Dear Colleague

Recent Meetings

It may be the dog days of August, and one or two British Expertise staff have taken the chance to have a much needed holiday, but we are still active with incoming visitors and delegations. Last week members met Qasim Abid, Governor of the largest Iraqi province, along with a group of his advisors. Governor Abid proved an inspiring speaker, outlining countless opportunities that are emerging in his oil-rich province, in particular in the oil and gas, mining and power sectors. While Iraq remains a challenging environment, it is likely to become increasingly important in the Middle East as the oil majors move in this autumn.

This week we also hosted the Chief Executive of Tristar Global, a rapidly expanding Indian infrastructure company looking for UK partners to enhance its expertise. The Prime Minister’s recent visit highlights the growing importance of India to the UK, and with huge investment going into transport projects there, the meeting with Tristar was a good opportunity to get an update on the market and make new contacts.

UK Trade & Investment Short Term Business Attachment to Brazil

UKTI is seeking an industry secondee to undertake a three month attachment in Rio to complete an in-depth analysis of opportunities arising from Brazil hosting in Rio the 2016 Summer Olympics. It is envisaged that the secondment will commence in October 2010, please see Brazil secondment details for further information.

British Expertise International Awards

Now is the time to prepare your entry for our prestigious British Expertise Annual Awards. The entry closing date is Thursday 30 September and the winners will be announced at our Gala Dinner at The Institute of Directors on Thursday 11 November. For further details on the categories and how to enter, please see the entry form.

From the Economist: Staying safe in dangerous cities

Good advice for travellers to dangerous places was the subject of a recent blog article by the Economist. This included hints on how not to be blown up when in Kabul, and why you should choose to stay on the 2nd – 6th floors of a hotel. Read the whole article here: Staying safe in dangerous cities.