Diplomats, academics, and industry experts from Australia and Colombia yesterday conducted their first Inaugural Dialogue in Bogotá, Colombia. Biz Latin Hub representative Chelsea Heywood attended the Dialogue as a member of the Australian delegation.
The Dialogue brought together leaders from both countries to share ideas and viewpoints on the future and potential of Australia and Colombia’s relationship. Establishing a network of leaders in both regions is vital for promoting the countries’ prosperity and security interests. This Dialogue encourages practical collaboration and improved visibility of Australia-Colombia links.
Australia-Colombia Dialogue
Officials from Charles Sturt University, with a grant from the Council of Australia-Latin America Relations (COALAR), hosted the event with support from the Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Delegation members participated in seven panel sessions to identify opportunities for further cooperation between the South Pacific island nation and emerging Latin American power. These sessions included discussions targeting:
- Foreign policy and media
- Trade, tourism and connectivity
- Mining and energy
- Developments in digital agriculture
- Law enforcement diplomacy and defence industry
- Urbanism and sustainability
- International education and public diplomacy.
The Dialogue culminated in a Gala Dinner hosted by Sophie Davies, Ambassador of Australia to Colombia and Venezuela.
Speaking after the event, Ms Heywood, Manager of the Marketing team for Biz Latin Hub (and an Australian-born New Zealander) said “as the first of its kind, the Dialogue gave officials and commercial actors a chance to offer industry insights and ideas for shaping the future of the bilateral relationship.”
“The organizing team at Charles Sturt University, led by Cesar Alvarez, Lecturer of Terrorism Studies, identified a valuable opportunity for developing stronger ties between Australian and Colombia counterparts through the 1.5 track diplomatic avenue.”
And what is Biz Latin Hub’s role in supporting Australia-Colombia relations?
Biz Latin Hub supports foreign businesses entering Latin American markets and are recognized as a leader in this field. Founded in 2014, the headquarters is based here in Colombia and this year, Biz Latin Hub also opened an office in Australia.
The group’s legal and financial experts sit across thirteen countries, and act as a conduit to Latin America for many businesses and investors beginning their commercial venture.
In 2019, the company received an award for Business Excellence by the Australian-Latin America Business Council. This achievement demonstrates the work Biz Latin Hub does to connect the two regions, and the support the company receives from Australian institutions.