HowshouldEuropeengagewithanAsiathatisrapidlygainingeconomicandgeopoliticalweight?

This question shaped an exclusive discussion hosted by our Chairwoman, Jovanka Porsche, bringing together ambassadors, policymakers, business leaders, academics, and representatives of international organisations for an evening with Professor Kishore Mahbubani, former President of the United Nations Security Council, former Permanent Representative of Singapore to the United Nations, and one of Asia’s foremost geopolitical thinkers.

Prof. Kishore Mahbubani with Dr. Philipp Rösler

The gathering welcomed our Secretary General, Dr. Philipp Rösler, former Vice Chancellor of Germany, alongside distinguished representatives from the diplomatic community, international institutions, academia, media, and business.

Drawing on decades of diplomatic experience, Professor Mahbubani argued that one of the defining developments of our time is the return of Asia as a major force in global affairs.

He pointed to the profound economic transformation of countries such as China and India and suggested that Europe must adapt to a world in which influence and prosperity are increasingly distributed across multiple centres of power.

A central theme of the discussion was the importance of approaching Asia not through outdated assumptions, but through a deeper understanding of the region’s perspectives, priorities, and growing role in shaping international affairs. The conversation also explored how Europe and Asia can strengthen cooperation at a time when geopolitical developments, economic interdependence, and global challenges increasingly transcend borders.

Prof. Kishore Mahbubani with Global Neighbours Chairwoman Jovanka Porsche

The evening concluded with a book signing of Professor Mahbubani’s publication, The Asian 21st Century, providing an opportunity to continue the discussion beyond the event itself.