As we look ahead to November, host Sewar Quran, Associate Director at Global Counsel, is joined by colleagues to unpack three major developments shaping the global policy agenda: the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, the COP30 climate conference in Brazil, and a shifting debate on European defence and transatlantic security.

First, Sewar is joined by Alexander Smotrov, Director, to discuss the upcoming G20 Summit in Johannesburg. Their conversation explores rising geopolitical tensions between the US and South Africa, Washington’s accusations of anti-Americanism, and President Cyril Ramaphosa’s strong rebuttal. They consider what the episode reveals about diplomacy in an era of fragmented power and competing global agendas, and how it tests the limits of cooperation among the world’s major economies. Learn more about our work in Europe and Eurasia.

Next, Evan Guy, Senior Associate, joins to examine preparations for COP30 in Brazil, a pivotal moment in global climate politics marking five years to 2030. They explore the evolving geopolitics of climate action post-COP29, the renewed focus on Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and efforts to agree a roadmap for climate finance through the new collective quantified goal (NCQG). The discussion also touches on biodiversity, nature conservation, and the growing intersection between environmental policy and international development. Learn more about our Climate, Energy and Net-Zero practice.

Finally, Denzil Davidson, Director, reflects on Europe’s emerging defence debate amid shifting transatlantic dynamics and questions about the US security guarantee under President Trump. Their discussion considers Europe’s need to enhance its own capabilities, reassess its dependence on American support, and chart a more autonomous strategic path for the decade ahead.

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As we look ahead to October, host Sewar Quran, Associate Director at Global Counsel, is joined by colleagues to unpack three major developments shaping international policy and investment this month: the IMF and World Bank annual meetings in Washington DC, presidential elections in Ivory Coast, and the Future Investment Initiative Summit in Riyadh.

First, Sewar is joined by Max Mandich, Senior Associate in our Washington office, to explore the agenda of the upcoming IMF and World Bank week. They discuss the key differences from the spring meetings, the Trump administration’s evolving policy agenda, and the international opportunities the meetings create for stakeholders engaging with finance ministers, central banks, and policymakers. Learn more about our US politics and policy practice.

Next, Alessandra Cassisi, Associate in our Brussels office, joins Sewar to examine the Ivory Coast’s October 25th presidential elections. Their discussion considers the political dynamics surrounding President Ouattara’s candidacy, the challenges facing the opposition, the risks of instability, and the economic opportunities and pressures shaping investor sentiment. Learn more about our work in the Middle East and North Africa.

Finally, Sewar speaks with Ahmed Helal, MENA Director, about the Future Investment Initiative Summit in Riyadh, widely known as “Davos in the desert.” The conversation highlights Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification drive, the growing global role of the Public Investment Fund, ambitions in AI and advanced technology, and the geopolitical context influencing investment sentiment. Learn more about our work in the Middle East and North Africa.

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As we look ahead to September, host Sewar Quran is joined by Global Counsel colleagues to unpack three key developments shaping international policy and geopolitics this month: the UK’s political party conferences, the 2025 UN General Assembly in New York, and Moldova’s pivotal parliamentary elections.

First, Sewar is joined by Lilah Howson-Smith, Practice Director, and Fergus Cameron-Watt, Associate Director, to explore the dynamics shaping the UK’s political party conferences this autumn. They discuss the growing influence of the Reform Party, the Conservative Party’s policy renewal efforts, and Labour’s strategy as it seeks to present a unified vision for government. Learn more about our work in UK politics and policy.

Next, Alexander Smotrov, Director, joins Sewar to preview the 2025 UN General Assembly in New York, where world leaders will gather under the theme “Better Together” to discuss peace, development, and the future of multilateralism. The conversation examines the significance of this year’s high-level debates, the rising importance of corporate engagement at UNGA, and how businesses can leverage fringe events and networking opportunities to advance their agendas in an increasingly interconnected global policy environment. Learn more about our work in Europe and Eurasia.

Finally, Anikó Zsebik, Associate, speaks with Sewar about Moldova’s upcoming parliamentary elections, a vote set to shape the country’s geopolitical trajectory and EU membership prospects. They explore the challenges facing the pro-European government, the economic pressures driving voter sentiment, and the risks of foreign influence on election integrity. Learn more about our work in Europe and Eurasia.

If you, your business, or your investment is impacted by any of the topics discussed in this episode, get in touch.

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