Announcements

General announcements that come from the Chairman or Institute Director

Andrew Brotherston – Director of Marketing & Media

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Andrew Brotherston as Director of Marketing & Media at the Asia Scotland Institute. Roddy Gow OBE, Chairman & Founder, shared his enthusiasm about the expansion of Andrew’s role, saying: “This is a crucial step in supporting the growth of our membership and strengthening engagement with our community. Enhancing our presence across social media and other channels is essential, and Andrew is well-placed to lead this. He will continue to work closely with Jonathan Di Rollo, our Director of Development.” We look forward to the impact this strengthened focus on marketing and communications

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China’s Challenges and Opportunities under a Second Trump Administration

Asia Scotland Institute and China Futures Society were delighted to welcome Dr Yizhe Daniel Xie 謝毅哲 사의철 シャキテツ to The University of Edinburgh on 27th February to discuss ‘China’s Challenges and Opportunities under a Second Trump Administration’. The discussion began with an exploration of current politico-economic challenges facing China before moving on to how China’s innovations in electric vehicles and semiconductors, rooted in Chinese education’s emphasis on STEM, could help counter this economic slowdown. We examined how free trade agreements, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), could be leveraged by Beijing to extend its commercial influence in the context

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Welcoming Jonathan Di Rollo

We are excited to announce that Jonathan Di Rollo has joined the Asia Scotland Institute as our Director of Development. With three decades of experience in Asia, Jonathan brings invaluable expertise to our mission of fostering Scotland’s understanding of Asia. Roddy Gow, Chairman, shared his thoughts: “We are delighted that Jonathan is joining our team, bringing his extensive experience to help identify new partners and pursue topics for our events. This is a critical time to expand Scotland’s understanding of Asia, and Jonathan has an important role to play in achieving our mission.”

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‘Living with Dragons’ – Giles Chance

We are very grateful to Giles Chance for sharing his incredible story and insights with us during a wonderful evening dedicated to his latest book, ‘Living with Dragons‘. It was an inspiring event filled with rich narratives of China’s journey from 1985 to 2010—from post-Mao to superpower. Attendees enjoyed networking over a glass of wine, followed by Giles’ engaging talk, which brought his experiences to life with depth and authenticity. After a lively Q&A, Giles signed copies of his book, and we wrapped up with a small, intimate dinner. A big thank you to everyone who attended and helped make

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Strategic Partnership – ASI x CUKBDC

We are delighted to announce a strategic partnership between Asia Scotland Institute (ASI) and China UK Business Development Centre (CUKBDC). Formed with the shared vision of enhancing understanding and facilitating trade opportunities between the UK and Asia, with a particular focus on China.  ASI and CUKBDC are committed to leveraging their networks and resources to promote shared knowledge through engagements with global leaders across Asia. This collaboration aims to fortify business and cultural relationships, fostering deeper connections across continents. Collaborative events and functions will promote professional, business, and social interactions, with coordinated marketing efforts to amplify the reach and impact

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Matthew Henderson joins the International Advisory Council

The Asia Scotland Institute is delighted to announce that Matthew Henderson has joined its International Advisory Council, a group of distinguished advisors on Asian affairs. Roddy Gow, Founder and Chairman, remarked that “Matthew is a great addition to our Council and brings extensive knowledge of Asia. He is a former diplomat who spent nearly thirty years in the FCDO and is an independent journalist and China expert. I know that he will add considerable weight to our core mission of educating and inspiring Tomorrow’s Leaders in Scotland through the events that we mount”.

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Enkhee Namsrai joins the Board of the Asia Scotland Institute

Enkhtuvshin (Enkhee) Namsrai is a founding partner of Namsrai Henderson, an independent research and analysis consultancy focusing on North-East Asian affairs. Born in Mongolia and now based in the UK, she advises on Mongolia-UK related projects ranging from cross-cultural management to business and language, working with various public and private sectors including UK and Mongolian government departments.  Based on her life and work, Enkhee has developed extensive instrumental networks in both countries. Her diverse expertise ranges from providing high-level briefings for government officials, helping clients from both sides understand respective policy and business environments, to cultural orientation for British troops deployed

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Discussion with HE Teodoro Locsin, Philippine Ambassador

The Asia Scotland Institute were delighted to host an exclusive event featuring the esteemed Philippine Ambassador, His Excellency Teodoro Locsin. The Ambassador is a seasoned diplomat, esteemed statesman, and a respected voice in international relations, representing the Republic of the Philippines with distinction and fervour. This event was by invitation-only, drawing in expertise from sectors including: This round table discussion is a unique opportunity to engage with the Ambassador and to identify opportunities for business and investment in the Philippines and Scotland.

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Happy International Women’s Day!

Today, we join hands in celebrating the remarkable achievements and contributions of women around the world, especially in the business arena. As a small but passionate team, we recognise the incredible impact that women have made, not only in the wider business community but within our own organisation as well. We’ve been privileged to have hosted some phenomenal women speakers at our events, sharing insights, wisdom, and inspiration that have left us all enriched and motivated. Their stories of perseverance, innovation, and leadership in the face of challenges have been nothing short of inspirational. To all the women who’ve graced

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An Evening with Roddy Gow OBE: Leadership in Developing a Business

Our friends at One Scotland hosting a masterclass event at the University of Stirling featuring Asia Scotland Institute’s Founder and Chairman, Roddy Gow OBE. A distinguished figure whose illustrious career spans various sectors including military service, banking, and global executive search. Roddy shared his invaluable insights on leadership in developing a business. In the masterclass, Roddy delved into the essence of leadership and the soft skills necessary for navigating and thriving in international business environments. His experiences, from serving as a British Army officer to his extensive involvement in executive search consulting, particularly in Asia and emerging markets, provided a rich

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Insights Into Thailand’s Future: A Discussion with the Ambassador of Thailand

It was an honour to be joined by the Thai Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Thani Thongphakdi at the Scotland Office. This was a unique opportunity to hear firsthand about Thailand’s current economic landscape and its role in the ASEAN community. The conversation delved into Thailand’s economic outlook, reflecting on recent developments and exploring prospects for the future. As part of ASEAN, one of the world’s most dynamic economic regions, Thailand is uniquely positioned to contribute to and benefit from regional integration and cooperation. We discussed the country’s role within this dynamic bloc and the opportunities it presents.

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