Event Archive

Organized by the Canada-ASEAN Business Council, this briefing session aims to delve into Canada's evolving geopolitical strategies and foreign policies, particularly focusing on its engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) within the broader context of the Indo-Pacific region.

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The discussion, on the sidelines of the Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore, will explore Canada's interests, challenges, and opportunities in the Indo-Pacific and its commitment to fostering partnerships with ASEAN countries. The event seeks to provide insights into Canada's geopolitical priorities, its approach to multilateralism, and the significance of ASEAN in its foreign policy agenda. Through expert analysis and dialogue, participants will gain a deeper understanding of Canada's role in the Indo-Pacific and the prospects for enhancing cooperation with ASEAN member states.

APF Canada's Vice-President Research & Strategy, Vina Nadjibulla, will be speaking at this event.

Key Topics:

• Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy: An overview of Canada's strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region, including economic opportunities, security concerns, and diplomatic initiatives.
   
• ASEAN's role and importance: Understanding ASEAN's role as a regional organization and its significance as a key player in shaping the Indo-Pacific dynamics.
   
• Canada-ASEAN Relations: Examining the historical context of Canada's engagement with ASEAN and analyzing current diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between Canada and ASEAN member states.
   
• Challenges and Opportunities: Identifying the challenges and opportunities in deepening Canada's engagement with ASEAN within the Indo-Pacific framework, including economic integration, security cooperation, and cultural exchange.
   
• Multilateral Cooperation: Exploring avenues for enhanced multilateral cooperation between Canada, ASEAN, and other regional stakeholders to address common challenges such as climate change, maritime security, and economic development.

This briefing promises to delve into crucial geopolitical dynamics shaping our world today. We invite you to seize this opportunity to broaden your understanding, engage in insightful discussions, and expand your professional network among industry leaders. Your presence at this event is highly anticipated, and we look forward to welcoming you for an enriching and thought-provoking experience.

Tentative Agenda:

1:00 - 1:05 PM: Opening remarks by Wayne Farmer, CABC President

1:05 - 1:45 PM: Discussion on Canada's evolving geopolitical strategies and foreign policies on ASEAN in the context of the Indo-Pacific Strategy

1:45 - 2:10 PM: Q&A with audience

2:10 - 2:30 PM: Open networking

Presenters:

Vina Nadjibulla
Vice-President, Research & Strategy, Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada
(Moderator)

Indu Saxena
Senior Fellow and Chief Operating Officer, Consortium of Indo-Pacific Researchers, New Jersey, USA
(Volume Co-Editor)

Stephen Nagy
Professor, International Christian University (Japan) and Senior Fellow, Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada
(Volume Co-Editor)

Event Overview:

The May 23 webinar, titled “Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific Construct,” featured insights from Dr. Indu Saxena and Dr. Stephen Nagy, moderated by Vina Nadjibulla. The discussion focused on the two scholars’ newly published book, which examines Southeast Asian countries’ roles within the Indo-Pacific, considering the competition in the region between the U.S. and China. Dr. Saxena highlighted the book’s goal of capturing diverse regional perspectives and emphasized Southeast Asia’s economic aspirations and strategic independence. The book explores how these countries balance their relationships with both the U.S. and China to maintain independence and meet national interests, using examples like China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the U.S.’s Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). 

Dr. Nagy discussed the main findings of the book, emphasizing the region’s diversity and the importance of understanding local dynamics. He noted that while public statements often reflect neutrality, there are private concerns about Chinese influence. He stressed the value of smaller partnerships like the Quad and AUKUS in providing regional security and public benefits. He used Vietnam’s balanced engagement with multiple global powers and the Philippines' trilateral summit with the U.S. and Japan to show how these countries are navigating their strategic positions. 

The Q&A session covered several regional issues, including ASEAN’s multilateral engagements and the strategic importance of smaller partnerships. Dr. Saxena talked about the proactive stance of the Philippines in the South China Sea and the challenges ASEAN faces in maintaining unity due to diverse member interests. Dr. Nagy addressed South Korea’s New Southern Policy and its increasing presence in Southeast Asia, as well as the complex impacts of the Middle East conflict on U.S. relations with Muslim-majority Southeast Asian countries. Both speakers highlighted the region’s focus on economic security and resilience, advocating for sustainable and reliable partnerships, particularly in energy security and critical minerals. The discussion concluded with a look toward future research, including a planned second volume addressing multi-alignment strategies and structural trends in the region. 

Video Encore Presentation

Panellists:
 

• Dr. Kai Ostwald, Director of the Institute of Asian Research at the University of British Columbia; Senior Fellow, APF Canada 
• Dr. Karthik Nachiappan, Research Fellow at the Institute of South Asian Studies, National University of Singapore; Senior Fellow, APF Canada
• Derek Grossman, Senior Defence Analyst at RAND
   

Moderator:
 

• Vina Nadjibulla, Vice-president Research & Strategy, APF Canada 

As a champion of a ‘free and open Indo-Pacific,’ India is rapidly emergency as a vital partner to Southeast Asian nations. While historical and cultural ties buttress this relationship, strategic imperatives stemming from the need to counterbalance China, growing economic relations, and maritime cooperation bolster the present moment of closeness. Recently enhanced defense ties, such as arms deals with Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam; the ASEAN-India maritime exercises co-hosted by India and Singapore; and New Delhi’s pledge to support the Philippines amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea, highlight a proactive foreign policy approach in the face of China's assertiveness in the region. Of note is also New Delhi’s shift from ‘Look East’ to ‘Act East’ and its evolving maritime strategies which place a much greater emphasis on the ‘Indo-Pacific.’ 

Video encore presentation

As India seeks to enhance cooperation with Southeast Asian countries through various bilateral, minilateral, and multilateral platforms, this panel of experts, convened jointly by the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada and Simon Fraser University, will delve into the complexities of forging robust partnerships in the Indo-Pacific against the backdrop of expanding great power rivalries. The objective will be to unpack and explore the intersections of security, economic interests, and the pursuit of a rules-based international order.

The panel discussion will also offer a chance to explore how Canada and other Western powers can gain from investing in India as a bridge to the Indo-Pacific region. India's growing economic might, strategic influence in the Indian Ocean region, and historical and cultural ties with Southeast Asian nations place it in a unique position.  In addition, Western powers share interests and values with India in promoting peace and security across the Indo-Pacific and in strengthening opportunities for economic growth and prosperity. 

Join us for a townhall meeting and discussion with human rights delegates from Myanmar's government in exile, the National Unity Government (NUG). 

Presented in partnership with the University of B.C.'s School of Public Policy and Global Affairs (Institute of Asian Research), UBC Myanmar Initiative, and Canada's International Development Research Centre (IDRC). 

Speakers:

Aung Myo Min - Minister of Human Rights, NUG

Aung Kyaw Moe - Deputy Minister of Human Rights, NUG

Moderator:

Dr. Ardeth Thawnghmung - Professor, Political Science, University of B.C. 

Discussant:

Dr. Htet Thiha Zaw - UBC Myanmar Initiative Fellow 

In collaboration with the Centre for International Policy Studies, its Asian Studies Network, and the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada

Beginning April 19, India will hold its largest national election that will likely keep Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP in government for a third term. The last decade and two previous terms have witnessed dramatic transformations and this election promises to be as consequential for India’s economy, its role in the Indo-Pacific, and how it engages with countries like Canada. This talk will cover the 2019 campaign and what expected outcomes could portend for India’s immediate future.

Our Vice-president Research & Strategy, Vina Nadjibulla, will be moderating this session. 

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in North America is hosting its 2024 CILTNA Annual Spring Outlook Conference Conférence de printemps de L’IALTAN 2024 "Adapting to a Changing World: Challenges in Transportation, Energy, Environment and Geopolitics."

Agenda:
 

Our Vice-president Research & Strategy, Vina Nadjibulla, will speak at the breakfast session. 

As the Indo-Pacific region witnesses dynamic shifts in geopolitics and economic landscapes, closer ties between Canada and the Philippines hold significant promise. This year, Canada and the Philippines celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations. 

From a memorandum of understanding on defence co-operation signed in January 2024 to the currently negotiated Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement, Canada and the Philippines have demonstrated a commitment to fostering closer ties and enhancing co-operation for the collective prosperity and stability of the Indo-Pacific. This panel aims to explore avenues for mutual benefit, address common challenges, and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

About Enrique A. Manalo, Philippines Secretary for Foreign Affairs 

Seasoned career diplomat Ambassador Enrique A. Manalo took his oath of office before President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. on July 1, 2022, as the new Secretary for Foreign Affairs. During his more than four decades of service in the Department of Foreign Affairs, Secretary Manalo was appointed Undersecretary for Policy twice. As Undersecretary for Policy, he also served as the Philippines’ Senior Official in the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting, the working-level mechanism for ASEAN policy formulation and priority-setting. 

Secretary Manalo is an expert in multilateral diplomacy, having served as the Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York immediately prior to being appointed as Secretary for Foreign Affairs. 

Encore Video Presentation

In Southeast Asia, human security threats are apparent in the domains of health, labour, climate and environment, and trade and economic development. This conference will consider these emerging human security questions in the region. It will examine the role of both state and non-state actors in addressing these challenges, including the relevance of the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals.

Our Vice-President Research & Strategy, Vina Nadjibulla will be speaking at this event. 

The Canadian Global Affairs Institute is hosting an event to discuss Canada's Trade Path Amidst Growing Regionalization.

Our Vice President, Research & Strategy, Vina Nadjibulla is speaking on the panel, 'The Future of Trade is Regional.'

With rapid economic growth, extensive infrastructure development, and billions of potential customers, including a burgeoning middle class eager for new products and services, the Indo-Pacific region has emerged as a crucial destination for Canadian businesses looking to diversify their trade opportunities. In particular, there are great opportunities for Canadian companies in the following sectors: agri-food, infrastructure, clean technology and advanced manufacturing. But, the Indo-Pacific region is complex, and inexperienced exporters face many potential pitfalls.

This free event from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce offers an in-depth exploration of the diverse business opportunities within the Indo-Pacific region. Sessions will delve into discussions on emerging sectors, equipping Canadian businesses with the insights and solutions needed to expand their presence and thrive in these dynamic and rapidly growing markets.

Our President and CEO, Jeff Nankivell, will speak at the 'Harvesting Potential: Seizing Agri-Food Opportunities in the Indo-Pacific' panel.

Join us to learn about the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) and opportunities for study in Japan.

JASSO is operated by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. A leader in the provision of student services, JASSO administers scholarship and loan programs, support programs for international students, and student life support programs. JASSO aims to foster creative individuals who can become the leaders of the next generation, while promoting international understanding and exchange.

This event is hosted by the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) with support from Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. The event is open to all Canadian and U.S. Kakehashi alumni. For more information about the Kakehashi Project, please visit our website.

Through this virtual roundtable event, Kakehashi alumni will hear from expert thought leaders from Canada and the U.S. and selected 2023-24 program participants as they exchange information and opinions on the positive impact of cultural exchange programs, particularly Kakehashi. The alumni speakers will discuss their creatively-executed post-program follow up activities with attention to their inspiration and the results of their efforts. The event will also include breakout networking opportunities.

Expert speakers include: Dr. Nkemjika Ofodile Carruthers (Mansfield Fellow and Policy & Program Advisor, U.S. Department of Education) and Steven Lapointe (Public Affairs Officer, Embassy of Canada in Japan)

This event is hosted by the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) with support from Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. The event is open to all Canadian and U.S. Kakehashi alumni.

For more information about the Kakehashi Project, please visit our website.

As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi appears likely to return to power in April-May 2024 for a third consecutive term in the country’s consequential national elections, Canadians will be watching how voters in India – the world’s largest democracy – decide not only their domestic priorities but also the nature of their expanding regional and global influence. 

With a population of 1.4 billion people and an economy that is expected to become the world’s third largest by 2030, India is increasingly regarded as not just a counterbalance to China, but a self-assured global power. This panel of leading experts will explore the key dynamics of the upcoming elections and what India’s economic and geopolitical rise means for stakeholders in Canada and around the world.

4:00-4:30 – Informal networking 

4:30-5:45 – Opening Remarks and Panel Discussion 

Moderator: Ms. Vina Nadjibulla, VP Research & Strategy, Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada

Speakers: 

• Mr. Michael Kugelman, Director of South Asia Institute, Wilson Center
• Prof. Reeta Tremblay, University of Victoria
• Prof. T.V. Paul, McGill University

5:45-6:15 – Audience Q & A with moderator and panellists

Michael Kugelman is Director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center in Washington, D.C. He is a columnist for Foreign Policy magazine and has also written for The New York Times, Foreign Affairs, and The Wall Street Journal. His current research focuses on the shifting geopolitics of South Asia, U.S.-India relations, and India's clean energy transition.

Reeta Tremblay is Professor Emerita of Comparative Politics in the Department of Political Science and former Provost and Vice-President at the University of Victoria. Her areas of research include secessionist movements in South Asia, the politics of subaltern resistance, democracy, and governance. She has authored several books, articles, reviews, and is widely considered the leading North American expert on Kashmir.

T.V. Paul is James McGill Professor of International Relations in the Department of Political Science at McGill University and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. Author of numerous books and scholarly articles in the fields of International Relations and South Asia, his forthcoming work explores India’s ‘status quest’ in world politics (The Unfinished Quest: India’s Search for Major Power Status from Nehru to Modi, Oxford University Press, 2024). 

Encore Video Presentation

The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada and David Lam Center at Simon Fraser University, with support from the Consulate General of Japan in Vancouver, present an in-person discussion on Deepening Canada-Japan-US relations in the Indo-Pacific. 

Agenda

4:30-5:00 – Informal networking 

5:00-5:15 – Welcome and Introductory Remarks (Vina Nadjibulla, VP Research & Strategy, APF Canada)

5:15-5:30 – Presentation: Japan’s foreign policy (Prof. Kristi Govella, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa)

5:30-5:45 – Presentation: Canada – Japan relations (Prof. Yves Tiberghien, University of British Columbia)

5:45-6:30 – Panel Discussion on Canada and Japan’s Approaches to the Indo-Pacific Region and Opportunities to Deepen Collaboration and Partnerships 

Moderator: Vina Nadjibulla, VP Research & Strategy, APF Canada

• Prof. Kristi Govella, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa
• Prof. Yves Tiberghien, University of British Columbia
• Prof. Tsuyoshi Kawasaki, Simon Fraser University
• Prof. Adam Liff, Georgetown University, Visiting Chair of Japanese Politics and Foreign Policy

6:35-7:00 – Audience Q & A with moderator and panellists

7:00 – Closing Remarks (Vina Nadjibulla, VP Research & Strategy, APF Canada)

The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada), in partnership with Universities Canada, is excited to host the first two thematic Canada-in-Asia Conferences (CIACs) back-to-back in February 2024 in Singapore: 

• CIAC2024: Agri-food on February 26-27
• CIAC2024: Climate Solutions on February 28-29

CIAC2024: Agri-food and CIAC2024: Climate Solutions will bring together experts, investors, policy-makers, researchers, business leaders, and innovators from across Asia and Canada to exchange perspectives, knowledge, and ideas and to create collaborative partnerships in these two critical sectors.

CIAC2024: Agri-food and CIAC2024: Climate Solutions will be bridged by the CIAC2024: Gala Dinner on the night of February 27. All conference delegates will be automatically registered for the Gala Dinner, which is also open to registered guests not attending either CIAC2024 conference. The annual CIAC: Gala Dinner is an opportunity for Canada-connected people, organizations, and institutions from across Asia to convene, build networks, and celebrate all things Canada-in-Asia.

On behalf of the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE), APF Canada invites you to a very special Kakehashi Alumni Network online event. Join us for a rare look inside the US subsidiary of Japanese powerhouse toy and collectibles maker Bandai Namco, makers of worldwide phenomena such as Tamagotchi and collectibles from the Dragon Ball and Studio Ghibli franchises, to name only a few. 

Learn about the differences between Japan and U.S. marketing and corporate strategy, and how Bandai Namco has succeeded in becoming a global market expander, as well as new product development secrets. Reconnect with some nostalgic toys of your youth at this special Kakehashi event. 

This event is open to all Kakehashi Project alumni.