Satbayev University students discussed international relations with Canadian Ambassador Christopher Duggan

An open meeting of university students with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Canada to Kazakhstan Christopher Duggan took place at Satbayev University. Format of the event was different from traditional lectures – at the initiative of the ambassador, the meeting was held in the format of an open discussion, in the spirit of the so-called "Chatham House discussions", where students could freely express opinions and ask questions.

The main topics were the relations between Kazakhstan and Canada, prospects for cooperation in education, energy and sustainable development. Students shared their views on evolving the dialogue between the two countries, and the ambassador, in turn, talked about his own diplomatic experience and shared stories about diplomatic work in various countries around the world. He gave the students some practical advice on how to build a career in diplomacy and what helps them become an effective negotiator in the international arena.

Christopher Duggan is an experienced diplomat who has held senior positions in Romania, Jamaica, Nigeria and Ukraine. His visit to Satbayev University was a continuation of the strengthening of scientific and educational ties between Kazakhstan and Canada. After the lecture, the ambassador met with Satbayev University’s Rector Meiram Begentayev. The parties discussed the expansion of University's cooperation with Canadian universities and future joint research. The meeting was held in the warm, trusting atmosphere and became an example of an open dialogue between representatives of the diplomatic community and academic community of Kazakhstan.