ECSSR And AGDA Unveil Inaugural Hili Forum For Strategic Dialogue In UAE

The Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) and Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) have introduced the inaugural "Hili Forum," a notable addition to the UAE’s strategic dialogue landscape. Scheduled for 16-17 September 2024 at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi, the forum will address pivotal global issues, with a particular focus on the Middle East. The theme for 2024 is "Emerging Global (Dis)order: Redefine, Reshape, Rebuild."

Over two days, thought leaders, international experts, diplomats, and academics will engage in strategic dialogue on critical challenges and transformations reshaping the world. The forum will explore three thematic pillars essential to understanding the evolving global landscape: Geopolitics, Geoeconomics, and Geotech.

The Geopolitics pillar will examine major geopolitical shifts and new power dynamics. The Geoeconomics pillar will analyse economic fragmentation and protectionism amidst globalisation challenges. Lastly, the Geotech pillar will explore the impacts of transformative technologies on global power, security, and competitiveness.

High-profile keynote addresses and a ministerial keynote will open proceedings, setting the scene for discussions ahead. Providing diverse perspectives on global and regional issues, 16 in-depth sessions will then unpack complex factors driving pivotal issues. A dynamic format offers various ways to engage, from interactive panel discussions to concurrent breakout sessions.

The Hili Forum also presents the latest research, analysis, and trends in geopolitics, geoeconomics, and geotech. Additionally, it offers strategic policy recommendations based on the forum’s analyses and discussions. This event is seen as an invaluable opportunity to share knowledge and perspectives.

Dr. Sultan Al Nuaimi, ECSSR Director-General, remarked on the significance of this collaboration: "This forum serves as a testament to the effective strategic partnerships forged and exemplified by the genuine collaboration between the ECSSR and Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy. The UAE has always been a crossroads for civilizations, trade, and knowledge exchange."

A Platform for Global Engagement

Nickolay Mladenov, AGDA Director-General, highlighted the forum's importance as a platform for global engagement: "The Hili Forum presents a unique platform for global and regional voices to engage in meaningful dialogue on the most pressing issues of our time. It offers an opportunity to connect with thought leaders and decision-makers."

Mladenov added that this collaboration fosters innovation as we collectively navigate future challenges: "I look forward to the exchange of diverse perspectives that will not only deepen our understanding but also guide actionable solutions for a more stable, prosperous, and secure world."

Honouring Historical Legacy

The forum is named after Hili region in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi—a historically significant area known for cultural and knowledge exchange dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages. Drawing on this legacy, Hili Forum brings together thought leaders from around the world to discuss critical issues facing today's world.

This collaboration is crucial for achieving sustainable peace and security which drives development serving nations' interests. The name emphasises that challenges are shared; collective action through exchanging ideas has become essential for thinkers.

The Hili Forum marks a significant step in fostering dialogue on emerging global challenges while honouring historical legacies of cultural exchange.

With inputs from WAM