This was a special occasion for the association, especially given the rise of the pandemic in some countries around the world. While respecting restrictions related to COVID-19, we have been able to organize an in-person working dinner with three of our most prominent representatives in charge of our German presence. Namely, our Secretary General Lukas Emich based in Darmstadt; our THE SONAR Ambassador for Germany Charlotte Brehm based in Munich; and our Delegate General Yann Blake who travelled to Berlin for the occasion. They were able to discuss the major evolutions and internal affairs of the association as well as the upcoming projects to come in German universities.
The working dinner, held under strict health protocols to ensure the safety of all participants, provided a valuable opportunity for our representatives to engage in deep and meaningful discussions. Among the key topics addressed were the latest developments within THE SONAR INSTITUTE, including strategic initiatives and internal affairs that are pivotal to our mission in Germany.
Significant attention was given to the upcoming projects slated for German universities, highlighting our commitment to fostering educational and research collaborations. One of the main projects discussed was the upcoming collaborations with various embassies based in Berlin. These partnerships aim to enhance our diplomatic outreach and strengthen our network within the international community.
Another exciting development is the planned visit to the Bundestag for our members. This visit is intended to provide a firsthand experience of the German legislative process and to promote a deeper understanding of political systems among our members. Such initiatives are crucial in developing well-rounded, globally-minded individuals who are equipped to contribute positively to international relations.
Additionally, the launch of a new podcast series focused on Philosophy was a key point of discussion. This series, in partnership with Technical Universities in Munich, aims to explore philosophical concepts and their relevance in today’s world. By leveraging the expertise of scholars and the unique perspectives offered by technical universities, the podcast seeks to bridge the gap between philosophical discourse and practical application.
Reflecting on the dinner, Secretary General Lukas Emich remarked, “It was incredibly productive to meet in person and exchange ideas directly. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, we remain committed to advancing our initiatives and supporting our members in Germany.“
Charlotte Brehm, THE SONAR Ambassador for Germany, added, “Our discussions were not only about current projects but also about future aspirations and how we can continue to innovate and lead in the fields of diplomacy and international relations.“
Delegate General Yann Blake, who made a special trip to Berlin for the week, emphasized the importance of these face-to-face meetings. “The dynamic and collaborative spirit of our discussions is something that virtual meetings can never fully replicate. It was a privilege to be part of such a forward-looking dialogue.“
THE SONAR INSTITUTE continues to navigate the complexities of the current global situation with resilience and adaptability. Our commitment to promoting diplomacy, education, and research remains unwavering, as evidenced by the productive outcomes of this working dinner.