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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260420T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260420T200000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20260327T233353Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260328T001335Z
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SUMMARY:World Now: The Iran War - What We Know\, What Comes Next
DESCRIPTION:With the U.S. and Iran now in open conflict and the world’s energy supply under threat\, the stakes could not be higher – or more uncertain. \nJoin us on WorldNow with Jim Falk as we sit down with Steven Cook\, senior Middle East expert at the Council on Foreign Relations; Amb. Deborah Jones\, U.S. Ambassador (ret.) to Kuwait and Libya; and Beth Sanner\, CNN National Security Contributor and former Deputy Director of National Intelligence. \nWe’ll explore what’s happened so far in the conflict with Iran\, what may happen next\, and the war’s long-term impact on the region and beyond. \nThe details:\nWhen: Monday\, April 20th | 7pm CDT\nWhere: Zoom Webinar\nREGISTER HERE\n  \nAs this program will be simulcast with KSFR’s The Forum\, it will begin one hour later than our usual start time. The Zoom link will open at 7:00 PM CDT\, and the program will get underway at 7:04 PM CDT. \n\nFeaturing\n \nSteven A. Cook \nSenior Fellow for Middle East and Africa Studies\, Council on Foreign Relations \nSteven Cook is Eni Enrico Mattei senior fellow for Middle East and Africa studies and director of the International Affairs Fellowship for Tenured International Relations Scholars at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). He is an expert on Arab and Turkish politics as well as U.S.-Middle East policy. Cook is the author of The End of Ambition: America’s Past\, Present\, and Future in the Middle East.  \n\nAmb. Deborah Jones\nU.S. Ambassador (ret.) to Kuwait and Libya \nAmbassador Deborah Jones retired from the U.S. Department of State in 2016 with the rank of Career Minister following a 34-year diplomatic career that included assignments in Argentina\, Iraq\, Tunisia\, Syria\, Ethiopia\, the United Arab Emirates\, and Turkey\, as well as service as U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait and Libya. \n\n \nBeth Sanner\nDeputy Director of National Intelligence (2019-2021)\, National Security Contributor for CNN \nBeth Sanner\, a leading commentator and analyst of global affairs\, is a national security contributor for CNN\, director of geopolitics and strategy at International Capital Strategies. As Deputy Director of National Intelligence from April 2019 to March 2021\, Beth was the nation’s top intelligence analyst and also served as President Trump’s intelligence briefer during his first term. \nIn an intelligence career spanning three decades\, she was director of the President’s Daily Brief\, vice chair of the National Intelligence Council\, and a senior executive in CIA’s Directorate of Analysis\, before being appointed DDNI. She also served on the White House National Security Council staff and at the State Department. \nIn 2021\, Beth received the Presidential Rank Award\, the highest honor granted to civil servants\, for her leadership role in support of U.S. national security and the Distinguished Intelligence Service Medal\, the Intelligence Community’s highest award. \n\nModerated by\n\nJim Falk is President Emeritus of the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth. Now residing in Santa Fe\, NM\, he is Vice Chairman of the Board of Global Santa Fe. Inaddition to hosting WorldNow with Jim Falk\, Jim produces and hosts The Forum\, a weekly talk show on KSFR-FM\, Santa Fe Public Radio. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. \n\nPresented by\n \n 
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/world-now-the-iran-war-what-we-know-what-comes-next/
LOCATION:ONLINE
CATEGORIES:Geopolitics,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Portrait-Amb-Deborah-Jones.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="World Affairs Council of Connecticut":MAILTO:info@ctwac.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251022T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251022T200000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20251009T011632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251009T180118Z
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SUMMARY:Globalist Coffeehouse: The Middle East - Where are We Now?
DESCRIPTION:What is the region’s future\, starting with Gaza and the West Bank? What will be the role of the US and countries like Qatar\, Saudi Arabia\,  the UAE\, and Egypt? \nThe US has announced a 20-point plan for the region\, and at this time\, some would say that a ceasefire and the return of the Israeli hostages is perhaps feasible. However\, the more critical issue is where the region moves forward from there. The details in the proposal are often rather vague\, even aspirational. A cease-fire and hostage exchange is not necessarily peace in the Middle East. \nPlease join us for a lively discussion on what is currently essentially a fluid process.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/globalist-coffeehouse-the-middle-east-october/
LOCATION:Khon Thai Kitchen\, 5800 Burnet Road\, Austin\, 78756\, United States
CATEGORIES:Geopolitics,Middle East,peace and conflict
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Globalist-logo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250909T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250909T190000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20250806T031800Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250806T031800Z
UID:14601-1757440800-1757444400@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:World Now: A Tale of Two Kings - Saudi Arabia\, Jordan\, and the Future of Power in the Middle East
DESCRIPTION:Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman – de facto ruler of one of the wealthiest states in the Middle East – has positioned himself as a transformative leader. His rule is defined by economic and social change\, a close relationship with President Trump\, and concerns about human rights abuses and power consolidation. \nJordan’s King Abdullah II leads one of the region’s most economically challenged countries with a steady hand and traditional approach. His rule is characterized by alliance building and cautious political reform\, while also stifling political opposition. \nJoin us on WorldNow with Jim Falk for an inside look at two very different yet consequential leaders who are shaping the future of the Middle East – and redefining what it means to be king in the 21st century. With Pulitzer Prize-Winner Karen Elliot House\, author of The Man Who Would be King: Mohammad Bin Salman and the Transformation of Saudi Arabia and Aaron Magid\, author of The Most American King: Abdullah of Jordan. \n \nMeet the Authors\nKaren Elliott House is a Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist with nearly five decades of experience covering Saudi Arabia. She is also a former executive of Dow Jones & Company and former chair of the Rand Corp. Her deep expertise informs her latest book\, The Man Who Would Be King: Mohammed bin Salman and the Transformation of Saudi Arabia\, which draws on more than half a dozen in-depth interviews with the Crown Prince himself. House spent over 30 years at The Wall Street Journal\, serving as a reporter\, editor\, and ultimately publisher. She resides in Princeton\, New Jersey. \n\nAaron Magid is a former Amman-based journalist and the author of the recently published The Most American King: Abdullah of Jordan. His analysis on the Hashemite Kingdom has appeared in Foreign Affairs\, Foreign Policy\, Al-Monitor\, the Atlantic Council\, France 24\, Al-Jazeera\, and the Middle East Institute. He hosts the podcast On Jordan. He obtained a Master’s Degree in Middle Eastern Studies from Harvard University. \n\nMeet the Host\nJim Falk is President Emeritus of the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth. Now residing in Santa Fe\, NM\, he is Vice Chairman of the Board of Global Santa Fe. In addition to hosting WorldNow with Jim Falk\, Jim produces and hosts The Forum\, a weekly talk show on KSFR-FM\, Santa Fe Public Radio. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. \n\nAbout the Books\nThe Man Who Would Be King: Mohammed Bin Salman and the Transformation of Saudi Arabia by Karen Elliot House \nPulitzer Prize-winning reporter and former Wall Street Journal publisher\, Karen House has gained unprecedented insights into Saudi Arabia and its controversial leader\, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman through her more than forty years of experience covering the Arab kingdom. \nHouse reveals a leader who\, like Peter the Great\, is a reformer determined to modernize his kingdom but also an autocrat who jails political opponents and rival princes to assure his grip on power. Drawing on extensive interviews with the Crown Prince\, his royal relatives\, and his inner ring of advisors\, The Man Who Would Be King explains in full what shaped the man who is reshaping Saudi Arabia. It is an unprecedented and much needed in-depth portrait of the leader who\, at only thirty-nine\, will be a major player on the world stage for the next half century. \nGet a copy of The Man Who Would Be King on Bookshop.org to support your local bookstore. \n\nThe Most American King: Abdullah of Jordan by Aaron Magid \nThe first comprehensive biography on Jordan’s King Abdullah\, The Most American King details Abdullah’s rise to power\, survival amid protests from Jordanians\, and his efforts to cement an alliance with Washington. \nAaron Magid\, a former Amman-based journalist\, charts Abdullah’s path to power from a Massachusetts prep school to a British military academy to the throne\, and reveals how Abdullah has remained in power for over a quarter century. While leaders nearby were ousted during the 2011 Arab Spring protests\, Abdullah survived the wave of discontent. Drawing on interviews with over 100 of King Abdullah’s classmates\, former Jordanian ministers\, and CIA directors\, The Most American King offers a thorough account of this key Arab leader. \nGet a copy of The Most American King.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/world-now-a-tale-of-two-kings-saudi-arabia-jordan-and-the-future-of-power-in-the-middle-east/
LOCATION:ONLINE
CATEGORIES:author,Geopolitics,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/A-Tale-of-Two-Kings-e1754450146393.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240925T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240925T193000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20240914T220008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240914T220008Z
UID:14073-1727289000-1727292600@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Globalist Coffeehouse: The Middle East – What is the Region's Future and the Role of the U.S.?
DESCRIPTION:Please join like-minded “global thinkers” for a monthly discussion on the major political/economic issues our world is experiencing. This month’s topic will be the Middle East. We will meet in the private dining room at 5280 Burger and Taphouse\, 7032 Wood Hollow Dr.\nThe Middle East – what is the region’s future and the role of the U.S.? \nThe Middle East is in a transition period with serious consequences beyond the region. From Israel’s war in Gaza\, Lebanon and the role of Iran\, Egypt\, the Emirates\, Saudi Arabia\, Turkey\, and even the Russians and Chinese\, the future of the region is uncertain\, especially the goal of a “two-state solution” given the Jewish settlements in the West Bank. \nLast month\, Dr. Steven Cook spoke to our WAC chapter on the Middle East in a Zoom program with WorldNewsNow. He is the author of the book “The End of Ambition: America’s Past\, Present and Future in the Middle East.” He suggests choosing priorities “based on interests that are achievable at an acceptable cost.” Dr. Cook recommends the phase-out of U.S. Military aid over the next decade while agreeing to treaties and agreements “guaranteeing cooperation on security\, technology\, and intelligence.” \nWhat is your perception of the situation—the issues and\, more importantly\, your ideas for a solution? Please join us for a lovely discussion. \nDr. Cooks’s presentation is on YouTube; if you have time to watch it—please see the link below. \nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INPW7p5m710 \n\n \nFor more details contact: \nEllen Murry\, Co-chair\, of the Globalist Coffeehouse: ellen.murry@yahoo.com \nPolina Anastassieva\, Co-chair\, of the Globalist Coffeehouse: polina@wacaustin.org
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/globalist-coffeehouse-the-middle-east-what-is-the-regions-future-and-the-role-of-the-u-s/
LOCATION:5280 Burger and Taphouse\, 7032 Wood Hollow Dr\, Austin\, TX\, 78731\, United States
CATEGORIES:Member Social,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Globalist-logo.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240801T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240801T193000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20240712T221258Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240730T220000Z
UID:14095-1722535200-1722540600@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:WorldNow: End of Ambition with Steven Cook
DESCRIPTION:What’s next for the U.S. in the Middle East? Join author Steven Cook\, senior fellow for Middle East & Africa at the Council on Foreign Relations\, in conversation with Jim Falk on what went wrong with U.S. involvement in the region\, and how the U.S. should reimagine our strategic interests in the Middle East amid a changing global order. \n“Cook demonstrates with terrifying clarity that the Middle East’s reputation for devouring the schemes and dreams of great powers is sending to more and is more often than not a place where grandiose American ideas have gone to die.” – Aaron David Miller\, Senior Fellow\, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. \nPurchase The End of Ambition here. \nThe details:\nWhen: Thursday\, August 1 | 6:00PM CT \nWhere: Zoom Webinar \nTickets: Free | REGISTER HERE\nWorldNow with Jim Falk is hosted by the World Affairs Council of Connecticut and Global Santa Fe. Presented in partnership with the Dallas Committee on Foreign Relations\, Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations\, World Affairs Council of Albuquerque\, World Affairs Council of Austin\, World Affairs Council of Charlotte\, World Affairs Council of Colorado Springs\, World Affairs Council of Hampton Roads\, World Affairs Council of Jacksonville\, World Affairs Council of Orange County\, World Affairs Council of Western Massachusetts\, WorldOregon\, and Perspectives Matter. \nAbout the Book\nThe End of Ambition: America’s Past\, Present and Future in the Middle East by Steven Cook \nA clear-headed vision for the United States’ role in the Middle East that highlights the changing nature of US national interests and the challenges of grand strategizing at a time of profound change in the international order. \nFollowing a long series of catastrophic misadventures in the Middle East over the last two decades\, the American foreign policy community has tried to understand what went wrong. After weighing the evidence\, they have mostly advised a retreat from the region. The basic view is that when the United States tries to advance change in the Middle East\, it only makes matters worse. \nIn The End of Ambition\, Steven A. Cook argues that while these analysts are rightly concerned that engagement drains US resources and distorts its domestic politics\, the broader impulse to disengage tends to neglect important lessons from the past. Moreover\, advocates of pulling back overlook the potential risks of withdrawal. Covering the relationship between the US and the Middle East since the end of WWII\, Cook makes the bold claim that despite setbacks and moral costs\, the United States has been overwhelmingly successful in protecting its core national interests in the Middle East. Conversely\, overly ambitious policies to remake the region and leverage US power not only ended in failure\, but rendered the region unstable in new and largely misunderstood ways. \nWhile making the case that retrenchment is not the answer to America’s problems in the Middle East\, The End of Ambition highlights how America’s interests in the region have begun to change and critically examines alternative approaches to US-Middle East policy. Cook highlights the challenges that policymakers and analysts confront developing a new strategy for the United States in the Middle East against the backdrop of both political uncertainty in the United States and a changing global order. \nPurchase The End of Ambition here. \nAbout the Author\nSteven A. Cook is Eni Enrico Mattei senior fellow for Middle East and Africa studies and director of the International Affairs Fellowship for Tenured International Relations Scholars at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). He is an expert on Arab and Turkish politics as well as U.S.-Middle East policy. Cook is the author of False Dawn: Protest\, Democracy\, and Violence in the New Middle East. Cook is a columnist at Foreign Policy magazine. He speaks Arabic and Turkish. \nAbout the Moderator\nJim Falk is President Emeritus of the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth. Now residing in Santa Fe\, New Mexico he is member of the Board of Global Santa Fe where he chairs the program committee. Jim co-hosts Perspectives Matter\, a McCuistion Program\, that airs weekly on KERA-Dallas (PBS). He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/worldnow-end-of-ambition-with-steven-cook/
LOCATION:ONLINE
CATEGORIES:author,Geopolitics,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/End-of-Ambition-Steven-Cook.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240718T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240718T190000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
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
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20231108T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20231108T190000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20231017T230057Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231108T213711Z
UID:13620-1699464600-1699470000@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:US Foreign Policy in the Middle East and the Changing Dynamics of the Region
DESCRIPTION:************UNFORTUNATELY DR. CASAGRANDA IS NOT FEELING WELL TODAY\, AND WE WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE THIS EVENT**********************\n  \nAbout Dr. Roy Casagranda \nDr. Roy Casagranda is a Professor of Government at Austin Community College (ACC). He is ACC’s Middle East Affairs expert. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin. He is the founder and president of the Austin School\, lecture series. \nHis research interests lie at the intersection of politics\, history\, economics\, psychology\, and philosophy. He is a firm believer in a multidisciplinary approach. Circa 1025 A.D. Ibn Sina (Avicenna) said\, “The knowledge of anything\, since all things have causes\, is not acquired or complete unless it is known by its causes.” \nIn addition to his responsibilities at ACC\, from September 2010 until early 2012 he wrote regularly for Merhnameh\, a leading Tehran-based reformist socio-political monthly on US and Arab politics and history\, until the magazine was shut down by the Islamic Republic.  He has also written articles for Hamshahri and Donya-e-Eqtesad Daily newspapers in Iran.  In the US he has written for the Austin American Statesman on the Arab Spring. \nDr. Casagranda will have just returned from Saudi Arabia and Bahrain\, and consequently\, should bring a very interesting perspective on the Hamas-Israeli conflict. \n\nParking at Neill-Cochran House House Museum: Free in the museum lot\, accessible via 23rd between Leon and San Gabriel; additional street parking available.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/the-future-of-the-middle-east-a-discussion-with-dr-roy-casagranda/
LOCATION:Neill-Cochran House Museum\, 2310 San Gabriel Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78705\, United States
CATEGORIES:Geopolitics,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/RoyCasagranda.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20210916T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20210916T193000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20210906T153822Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20210906T161122Z
UID:11903-1631817000-1631820600@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Globalist Coffeehouse:  Afghanistan - What’s Next?
DESCRIPTION:Please join like-minded “global thinkers” for a monthly discussion on the major political/economic issues that our world is currently experiencing. Due to the Delta-Variant\, this will be an online zoom discussion. Hopefully\, in the future\, we will be able to return to an in-person discussion at the Shoal Creek Saloon.  The topic will be Afghanistan. \n  \nOver the course of the last month\, we have seen the immense changes that have occurred in Afghanistan. To say that the withdrawal was not well managed would be an understatement. However\, there are a variety of complex issues that arise from this.  Can the Taliban even be trusted? What role do countries such as Iran\, Russia\, China\, Pakistan\, and even India have in filling in the vacuum our departure has created? How has this impacted the credibility of the United States? The President of France has asked the question:  Can the U.S. be trusted?  What about our ongoing commitments elsewhere in the world – from the Middle East to Asia? Finally\, there are the allies and comrades that we left behind. What is their future? \nFrom the state department perspective\, some have suggested that the lack of tours of duty sufficient to master the problems and the confusion of policy and implementation are both ongoing issues\, and not just for Afghanistan. For a more historical perspective\, others have cited an “imperial aversion to instability\,” from the British in 19th century Sudan\, to our own years in Vietnam. And now perhaps Afghanistan? \nHow will our Afghanistan experience impact our actions and foreign policy decisions in the future? \nPlease join us for what will be a very lively discussion. \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor further information please contact: \nEllen Murry\, WAC Advisory Board\n\nellen.murry@yahoo.com\n\n\nPolina Anastassieva\, WAC management team\npolina@wacaustin.org \nWe have also included some suggested articles for further reading on this topic. \nhttps://foreignpolicy.com/projects/leaving-afghanistan/ \nChina\, Russia Look to Outflank U.S. in Afghanistan \nIntervention: Unlearned Lessons\, or the Gripes of a Professional
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/globalist-coffeehouse-afghanistan-whats-next/
LOCATION:ONLINE
CATEGORIES:Geopolitics,Member Social,Middle East
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20210609T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20210609T123000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20210525T153559Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20210525T160247Z
UID:11714-1623238200-1623241800@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Iran: Upcoming Elections & U.S. Diplomacy
DESCRIPTION:Learn more about Iran’s elections and the impact on U.S. diplomacy. \nPanelists include:\n-Ambassador Thomas Shannon Jr.\nSenior International Policy Advisor\, Arnold & Porter\n-Dr. Roxanne Farmanfarmaian\nUniversity of Cambridge\, Department of Politics & International Studies\n-Dr. Ben Radd\nUCLA Center for Middle East Development \n \nSpeakers: \n\n\n \n\nAmbassador Thomas Shannon Jr.\nSenior International Policy Advisor @Arnold & Porter\nAmbassador Thomas A. Shannon\, Jr. brings more than three decades of government service and diplomatic experience to his practice\, providing strategic counsel to clients across a range of legislative\, foreign policy\, and national security issues. Most recently\, Ambassador Shannon served as Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs\, the third highest ranking position at the State Department. Holding the personal rank of Career Ambassador\, he was the highest ranking member of the United States Foreign Service\, the country’s professional diplomatic corps. During his tenure as Under Secretary\, Ambassador Shannon was in charge of bilateral and multilateral foreign policymaking and implementation\, and oversaw diplomatic activity globally and in our missions to international organizations. He managed the State Department during the presidential transition\, led bilateral and strategic stability talks with the Russian Federation\, worked with our allies to oversee Iranian compliance.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nDr. Ben Radd (MODERATOR)\n@UCLA Center for Middle East Development\nDr. Benjamin Radd is a Political Scientist at the University of California\, Los Angeles\, where he teaches global studies\, international relations\, public diplomacy\, and comparative law. Dr. Radd is an expert on the government and politics of the Middle East\, with an emphasis on Iran and US-Iranian foreign policy. He is also a teaching fellow at the UCLA Center for Middle East Development and a member of the UCLA International Institute. Dr. Radd holds a PhD in Political Science from UCLA and a JD from Stanford Law School.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nDr. Roxanne Farmanfarmaian\n@University of Cambridge\, Department of Politics & International Studies\nDr Roxane Farmanfarmaian is a University of Cambridge academic\, specialist in Iranian and Gulf politics\, media commentator and public speaker. She is Director of International Studies and Global Politics at the University of Cambridge Institute for Continuing Education and a Senior Associate Fellow at the European Leadership Network. Her publications include Blood and Oil: A Prince’s Memoir of Iran From the Shah to the Ayatollah\, and recently\, articles in The Hill\, Foreign Policy and Responsible Statecraft. She has a PhD and MPhil from the University Cambridge and a BA from Princeton. She lives in London and has a son attending the University of Southern California.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/iran-elections-2021/
LOCATION:ONLINE
CATEGORIES:Geopolitics,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Iran_Elections_2021-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20210121T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20210121T193000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20210112T222602Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20210113T182053Z
UID:11301-1611253800-1611257400@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:The Globalist Coffeehouse
DESCRIPTION:Please join like-minded “global thinkers” for a monthly discussion on the major political/economic issues that our world is currently experiencing. \nInitially this event will be a virtual zoom discussion with break out groups. \nThis month’s topic will be:\nThe Middle East – Challenges and Opportunities.  \nWe now have a new administration which will face opportunities but also challenges in the Middle East almost immediately upon taking office. With Turkey\, we have a NATO member often aligning itself with Russia. In Israel\, we have territorial expansionism with domestic uncertainty. \nAnd then there is Iran\, where provocations abound – from seizing a Korean tanker in the Strait of Hormuz to increasing their uranium enrichment quota – in a response to US sanctions. While in Saudi Arabia and some of the Gulf States\, there is a rapprochement with Israel over the perceived Iranian/Shia threat. \nWhat should our priorities be in addressing these issues? Dr. Roy Casagranda\, with Austin Community College\, and an expert on the Middle East\, will join us initially and provide a brief context to begin what will be a very lively discussion.\nTo register and receive the zoom invitation\, please click here.\nFor more details contact: \nEllen Murry\, WAC Advisory Board\nellen.murry@yahoo.com \nPolina Anastassieva\, WAC Management Team\npolina@wac.org
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/the-globalist-coffeehouse-3/
LOCATION:ONLINE
CATEGORIES:educational,Geopolitics,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/global-coffee.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200903T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200903T183000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20200728T022845Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200731T204243Z
UID:5808-1599154200-1599157800@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:State of the Middle East
DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin is pleased to welcome back distinguished author and professor of Government at Austin Community College\, Roy E. Casagranda\, PhD  for a discussion on the State of the Middle East. \nAttendees will obtain answers to these questions: \nWhat has three and of half years of Trump brought the Middle East?\nWhat does the Middle East look like post US-hegemony?\nHow do Trump’s NATO positions impact the Middle East?\nAfghanistan-Iraq-Syria-Yemen\, how has invasion and civil war permanently altered the future of those states?\n  \n  \n \n  \nRoy Casagranda in the News\n\n\n\nTODO: Procedure or Principles? The Egyptian Revolution Chose the Latter \n\n\n\nRoy Casagranda at Public Speaking events\n\n\n\n\n\nAustin School: A Reconsideration of Modernity\nTeach-in: Why Major Changes are Necessary\nTeach-in: Justice and Revolution\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRelated Links:\n\n\n\n\n\n Roy Casagranda’s CV \nBlood Throne of Caria\nAbout Roy Casagranda\nRoy Casagranda’s homepage
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/state-of-the-middle-east/
LOCATION:ONLINE
CATEGORIES:educational,Geopolitics,Middle East,migration,peace and conflict,World Spins Series
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Roy-Casagranda.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200630T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200630T160000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20200617T212917Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200617T212917Z
UID:5725-1593529200-1593532800@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:US and Iran: Sanctions\, Oil and the Global Pandemic
DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin\, in partnership with the World Affairs Council of San Antonio and the World Affairs Council of South Texas\, invite you to a conversation on the current situation in Iran.  This program will feature Dr. Paul Pilar\, Iran Project and Dr. Sussan Siavoshi\, Trinity University. \n 
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/us-and-iran-sanctions-oil-and-the-global-pandemic/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:diplomatic,Geopolitics,Global Trade,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/US-Iran-Relations-Webinar-e1592427696797.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200507T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200508T210000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
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/
LOCATION:TX
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:20200219T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200219T133000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20200122T214310Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200122T214310Z
UID:5450-1582113600-1582119000@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Strategic Security Challenges in the Middle East: Perspectives on a ‘Second Arab Spring’ and the U.S.-Iran Confrontation
DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin is pleased to partner with the Kozmetsky Center at St. Edward’s University in offering a presentation by Theodore “Ted” Karasik\, PhD\, Senior Advisor at Gulf State Analytics.  Dr. Karasik will share his perspective on the security challenges in the Middle East\, the potential of a Second “Arab Spring” and the recent diplomatic and military confrontation between the United States and Iran. \nFor the past 30 years\, Dr. Karasik worked for several U.S. agencies involved in researching and analyzing defense acquisitions\, the use of military power\, and religio-political issues across the Middle East and Eurasia including the evolution of violent extremism and financing networks. From 2006 until 2016\, Dr.Karasik lived in Dubai\, UAE where he worked on Arabian Peninsula foreign policy and security issues surrounding cultural awareness\, cybersecurity\, maritime security\, counter-terrorism\, and infrastructure and national resilience. \nDr. Karasik was formerly a Senior Political Scientist in the International Policy and Security Group at RAND Corporation serving as Director of Research for the RAND Center for Middle East Public Policy. He earned his PhD in History from the University of California\, Los Angeles in four fields: Middle East\, Russia\, the Caucasus with additional concentration in Cultural Anthropology focusing on tribes and clans from Central Asia to East Africa. Dr. Karasik has been a frequent commentator for major Arab news media (Al Arabiya\, Al Jazeera\, Sky News Arabia\, and others).
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/strategic-security-challenges-in-the-middle-east-perspectives-on-a-second-arab-spring-and-the-u-s-iran-confrontation/
LOCATION:St. Edwards University\, Carter Auditorium\, 3001 S. Congress Ave\, Austin\, TX\, 78704\, United States
CATEGORIES:diplomatic,educational,Geopolitics,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Karasik-HQ-photo-e1579728007842.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20181129T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20181129T193000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20180916T222700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20181120T000038Z
UID:3800-1543514400-1543519800@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Yemen: Failed State and Dire Tragedy
DESCRIPTION:Yemen is another front that openly exhibits Iran-Saudi Arabia geopolitical rivalry. History has come full circle: Yemen has become to Saudi Arabia what Vietnam was to the United States. \nHow did Yemen get to this point? \nThe World Affairs Council of Austin is pleased to have David Oualaalou (pronounced Walalou\, known also as Dr. O) discuss the situation in Yemen and its impact on the Middle East. \nDr. David Oualaalou is an international geopolitical consultant\, global speaker\, award winning educator\, author\, and former international security analyst in Washington DC. He is also the founder of Global Perspective Consulting headquartered in Dallas\, TX. \nDr. O’s unique background allows him to provide current and relevant insight on our world’s greatest challenges and issues within critical economic and security areas. His theoretic and practical real-world knowledge of how geopolitics\, global security\, energy issues\, domestic and international business intersect is founded on his experience as a former international security analyst in Washington\, D.C.\, his doctoral studies\, and as a military veteran who worked in the field with elite military forces carrying out operations at the behest of U.S. policymakers. \nDr. Oualaalou is the author of Beneath the Veil: Fall of the House of Saud(2018)\, Volatile State: Iran in the Nuclear Age (2018)\, and The Ambiguous Foreign Policy of the United States toward the Muslim World: More than a Handshake (2016).\n  \nHis editorials have appeared in newspapers and online journals\, including The Huffington Post\, Al Jazeera\, the European Atlantic Council\, Middle East & North Africa Forum\, and the South China Morning Post in Hong Kong. Some of his articles have been translated into more than ten languages. \n  \nAgenda \n6:00 PM Registration and networking   \n \n6:15 PM Speaker Presentation followed by Q&A \n7:15 PM  Additional networking \n7:30 PM Event Concludes
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/yemen-failed-state-and-dire-tragedy/
LOCATION:Neill-Cochran House Museum\, 2310 San Gabriel Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78705\, United States
CATEGORIES:Austin Center for Global Trade,author,Business,Global Trade,Middle East,World Spins Series
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/17249-Dr._David_Oualaalou-4724-M.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180823T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180823T160000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
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:20180303T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180303T120000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
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:20260613T074533
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:20171207T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171207T130000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
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:20171025T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171025T193000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
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:20171019T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171019T133000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20170930T234341Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171001T000211Z
UID:2950-1508412600-1508419800@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Infrastructure Opportunities in Emerging Markets: Utilizing Commerce\, USTDA and MCC
DESCRIPTION:Please join the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and the World Affairs Council of Austin for a special event highlighting several key federal government resources available to Austin-area businesses looking to do business in emerging markets. The event will feature presentations and a panel discussion with the following guests: \n\n\nKaren Parker – Director & International Trade Specialist at the U.S. Commercial Service – Austin\, the trade promotion arm of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration which helps U.S. companies get started in exporting or increase sales to new global markets. \n\n\nPaul Marin – Director for Partnership and Innovation at the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA)\, which helps companies create U.S. jobs through the export of U.S. goods and services for priority development projects in emerging economies. \n\n\nJonathan Brooks – Managing Director for Europe\, Asia\, the Pacific\, and Latin America at the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC)\, an independent U.S. Government agency working to reduce global poverty through economic growth. \n\n\n\nWho should attend: \n\n\nExporters looking to expand into emerging marketsCompanies pursuing international competitive bids in emerging marketsCompanies looking to develop infrastructure in emerging markets or sell U.S. goods and services to infrastructure projectsEngineering and consulting companies with expertise in infrastructure development
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/infrastructure-opportunities-in-emerging-markets-utilizing-commerce-ustda-and-mcc/
LOCATION:Austin Chamber of Commerce\, 535 E. Fifth Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States
CATEGORIES:Africa,Americas,Asia,Business,Europe,Global Trade,International Trade Center,Luncheon Series,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/TXEUFinal21-e1496963567639-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170922T114500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170922T130000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20170614T174635Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170614T174635Z
UID:2795-1506080700-1506085200@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Navigating Business Overseas—Without Falling on Your Assumptions
DESCRIPTION:Intercultural communication can complicate business practices. Here’s your chance to practice and learn to recognize your own cultural orientation; notice and identify cultural tendencies in any environment; predict problems culture-based difference will cause in the workplace; and develop management strategies. \nMcCombs School of Business faculty members Deirdre Mendez\, Orlando Kelm\, and John N. Doggett will use real-world examples and audience feedback to show you how to recognize and manage cultural differences on international partnerships\, teams\, and projects of all kinds. \nParking options include the AT&T Executive Education & Conference Center and surrounding public lots. \nThis event is in partnership with:
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/navigating-business-overseas-without-falling-on-your-assumptions/
LOCATION:AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center\, 1900 University Ave\, Austin\, TX\, 78705\, United States
CATEGORIES:Africa,Americas,Asia,author,Business,educational,Europe,Global Trade,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/TXEUFinal21-e1496963567639-scaled.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170625T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170627T163000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20161203T012951Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170417T211223Z
UID:2367-1498395600-1498581000@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Smart Cities Connect Conference & Expo
DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin is a supporting organization for the Smart Cities Connect Conference & Expo taking place on 26-28 June 2017.  The Expo brings together over 200 cities and their respective leaders to demonstrate and partner with innovative technology and service providers — linking progressive cities with state-of-the-art solutions and best practices. \nThe Smart Cities Connect Conference & Expo\, in partnership with US Ignite\, will once again deliver North America’s largest concentration of C-Level Smart City Leadership working towards innovative solutions for progressive city needs. Join us as we expand our community of city leaders and solution providers\, delivering an exciting “city first” agenda accelerating state-of-art solutions into global city practice. \nWorld Affairs Council of Austin members receive a 10% discount on registration fees.  Become a member today and obtain this special discount!
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/smart-cities-innovation-summit-2/
LOCATION:Austin Convention Center\, 500 E. Cesar Chavez Street\, Austin\, 78701\, United States
CATEGORIES:Africa,Americas,Asia,Business,educational,Europe,Global Trade,International Trade Center,Law and regulations,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/header-background-image3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170608T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170608T130000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20170529T175910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170529T192905Z
UID:2773-1496921400-1496926800@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:International Business Coalition Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Please plan to attend the next meeting of the Central Texas International Business Coalition.  The regular informational networking agenda will include great speakers and global trade updates. \nOur featured speakers from BTX Global Logistics will be Kim Schaerges\, Director of Sales\, and Hans Falk\, International Shipping Specialist. \nKim and Hans will provide a brief overview on the documents necessary to import and export\, along with a review of common questions and concerns.  Some of those items include: methods of transport\, commercial invoices\, shippers letters of instructions\, incoterms\, HTS codes and customs.  Please come with any specific questions or issues you have as well. \nWith gratitude to our host: \n 
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/international-business-coalition-meeting-4/
LOCATION:Austin Chamber of Commerce\, 535 E. Fifth Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States
CATEGORIES:Africa,Americas,Asia,Business,Global Trade,International Trade Center,Luncheon Series,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/btxglobal-2017.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170329T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170329T210000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20170206T183022Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170306T062727Z
UID:2527-1490812200-1490821200@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Austin Global Business Forum
DESCRIPTION:The Kozmetsky Center in collaboration with Munday School of Business and World Affairs Council of Austin will host an evening Austin Global Business Forum to discuss Austin’s expanding international business engagement.  Speakers will assess growth in Austin’s global business presence\, regional concentrations\, and potential for future expansion and development in specific industries and sectors.  Leaders from industry will share their perspectives on how individuals can best prepare for careers in an increasingly globalized business environment. \nThis program will feature representatives from the Office of the Governor of Texas\, Austin Business Journal\, and other professionals based in the local community with extensive experience in business and finance throughout various regions of the world. \nThe event will take place in Jones Auditorium on the St. Edwards University campus. \n 
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/austin-global-business-forum-for-career-planning/
LOCATION:St. Edwards University\, Jones Auditorium\,  3001 South Congress\, Austin\, TX\, 78704\, United States
CATEGORIES:Africa,Americas,Asia,Business,educational,Europe,Global Business Series,Global Trade,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Europe-e1486405720997.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170321T111500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170321T133000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20170304T180245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170308T184054Z
UID:2416-1490094900-1490103000@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Advantage Dubai Seminar
DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Austin\, and the U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council along with Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide are pleased to present the Advantage Dubai Seminar. \nJoin the Dubai Department of Economic Development’s Foreign Direct Investment Development Agency to learn about the innovation driven economy of Dubai. This interactive program will detail the 10 major innovation pillars of Dubai.  Attendees will learn how Dubai serves as a platform to enhance business growth within the UAE\, as well as further markets through its geographic location\, human capital\, infrastructure\, government vision\, and “can do attitude.”  Additional topics will include the investment climate\, leading sectors for U.S. export\, investment\, and business etiquette. \nREGISTER TODAY! \nAgenda \n11:15 am Registration and Networking \n11:30 am Welcome and Delegation Introductions \nMr. Ibrahim Ahli\, Director of Investment Promotion\, Dubai FDI \n11:40 am Overview and Business Advantages in Dubai \n12:15 pm Freezone Presentations \nDubai Silicon Oasis Authority\, TECOM\, Dubai Internet City\, Dubai South\, Dubai Commodities Trade Zone \n1:15 pm Q&A \n1:30 pm Concluding Remarks \n  \nThe United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) is a significant U.S. export market and an important regional hub for American companies doing business throughout the Middle East\, Africa and South Asia. The U.A.E. has a population of approximately 9.5 million\, out of which about 85 percent is expatriates. In 2015\, the U.A.E. registered a real GDP growth rate of 3.9 percent\, down from 4.6 percent in 2014.  Due to its vast oil wealth and relatively small population to which it must provide services\, the U.A.E. is well positioned to ride out the current low-oil-price economy.  To diversify away from oil\, the government is transitioning from an investment economy to a knowledge economy.  To this end\, it is focused on developing new industrial and commercial sectors\, including aerospace\, healthcare\, education\, and defense and tourism. \nThe U.A.E. is a leading commercial center serving the Middle East\, Africa\, and South Asia\, with a significant portion of its import volume ultimately being re-exported. Dubai in particular plays a central role as a regional trade\, logistics and tourism hub.  Its economy has also been buoyed by ongoing construction and infrastructure projects in the lead-up to the Dubai World Expo 2020.  While the construction sector has come under substantial pressure due to the prolonged slump in oil prices\, the sector remains resilient\, and Dubai’s planned real estate and infrastructure projects are progressing.  Most notably\, the expansion of the Al-Maktoum International Airport by Dubai Airport Authority\, valued at $33 billion\, is Dubai’s single biggest project.
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/advantage-dubai-seminar/
LOCATION:Headliner’s Club\, 221 W. Sixth Street\,\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States
CATEGORIES:Business,cultural,educational,Global Business Series,Global Trade,International Trade Center,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Dubai-1-e1483145510901.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170211T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170211T120000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20161217T001344Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170226T214716Z
UID:2381-1486803600-1486814400@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Academic WorldQuest
DESCRIPTION:Each 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. \nOur competition is scheduled for Saturday\, February 11th at Vandegrift High School\, 9500 McNeil Drive\, Austin TX 78750. \nAWQ is a terrific opportunity to engage your students in global affairs and compete 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 this year!
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/academic-worldquest-2/
LOCATION:Vandegrift High School\, 9500 McNeil Drive\, Austin\, TX\, 78750\, United States
CATEGORIES:Africa,Americas,Asia,cultural,educational,Europe,Middle East
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:20161013T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20161013T130000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20161019T012926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20161019T012926Z
UID:2194-1476358200-1476363600@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:International Business Coalition Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The Central Texas International Business Coalition program will include great speakers and global trade updates.  Our featured speaker this month includes:\n \n  \nDarren Hutchinson\, Vice President\, Corporate Sales at World First.\n \nArun M. Kumar\, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets and Director General of the US and Foreign Commercial Services\, leads the trade and investment promotion efforts for the US Government.  He also serves as the International Trade Administration’s lead official advocating better market access for US exporters. Kumar has extensive global experience in the business world.  Prior to his nomination by President Obama\, he was a partner and member of the Board of Directors at KPMG\, LLP.  He led the firm’s West Coast Management Consulting practice serving major global clients while creating thought leadership to advance business practices in finance management.  He also founded and led KPMG’s US-India Practice.  Previously\, Kumar was a founding CEO and CFO of three Silicon Valley technology ventures.  \nWorld First is one of the world’s leading international payment companies\, helping over 100\,000 clients save money on their international exchange. Whether importing or exporting\, paying salaries overseas or making supplier payments\, exchange rates are critical and can impact your company’s bottom line. World First will offer insights regarding ways to protect your company earnings against economic factors such as Brexit by utilizing their FX solution tailored specifically for the needs of your business. \n  \nThe International Business Coalition (IBC) strives to develop international business in central Texas\, focusing its efforts on:  \n\nAttracting foreign direct investment;\nEncouraging international business relocation to central Texas; and \nPromoting international trade among central Texas businesses.\n\n 
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/international-business-coalition-meeting/
LOCATION:ACC Highland Business Center 2nd Floor Boardroom\, 5930 Middle Fiskville Road\, Austin\, TX\, 78752\, United States
CATEGORIES:Africa,Americas,Asia,Business,Europe,Global Trade,International Trade Center,Luncheon Series,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/WorldFirstBlue-e1476844105166.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20161012T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20161012T190000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
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:20160518T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20160518T193000
DTSTAMP:20260613T074533
CREATED:20160514T024152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20160516T174109Z
UID:1905-1463592600-1463599800@wacaustin.org
SUMMARY:Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry Briefing
DESCRIPTION:Mr. Muhammad Ibrahim Kasumbi\, former Senior Vice President of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry\, is leading a 10 member delegation of Pakistani Businessmen\, who are visiting United States of America to meet with the government officials and key trade associations and business organizations to discuss opportunities and challenges in increasing the bilateral trade and investment relationship. \nWith a population over 20 million\, Karachi is the principal urban center and the main industrial\, financial and commercial center of Pakistan.  The KCCI delegation’s objective is to strengthen U.S.-Pakistan trade and investment relations and promote Karachi as a profitable business destination. \nThe KCCI delegates will join us to discuss recent developments in Pakistan’s economy and key issues in the bilateral trade and investment relationship. The briefing will explore how companies can participate in Pakistan’s accelerating growth and will survey opportunities for American companies in Karachi. \nRSVP to:  bramirez (at) wacaustin (dot) com \n  \nPartner organizations: \nCity of Austin\, Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce\, Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce\, GlobalAustin\, CyberTex Institute of Technology
URL:http://wacaustin.org/event/karachi-chamber-of-commerce-industry-briefing/
LOCATION:Four Seasons Hotel\, 98 San Jacinto Blvd\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States
CATEGORIES:Business,Global Trade,International Trade Center,Middle East
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wacaustin.org/wp2015/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Flag_of_Pakistan.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR