multilateral relationships with Western nations\, immediate and longer-term strategic interests and priorities\, economic and security aspects of Russia’s relationships with Western countries\, significance that should be assigned to values in defining these relationships\, and overall implications of Russia’s relationships with Western nations for the contemporary and potential emerging geopolitical world order. \nOpening Forum on April 25th from 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm \nBilateral and Multilateral Relationships on April 26th from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm \nDimensions of Security & Economic Relationships on April 26th from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm \nThe program will take place in Jones Auditorium on the St. Edwards University campus.  No RSVPs necessary for these events.  Speaker and program information is available here.\nThis will be the third conference event on transatlantic security funded by a U.S. Department of Education Title VI National Resource Program grant in cooperation with the Center for European Studies and Center for Russian\, East European\, and Eurasian Studies at University of Texas\, Austin.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/russia-the-west-significance-challenges-and-potential/
LOCATION:St. Edwards University\, Jones Auditorium\,  3001 South Congress\, Austin\, TX\, 78704\, United States
CATEGORIES:Business,cultural,diplomatic,educational,Europe,Law and regulations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Putin-MD-2016-e1486413587880.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170131T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170131T193000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20170113T180804Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170113T180804Z
UID:2269-1485885600-1485891000@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Ukraine between the EU\, US and Russia: The Quest for Security and Development
DESCRIPTION:Since the beginning of Euromaidan Ukraine finds itself entangled in a deep crisis that dramatically alters the situation in the country\, its internal (socio-economic\, regional) dynamics and international positioning vis-à-vis its neighbors and also other significant regional and global players. The depth of the crisis was evident since its start on November 30th\, 2013 but the scale of the crisis has markedly grown since Russian federation has carried out the annexation of Crimea in March 2014 and has begun its intervention in Donbas shortly afterwards. The crisis\, which originally mostly had features of an internal one\, has quickly internationalized\, becoming a conflict\, indeed\, with varying levels of intensity and at some points resembling an actual war. Throughout this period of time Ukraine has been faced with a number of urgent and critical challenges. It had to: engage in a military conflict with Russian troops and their proxies in Eastern Ukraine; cleanse the political system and introduce real\, meaningful reforms; reinvigorate its fledgling (and scarred by war) economy. In living up to dealing with all these tasks Ukraine must find a right format of dealing with some of the international players\, the most significant among them being Russian Federation\, the European Union and the United States of America.  RSVP HERE. \n  \nVolodymyr Dubovyk is an Associate Professor at the Department of International Relations and a Director of the Center for International Studies at the Odesa I. Mechnikov National University. Among his teaching and research interests are U.S. foreign policy\, U.S. – Ukraine relations\, Black Sea regional security\, foreign policy of Ukraine. He has had his fellowships at the Kennan Institute\, W. Wilson International Center for Scholars in 1997 and 2006-07 (Fulbright)\, at the Center for International and Security Studies at Maryland (CISSM)\, University of Maryland in 2002\, has been a visiting faculty at the University of Washington (Seattle) in 2013 and is a Fulbright Visiting Scholar at St. Edwards university/University of Texas\, Austin in 2016-2017 study year. Volodymyr was a member of various professional associations over the years\, he participates in PONARS Eurasia (New Approaches to Research and Security in Eurasia)\, project based in George Washington University.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/ukraine-between-the-eu-us-and-russia-the-quest-for-security-and-development/
LOCATION:ACC Highland Business Center 2nd Floor Boardroom\, 5930 Middle Fiskville Road\, Austin\, TX\, 78752\, United States
CATEGORIES:cultural,diplomatic,educational,Europe
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/VolodymyrDubovyk2-e1477176775178.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20161129T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20161129T130000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20160616T030409Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161122T024131Z
UID:1982-1480419000-1480424400@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Country Briefing Featuring Macedonia's Ambassador to the USA\, H.E. Mr. Vasko Naumovski
DESCRIPTION:H.E. Mr. Vasko Naumovski\, the Republic of Macedonia’s Ambassador to the USA\, will join World Affairs Council of Austin members for an exclusive political and trade briefing.  Due to high interest\, this event is filled to capacity. \n  \n  \nWorld Affairs Council of Austin members receive exclusive invitations to private events.  Membership information is available at: www.wacaustin.org/membership
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/country-briefing-featuring-macedonias-ambassador-to-the-usa-h-e-mr-vasko-naumovski/
CATEGORIES:Ambassador,Business,cultural,diplomatic,educational,Europe,Global Trade
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Ambassador-vasko-naumovski.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20161103T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20161103T193000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20161018T173828Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161031T015544Z
UID:2229-1478194200-1478201400@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:NATO's Critical Importance for United States and Global Security
DESCRIPTION:“NATO’s Critical Importance for United States and Global Security: Regional Security Challenges to the East and South” \nThis session will offer an overview and assessment of NATO’s major contemporary regional challenges followed by a roundtable exchange with attendees.  EVENT FILLED TO CAPACITY. \n  \nDespina Afentouli currently serves as Program Officer for Partnerships\, Cooperative Security and Open Door policies\, regional coordinator for South Caucasus & Central Asia\, and Program Officer for Greece at NATO’s Public Diplomacy Division. Before joining NATO\, from 1986 to 2001\, Despina Afentouli had extensive experience as a foreign policy and European affairs journalist and columnist including serving as European Affairs Editor at the Athens News Agency (1997-2001)\, editor-in-chief of the Greek edition of the Economist Intelligence Unit reports ( 1996-1999)\, diplomatic correspondent for STAR Channel (1995-1996) and Messimvrini Daily\, (1995-1996)\, political correspondent at Kathimerini Daily (1989-1994)\, and Foreign Affairs editor\, Athens Municipal Radio (1986-1989). Ms. Afentouli studied Law at Athens University (BA) and earned an MA degree in Political Communication at the University of Paris-I (Sorbonne). She was a member of the European Association of Journalists and served as Secretary General of the European Network of Women Journalists (1994-98).  She is the author of four books (“A journey in Greek foreign policy”\, Athens\, Potamos\, 2005/”EMU: The day after”\, Athens\, Dromeas\, 1999/ “The Europe we want”\, Athens\, I. Sideris\, 1997/”May ’68: Twenty years after”\, Athens\, Odysseas\, 1988) and of numerous articles on international relations and foreign policy.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/natos-critical-importance-for-united-states-and-global-security/
LOCATION:EVENT FILLED TO CAPACITY\, Austin\, 78705
CATEGORIES:diplomatic,educational,Europe
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/ino.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20161012T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20161012T190000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20160817T230558Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160901T191715Z
UID:2126-1476293400-1476298800@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Iran - Post Sanctions
DESCRIPTION:With a population of 80 million\, a diverse economy and an incredible demand for all things new and luxurious Iran has been described as the next “big thing”.  However\, a year after reaching a deal to end some of the internationally imposed sanctions challenges prove as formidable as opportunities.  This is particularly true in the aviation sector where Iran tried to acquire close to 300 new airplanes placing orders with Boeing and Airbus. \nBe sure to register to learn more from Ali Dadpay\, PhD\, Advisory Board Member of the United States-Iran Chamber of Commerce (USIRCC).   USIRCC utilizes its strategic position to advance American and Iranian business interests within legal and regulatory parameters. \n  \n  \n 
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/iran-post-sanctions/
LOCATION:ACC Highland Business Center Board Room\, ACC Highland Business Center\, 2nd Floor Board Room\, 5930 Middle Fiskville Rd\, Austin\, TX\, 78752\, United States
CATEGORIES:Business,diplomatic,educational,Global Trade,Law and regulations,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Tehran-e1471478653742.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20160623T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20160623T163000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20160616T024156Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160616T031217Z
UID:1980-1466694000-1466699400@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Embassy Briefing Featuring South Africa's Ambassador to the USA\, H.E. Mr. MNINWA JOHANNES MAHLANGU
DESCRIPTION:H.E. Mr. Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu\, South Africa’s Ambassador to the USA\, will join World Affairs Council of Austin members for an exclusive political and trade briefing. \nAmbassador Mahlangu is one of the leaders who played a critical role in the process leading up to the first democratic South Africa. Between 1991 and 1994\, he was a negotiator at the Congress for Democratic South Africa (CODESA) and the Multiparty Negotiation Forum. In 1993\, he became the Co-Chairperson of these bodies. From 1993 to 1994 he was a member of South Africa’s Transitional Executive Council. \nAfter the first democratic elections in 1994\, he joined the National Assembly in the Parliament of South Africa as a representative of the African National Congress. He became a member of the Constitutional Assembly (CA)\, the body that drafted the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. As a member of the CA\, he chaired the Core Group of the Theme Committee on Chapter 4 dealing with Parliament. During his tenure as a Member of the National Assembly he also served as Chairperson of House Committees. \nIn 2002\, he was elected Permanent Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Parliament. After the third democratic elections in 2004\, he was re-elected Permanent Deputy Chairperson of the Council. In 2005 he was elected the Chairperson of the NCOP and was re-elected in 2009. He served in this position until the fifth democratic elections in 2014. \nHe has represented South Africa in many international platforms\, including the UN and G20 Speakers Conferences. He was the leader of the South African Parliament’s delegation to the Pan-African Parliament. His duties in this continental body included serving in the Committee on Rules\, Privileges and Discipline. He has held the positions of Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (Africa Region) and President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (International) respectively. \n  \nWorld Affairs Council of Austin members receive exclusive invitations to private events.  Membership information is available at: www.wacaustin.org/membership
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/embassy-briefing-featuring-south-africas-ambassador-to-the-usa-h-e-mr-mninwa-johannes-mahlangu/
LOCATION:EVENT FILLED TO CAPACITY\, Austin\, 78705
CATEGORIES:Africa,Ambassador,cultural,diplomatic,educational,Global Trade
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/AmbassadorMahlangu-e1466048418643.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20160510T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20160510T163000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20151104T021932Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160314T195903Z
UID:1530-1462865400-1462897800@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Fifth Annual Texas-EU Business Summit
DESCRIPTION:Helping Texas Businesses Access The World’s Largest Economic Zone \nIn its 5th year\, the Texas-EU Business Summit is the premier event for Texas businesses\, entrepreneurs and economic development professionals seeking to expand their footprint in Europe. \nTexas is already the largest exporting state to the EU. The summit builds on that footprint\, focusing on promoting the international trade capacity of Texas businesses and economic development organizations while creating greater awareness regarding the benefits of exporting. \nThe Texas-EU Business Summit sessions are led by business leaders\, trade and investment officials from EU countries\, trade policy experts and political officials. \nEvent sponsors include: \nThe Barbo Osher Pro Suecia Foundation Endowment\, \nThe European Union Delegation to the USA\, and \nThe Center for European Studies\, the University of Texas at Austin\, \nThe Kozmetsky Center at St. Edwards University\, \nThe International Business Institute at Austin Community College\, \nThe World Affairs Councils of America.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/fifth-annual-texas-eu-business-summit/
LOCATION:Hilton Hotel\, 500 E. 4th Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States
CATEGORIES:Business,diplomatic,educational,Global Trade
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/eu.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20160428T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20160428T130000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20160420T203453Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160424T020651Z
UID:1881-1461843000-1461848400@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Business Luncheon Featuring H.E. Pham Quang Vinh\, Vietnam's Ambassador to the USA
DESCRIPTION:In collaboration with the LBJ Presidential Library and the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce\, World Affairs Council of Austin members join key Austin business and community leaders at a private luncheon with the Ambassador of Vietnam to the USA.   The main objective of this luncheon is to promote a comprehensive US-Vietnam partnership\, of which key components are economic development\, trade\, and relationship-building with Texas-based companies across all business sectors. \nSince the establishment of the US- Vietnam bilateral trade agreement in 2001\, trade between the two countries has grown dramatically.  The United States and Vietnam have concluded a trade and investment framework agreement’ they also have signed textile\, air transport\, and maritime agreements.  The two countries\, along with other Asia-Pacific nations\, are part of the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations\, with the goal of concluding a high-standard regional free trade agreement. \nThis exclusive event is hosted by the Austin Chamber of Commerce\, the LBJ Presidential Library and the University of Texas at Austin as a special program of the Vietnam War Summit. \n  \nFor more information\, contact:   bramirez  (at) wacaustin (dot) org
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/business-luncheon-featuring-h-e-pham-quang-vinh-vietnams-ambassador-to-the-usa/
CATEGORIES:Ambassador,Asia,Business,diplomatic,Global Trade,International Trade Center,Luncheon Series
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/HE-PhamQuangVinh-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20160427T081500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20160427T100000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20160320T190752Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160424T020916Z
UID:1798-1461744900-1461751200@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:H.E. Domingos Fezas Vital\, Ambassador of Portugal to the USA Discusses Investment and Business Opportunities in Portugal
DESCRIPTION:Exclusive event for World Affairs Council Members.  Please join us for a special program on trade and investment opportunities in the Portuguese Republic.  Portugal’s economy has been expanding at a steady pace since 2010.  The newly elected government’s approved budget signals that Portugal is recovering credibility in the markets as well as trust\, stability and economic optimism. \nPortugal’s export driven economic growth has been remarkable. Portuguese exports to the US more than doubled in the last five years from 1 to 2.5 billion Euros.  Besides traditional sectors (textiles\, footwear\, wines\, food\, ceramics\, wood and pulp)\, Portugal’s economy is more and more focused on modern\, non-traditional industries like renewable energy\, aerospace\, biotech and information technology. \nEntrepreneurship is also a focal point in the Portuguese economy.  Lisbon\, a hotbed for startups with many government-funded business incubators\, will host the largest European event on innovation startups – the Web Summit (November 7-10\, 2016). \n  \n  \nFeatured speakers: \nH.E. Domingos Fezas Vital\, Ambassador of Portugal to the USA\, and \nDr. Rui Boavista Marques\, Portuguese Trade and Investment Commissioner \nDr. Robert Peterson\, Director of the IC2 Institute at the University of Texas \n  \nDOMINGOS TEIXEIRA DE ABREU FEZAS VITAL \nGraduated in Social and Juridical Sciences in the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro; degree in Law from the University of Coimbra; Post-graduate in International Trade from the Solvay Institute of the Université Libre de Bruxelles.  He previously served as Permanent Representative of Portugal to the European Union. \nRUI BOAVISTA MARQUES \nReceived his Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies of Economy and Technology\, Research Centre for Advanced Science and Technology RCAST\, University of Tokyo\, Japan (March 1996).   Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Information Theory\, University of Electro-Communications\, Chofu\, Japan (March 1989).  Scholarship holder and researcher of the Japanese Ministry of Education\, Science and Culture\, University of Electro-Communications\, Chofu\, Japan (1986-1989).  Bachelor (B.Sc.) of Electronics and Telecommunication\, ISEL – Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Lisboa (September 1982).  He also serves as a Member of the Board\, Foreign Trade Commissioners Association\, New York. \n  \nBecome a member of the World Affairs Council of Austin prior to April 22nd to receive your exclusive invitation.  Membership information is available at: www.wacaustin.org/membership
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/h-e-domingos-fezas-vital-ambassador-of-portugal-to-the-usa-discusses-investment-and-business-opportunities-in-portugal/
CATEGORIES:Ambassador,Business,diplomatic,Europe,Global Trade
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/AmDFezasVital-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20160311T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20160311T160000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20160228T050446Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160308T033614Z
UID:1768-1457704800-1457712000@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Impact thu Innovation Forum
DESCRIPTION:Join the World Affairs Council of Austin\, Tech Ranch\, New Venture Institute\, the City of Austin\, 3D Innovation Labs\, and Global Ascent Partners in celebrating the launch of iTi with a series of pitches from startups around the world whose ventures are focused on making a social and global impact through their innovation.  Learn more about Austin organizations engaged in global Social Good projects. \n 
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/impact-thru-innovation-forum/
LOCATION:Austin City Hall\, 301 W. Second Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States
CATEGORIES:Business,diplomatic,educational,Global Trade
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/ITI-Logo-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20160208T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20160208T210000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20160110T223228Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160220T034725Z
UID:1612-1454956200-1454965200@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Shifting Geopolitics and Security among Major Powers: China\, Russia\, and the United States
DESCRIPTION:In collaboration with the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence at St. Edward’s University\, a distinguished panel of specialists representing China\, Russia\, the United States and Europe will discuss shifting geopolitics and security among these major powers. \nThe panel will feature the following participants: \nDr. Artyom Lukin\, Professor\, Far Eastern Federal University\, Vladivostok; \nDr. Gao Fei\, Professor\, China Foreign Affairs University\, Beijing; \nDr. Igor Zevelev\, Director\, MacArthur Foundation\, Moscow; \nDr. Alexei Voskressenski\, Dean\, Moscow State Institute of International Relations; \nDr. Matthew Rojansky\, Director\, Kennan Institute\, Woodrow Wilson Center; \nDr. Paul Bolt\, Professor\, United States Air Force Academy; and \nDr. Detlef Puhl\, Senior Advisor\, North Atlantic Treaty Organization NATO.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/shifting-geopolitics-and-security-among-major-powers-china-russia-and-the-united-states/
LOCATION:St. Edwards University\, Carter Auditorium\, 3001 S. Congress Ave\, Austin\, TX\, 78704\, United States
CATEGORIES:cultural,diplomatic,educational
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Xinhua-Landov-BarcroftMedia.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20151203T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20151203T190000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20151123T200158Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160220T035041Z
UID:1552-1449163800-1449169200@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Hungarian MP\, Zoltán Kész Discusses Hungary at the Crossroads
DESCRIPTION:A long-term advocate of liberty\, democracy\, tolerance and free market values\, Zoltán Kész won by a great margin the by-election held in the West-Hungarian town of Veszprém on 22 February\, 2015.  In his victory speech\, MP Kész stressed that although he and the supporting parties have many differences\, all of them are working for the same fundamental values of democracy.  Zoltán Kész’s victory shattered the two-third majority of governing party Fidesz in Hungary’s parliament.  \n  \nZoltán Kész\, born 1974 in Veszprem (Hungary)\, worked as a guest lecturer at ELTE University.  He also taught history in the USA\, and English in Hungary. Besides teaching\, he is also an entrepreneur and translator.  MP Kész is founder (2011) and director of Free Market Foundation.  The mission of Free Market Foundation is to represent\, defend\, and advance classical liberal values\, ideas and policies in Hungary\, and among speakers of the Hungarian language.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/hungarian-mp-zoltan-kesz-discusses-hungary-at-the-crossroads/
LOCATION:ACC Highland Business Center Board Room\, ACC Highland Business Center\, 2nd Floor Board Room\, 5930 Middle Fiskville Rd\, Austin\, TX\, 78752\, United States
CATEGORIES:diplomatic,educational,Europe
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/ZoltanKesz-401x401.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20151118T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20151118T150000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20151111T164203Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20151111T165521Z
UID:1542-1447855200-1447858800@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Public Discussion Featuring EU Ambassador to the United States\, David O'Sullivan
DESCRIPTION:“Transatlantic Relations & Global Challenges: What’s on the Agenda for 2016?” \nDavid O’Sullivan took up his post as European Union Ambassador to the United States in November 2014. A long-time EU official\, he has previously served as Chief Operating Officer of the newly-created European External Action Service now led by EU High Representative Federica Mogherini\, as EU Commission Director General for Trade (2005-2010)\, Secretary General (2000-2005)\, and Director General for Education and Training.  He began his diplomatic career in the Irish Foreign Ministry and spent four years in the EU Commission’s Delegation to Japan.   He is a graduate of Trinity College\, Dublin and the College of Europe (Bruges) and holds Honorary Doctorates from the Dublin Institute of Technology and Trinity College Dublin.  He was awarded the EU Transatlantic Business Award by the American Chamber of Commerce in 2014. \nSponsored by The Center for European Studies; World Affairs Council of Austin; Center for Russian\, East European and Eurasian Studies; Center for International Business Education and Research; LBJ School of Public Affairs; The Institute for Historical Studies in the Department of History; and the Consulate General of Ireland\, Austin. \nWednesday\, November 18\, 2015\n2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. \nThe talk will take place in Room 203 on the conference side (west side) of the AT&T Executive Eucation and Conference Center (1900 University Avenue\, Austin\, 78712). \nParking\nParking is available in the AT&T Parking Garage (entrance on the south side of the building) for a fee. There are also Pay-to-Park spaces along University Avenue. Unfortunately\, we will not be able to validate parking. \nThere is no other cost for this event\, but RSVPs are required.  RSVP via the link below.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/public-discussion-featuring-eu-ambassador-to-the-united-states-david-osullivan/
LOCATION:AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center\, 1900 University Ave\, Austin\, TX\, 78705\, United States
CATEGORIES:Ambassador,Business,diplomatic,educational,Europe,Global Trade
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/EU_Ambassador_OSullivan.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20150916T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20150916T190000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20150722T015013Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20150811T020433Z
UID:1346-1442424600-1442430000@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Ireland in Austin\, Ireland in the World: A Discussion with Adrian Farrell\, Consul General of Ireland
DESCRIPTION:Adrian Farrell was appointed as Ireland’s first Consul General in Texas in September 2014. Ireland’s new Consulate is only the second foreign diplomatic representation in Austin. \nIn his remarks Farrell will discuss Ireland’s strong historic ties with the United States\, and how the establishment of the new Irish Consulate in Austin will further strengthen Ireland’s future relations with Texas. As Ireland celebrates the 60th anniversary of its membership of the United Nations\, Farrell will also highlight Ireland’s key foreign policy priorities and its global diaspora. \nEvent attendees will also hear about Ireland’s EU membership\, current social and political developments in Ireland and why the Irish economy continues to grow at a faster rate than in any other EU state. \nThe event will take place at the new Ireland House Austin which was opened by Ireland’s Prime Minister Enda Kenny last March. \nParking available in the Bank of America garage and at street meters. Regretfully\, there are no free parking options. \nPlease register for this event at http://irelandaustin.eventbrite.com
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/a-discussion-with-adrian-farrell-consul-general-of-ireland/
LOCATION:Ireland House\, 515 Congress Avenue - Suite 1720\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States
CATEGORIES:diplomatic
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/adrian-farrell-RSC.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20150728T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20150728T130000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20150721T162345Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160204T040631Z
UID:1352-1438083000-1438088400@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Luncheon with H.E. Petr Gandalovič\, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to the USA
DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin in collaboration with The Center for European Studies\, and The Center for Russian\, East European and Eurasian Studies at the University of Texas host a luncheon featuring \nH.E. Petr Gandalovič\, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to the USA. \n\n \nAmbassador Petr Gandalovič arrived in the United States on May 20\, 2011. He presented his credentials to President Barack Obama on July 7\, 2011. \nEducation: \n1982-1987     Charles University Prague\, Faculty of Mathematics and Physics \nCareer History: \n2010-2011                  Member of Foreign Committee \n2009-2010                  Member of Agriculture Committee \n2007-2009                  Minister of Agriculture \n2006/9-12                   Minister of Regional Development \n2006-2011                  Member of the Chamber of Deputies\, Parliament of the Czech Republic \n2002-2006                  Mayor of the City of Ústí nad Labem \n1997-2002                  Consul General of the Czech Republic in New York \n1995-1997                  Ministry of Foreign Affairs\, Economic and Information Section\, Director General \n1994-1995                  Ministry of Foreign Affairs\, Advisor to Minister \n1992-1994                  Ministry of Environment\, Deputy Minister \n1990-1992                  Member of the Federal Assembly of the Czech and Slovak Federal Republic \n1987-1990                  High School of Ústí nad Labem\, teacher of mathematics and physics
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/luncheon-with-h-e-petr-gandalovic-ambassador-of-the-czech-republic-to-the-usa/
LOCATION:EVENT FILLED TO CAPACITY\, Austin\, 78705
CATEGORIES:Ambassador,Business,diplomatic,Europe,Global Trade,Luncheon Series
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/CzechAm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20150709T114500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20150709T133000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20150712T160028Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160204T040908Z
UID:1349-1436442300-1436448600@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Luncheon with Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs\, José Antonio Meade Kuribreña
DESCRIPTION:The Austin Council on Foreign Affairs in conjunction with The Consulate General of México\, The World Affairs Council of Austin\, Asociacion de Empresarios Mexicanos\, and The Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce luncheon featuring \nJosé Antonio Meade Kuribreña Secretary of Foreign Affairs of México \nSecretary Meade was born in Mexico. He received a degree in Economics from the Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México; a Law degree from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México\, and a PhD in Economics from Yale University.  \nAs a professor\, he has taught Microeconomics and Macroeconomics courses at ITAM and Yale University\, as well as courses in Economic Analysis of the Law at ITAM’s Masters Program in Public Policy.  \nHe has received recognition for his research on Economic Analysis of the Law\, an Honors Degree in Economics and the National Tlacaelel Award.  \nHe has served as: \n\nGeneral Director of Financial Planning at the National Commission for the Retirement Savings’ System .\n\n\nDeputy Secretary of Bank Savings Protection at Mexico’s Institute for the Protection of Bank Savings.\n\n\nGeneral Director of Banking and Savings at Mexico’s Ministry of Finance and Public Credit.  \n\n\nChief Executive Officer of the National Bank for Rural Credit\, currently in liquidation.  \n\n\nChief Executive Officer of Financiera Rural.\n\n\nChief of Staff of Ministry of Finance and Public Credit.\n\n\nUndersecretary of Finance (Tax) of Ministry of Finance and Public Credit.\n\n\nUndersecretary of Finance and Public Credit.\n\n\nSecretary of Energy\n\n\nSecretary of Finance and Public Credit.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/luncheon-with-mexicos-secretary-of-foreign-affairs-jose-antonio-meade-kuribrena/
LOCATION:Headliner’s Club\, 221 W. Sixth Street\,\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States
CATEGORIES:Business,diplomatic,Global Trade,Luncheon Series
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/SecretaryMeade.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20150402T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20150402T203000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20150323T044945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160220T044147Z
UID:1097-1427997600-1428006600@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Ambassador Joseph Stafford: The Making of Argo
DESCRIPTION:The Making of Argo: The real life story of the 1979 Tehran hostage crisis as experienced by two Americans who lived through it. \n\nPlease join the World Affairs Council of Austin to welcome Ambassador Joseph Stafford and his wife\, Kathleen\, for an unforgettable night of storytelling.\n\nIn 1979\, newly minted foreign service officer Joseph Stafford and his new wife Kathleen\, a visa processor\, were stationed at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran\, Iran. Within months\, student revolutionaries protesting Iranian-American relations stormed the embassy\, taking 60 people hostage in a standoff that lasted 444 days. Six embassy workers narrowly escaped out the back door\, hidden by umbrellas in the rain and secreted off into hiding. Joe and Kathy were two of them.\n\nWe hope to see our members and friends to learn from and re-imagine this extraordinary event.\n—-\nJoseph D. Stafford III is a career Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. Department of State\, now retired. He joined the Foreign Service in 1978. In June 2012\, he was assigned to Khartoum\, Sudan as Chargé d’affaires of U.S. Embassy\, Khartoum. Kathleen Stafford is an artist.\n\n\n\nSchedule:\n6 – 6:45 p.m. VIP Reception for WACA Members with Ambassador and Mrs. Stafford\n7 – 8 p.m. Presentation by Ambassador and Mrs. Stafford\n8 – 8:30 p.m. Question and Answer session
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/ambassador-joseph-stafford-the-making-of-argo/
LOCATION:ACC Highland Business Center Board Room\, ACC Highland Business Center\, 2nd Floor Board Room\, 5930 Middle Fiskville Rd\, Austin\, TX\, 78752\, United States
CATEGORIES:Ambassador,cultural,diplomatic,educational
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/stafford.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20150218T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20150218T200000
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20150711T212446Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160220T045436Z
UID:1321-1424284200-1424289600@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:William K. Davis: “The World We Want”
DESCRIPTION:Join the United Nations Association of Austin and the World Affairs Council for “The World We Want\,” with Mr. Will Davis\, Director of the UNDP Representation Office in Washington\, D.C. \nThis event is complimentary and open to the public\, but space is limited. \nWill is the Director of the UNDP Representation Office and is the liasion between the U.S. government\, think-tanks\, NGOs\, media\, academia\, and business communities\, informing them of the UNDP’s role\, capabilities\, programmes and results. He has served in a wide variety of roles\, including but not limited to\, Director of the UN Information Centre\, Director for Global and Functional Affairs in the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Legislative Affairs\, and Deputy Head of the Public Affairs Division for the Organization of Economic Development and Cooperation (OECD). Click here for a link to his full biography. \n“The World We Want” will be a high-level talk with a focus on macro-level initiatives and ideas\, but will also address the new frontier of economic development- technology\, entrepreneurship\, and socially conscious business.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/william-k-davis-the-world-we-want/
LOCATION:Capital Factory\, 701 Brazos Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States
CATEGORIES:cultural,diplomatic,educational,Law and regulations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/davis-will.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20150129T121500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20150129T134500
DTSTAMP:20260520T042906
CREATED:20150711T213222Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160220T050458Z
UID:1326-1422533700-1422539100@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Alexandra I. Toma: “Turning Passion Into a Profession: NGO Advocacy and Philanthropy on Nuclear Terrrorism”
DESCRIPTION:Join the RGK Center for Philanthropy & Community Service\, the Clements Center for History\, Strategy & Statecraft\, and the LBJ School of Public Affairs for “Turning Passion into a Profession: NGO Advocacy and Philanthropy on Nuclear Terrorism” withAlexandra I. Toma\, Executive Director of the Peace and Security Funders Group. Light lunch will be provided. \nAlex is the Executive Director of the Peace and Security Funders Group\, an umbrella organization coordinating philanthropic initiatives on peace and security.  Culling from experiences gained through a decade in the nonprofit and philanthropy sector in Washington\, D.C.\, Alex will discuss the role that domestic and international NGOs play in preventing nuclear terrorism.  She will share her expertise on foreign policymaking in D.C. and her top tips for beginning a career and maximizing success in philanthropy and the nonprofit world.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/alexandra-i-toma-turning-passion-into-a-profession-ngo-advocacy-and-philanthropy-on-nuclear-terrrorism/
LOCATION:LBJ School\, 2300 Red River St\, Austin\, TX\, 78712\, United States
CATEGORIES:diplomatic
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/alex_asan.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR