Aspen Summer Series Features in Mountain Scene

Aspen Summer Series to Explore Geopolitical Challenges in Indo Pacific and North Asia 

The Aspen Institute is pleased to announce its upcoming 2023 Summer Series in Queenstown, focused on the geopolitical challenges facing the Indo Pacific and North Asia regions. The series features discussions with experts in the field, who will provide a current and unique perspective on these issues in what is a rapidly changing, complex environment. The Institute was thrilled to have the Series showcased in the latest edition of the Mountain Scene.

On February 2nd, experts Alan Bollard, Suzannah Jessep, Natasha Hamilton Hart, and Nicholas Khoo will delve into the intricate issues surrounding New Zealand's role in the Indo Pacific and examine the influence of India and Southeast Asia on the region's development and current challenges.  

On February 16th, the discussion will shift to North Asia, with Anna Powles, John McKinnon, and Simon Draper joining the panel with moderator SungYong Lee, to examine the future of Taiwan, the region's security risks, and the trade implications should security become threatened.  

Finally, on March 2nd, Robert Patman and Rosemary Banks, with moderator Don McKinnon, experts in international relations and U.S. foreign policy, will explore the concept of Great Power Rivalry in the Asia Pacific region and whether there is a revival of the Great Powers or not, with a mystery special guest panellist. 

As we enter 2023 with concerns about the financial stability of the world's economies, it is crucial to understand the geopolitical challenges in our own region in order to navigate potential global recession and instability caused by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Panellist Nicholas Khoo explains one of the pressing issues regarding New Zealand's trade policies:  

"When it comes to New Zealand's China policy, our economic interests clearly clash with our liberal democratic political values... and until we substantially diversify our trade partners, which is a very difficult thing to do, there can only be one winner in that clash—New Zealand's economic interest." 

The three forums, moderated by top experts in the field, are open to the public to attend.  Each forum offers an opportunity for attendees to deepen their understanding of the issues and engage with the panellists following the discussions. The Aspen Institute is committed to fostering knowledge and understanding through its four principles of freedom of expression, civil discourse, diversity of perspectives, and trustworthiness of content. Don't miss this chance to hear from and meet some of New Zealand's top experts and deepen your understanding of the geopolitical challenges facing our region and what they mean for New Zealand. 

Tickets are open to the public and available online. Complimentary tickets are available for students. 

Details:  

Indo Pacific | February 2nd | 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm  

North Asia | February 16th | 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm  

Great Power Rivalry | March 2nd | 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm  

Te Atamira Centre, Queenstown