Agenda

Shahjehan

Multipolar Disorder: No Takers for a G2

Conversations over Breakfast

Rising concerns about a world dominated by Sino-American rivalry have led many countries, particularly in the Global South, to opt for strategic autonomy. Rather than aligning with either power, they are focusing on flexible trade partnerships, technology transfer, and alternative financing mechanisms. Countries are strengthening cross-regional partnerships and South-South cooperation to counterbalance great-power competition. A G2-dominated world, in this view, would undermine global cooperation and limit developing nations’ ability to negotiate on critical issues like climate finance, debt restructuring, and digital infrastructure. This panel will discuss how countries are navigating this evolving geopolitical landscape to preserve their interests and protect their autonomy.   

• What role do regional alliances play in shaping the responses of countries to the Sino-American rivalry? 
• What implications does jostling between two great powers have for the future of multilateralism and international institutions? 
• What strategies can countries adopt to avoid being drawn into a tussle between two great powers? 
• What are the potential consequences for global stability if countries are compelled to choose sides in their foreign policies? 

Speakers

Saeed Khatibzadeh, President, Institute for Political and International Studies, Iran 
 
Dino Patti Djalal, Founder, Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia, Indonesia 

Sunjoy Joshi, Chairman, Observer Research Foundation, India 
  
Nada Al Hajjri, President, Yemen Information Center, Yemen
 
Almut Möller, Director for European and Global Affairs; Head of the Europe in the World Programme, European Policy Centre, Germany

Moderator

Steve Clemons, Editor-At-Large, National Interest, United States of America 

Mumtaz

Climate-Proofing the Indo-Pacific: Food, Water, Economic Resilience

Conversations over Breakfast

The Indo-Pacific is the frontline of the climate crisis. The need for food and water security, alongside economic resilience, is paramount for this region; countries are prioritising stronger supply chains and disaster risk management. This panel will explore strategies, partnerships, and networks for financing climate adaptation, expanding access to critical resources and addressing regional vulnerabilities through cross-sector collaboration.   

• How can the Indo-Pacific region build resilient food and water systems that can withstand the increasing pressures of climate change? 
• In what ways can climate-smart agriculture contribute to building more resilient food systems in the region? 
• What innovative financing models and partnerships are needed to support climate adaptation efforts, particularly for vulnerable communities?  
• How can regional governments, businesses, and civil society strengthen collaborative networks to enhance supply chain and economic stability and mitigate disaster risk? 

Speakers

Silvia Bender, State Secretary, Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Germany

Claire Alembik, Investment Specialist, Asian Development Bank 
 
Lise Breuil, Country Director, Agence Française de Développement, India

Nilanjan Ghosh, Vice President, Development Studies, Observer Reserch Foundation, India
 
Robert Kaan, President, Asia Pacific, Corteva Agriscience  

Moderator

Erin Watson, Founder and Managing Director, Baker & York, Australia

Jehangir

The Iran Factor: Crisis, Convergence, Competition

Conversations over Breakfast

The attack by Hamas on Israel in October 2023 and the muscular response that followed is reshaping what was already a fast-changing extended Middle East. The foreign policy aims of many countries, including Iran and global powers with a footprint in the region, have been re-oriented. Tehran has re-engaged the Arab world and sought new political and diplomatic ties within the region and with the Global South. Dramatic changes in Syria have further complicated matters and raised Turkey’s stakes. The US and Europe are back as players in the region’s fractious politics. This panel will examine the multiple agendas at play today and ask whether a ‘new’ Middle East can emerge from the ruins of the ‘old’. 

• How important is a rapprochement between Iran and influential Arab states when it comes to the success of a ceasefire in Gaza? 
• Are the US’s new suggestions for a resolution to the Gaza crisis a challenge for the region, or is it an opportunity to forge a regional counter-response? 
• What is the future of China-led mediation in the Middle East? Can Beijing outmanoeuvre Washington DC? 
• How will great-power competition and influence play out in the Middle East? Could it lead to the region working together to insulate itself? 

Speakers 

Vahan Kostanyan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Armenia 
 
Seyed Mohammad-Kazem Sajjadpour, Distinguished Senior Fellow, Institute for Political and International Studies and Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Iran 
 
Manish Tewari, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, India 
 
Hind Kabawat, Director, Interfaith Peacebuilding, George Mason University Center for World Religions, Diplomacy, & Conflict Resolution, United States of America 
 
Maha Yahya, Director, Malcolm H. Kerr Carnegie Middle East Center, Lebanon 
 
Moderator 

Mohamad Ali Harisi, Foreign Editor, The National, United Arab Emirates

Roshanara

Digital Divide to Digital Solution: Tech-First Path to SDGs

Conversations over Breakfast

With only 17% of the targets of the SDGs on track, the use of tech-driven development solutions needs to be accelerated. The challenges are foundational–including unequal opportunities to access tech, uneven levels of digital transformation, and a shortage of investment in proven technological needs. This panel will explore how leveraging technology can bridge digital divides and boost progress on the SDGs and decarbonisation.

• How can we ensure equitable access to digital infrastructure in the Global South?  
• How can the rollout of tech solutions and access to development finance be ring-fenced from geopolitical volatility?  
• How can government and private sector work together on scaling technology innovation and adoption to advance the development and decarbonisation agenda?  
• How can the economic gains from digital growth made by private capital be re-invested into bridging the digital divide and advancing the SDGs? Can impact funds play this role? 

 

Speakers

Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, India  
 
Andreas Urschitz, Chief Marketing Officer and Member of the Management Board, Infineon Technologies AG, Germany 
 
Del Titus Bawuah, Chief Executive Officer, Web3 Africa Group, Ghana 
 
Marianne Demarchi, Chief Executive Officer, Europe Middle East and Africa, Swift 
 
Stephanie Diepeveen, Senior Research Fellow, Digital Societies, ODI Global, United Kingdom 
 
Moderator

Mohamed AlSharhan, Managing Director, World Governments Summit; Director of Government Leaders and Talents Department, Ministry of Cabinet Affairs; United Arab Emirates
 

Transition

Durbar

Ministerial Remarks

Towards a ‘Green Future’ for Sustainable Development: India’s Climate Initiatives for Environmental Cooperation

Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State, Ministry of External Affairs, India 

Durbar

Thrones and Thorns: Defending the Integrity of Nations

As global power dynamics shift, national sovereignty is being constantly challenged. The UN Charter clearly articulates the principle of non-interference, but recent global events show that this foundational norm is honoured more in the breach than in practice. Territorial borders are being violated, and digital interference in political processes and offensive cyber-operations have increased manifold. This panel will examine the modern manifestations of foreign interference in domestic politics, and explore whether countries can agree to respect each other's varying conceptions of political systems and sovereignty. 

• Can we discover methods to credibly enforce the principle of political non-interference that underlies Article 2(4), or will powerful nations manage to exempt themselves? 
• Are we all guilty of assuming that only certain political systems deserve protection from external manipulation, not others? 
• How can we effectively protect the agency of domestic decision-making from external influence operations—and where do we draw the line between the protection of sovereignty and the restriction of political expression?  
• If borders are merely a manifestation of sovereignty, but political independence can be compromised through digital means, what constitutes true sovereignty in the modern age, and how can it be meaningfully protected? 

 

Speakers

Carl Bildt, Former Prime Minister, Sweden 

Dominique Hasler, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Education and Sport, Liechtenstein
 
Juraj Blanár, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Slovak Republic 

Dubai Abulhoul, Founder, Fiker Institute, United Arab Emirates 

S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, India

Moderator

Ashok Malik, Partner and Chair of the India Practice, The Asia Group, India 

Durbar

In Focus

Keynote by and Conversation with

Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence, United States of America  

Moderator

Samir Saran, President, Observer Research Foundation, India  

Durbar

In Focus

Conversation with

Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Diplomatic Advisor to the President, United Arab Emirates 

Moderator

Samir Saran, President, Observer Research Foundation, India  

Durbar

Waging Peace: Looking Back to Look Ahead

Scene Setter: Dag Nylander, Director, Norwegian Centre for Conflict Resolution, Norway

Despite calls across the world against re-entering an ‘era of war’, long-standing grievances continue to threaten collective peace. Indeed, recent years have seen war and chaos overshadow peace efforts. However, 2025 presents a potential inflection point—an opportunity to steer a course towards peace. This panel will examine the old and new frameworks that nations and multilateral institutions must adopt to invest in peace, exploring the roles of stakeholders, the importance of investment and finance, and the need for platforms that enable dialogue for progress.   

• What are the lessons from successful and failed peace efforts in recent decades? What are the peculiar attributes and underlying drivers of success?  
• What type of actors are necessary to conclude a successful peace process?  What is the role of a mediator? Who is a ‘neutral’ mediator? 
• What terms are essential for a successful and sustainable peace agreement?  
• What types of investment and financing mechanisms are crucial for a sustainable peace process? 

Speakers 

Moussa Mara, Former Prime Minister of Mali; Member, Club de Madrid  

Stephen Harper, Former Prime Minister, Canada 
 
Espen Barth Eide, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Norway 
 
Shashi Tharoor, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha; Chairperson, Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, India 
 
Comfort Ero, President and Chief Executive Officer, International Crisis Group, United Kingdom   
 
Moderator

Yalda Hakim, Lead World News Presenter, Sky News, United Kingdom 

Mumtaz

Blue Economy: Balancing Prosperity, Sustainability and Resilience

Parallel Session

The ocean economy is valued at US$3-6 trillion annually. Its governance impacts connectivity, renewable energy, fisheries, transport, and tourism. However, challenges abound for coastal communities and island states: climate change, debt pileups, and the loss of livelihoods. Growth in the blue economy must come with minimal harm to the ecology—particularly for coastal communities and fisheries facing climate impacts and overexploitation. This panel will discuss strategies to balance prosperity and sustainability, ensuring economic growth aligns with environmental preservation and long-term viability. 

• What innovative financial mechanisms can incentivise sustainable practices in the ocean economy, particularly for vulnerable coastal and fishing communities? 
• How can we balance growing demand for marine resources with urgent need to conserve biodiversity and protect vulnerable habitats? 
• How can international cooperation and North-South partnerships be strengthened to address transboundary ocean challenges and shared responsibilities? 
• What are the policy interventions needed to promote a sustainable blue economy that addresses the interconnected crises of debt, climate change, and livelihoods? 

Speakers 

Axel Berger, Deputy Director (Interim), German Institute of Development and Sustainability, Germany  

Kekeli Ahiable, Trade and Infrastructure Advisor, Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, United Kingdom

Teenah Jutton, Former Member of Parliament, Mauritius 

Thilan Wijesinghe, Chairman & Managing Director, TW Corp (Pvt) Ltd, Sri Lanka
 
Suthikorn Kingkaew, Advisor, Hydrogen Economy Project, Energy Policy and Planning Office, Thailand  
 
Moderator

Ambika Vishwanath, Director, Kubernein Initiative, India 

Durbar

The Peace Tableau: Actions and Aspirations

In the three years since February 2022, traditional assumptions about diplomacy, military deterrence, and regional stability have been upended. Pathways toward peace might involve complex compromises and strategic recalibrations. Uncertainty surrounding any potential deal is compounded by shifting global alignments, particularly the impact of the changed US political landscape and developments within the European Union. This panel will explore the evolving dynamics of the peace efforts and the roles of various global players in shaping the future of this conflict.   

• What is the new vision for Ukrainian, and therefore European security? Who can contribute, and how will EurWhat should be the contours of any peace agreement, and which actors must play a pivotal role if peace is to last?  
• Is the redrawing of maps inevitable—and if so, how can we ensure that any newly-drawn lines hold? 
• Is it possible to reconstruct Ukraine without the US? Can Europe do this by itself?  

 

Speakers

Mihai Popșoi, Deputy Prime Minister; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Moldova 

Andrii Sybiha, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ukraine 

Baiba Braže, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Latvia  
 
Péter Szijjártó, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Hungary 
 
Hanna Notte, Director, Eurasia Nonproliferation Program, James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, United States of America

Moderator

DB Venkatesh Varma, Former Ambassador of India to Russia, India

Shahjehan

Uninterrupted Peaks: Rethinking Energy Access, Affordability, and Security

Lunch Conversations (By Invite Only)

The politics and economics of energy have shifted in 2025, prompting countries to redesign strategies for access and economic security.  Emerging economies and the cradles of future growth fear volatility in energy prices; advanced economies must contend with the political fallouts of energy policy. New and alternative fuels—from hydrogen to nuclear power—are attracting attention. This panel will explore how the energy pathways available to the world have shifted, and how technological and financial innovation can help fuel nations’ aspirations.  

• How can global energy policies be rebalanced to support emerging market energy needs while still advancing renewables?  
• How can we integrate hydropower and nuclear energy into a diversified, future-proof energy portfolio? 
• Can sustainable biofuels become a viable and profitable alternative, and what innovations are needed to realise their potential? What role do international partnerships play in this effort? 
• Are the financial markets ready to invest in nuclear energy and newer forms of energy?  
• With peak oil still on the horizon, what role can investments in carbon energy storage and science play in commercialising traditional energy sources? Which technological innovations can help us re-think energy? 

Speakers 

Stephen Harper, Former Prime Minister, Canada  
  
Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency  

Bjørn Lomborg, President, Copenhagen Consensus Center, Denmark 
  
Pramod Chaudhari, Founder and Chairman, Praj Industries, India 
  
Divyata Ashiya, Managing Director, Fortescue Capital, United Kingdom

Moderator

Kelly Gallagher, Dean and Professor of Energy & Environmental Policy, The Fletcher School, Tufts University, United States of America

Mumtaz

Policy Perch: Technology, Industry, Individuals

Lunch Conversations (By Invite Only)

Opening Remarks 

Ricky Gill, Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs; National Security Council Senior Director for South and Central Asia, United States of America  

Grand strategists face a complex web of actors and issues. They must deal with transnational tech platforms and industries that have quasi-sovereign capabilities. Issues like climate change and the SDGs, once the subjects of global consensus, are today embroiled in zero-sum games. This panel will bring together policymakers, thought leaders, and industry experts to debate the key drivers of contemporary national strategies and examine how technology, industry, and global institutions are reshaping global priorities.   

• How are non-state actors, such as multinational corporations and tech giants, influencing national strategies and global decision-making in ways that traditional state-to-state relations cannot? 
• In what ways is the evolving role of technology reshaping global policy priorities, particularly in areas like climate change and the SDGs? 
• How can governments balance industry interests with public welfare in an increasingly tech-driven and competitive global landscape? 
• What role do individuals, particularly thought leaders and activists, play in shaping national strategies and challenging global power structures? 

Speakers

Benedetta Berti, Director, Policy Planning, Office of the Secretary General, NATO  

Muath Alwari, Director, Policy Planning Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, United Arab Emirates  

Harsh V. Pant, Vice President, Studies and Foreign Policy, Observer Research Foundation, India 
 
Tristan Aureau, Head of the Policy Planning Department, Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, France  

Rory Medcalf, Head, National Security College, Australian National University, Australia

Moderator

Elena Lazarou, Senior Research Fellow, Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy; Associate Fellow, US and the Americas Programme, Chatham House, United Kingdom 

Jehangir

Interaction with Raisina Young Fellows

Lunch Conversations (By Invite Only)

Shaping Sustainable Cities   

This session will explore how sustainable urban development is shaped by international cooperation. The creation of new hubs for industry and innovation lies at the intersection of diplomacy and urbanism. Expo City Dubai is a starting point for a discussion about the future of sustainable cities. 

John McGinnis, Senior Manager, Programme and Events, Expo City Dubai, United Arab Emirates   

Misha Mittal, Senior Manager, City Advisory, Expo City Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Roshanara

Demographic Deficits: Migration, Education, Economic Growth

Lunch Conversations (By Invite Only)

Presentation 

Sanjeev Krishan, Chairman, PwC, India

A paradox underlies current approaches to skilling and migration. Developed countries, facing demographic deficits, require skilled labour to re-energise growth but face populist pressure to restrict immigration. Meanwhile, developing countries are struggling to upgrade human capital and educational systems to meet new demands, driven in part by technological innovation. There are new opportunities for productivity and income growth through upskilling and labour migration—but a re-evaluation of facilitative approaches beckons. This panel will explore solutions to align skilling, migration, and employment strategies for the common good.   

• How can countries effectively bridge gaps in aspirations, skills, and capabilities to cultivate a future-ready workforce? 
• Can digital innovation and automation reshape education and skilling to meet the demands of a changing labour market? 
• Can we create a more global workforce that increases incentives to invest in education and human capital in emerging economies, while also meeting political demands and economic needs in the developed world? 
• Are primary, secondary, and tertiary education systems effectively imparting the skills required by a globalised workforce? 

Speakers

James Lawless, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Ireland

Ila Patnaik, Chief Economist, Aditya Birla Group, India  
 
Karthik Muralidharan, Tata Chancellor's Professor of Economics, University of California San Diego, United States of America

Maitreyi Das, Director, Trust Funds and Partner Relations, Development Finance, World Bank 

Manish Sabharwal, Executive Vice Chairman, TeamLease Services, India

Moderator

Terri Chapman, Research Fellow, George Washington University Institute of Public Policy, United States of America

Sheesh Mahal

Interaction with US-India AI Fellows

Lunch Conversations (By Invite Only)

This discussion will address key challenges and opportunities in AI development, governance, and cross-cultural cooperation between India and the US.   

Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, India 

Moderator

Andreas Kuehn, Senior Fellow, ORF America, United States of America 

Durbar

The Continent Debates: Europe’s Role in the World

Europe’s role on the global stage is being redefined. As a ‘new America’ emerges, focused on its domestic priorities and armed with unilateral strategies, Europe is reconsidering its own path—investing in security, technology, and infrastructure development to assert its influence. This panel will explore the strategic shifts necessary for Europe to lead in a multipolar world.  

• How can Europe redefine its strategic role to form a balanced partnership with a ‘new America’ in today’s multipolar order? What key challenges must be addressed within Europe for the transatlantic alliance to endure? 
• How can the nations of Europe reinvigorate the continent's economy, particularly given the vast amounts of state aid being poured into frontier sectors in the US and China? How does the European Union view its economic security today, given its commitment to openness?  
• In what ways can Europe leverage its technological innovation and digital expertise to enhance its global influence alongside the US? 

Speakers

Xavier Bettel, Deputy Prime Minister; Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade; and Minister for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs, Luxembourg  

Maria Malmer Stenergard, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sweden 
 
Ruben Brekelmans, Minister of Defence, Netherlands  

Diego Martinez Belío, State Secretary for Foreign and Global Affairs, Spain 
 
Florence Gaub, Director of the Research Division, NATO Defense College, Italy 
 
Moderator

Vanessa Ghanem, Arab Affairs Editor, The National, United Arab Emirates  

Durbar

Avenues for the Americas: Deciphering the Latin Beat

The nations in the American continents must navigate a newly assertive US and persistent economic courtship from China. Across the region, ideological affinities are intersecting with international relations and economic pragmatism. This panel will examine how policymakers in the region are balancing the practical imperatives of development with this complex geopolitical environment and highlight the opportunities and choices for an increasingly multipolar hemisphere.  

• How is domestic politics across the hemisphere responding to shifts in its largest economy, the US? What does this churn mean for China’s increasing economic influence?  
• Are there any signs that a cohesive regional policy on issues such as trade and biodiversity is emerging? 
• What strategic partnerships are essential for Latin America to maintain autonomy while navigating divergent great-power interests? What role does an enhanced economic relationship with the EU play? 

 

Speakers

Elmer Schialer Salcedo, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Peru 
 
E. P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antigua & Barbuda 
 
Héctor Cárdenas, President, Consejo Mexicano de Asuntos Internacionales, Mexico  
 
Keiti da Rocha Gomes, Director, International Studies, Instituto de Pesquisa Econômica Aplicada, Brazil 
 
Aude Darnal, Research Analyst and Project Manager, The Stimson Center, United States of America
 
Moderator

Carolina Chimoy, Political Correspondent and News Presenter, Deutsche Welle, United States of America 

Shahjehan

Rescripting the Liberal Order: Can Tariffs Trump China?

Parallel Session

The increasing use of tariffs, barriers, and sanctions marks the abandonment of the liberal global order that created wealth and prosperity across the world. As nations turn to mercantilism, protectionism, and industrial policy to shield and nurture domestic industry, patterns of trade and investment are shifting as well. This panel will analyse the impact of economic nationalism on global growth, innovation, and trade. 
  

• Is the use of tariffs and controls effective in controlling the path of investment and trade? Have they managed to reshape the technological destiny of nations, or will China's tech sector and others shake them off in time?  
• Is the golden age of the multilateral trading system over, and must we rely on plurilateral or bilateral deals? Does that not advantage large trading powers like China?  
• How can nations deal with the excess productive capacity that has been built up in China, and how can we restore our competitiveness? 
• Can countries that are raising tariffs and other barriers offer the emerging world an economic proposition that competes effectively with China’s, or will they cede global economic leadership to Beijing?  

Speakers

Tony Abbott, Former Prime Minister, Australia 
 
Takehiko Matsuo, Vice Minister for International Affairs, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan 

Jane Holl Lute, President and Chief Executive Officer, SICPA, United States of America 
 
Carla Sands, Vice Chair, Centre for Energy and Environment, America First Policy Institute, United States of America

Alicia Garcia Herrero, Chief Economist, Asia Pacific, Natixis; Senior Fellow, Bruegel Hong Kong 
 
Moderator 

Palki Sharma, Managing Editor, Firstpost, India 

Roshanara

Checkmate or Comeback? EMDEs in the Great Global Macroeconomic Rebalancing (Raisina Economic Forum)

Parallel Session

Countries across the world are seeking to secure their growth paths while faced with regulatory and geopolitical uncertainty. Great-power rivalry and shifting domestic politics threaten to fragment the global economic architecture; multilateral institutions and constraints increasingly appear moribund. Leaders are in search of agile policy responses to shifting circumstances: from debt sustainability and new fiscal challenges to concerns about capital flight and currency stability.  

• What does this mean for EMDEs?   
• How can they adapt, compete, and secure financial stability in a world where multipolarity is not just a trend but a new reality?   
• How can EMDEs sustain growth amid tighter global liquidity and capital outflows?  
• Can regional alliances mitigate supply chain disruptions, climate shocks, and debt vulnerabilities? 

Chair

NK Singh, Chairperson, Fifteenth Finance Commission; Co-Convenor, Expert Group on MDB Reforms, India 

Initiators

Hannah Wanjie Ryder, Chief Executive Officer, Development Reimagined, Kenya  

Heungchong Kim, Distinguished Professor, College of International Relations, Korea University, South Korea 

Kate O’Shaughnessy, Research Director, Perth USAsia Centre, Australia 

Karim El Aynaoui, Executive President, Policy Center for the New South, Morocco  

Rahul Bajoria, Managing Director, Head of India and ASEAN Economic Research, Bank of America, India 

Moderator

Poonam Gupta, Director General, National Council of Applied Economic Research, India 

Durbar

Climate Cataclysm: The Adaptation Agenda is Gasping

While climate change poses a grave risk for all countries, for the nations of the Vulnerable Twenty (V20) Group, it is an existential question. The V20’s vulnerability is further compounded by a growing debt crisis and fragile balance sheets as climate-fuelled impacts permeate national economies, affecting infrastructure, supply chains, social protection, and small businesses. Collaborative efforts to mobilise resources and enhance climate resilience are not merely political but essential for their continued survival. This panel will discuss actionable strategies to strengthen climate resilience and financial stability for V20 nations.   

• Given that current adaptation efforts may not be keeping pace with the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, how do we dramatically accelerate adaptation and minimise future economic losses in the V20? 
• Why have China and the Paris Club not managed to construct a unified approach to debt restructuring?  
• Does the Global South need a climate Marshall Plan? If so, who will lead the effort?  
• Do debt-for-nature swaps provide a possible answer to the problems of financing adaptation and development, or do they ignore the basic needs of vulnerable nations? 

Speakers 

Eduardo Martínez Díaz, Deputy Prime Minister, Cuba  

Abdulla Khaleel, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maldives

Arzu Rana Deuba, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Nepal 
 
D.N. Dhungyel, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Bhutan 

Wangari Muchiri, Director of Africa, Global Wind Energy Council, Kenya 
 
Moderator

Kira Vinke, Head, Center for Climate and Foreign Policy, German Council on Foreign Relations, Germany 

Shahjehan

Overtures from Penn Avenue: Will Kremlin Respond?

Parallel Session

The world watches as Russia and the US seem poised on the brink of yet another ‘reset’. Can new talks with fewer presumptions resolve long-standing conflicts and usher a new era of cooperation? The impact on these dynamics of Russia’s growing ties with China and the evolution of the transatlantic alliance will also be watched. This panel will discuss the potential for cooperation, the implications for international diplomacy in a multipolar world, and the future of great-power alignment.   

• Can dialogue between the US and Russia prove the path to peace, or is it merely political posturing to pause a conflict without addressing the underlying issues? 
• Can the deep distrust and suspicions that have marred US-Russia relations be overcome, or should we at best expect a Cold War-style thaw that maintains the balance of power? 
• How will Russia manage its increasingly complex relationship with China, and what role will this dynamic play in shaping the US’s ability to balance Europe? 
• How will other major and middle powers respond to a potential shift in US-Russia relations, and which are the likely supporters or spoilers? 

Speakers 

Vyacheslav Nikonov, Member of the State Duma, Federal Assembly, Russia 
 
Anastasia Likhacheva, Dean, Faculty of World Economy and International Affairs, HSE University, Russia 
 
Georgette Mosbacher, Co-Chair, Three Seas Programming, Europe Center, Atlantic Council, United States of America

Paul Saunders, President, Centre for the National Interest, United States of America 

Rachel Rizzo, Senior Fellow, Europe Centre, Atlantic Council, United States of America 
 
Moderator 

Dhruva Jaishankar, Executive Director, ORF America, United States of America  

Roshanara

The Southern Handover: Sustaining G20 Solidarity Agenda

Parallel Session

Scene Setter: Abhishek Singh, Joint Secretary, Multilateral Economic Relations; Sous-Sherpa for G20, BRICS, IBSA, Ministry of External Affairs, India 

The G20 has had four successive developing-country presidencies which have reframed the grouping before it is handed over back to presidencies from the Global North. Indonesia, India, Brazil, and South Africa have risen to the challenges posed by COVID-19 and the tortuous path to economic recovery, moving the G20 agenda forward on economic cooperation and giving it new momentum. As a multilateral platform that is a bridge between the Global North and Global South, enhancing the G20’s capacity is a global good.  

• What are the South African presidency's priorities, and how should these ideas be framed so that they carry over into the next year and beyond? 
• What are the ways in which the developing country presidencies have shifted the nature of economic governance, and what role does the G20 now play in mainstreaming questions of economic development? 
• What are the prospects for G20 collaboration and action at a time when multilateralism is under pressure from all sides? 

Initiators  

Elizabeth Sidiropoulos, Chief Executive, South African Institute of International Affairs, South Africa 

Héctor Cárdenas Suárez, President, Consejo Mexicano de Asuntos Internacionales, Mexico  

Keiti da Rocha Gomes, Director, Instituto de Pesquisa Econômica Aplicada, Brazil  

Markus Brunnermeier, Edwards S. Sanford Professor of Economics, Princeton University, United States of America  

Riatu Mariatul Qibthiyyah, Director, Institute for Economic and Social Research, University of Indonesia, Indonesia  

In the Chair 

Harsh V. Pant, Vice President, Studies and Foreign Policy, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Durbar

Winning the AI Marathon: India in the Global AI Race

Is the AI race, like the space race of old, merely between big powers? If not, where does India stand, and what advantages will it bring to the table? This conversation will reveal India’s plans for the AI age. 

• Progress in AI requires big startup investments—including in compute infrastructure. Can countries like India compete with wealthier economies here? Do emerging economies have access to the leading-edge chips that many consider necessary for AI advancement? 
• Countries with a diverse linguistic heritage, like India, face special challenges in developing widely used and accurate large language models. How are we overcoming that? And, reversing that, are the efficiency benefits of AI greater in countries that have language diversity?  
• How do you see the US vs China race on AI developing in the next few years? Does the US have an insurmountable lead, or are new Chinese advancements, like DeepSeek, demonstrating an ability to catch up by crunching costs and resources?  
• How can policy in India help address the need for AI software engineers? How skill-intensive is AI development, and are we keeping up with the sector's skilling requirements?  
• What specific advantages will countries like India—with a large workforce and a history of cost-conscious implementation—bring to the AI contest? 
• What partnerships will define the age of AI? Is it inevitable that countries like the US, India, and the UAE will collaborate, or will their domestic AI strategies take them in different directions? 

Speakers 

Ashwini Vaishnaw,  Minister for Railways; Information & Broadcasting; Electronics & Information Technology, India   

Ronnie Chatterji, Chief Economist, OpenAI, United States of America   

Vinod K. Dham, Founder and Executive Managing Partner, Indo-US Venture Partners, United States of America  

Moderator

Shereen Bhan, Managing Editor, CNBC-TV18, India  

Durbar

Secure Waters: ASEAN, Quad and the Indo-Pacific

The Indo-Pacific region is characterised by a complex interplay of alliances and strategic partnerships. Its evolving geometry of partnerships—ASEAN and the Quad among them—reflects a shift from traditional bilateral alliances to more dynamic frameworks. The future of regional peace and stability, and of a free and open Indo-Pacific, depends on how these groupings evolve and engage with shifting global dynamics. This panel will examine the chances of success for these emerging geopolitical and geo-economic collaborations.   

• How can Indo-Pacific nations strategically reconcile their individual national interests with the imperative for cohesive multilateral cooperation to foster enduring regional stability? 
• What impacts could the new administration in Washington DC have on the US’s role in the Indo-Pacific, and on the strategic commitments and geopolitical alignments of states in the region? 
• What impact does the rise of non-state actors and transnational threats have on traditional state-centric security paradigms? 

Speakers

Enrique Manalo, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Philippines 
 
Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Thailand  
 
Brent Sadler, Senior Research Fellow, Naval Warfare and Advanced Technology, Allison Center for National Security, The Heritage Foundation, United States of America 
 
Hiroyuki Akita, Foreign Affairs and International Security Commentator, Nikkei, Japan 
 
Ji Yeon-Jung, Assistant Professor, Department of Military History and Strategy, Republic of Korea Naval Academy, South Korea 
 
Moderator

Lisa Singh, Chief Executive Officer, Australia India Institute,  Australia 

Transition

Dinner Conversations (By Invite Only)

Shahjehan

Rethinking Partnerships: Minerals, Materials and Monopolies

Dinner Conversations (By Invite Only)

Scene Setter: Dammu Ravi, Secretary, Economic Relations, Ministry of External Affairs, India  

The global race for rare-earth minerals has accelerated, driven by advances in battery tech, renewable energy, sustainable mobility, and quantum computing. Nations are forging novel partnerships across the value chain—from rare-earth processing to materials innovation. These are shifting from traditional buyer-seller relationships to deeper strategic alliances involving joint investments, technology sharing, and coordinated infrastructure development that could de-risk rare-earth dependencies. This panel will deliberate on how we can ensure supply chain resilience in a volatile world. 

• How can geopolitical risks be minimised through the diversification of supply chains? What incentives would motivate potential partners including the private sector, to join in? 
• How can international partnerships in the critical minerals and materials ecosystem be structured to share both risks and rewards? How can private capital be a part of this relationship?  
• How can nations develop supply chain resilience for sectors vital to future growth and employment, such as electric vehicles and transportation? What role do public-private partnerships and transnational collaborations have?  
• How do we promote responsible mining practices, including recycling and urban mining, to reduce reliance on primary extraction of rare-earth minerals? 

Speakers

Tadashi Maeda, Chairman of the Board, Japan Bank for International Cooperation, Japan 
 
Brendan Nelson,  President, Boeing Global, United Kingdom 
 
Gopala Krishnan CS, Chief Manufacturing Officer, Hyundai Motor India Ltd
 
Agatha Kratz, Partner, Rhodium Group, France  
 
Kate O’Shaughnessy, Research Director, Perth USAsia Centre, Australia 
 
Moderator

Xenia Wickett, Director, Wickett Advisory, United Kingdom 

Mumtaz

Policy & Palate

Dinner Conversations (By Invite Only)

Jehangir

Capital’s Gender Bias: Making Money Flow to Women Entrepreneurs

Dinner Conversations (By Invite Only)

A stark dichotomy exists between the entrepreneurship possibilities open to men and women. Despite a growing number of women-led start-ups, significant barriers remain in securing funding, limiting their potential for growth. Is this funding gap merely a matter of economics or a result of deeper cultural issues? The structural underrepresentation of women in investment decision-making roles may amplify these cultural problems. This panel will discuss how the start-up world can be made truly gender inclusive.    

• What are the key challenges preventing women-led companies from receiving the same level of funding as those led by men? 
• How do societal biases and gender stereotypes contribute to the perception of women entrepreneurs as ‘risky investments’, and how can this be changed? 
• What specific policy reforms and industry actions are needed to close this funding gap and promote sustainable growth of women-led businesses?  
• Does politics influence financial decisions when it comes to funding women-led start-ups, and how can we shift this dynamic to catalyse growth? 

Speakers

Priyanka Chaturvedi, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, Government of India 
 
Cecilia Oldne, Chief India Representative, Sweden-India Business Council; Founding Partner, Visceral Capital, India   
 
Kiyoto Matsuda, Co-Founder and Chairman, Topaz Capital, Japan  

Aakanksha Tangri, Founder, Re:Set, United Arab Emirates
 
Thanuja Jayawardhane, Head, Women Go Beyond, MAS Holdings, Sri Lanka  
 
Moderator 

Lara Setrakian, President, Applied Policy Research Institute, Armenia 

Roshanara

The India Opportunity: Growth with Stability

Dinner Conversations (By Invite Only)

Conversation: Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Finance and Minister of Corporate Affairs, India

with N.K. Singh, Co-Convenor, G20 Independent Expert Group on Strengthening MDBs; President, Institute of Economic Growth; Chairman, 15th Finance Commission, India 

Welcome Remarks: Ashok Malik, Partner and Chair of India Practice, The Asia Group, India

Sheesh Mahal

Interaction with the US-India AI Fellows

Dinner Conversations (By Invite Only)

This discussion will address key challenges and opportunities in AI development, governance, and cross-cultural cooperation between India and the US.   

Arvind Gupta, Co-Founder, Digital India Foundation, India   

Moderator

Anulekha Nandi, Fellow, Technology, Economy, and Society, Observer Research Foundation, India

Mumtaz

End of Christendom: Whose European Values Are They Anyway?

Conversations over Kahwa (For Speakers and Delegates only)

Christianity offered a cultural, linguistic, philosophical mooring that united a continent. Its contemporary, cosmopolitan avatars have instead emphasised divergence and difference. The lack of a singular moral structure may have contributed to shifts in social cohesion, the rise of individualism, and the inability to address complex challenges. The historical alignment of Europe and North America with ecclesiastical values provided a framework that, though asynchronous with other belief systems, might have been more understood and even accepted by the rest of the world.   

• How has the historical alignment of Christianity with Western values influenced international relations, and what implications does this have for current geopolitical conflicts?  
• How can the erosion of a unifying moral framework, as seen in contemporary society, affect the stability and predictability of international alliances? Has globalism replaced religion as a supranational ideology?  

Speakers

Angelika Niebler, Member of the European Parliament; Chair of the Delegation for Relations with India  

Attila Demkó, Head of the Strategic Foresight Program, John Lukacs Institute, Ludovika University of Public Service, Hungary  

Gladden Pappin, President, Hungarian Institute of International Affairs, United States of America  
 
Patrick Deneen, Professor, Department of Political Science, University of Notre Dame, United States of America  

Stefania Benaglia, Foreign Policy Expert, European Union  
 
Moderator

Velina Tchakarova, Founder and Geopolitical Strategist, FACE, Austria 

Roshanara

Importing Dissent: Immigration and National Cohesion

Conversations over Kahwa (For Speakers and Delegates only)

Immigration is an increasingly polarising topic across the world. As nativism reasserts itself, questions about cultural integration, social fragmentation, and the perceived economic strain imposed by newcomers have become politically salient. Policymakers are seeking a balance between welcoming migrants who can contribute economically, and ensuring social cohesion. This panel will discuss the complexities of immigration, national identity, and the need for policies that foster integration while addressing societal concerns.   

• How can states with liberal founding principles balance respect, tolerance, and national solidarity? Is there an emerging consensus about how immigrants should be treated?  
• Are nations that host expansive diasporas prepared to deal with the impact that extremism and political divisions might have on their own domestic politics, or on their international partnerships?  
• Are there regions or countries that have successfully integrated immigrants while maintaining social cohesion which can serve as examples for the world? 

Speakers

Karoline Sophie Czychon, State Chairwoman, Junge Union, Niedersachsen for Junge Union, Germany 
 
Nathan A. Sales, Nonresident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; Former U.S. Acting Under Secretary of State, United States of America 
 
Stefan Mair, Director, German Institute for International and Security Affairs; Executive Chairman, Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik, Germany 
 
Sushant Sareen, Senior Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India 
 
Nathalie Tocci, Director, Istituto Affari Internazionali , Italy 
 
Moderator 

Indrani Bagchi, Chief Executive Officer, Ananta Centre, India  

Shahjehan

Pole Vaults: The Revanchist West and a Rising South

Conversations Over Breakfast

As the United States seeks to redefine its global engagement through assertive unilateralism and exceptionalism, this panel will examine the tensions between American revanchism, the expectations of its transatlantic partners, and the aspirations of an increasingly confident Global South. With the American G20 presidency as backdrop, we will explore how American impulses would work in a multipolar world and whether traditional transatlantic partnerships can adapt, while also accommodating emerging voices and powers.

• How might assertive and unilateral actions under a second Trump presidency impact the cohesion and effectiveness of traditional transatlantic alliances in a multipolar global order? 
• What are the potential ramifications of the American weaponisation of geography—such as annexing Greenland or renaming strategic regions—on US credibility and leadership? How will it affect global governance? 
• In an increasingly multipolar world, how can transatlantic partnerships evolve to integrate the aspirations of the Global South while dealing with American unilateralism? 
• How can other nations navigate US exceptionalism in collaborative global governance and ensure that emerging players have a seat at the table in shaping a future global order? 

Speakers

Alexander Dynkin, President, Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy and International Relations of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Russia  
 
Ebtesam Al-Ketbi, Founder & President, Emirates Policy Center, United Arab Emirates  
 
Karim El Aynaoui, Executive President, Policy Center for the New South, Morocco  
 
Manjeet Kripalani, Executive Director, Gateway House, India 
 
Paolo Magri, Managing Director and President of the Advisory Board, Italian Institute for International Political Studies, Italy   
 
Moderator

Ken Jimbo, Head, Institute of Geoeconomics, Japan 

Mumtaz

Beyond the Crises: Prospects for Peace and Progress in the Middle East

Conversations Over Breakfast

In the Middle East, economic transformation and persistent conflicts create a stark study in contrasts. The region showcases remarkable economic vitality and ambitious initiatives like Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the UAE's economic diversification programmes. However, this progress exists alongside humanitarian and security crises in Gaza, Yemen, and Syria. The October 2023 escalation of conflict between Israel and Hamas, ongoing tensions with Iran, and broader regional rivalries have created a complex web of challenges that demand both immediate conflict resolution and long-term strategic solutions.   

• Are economic reconciliation and political reconciliation both possible in the region? Will such reconciliations be sequential, or simultaneous? What will such a balancing act entail?  
• Do we need a neutral global commission to look into what happened in the Israel-Palestine conflict? Can we move ahead without looking back at all, or is some form of closure and accountability necessary?  
• How will the US’s new attempts to bring peace in the region change minds, incentives and actions? What sort of buy-in from other actors will be necessary, and is such support visible?  
• What is the significance of Beijing's role in facilitating the rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia, and is this a harbinger of more such agreements?  

 

Speakers

David Petraeus, Partner, KKR & Chairman, KKR Global Institute, United States of America 
 
Eden Bar Tal, Director General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Israel 
 
Abla Abdel-Latif, Executive Director and Director of Research, Egyptian Centre for Economic Studies, Egypt 
 
Rainer Rudolph, Vice-Chairman, Munich Security Conference, Germany  

Oana Popescu Zamfir, Director, GlobalFocus Center, Romania
 
Moderator

Leslie Vinjamuri, Director, US and Americas Programme; Chair of the Faculty, Queen Elizabeth II Academy, Chatham House, United Kingdom 

Jehangir

A Bridge Between Continents: Development, Adaptation, and Food Security

Conversations Over Breakfast

Scene Setter: Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary, East, Ministry of External Affairs, India   

The Asian and the African continents are the two greatest hopes for global growth in the coming decade. Collaboration on agriculture and food security can serve as the bedrock for their future development; but this also needs the creation of new and better infrastructure and connectivity, as well as the promotion of hubs for trade and innovation on their coastlines. The panel will discuss the role of technological innovation and climate adaptation finance, and evolving governance frameworks in boosting food security and creating resilient communities.    

• How can we create land and sea bridges between African and Asian growth centres? What are the partnerships and projects that make this possible?  
• The elimination of food insecurity is a priority for governments in both the regions. What role do new networks of trade and innovation play in this effort?  
• How can countries in the region collaborate to direct finance towards climate adaptation strategies, including in agriculture and in infrastructure—and what partners can they find in this effort internationally? 

Speakers

Sarah Agbor Anyang, Vice President, Forum for African Women Educationalists, Kenya; Former Commissioner, African Union  
 
Chevaan Daniel, Executive Group Director, Capital Maharaja Group, Sri Lanka 

Rob Hewett, Chairman, Silver Fern Farms, New Zealand 
 
Chitkala Kalidas, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Environment, Social & Governance, Bayer, United States of America 
 
Sara Roversi, Founder and President, Future Food Institute, Italy 
 
Moderator

Sunaina Kumar, Senior Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India

Roshanara

From Zero-Sum to Tech for Good: Securing Innovation

Conversations Over Breakfast (By Invite Only)  

Technological change and geopolitical contestation have radically altered the framework for innovation and its dissemination. There are concerns that innovation is less globalised and democratic than it has been in the recent past, and that we are hurtling towards a zero-sum game. There are fears that security-related pressures could deprioritise human-centric development as a desired goal for research and innovation. Meanwhile, the scramble for minerals, materials and components critical for technological and green transition is as intense as that for hydrocarbons in the past century. Choices policymakers make today will determine whether the ongoing tech revolution will leave us safer and better off—or the opposite. 

• How will countries navigate the space between different models of technological ownership and regulation? If the US and China dominate AI, for one, how can other nations and groupings ensure they are at the table and not on the menu?  
• Is there a way to ensure like-minded countries, which believe in open markets and open societies, remain competitive in the race for critical minerals?  
• Is economic and national security the main driver of innovation-related policy? What are the overlaps and co-benefits between security and development?  
• Which actors, enterprises and partnerships drive innovation for peace and war? What role do the private sector and the defence-industrial complex play? Can trust be built across national and regional frontiers to enable an equitable spread of innovation?  

Keynote Address

Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, India 
 
In the Chair

Pavan Kapoor, Deputy National Security Adviser, India 

Sheesh Mahal

Breakfast Meeting: India-US AI Task Force

Conversations over Breakfast (By Invite Only)  

Transition

Durbar

Ministerial Remarks

India’s Outreach to Latin America: New Vistas for Untapped Potential

Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State, Ministry of External Affairs, India

Durbar

Destiny or Destination: Culture, Connectivity and Tourism

As the world becomes more interconnected, countries compete on culture, commerce, and connectivity; tourism has been turned into a complex chessboard for geopolitics and economics. The rise of experiential tourism demands a balance between preserving cultural and ecological heritage and fostering growth. Nations must invest in infrastructure that connects remote areas to hubs while respecting indigenous cultures and ecosystems. This panel will explore how cities and nations can navigate these challenges to create sustainable, culturally respectful tourism. 

• How can cities effectively monetise heritage and ecological assets while maintaining sustainable tourism practices?  
• What infrastructure investments are essential to connect remote regions to global tourism hubs? How can such infrastructure support the growth of the ‘experience’ economy?  
• How can we balance heritage commercialisation with preserving indigenous traditions and ecological ecosystems?  
• How do the politics of tourism influence global competition, and how can tourism offerings be differentiated at time when authenticity is prized? 

Speakers 

Mohamed Nasheed, Former President; Secretary-General, Climate Vulnerable Forum and V20, Maldives 

James Lawless, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Ireland 

Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, United Arab Emirates 

Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, India  

Moderator

Ashok Malik, Partner and Chair of the India Practice, The Asia Group, India

Durbar

Verses and Wars: Navigating Hybrid Theatres

The landscape of modern conflict is shaped by hybrid warfare—an amalgamation of traditional military power, cyber operations, disinformation, economic coercion, and non-state actors. Digital warfare has emerged as a critical front, with recent conflicts highlighting the increasing role of cyber capabilities. As threats evolve across both physical and digital realms—from the streets to cyberspace—nations must navigate a new world of fluid, unpredictable, and multifaceted confrontations. This panel will explore how countries are adapting to these emerging threats, strengthening defence partnerships and collaborating to enhance resilience in an interconnected, digitally driven world.   

• How can nations effectively distinguish between traditional and hybrid warfare? What frameworks may be adopted to address the blurred boundaries? How are security doctrines adapting to digital arenas of conflicts? 
• In an era where non-state actors, cyber threats, and disinformation play a central role, how can states strengthen national security, particularly in the digital domain? 
• As hybrid warfare increasingly involves economic tools like sanctions and trade disruptions, how can countries balance their economic interests with national security priorities? 
• How can international partnerships strengthen intelligence sharing, address software-driven threats, and build collaborative strategies to counter digital and cyber warfare effectively? 
   

Speakers

General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, India  

David Petraeus, Partner, KKR & Chairman, KKR Global Institute, United States of America  

Vivek Lall, Chief Executive, General Atomics Global Corporation, United States of America 
 
Maggie Sprenger, Co-Founder and General Partner, Audere Capital, United States of America 
  
Pavlina Pavlova, Fellow, New America, United States of America 
 
Moderator

Róbert Vass, Founder and President, GLOBSEC, Slovakia 

Roshanara

The Decade Ahead: Ideas for BRICS Presidencies

Parallel Session

Scene Setter: Abhishek Singh, Joint Secretary, Multilateral Economic Relations; Sous-Sherpa for G20, BRICS, IBSA, Ministry of External Affairs, India  

For many countries in the Global South, the freshly expanded BRICS grouping is a useful location to discuss issues of mutual concern involving growth and development. Despite strategic competition between some of the members, the need to keep human-centred development on track drives BRICS cooperation. Issues from supply chain disruptions to financial stability and infrastructure deficits have led to calls to redefine global governance structures; this panel will explore the role that the BRICS could play in this effort.  

• With political upheaval in the West, is it up to BRICS to keep the flag of development and growth flying? 
• What pitfalls does the BRICS group need to avoid if it is not to repeat the mistakes of the current multilateral order? 
• How can BRICS foster greater collaboration in areas such as climate change and digital innovation? 
• How can BRICS foster greater connectivity and logistical resilience to move on the shared objective of trade facilitation? 

Initiators 

Sarah Mosoetsa, Chief Executive Officer, Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa 
 
Victoria Panova, Head, BRICS Expert Council; Vice Rector, HSE University; Russian W20 Sherpa, Russia 
 
Xie Chao, Associate Professor, Institute of International Studies, Fudan University, China 

Alireza Gholipour, Deputy Director General of IPIS & Director, Unit for European Studies; Unit for Asian Studies, Coordinator & Chair of Iran Delegation at BRICS Think-Tank Council, Institute for Political and International Studies, Iran   

Walter Desidera, Researcher and Coordinator of Studies in Economic Relations, Institute for Applied Economic Research, Brazil  
 

In the Chair

Sunaina Kumar, Senior Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Durbar

Commisars and Capitalists: Politics, Business and New World Order

Business and geopolitical imperatives are reshaping global trade, finance, and digital landscapes. Like-minded governments, along with their partners in finance and the private sector, are cobbling together means to respond to increasing influence of non-compatible forces: China builds half the world’s ships, controls 70 percent of cargo cranes and dominates dry cargo shipping containers. Digital trade and tech sectors in most nations are shaped by CCP's strategic interests. Meanwhile, governments of advanced economies have not been loath to weaponise economic, financial, and trade instruments either. This panel will explore how political decisions are shaping businesses and are being implicated by them.  

• How are governments and diplomacy responding, and how is foreign policy evolving amidst shifting global dynamics of trade and finance, and digital weaponisation? 
• How are companies exerting their power and how are they responding to increasing ability to determine social, economic, and political outcomes across the world? Are boardrooms cognisant of the responsibility that comes with this new power? 
• How is the government-private enterprise relationship evolving in this age of declared and undeclared national champions? What does it mean for trade, finance, and technology? 
• How can emerging markets and global supply chains adapt to shifting geopolitical realities in both the physical and cyber domains, ensuring that innovation and free trade are maintained? 

Speakers

Joel Kaplan, Chief Global Affairs Officer, Meta, United States of America 
 
Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Fincantieri, Italy 
 
Marianne Demarchi, Chief Executive Officer, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Swift  

S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, India

Moderator

Palki Sharma, Managing Editor, Firstpost, India 

Durbar

Deepwater Perils: Securing Trade Through Red Zones

Scene Setter: Mara Motherway, Vice-President, Strategy and Business Development, Lockheed Martin, United States of America   

Threats emanating from state and non-state actors are increasingly conflated, with both employing similar tactics and strategies. This shift raises critical questions about the preparedness of armed forces, the evolution of defence architectures, and the adaptation of military doctrines. Nations must determine how to respond to sub-sovereign provocations without escalating conflicts beyond their control. This panel will examine the shifting nature of maritime threats, risks for global security and trade, and the evolving responses required to safeguard vital trade routes.   

• With non-state and quasi-state actors often employing asymmetric tactics, are current naval doctrines and technologies truly adequate to counter these unconventional threats? 
• With the emergence of 'dark fleets' operating outside regulatory frameworks, what collaborative measures can nations take to improve transparency and accountability in maritime trade? 
• With the rapid advancement of defence technologies, how are combat forces integrating innovations such as artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and cyber capabilities into military preparedness? 
• Are current alliances and force deployments sufficient to guarantee freedom of navigation and trade? 

Speakers

Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, India 
 
Admiral Justin Jones, Chief of Joint Operations, Australia 
 
Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander, US Indo-Pacific Command, United States of America 
 
General Romeo S. Brawner, Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines 

General Yoshihide Yoshida, Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff, Japan  
 
Moderator 

Yalda Hakim, Lead World News Presenter, Sky News, United Kingdom 

Shahjehan

Virtual Rubicon: Governing Digital Frontiers

Conversations over Lunch (By Invite Only)

Digital spaces are increasingly turning into battlegrounds, yet policymakers must ensure a secure, open, and prosperous online ecosystem. They recognise that the spread of extremist ideologies and the weaponisation of platforms threaten societal stability and national security. Policymakers must address threats to networks and infrastructure, while promoting innovation and maintaining a secure, global digital environment. This panel will explore ways to effectively regulate digital ecosystems, and balance innovation, stability, and sovereignty. 

• How can nations assert sovereignty in cyberspace, particularly regarding telecom networks and information ecosystems, without compromising the open and global nature of digital platforms? 
• What regulatory frameworks can curb the spread of extremism and prevent the incitement of violence online, particularly within digital ecosystems and information networks? 
• How can tech companies and consumer-facing brands work with governments, regulators, and multi-stakeholder groups to collaborate to support digital ecosystems that balance security, free speech, and innovation in an era of rising cyber threats? 
• What role should international cooperation play in establishing global standards for digital governance, ensuring both security and the protection of democratic values across borders? 

Speakers

Athanasios Ntokos, National Security Adviser, Greece 
 
Rajeev Chandrashekar, Former Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology; Skill Development and Entrepreneurship; and Jal Shakti, India 
 
Carl Pei, Chief Executive Officer, Nothing, United Kingdom 
 
Erin Saltman, Senior Director of Membership & Programs, Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism, United Kingdom  
 
Moderator

Pranjal Sharma, Economic Analyst and Author, India

Mumtaz

Authoritarian AI: Understanding the Politburo of Innovation

Conversations over Lunch (By Invite Only)

Traditional arms races are now being replicated in the digital domain—and AI is the new space race, at the forefront of a growing technological competition. Chinese tech has beaten the odds, producing innovations like DeepSeek that operate at lower costs and with fewer resources. This panel will discuss the implications of China’s AI advancements, how authoritarian governance shapes technological progress, and the global impact of this emerging ‘Politburo of Innovation’.   

• How has China’s AI surge dealt with US exports controls? Can these be altered or improved to maintain the West’s tech edge?  
• As tech hubs and the state grow closer in the US as well as in China, is it still possible to build leadership in AI and frontier tech without replicating China’s state-driven model? 
• As both the US and China invest heavily in military applications of AI, what risks does this pose for global security? Could an arms race in autonomous weapons lead to new forms of conflict or destabilisation? 
• As countries in Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America adopt differing AI platforms, models, and regulations, will those choices impact their geopolitical positions? Will the AI revolution reduce their bargaining power, or will it instead allow them to challenge traditional powers? 

Speakers 

Smriti Irani, Former Minister of Women and Child Development and Minister of Minority Affairs, India    

Amandeep Singh Gill, Under-Secretary-General and Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Digital and Emerging Technology, United Nations  

Faheem Ahamed, Group Chief Marketing and Communication Officer, G42, United Arab Emirates  

Marietje Schaake, International Policy Director, Cyber Policy Center, Stanford University, United States of America 

Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler, Senior Fellow and Head of Tech Policy and Human Rights Program, Israel Democracy Institute, Israel

Moderator

Debjani Ghosh, Distinguished Fellow, NITI Aayog, India

Roshanara

Trends@Raisina: Timeline 2026

A thought-provoking luncheon symposium, which will feature business leaders, policy experts, and practitioners delving into trends that have dominated the past year and predicting those that will emerge in the next.  

Davit Karapetyan, Secretary General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Armenia 

• As geopolitical contestation intensifies, what does 2025 have in store for the nature and effectiveness of multilateralism? 
  
  

Romana Vlahutin, Visiting Distinguished Fellow, German Marshall Fund, Belgium 

• How can the EU's connectivity strategy leverage partnerships with like-minded nations to promote sustainable infrastructure development, digital connectivity, and human exchange, while countering the influence of competing global initiatives?
   

Manuel Muñiz, Provost, IE University, Spain 

• Can the transatlantic relationship maintain its relevance and strength, address shared security concerns, and promote economic cooperation?  
  
  

Nitin Seth, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Incedo, United States of America 

• Can emerging AI technologies like DeepSeek, with its advanced architecture and cost-effectiveness, serve as a model for other countries to develop similar tools?  
  
  

Noella Coursaris Musunka, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Malaika; Ambassador, The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, United States of America 

• How can the convergence of education, economic empowerment, and health programmes influence the future of women's leadership globally?  
  
  
  

Moderator 

Julia Ganter, Programme Director, Körber-Stiftung, Germany  

Jehangir

Ministerial Interactions: Fractured Order: Rewriting the Rules or Rebalancing the High-Table?

Conversations over Lunch (By Invite Only)

Northern Lights 

Espen Barth Eide, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Norway    

A View from the Caucasus

Maka Botchorishvili, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Georgia

Sheesh Mahal

Mayoral Roundtable with Dubai Expo

Conversations over Lunch (By Invite Only)

The roundtable will involve interactive exercises, prompted by questions, with participants sharing urban challenges and their city’s innovative solutions to those challenges, allowing common themes to emerge at the end of the exercise. The mayors will also share their insights and examples of how their cities are plugged into international networks of cities and how it is assisting in the dispensing of their responsivities.

Nadia Verjee, Executive Director, Global Initiatives and Advisory, Expo City Dubai, United Arab Emirates   

Misha Mittal, Senior Manager, City Advisory, Expo City Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Durbar

Dark Matters: The Geopolitics of Space

Space used to be the domain of superpowers; today 80 nations and multiple big corporations have staked a claim to Earth’s final frontier. In 2023, governments spent US$117 billion on space exploration, yet the future seems poised to belong to the private sector. With untapped natural resources, the technological capacity required to open new pathways to orbit, and valuable near-earth real estate, privatisation by stealth is occurring, raising concerns about the creation of monopolies and restricted access. Privatised R&D, resource extraction, and orbit control create challenges for excluded nations by creating a new and perverse architecture undermining global cooperation. This panel will explore the implications of the privatisation of space.   

• Earth’s near-space was previously perceived to be part of the global commons; how can we prevent the creeping capture through privatisation? Is the same fate equally likely for other celestial domains? 
• How will emerging economies access space, given the privatisation of R&D, resource extraction, and infrastructure that directly prevents them from being able to do so? 
• How does the dominance of private capital in space challenge state sovereignty? 

Speakers

Ritu Karidhal, Senior Scientist, Indian Space Research Organisation, India

Jessy Kate Schingler,  Board Member, Open Lunar Foundation, United States of America 
  
Sara Sabry, Astronaut, Founder and CEO, Deep Space Initiative, Egypt 
 
Moderator

Corinna Hoyer, Co-Chief Executive Officer, WORLD.MINDS, Switzerland 

Durbar

When Economics is Political

Uncertainty abides about the path of growth over the next few years: Tariff wars, capital flight and the weaponisation of finance and trade complicate any prognosis. India is an island of stability and development; but what of its emerging-economy peers?   

• Will China meet its ambitious growth targets or is it underestimating the costs of geo-economic conflict?  
• Will the United States continue to beat the economic odds, or will decades of spending and debt finally catch up?   

Speakers 

Nouriel Roubini, Professor Emeritus, New York University, United States of America 

Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, India  

Moderator

Shamika Ravi, Member, Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, India

Durbar

Climate Action Without Currency: Politics & Reform of Multilateral Finance

How can multilateral finance respond to the climate crisis? Some advocate green priorities for the existing framework, including multilateral development banks; while others argue that this would dilute these institutions' existing mandate to mobilise resources and facilitate financial flows to developing countries. Current lending models for multilateral finance are largely misaligned with the complexities of climate finance or the demands of the private sector. New or radically recast institutions prioritising innovative strategies may be needed to accelerate climate action. This panel will examine the potential for reforming multilateral finance to address the climate crisis. 

• What role does perceived risk play in delaying green investment, and how can that be effectively addressed by the multilateral framework? Are MDBs set up to properly hedge currency risk, or are new processes and institutions needed?  
• What progress has been made on enhancing the resources available to MDBs? Are alternative routes available for catalytic finance in relevant sectors? 
• What mechanisms can be established for MDBs to collaborate with national and local governments to ensure that finance addresses local needs and priorities? How can more effective pipelines for relevant, green projects be constructed?  
• Is the traditional role of multilateral finance—poverty alleviation and infrastructure development—being lost or ignored in a rush to find new directions for the existing architecture?    

 
Speakers

N.K. Singh, Co-Convenor, G20 Independent Expert Group on Strengthening MDBs; President, Institute of Economic Growth; Chairman, 15th Finance Commission, India 
 
André Corrêa do Lago, President, COP30, Brazil   

Angel Gurría, Former Secretary-General, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development; Honorary Member, Club de Madrid
 
Pepukaye Bardouille, Director of the Bridgetown Initiative, Prime Minister's Office, Barbados 

Moderator 

Christie Ulman, President, Sequoia Climate Foundation, United States of America 

Mumtaz

When the Centre Holds: India-EU Partnership and Global Stability

Parallel Session

In February 2025, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to India with the full College of Commissioners underscored the EU’s deepening relationship with India. As a new geopolitical moment unfolds, the India-EU partnership may play a central role in serving the international order and addressing the imperatives of climate change, digital transformation, connectivity, and security. This panel will explore the strategic significance of the India-EU partnership and the prospects for their expanding collaboration.   

• Can India and the EU design a unified and impactful proposition that shapes how multilateral institutions respond to key planetary and human challenges? 
• What is the potential for an India-EU FTA by the end of this year—and what are other ways to enhance trade and investments in crucial connectivity, infrastructure, and industrial projects?  
• In an era where political power is increasingly intertwined with technological and economic influence, how can India and the EU safeguard common interests and values in emerging technology and digital domains? 
• How can both actors catalyse implementation of connectivity projects that link the Indo-Pacific with the Mediterranean, and how can Global Gateway be rendered more effective and influential? 

Speakers

Anna Lührmann, Minister of State at the Federal Foreign Office, Germany  

Jonatan Vseviov, Secretary General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Estonia

Tanmaya Lal, Secretary, West, Ministry of External Affairs, India 
 
Kristina Kausch, Deputy Managing Director & Senior Fellow, German Marshall Fund South, United States of America  

Garima Mohan, Senior Fellow, Indo-Pacific Program, German Marshall Fund, Germany

Moderator

Amrita Narlikar, Distinguished Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Durbar

Made in Africa: The Continent that will Shape our Future

The people of the African continent will not be spectators but architects of the 21st century’s global order. From sustainable energy and climate action to peace, security, trade, and connectivity, perspectives crafted by the nations of Africa will increasingly shape the global agenda. The continent’s abundant natural resources and its vibrant demography offer a blend of strengths and opportunities. This panel will examine African countries’ evolving roles in global affairs and their contributions to shaping the rest of the century.    

• What strategies are being devised in African capitals to connect the continent’s diverse economic zones to international hubs, and to convert economic growth to last-mile development?  
• Given Africa’s mineral wealth and enviable resources, can we prevent extractive economics from defining the continent’s future and invest in Africa-first value addition?  
• How should African nations select and adopt emerging technologies that are both sustainable and economically viable? What type of partners should they prioritise? 
• As political polarisation intensifies in the world, with divergent agendas and ideological divides, how can the countries of the continent navigate turbulent geopolitical currents? 

Speakers

Mehdi Jomaa, Former Prime Minister, Tunisia 

Moussa Mara, Former Prime Minister, Mali; Member, Club de Madrid 

Sarah Agbor Anyang, Vice President, Forum for African Women Educationalists, Kenya; Former Commissioner, African Union 
 
Gwendoline Abunaw, Managing Director, Ecobank, Cameroon  

Karim El Aynaoui, Executive President, Policy Center for the New South, Morocco

Moderator 

Elizabeth Sidiropoulos, Chief Executive, South African Institute of International Affairs, South Africa 

Durbar

Valedictory Address

Sunjoy Joshi, Chairman, Observer Research Foundation, India

Durbar

The Big Picture: The World in 50 Minutes

This session invites a diverse and eclectic group of leaders, thinkers, and trailblazers to offer their perspectives on the world of tomorrow. With bold questions and candid insights, this session will explore the challenges, opportunities, and transformative forces shaping our global future across politics. 

Speakers

Carl Bildt, Former Prime Minister, Sweden  

Anna Lührmann, Minister of State at the Federal Foreign Office, Germany 

Mark Suzman, Chief Executive Officer and Board Member, Gates Foundation, United States of America

Marietje Schaake, International Policy Director, Cyber Policy Center, Stanford University, United States of America  

Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary, India 

Moderator

Samir Saran, President, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Transition

Shahjehan

Raisina Young Fellows Alumni Dinner

Dinner Conversation (By invite Only)

S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, India

Roshanara

Technical Workshop on Peace-making

Dinner Conversation (By invite Only)

An in-depth discussion on conflicts in West Asia, Africa, and Europe. Each session will feature experts on the region and the specific conflict being studied.

Co-Chairs

Dag Nylander, Director, Norwegian Centre for Conflict Resolution, Norway   

Ajay Bisaria, Distinguished Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Initiators

Volker Perthes, Senior Distinguished Fellow, Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik , Germany   

Charles Petrie, Former Assistant Secretary General, United Nations    

Itonde Kakoma, President, Interpeace, Switzerland    

Yair Hirschfeld, Senior Lecturer, Department of Middle East History, University of Haifa, Israel  

Almut Wieland-Karimi, Advisory Board Member, Stiftung Mercator, Germany 

Danielle Alakija, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, The SOLI Group, Nigeria  

Mumtaz

Urban Innovators Lab: Shaping Solutions for Cities with Expo City Dubai

Dinner Conversation (By invite Only)

This session will be an engaging townhall where students will collaborate, ideate and engage the most pressing challenges cities around the world are confronted with. Their ideas and inputs would form part of the discussions at the Asia Pacific Cities Summit & Mayors’ Forum 2025. 

John McGinnis, Senior Manager, Programme and Events, Expo City Dubai, United Arab Emirates  

Misha Mittal, Senior Manager, City Advisory, Expo City Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Transition

Durbar

Sahakriya: A Musical Performance

(For Speakers and Delegates only)

Durbar

The Curtain Call

(For Speakers and Delegates only)

Join three leading journalists as they share unique takes on the most pressing global events shaping our world today. With insights from India, Australia, and the US, this conversation promises to offer a dynamic view of the challenges and transformations across continents. This session reverses the gaze, with interrogators becoming instead the subjects of inquiry.   

In Conversation with  

Palki Sharma, Managing Editor, Firstpost, India   

Matthew Kaminski, Editor at Large, POLITICO, United States of America   

Yalda Hakim, Lead World News Presenter, Sky News, United Kingdom 

Moderator 

Samir Saran, President, Observer Research Foundation, India  

In Conversation

Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister, New Zealand

Moderator:

Samir Saran, President, Observer Research Foundation, India 

AU in the G20

This session will examine the evolving role of the African Union within the G20 framework and its implications for Africa’s global influence, especially as the continent aligns its aspirations with the AU’s Agenda 2063. 

Speakers

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ghana 

Sarah Agbor Anyang, Former Commissioner, African Union  

Moderator

Sarah Mosoetsa, Chief Executive Officer, Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa 

In Conversation

Ruben Brekelmans, Minister of Defense, The Netherlands

Moderator 

Harsh V. Pant, Vice President, Observer Research Foundation, India

In Conversation

Hassan El Khatib, Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, Egypt

Moderator 

Mihir Swarup Sharma, Director, Centre for Economy and Growth Programme, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Crypto Bros or Cons

This session will explore the ongoing debate over crypto currency's role in the financial world, scrutinising whether it is a legitimate asset or just a speculative gamble, and how regulators should respond at the national and global level. 

Speakers

Hoda Al Khzaimi, Assistant Professor and Director, Center for Cyber Security, NYU, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 

Del Titus Bawuah, Chief Executive Officer, Web3 Africa Group, Ghana 

Moderator 

Lydia Kostopoulos, Senior Strategy and Emerging Technologies Advisor, Abundance Studio, United States of America 

In Conversation

Andrii Sybiha, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ukraine

Moderator

Palki Sharma, Managing Editor, Firstpost, India

Europe’s East Asia Conundrum

As Europe re-examines its strategic capabilities and its future in a polarised world, questions will be asked about its relationship with the great powers, including China. This session will examine Europe’s economic dependencies and strategic interests in the immediate future and how Europe can reassert its values and agency in response to the assertive powers.  

Baiba Braže, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Latvia 

Marco Perestrello, President of NATO Parliamentary Assembly; Member of Parliament, Portugal 

Moderator

Palki Sharma, Managing Editor, Firstpost, India 

In Conversation

Dominique Hasler, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Education and Sport, Liechtenstein

Moderator

Shairee Malhotra, Deputy Director, Strategic Studies Programme, Observer Research Foundation, India

Conflicts Less Spoken About

While the Western gaze might be turned towards Ukraine or Gaza, there are frozen and active conflicts in the African continent that deserve greater global attention. This session will explore how the broader geopolitical landscape impacts the choices of African capitals and peace-making prospects in the continent. 

Speakers

Moussa Mara, Former Prime Minister, Mali 

Comfort Ero, President and Chief Executive Officer, International Crisis Group, United Kingdom  

Moderator

Lukhanyo Neer, Chief Operating Officer, Thabo Mbeki Foundation, South Africa 

Taking Stock of the Asian Century

This session will explore the evolving dynamics of the ‘Asian Century’ examining the complex interplay between collaboration and contestation in the region, particularly as influenced by a new Trump presidency. The discussion will delve into how China is likely to react to developments in Europe and across the Atlantic, and how East Asian countries, including South Korea and Japan, are positioning themselves in this shifting geopolitical landscape.

Speaker 

Kishore Mahbubani, Distinguished Fellow, Asia Research Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 

Moderator

Harsh V. Pant, Vice President, Observer Research Foundation, India 

In Conversation

Péter Szijjártó, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Hungary

Moderator

Kanchan Gupta, Senior Advisor, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India

Distressed Democracy

This session will discuss how the US has been grappling with deepening divisions and is now mired in internal crises and discord. The current discourse is marked by hostility rather than constructive dialogue; economic inequality; racial injustice; and generational disconnect.  

Speakers

Jane Holl Lute, President and Chief Executive Officer, SICPA, United States of America 

Max Abrahms, Associate Professor of Political Science, Northeastern University, United States of America 

Moderator 

Gautam Chikermane, Vice President, Observer Research Foundation, India

ASEAN in a Polarised World

Southeast Asia is at the centre of growth and trade in the 21^st century, but it must also deal with a shifting security landscape in the Indo-Pacific. This session will explore how Thailand and the Philippines view their strategic interests and their future.

Speakers

Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Thailand

Enrique Manalo, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Philippines

Moderator 

Palki Sharma, Managing Editor, Firstpost, India

In Conversation

Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency

Moderator 

Sunjoy Joshi, Chairman, Observer Research Foundation, India

Strategic Actor or Woke Continent?

With the recent elections, is the European consensus further frayed? In the fight between centripetal forces and centrifugal forces, who is winning? This panel will explore Europe’s ability to rise beyond this discord and rebuild its role on the global stage as a strategic actor and a key geopolitical influencer.

Speakers

Gladden Pappin, President, Hungarian Institute of International Affairs, United States of America

Attila Demkó, Head of the Strategic Foresight Program, John Lukacs Institute, Ludovika University of Public Service, Hungary

Moderator

Kanchan Gupta, Senior Advisor, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, India

In Conversation

Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, United Arab Emirates

Moderator

Navdeep Suri, Visiting Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India

What Does the South Want?

This session will discuss the growing influence of the Global South in international forums, and how its diverse aspirations can be constructively channelled to modernise traditional power structures.

Speakers

Arzu Rana Deuba, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nepal

Julia Ganter, Programme Director, Körber-Stiftung, Germany

Moderator

Prathik S Vinod, Associate Producer, Firstpost, India

In Conversation

Elmer Schialer Salcedo, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Peru

Moderator

Dhruva Jaishankar, Executive Director, ORF America, United States of America

Japan’s Strategic Investments

This session will explore Japan’s strategies for investing in a strategic future, focusing on its role in global supply chains, securing access to critical minerals, and maintaining relevance in an evolving global landscape.

Speakers

Tadashi Maeda, Chairman of the Board, Japan Bank for International Cooperation, Japan

Osamu Yamamoto, Chief Executive Officer, Unison Capital Management Pte. Ltd., Japan

Moderator 

Jhanvi Tripathi, Associate Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India

DEI Disrupted

This session will explore how the evolving US stance on DEI is impacting global policies, corporate practices, and international governance, and whether it signals the beginning of a broader rethinking of diversity efforts around the world.

Speakers

James Carafano, Senior Counselor to the President and E.W. Richardson Fellow, The Heritage Foundation, United States of America

Bonnie Glick, Adjunct Senior Fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies, United States of America

Moderator 

Gursshheen Gahllen, Senior Associate Producer, Firstpost, India

Why Can’t Europe Agree on China?

Across the European continent, divergent positions on China have created a patchwork of policies and incoherent politics. This fragmentation has complicated EU’s ability to develop a unified and strategic approach toward Beijing.     

Speakers

Laimonas Talat-Kelpša, Political Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lithuania 

Małgorzata Bonikowska, President, Centre for International Relations, Poland 

Moderator 

Gautam Chikermane, Vice President, Observer Research Foundation, India

What’s Next for Energy and the Green Deal?

The global green transition requires new energy supply chains to be robust, resilient, and well financed. Scaling up new energy ecosystems and achieving green growth will require international collaboration: with finance, technology, and production capabilities from different geographies being brought together. This session examines the prospects of a global green deal, exploring the challenges and opportunities for countries to collaborate on green energy and decarbonisation. 

Speakers

Jayant Sinha, Former Minister of State for Civil Aviation, India 

Alok Sharma, Former President, COP26, 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference 

Moderator 

Mannat Jaspal, Director & Fellow - Climate and Energy, ORF Middle East, United Arab Emirates 

China Down Under

This session will examine the shifting security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region, with a focus on China’s growing influence and its implications for regional stability.  

Speakers

Rory Medcalf, Head, National Security College, Australian National University, Australia  

Masafumi Ishii, Special Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Law, Gakushuin University, Japan 

Moderator

Lisa Singh, Chief Executive Officer, Australia India Institute, Australia 

In Conversation

Admiral Samuel Paparo, USN, Commander, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command

Moderator

Harsh V. Pant, Vice President, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Leadership in a Crisis

This session will delve into the critical role of leadership during a crisis, whether in political or business contexts. Jemma King will discuss how effective leaders navigate uncertainties, make tough decisions, and inspire confidence in turbulent times. The conversation will explore the traits and strategies that define strong leadership when the stakes are high. 

Speakers

Jemma King, Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Queensland School of Psychology; Specialist External Advisor to McKinsey & Co., Australia  

Moderator 

Lavanya Mani, Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Trilateral North–South Connectivity

The International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC) envisioned a new bridge for trade, connecting the fast-growing economic dynamos of the Global South with markets to their north. Built into the concept was the centrality of the Caucasus as a bridge between north and south. In April 2023, India, Armenia and Iran jointly took responsibility for reinvigorating the work on the corridor and overcoming the challenges in an era of disruption and uncertainty.

Speakers 

Vahan Kostanyan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Armenia

Saeed Khatibzade, President, Institute for Political and International Studies, Iran  

Moderator

Harsh V. Pant, Vice President, Observer Research Foundation, India 

From Cape Town to Capitol Hill

The G20 presidency is due to shift from South Africa to the US, which will create a new dynamic in global governance. This discussion explores the impact of US leadership on the G20’s agenda and its ability to address global issues such as economic inequality, climate change, and security. With an emphasis on America's influence, the session looks ahead to how the G20 will evolve under this transition. 

Speakers

Keiti da Rocha Gomes, Director, Instituto de Pesquisa Econômica Aplicada, Brazil 

Victoria Panova, Head, BRICS Expert Council; Vice Rector, HSE University; Russian W20 Sherpa, Russia 

Moderator

Elizabeth Sidiropoulos, Chief Executive, South African Institute of International Affairs, South Africa

Connectivity Blueprint from the Indo-Pacific to the Mediterranean

Europe in the Concert of Waters

As the Arctic and Indo-Pacific regions become key areas of geopolitical competition, this session will examine the security challenges posed by the growing influence of China and Russia in these regions, and how the West, particularly Europe, can respond. 

Speakers

Nicolai Ruge, Ambassador, Special Representatives for Maritime Security, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Denmark 

Hans-Christian Hagman, Deputy National Security Adviser for Strategy, Head of the Office for Strategic Analysis and National Security Coordination, National Security Council, Prime Minister’s Office, Sweden 

Moderator 

Kabir Taneja, Deputy Director and Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Calm over the Taiwan Strait

This session will explore the many issues that centre on Taiwan examining its relationship with the mainland, its extraordinary geo-economic importance, and its evolving role on the global stage amidst rising geopolitical tensions. 

Speakers

I-Chung Lai, President, The Prospect Foundation  

Hiroyuki Akita, Foreign & International Security Commentator, Nikkei Asia, Japan  

Moderator

Gursshheen Gahllen, Senior Associate Producer, Firstpost, India

Rewriting Germany’s Limits

Germany's political landscape is undergoing a significant shift as the country moves to loosen its constitutional debt restrictions to enable €1 trillion in defense and infrastructure spending. This strategic shift challenges long-standing fiscal policies, aiming to bolster national security and economic growth and promises major implications for both the domestic economy and Europe’s security landscape.

Speakers

Bastian Schneider, Judge, Karlsruhe Administrative Court, Germany 

Adrian Haack, Director, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, India 

Moderator

Prathik S Vinod, Associate Producer, Firstpost, India 

Opportunities Connect

This session will examine how the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) can reshape global connectivity, foster economic growth, and enhance geopolitical stability through enhanced cooperation between India, the Middle East, and Europe. 

Speakers

Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Fincantieri, Italy 

Francesco Parisi, Chief Executive Officer, Parisi Group of Companies, Italy  

Romana Vlahutin, Visiting Distinguished Fellow, German Marshall Fund, Belgium 

Moderator

Kaush Arha, President, Free & Open Indo-Pacific Forum, United States of America 

The Need to Invest in Liberal Fleets

This session will examine the geopolitical implications of China’s dominance in shipping and maritime infrastructure, exploring how global trade dynamics are shifting and what policies may be necessary to ensure a more diversified and secure maritime future. 

Speakers

Sanjeev Sanyal, Member, Economic Advisory Council of the Prime Minister, India 

Brent Sadler, Senior Research Fellow, Naval Warfare and Advanced Technology, Allison Center for National Security, The Heritage Foundation, United States of America 

Moderator

Rachel Rizzo, Senior Fellow, Europe Center, Atlantic Council, United States of America 

Financing Climate Resilience

This session will explore how climate finance can be restructured to address the unique needs of vulnerable nations, focusing on debt sustainability and scalable solutions. It will examine how global initiatives can foster climate resilience and sustainable development in at-risk countries 

Speakers

Pepukaye Bardouille, Director of Bridgetown Initiative; Special Adviser on Climate Resilience, Prime Minister's Office, Barbados 

Nilanjan Ghosh, Vice President, Development Studies, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Moderator

Mannat Jaspal, Director & Fellow, Climate and Energy, Observer Research Foundation Middle East, United Arab Emirates 

In Conversation

Athanasios Ntokos, National Security Adviser, Greece 

Moderator

Palki Sharma, Managing Editor, Firstpost, India

Ideas Pod: रायसीना 2025 : सार संवाद

Sunjoy Joshi, Chairman, Observer Research Foundation

Moderator

Naghma Sahar, Senior Fellow, Observer Research Foundation

Arrival at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan

Breakfast

Welcome Address

Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary, India

In conversation with Amandeep Singh Gill, Under-Secretary-General and Secretary-General's Envoy for Digital and Emerging Technology, United Nations

The DPI ecosystem has evolved rapidly in the last few years. While the initial efforts on DPI were undertaken by the governments to support digital transformation, this new phase of DPI is characterized by joint efforts of the markets, national governments, DPG asset holders, international organisations and philanthropies. Accordingly, the role of international organizations becomes increasingly important as witnessed with the Universal DPI Safeguards process and the Global Digital Compact.

• How are UN and other international organizations responding to the growth of DPI globally? 
• How can DPI support the aspirations of the Global South? 
• How can we develop a consensus on the regulation and safeguards for the DPI? 
• How important is the UN when it comes to the future of global DPI? 

Moderator 

Rudra Chaudhuri, Director, Carnegie India

DPI: Accelerating Innovation?

DPIs have emerged as powerful enablers of entrepreneurship by providing the foundational layers on which enterprises can build innovative solutions. By offering open technology standards and interoperable frameworks, DPIs lower entry barriers, reduce business costs, and create an environment conducive to experimentation and innovation. However, there are concerns that DPIs may inadvertently hinder certain aspects of innovation due to challenges like over-regulation, the risk of market concentration, and the potential for market lock-ins. 

• How can DPIs be designed to maximize innovation while ensuring robust security and privacy protections?  
• What strategies can be employed to minimize risks like over-regulation and market concentration?  
• Additionally, what role does the private sector play in harnessing DPIs for innovation, and how can public-private collaborations be leveraged to enhance entrepreneurial outcomes?

Speakers

Innar Liiv, Professor of Big Data, Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia 

Shriyanka Hore, Managing Director, Global Head of Industry Engagement, Swift 

Tshering Cigay Dorji, Former Chief Executive Officer, Thimphu TechPark, Bhutan 

Moderator  

Pranjal Sharma, Economic Analyst and Author, India

Ministerial Address

E. P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antigua & Barbuda

Break

DPI Diplomacy: Building Bridges, Benefiting Nations

DPI's transformative success in India, and their demonstrated replicability across diverse country contexts, has led to their emergence as a new tool for international cooperation and diplomacy. For instance, a host of countries in the Indo-Pacific have begun to adopt and adapt the DPI model; minilaterals like the Quad and the SCO are keen to utilize DPIs for regional development; the US and the EU have expressed interest in partnering with India to provide global leadership around DPI and support third countries; and the EU and India are working towards making their digital infrastructures more interoperable. These collaborations could enable national and cross-border digital transformation, and open up new avenues for innovation using frontier and emerging technologies.   

• Is DPI helping inaugurate a new era of international cooperation and diplomacy?  
• Which elements and attributes of the Indian DPI model hold the greatest appeal for the world?  
• How might businesses better leverage the opportunities for public-private cooperation and innovation that DPIs offer?  
• Are there any major instances of foreign ministries working with the private sector on DPI initiatives that could act as operating models?  

Speakers

Rohit Rathish, Joint Secretary [DPA-III], Minister of External Affairs, India 

C V Madhukar, Chief Executive Officer, Co- Develop, India 

Erin Watson, Managing Director, Baker & York, Australia 

Sarah Agbor Anyang, Vice President, Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE), Kenya; Former Commissioner, African Union 

Sanjay Jain, Director, DPI, Gates Foundation, India 

Moderator

Anirban Sarma, Director, Center for Digital Societies, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Navigating the DPI-AI Nexus: Balancing Data, Privacy, and Progress

The integration of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) with Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents a powerful opportunity to create widespread societal benefits. Data housed within DPI systems—spanning critical sectors such as healthcare, education, transportation, and governance—can fuel AI solutions that are not only transformative but also inclusive. By unlocking this data, AI can enhance capabilities, boost efficiencies, and deliver data-driven solutions to complex challenges that benefit diverse communities. 

• What are the primary challenges in integrating AI with DPI systems, particularly in terms of technical, ethical, and regulatory hurdles?  
• How can the need for data be balanced with individual’s right to privacy?  
• How can data sharing be facilitated across sectors while maintaining transparency, trust, and accountability? 

Speakers

Sanket S. Bhondve, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Govt of India 

Dushni Weerakoon, Executive Director, Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka 

Nitin Seth, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Incedo, United States of America 

Sabeen Malik, Vice President, Global Government Affairs and Public Policy, Rapid7, United States of America 

Sharad Sharma, Co-Founder, iSPIRT, India 

Moderator 

Rahul Matthan, Partner, Trilegal, India 

Keynote Address

S. Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, India

Ministerial Address

Arzu Rana Deuba, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Nepal

Vote of Thanks

Raghuram S, Joint Secretary (Policy Planning & Research), Ministry of External Affairs, India 

Closing Remarks

Sunjoy Joshi, Chairman, Observer Research Foundation, India 

Lunch

Associated Events - March 17, 2025

Day 1: 17^th March, 2025

Day 2: 18^th March 2025 

Day 3: 19^th March 2025 

Day 4: 20^th March 2025