3-Mar-09 9:00 PM CST

Advance Asia 50 Summit - the countdown is on!

The countdown is well and truly on until the Advance Asia 50 Summit in Shanghai on 30-31 March to "Forge New Partnerships for the Asian Century."

Advance has confirmed the 50 established and emerging Australian leaders and alumni from Australia’s universities living and working in Asia, who will attend. They will come together in Shanghai to exchange ideas and seek practical solutions to the challenges facing the region, and identify opportunities for Australia and the region.

The Hon. Kevin Rudd, Prime Minister of Australia, will welcome delegates via video and Dr. Geoff Raby, Australia’s Ambassador to China, will deliver the keynote address. The Summit program will include presentations and interactive debate on how to more effectively harness the potential of Australian professionals living in Asia to help Australia emerge from the current economic crisis stronger and better connected with the business, cultural and social opportunities the region offers.

Experts will host a series of workshops around important themes such as sustainability, innovation, the economy and thought leadership. A key presentation on leadership and innovation in sustainable technologies will be given by Mr. Barry Buffier, Director General, NSW Dept. of State and Regional Development, a major sponsor of the Summit. Dr. Shi Zhengrong, Founder and CEO of Suntech Power Corp., China will speak on energy, the environment, and sustainability. Dr. Shi is a world- renowned expert in solar technology and an eminent ambassador for Sydney.

Another workshop will be led by John Eales, former Australian Wallabies captain, and Peter Flavel, Global Head of Standard Chartered Private Bank, who will present “Learnings from Leaders in Asia” based on their research among Asia 50 delegates.

Notable delegates from China and around the region include Mr. Robert Rankin, former Head of Investment Banking, UBS Asia, Hong Kong; Ms. Michelle Guthrie, Managing Director, Providence Equity Asia, China; Dr. Ya-Qin Zhang , Chairman, Microsoft China; Mr. John Walker, Chairman, Macquarie Group, Korea; Dr. Jannie Tay, The Hourglass Singapore; Mr. Doug McGay, CEO, Petro Matad, Mongolia.

Mr. Neville Roach AO will speak about the power of diasporas. Mr. Roach is highly respected as a business and community leader who has made a significant contribution to the IT industry, education and research sectors. He is a leading thinker in the development of social policy and Australia’s overseas relations, especially with India.

The outcome of the Summit will be a set of conclusions to be delivered to the Australian Government, highlighting specific recommendations for the further development of Asia-Australia partnerships.

Advance CEO, Ms. Serafina Maiorano said: “Australia’s future is undoubtedly tied to the region. Each and every Australian living and working in Asia has an important role to play in achieving common goals for the wider region. The Advance Asia 50 and all Australians overseas are well-positioned to add to our understanding of Asia. We see this Summit as an important step forward in public advocacy and we look forward to positive outcomes”.

Advance thanks the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for its support.

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