Day 2

REPORTING HOUSE, produced by BIRN Kosovo, KALLXO, Prishtina Biennale and Paper Gallery showcases journalism, photography and media artefacts of the Kosovo war, positioned alongside contemporary artwork exploring & reflecting on the impact of the war.

Exploring the impact of diaspora expertise, this panel will showcase contributions to sustainable urban development and renewable energy and agriculture. Panelists will present adaptable strategies that accommodate seasonal diaspora returns, emphasizing resilient cities, green energy solutions, and agricultural practices, the discussion will highlight ways to align innovation with cultural heritage and local economic needs, inspiring cross-border partnerships for sustainable development.

Opening Remarks
Mr. Wael Al-Delaimy, The Society for the Advancement of Science and Technology in the Arab World (SASTA), The United States of America.
Keynote Address
Mr. Arben Hajrullahu, Rector of University of Prishtina, Republic of Kosova
Panelists
Ms. Linda Xhaferi-Salihu, Sectors engagement, Global Climate Action, UN Climate Change, Federal Republic of Germany
Mr. Agim Mazreku, External Political Advisor to the Minister of Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure, Republic of Kosova
Dr. Andrews Nkansah, Under Secretary General – African Diaspora Congress, Republic of Ghana
Mrs. Mirana Rajoharison, President of ALEFA Diaspora, Republic of Madagascar

Moderated by:
Mr. Jago Salmon, Senior Research Associate, Overseas Development Institute, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Diaspora talent plays a transformative role in addressing critical gaps across healthcare, education, technology, and other sectors. This panel will highlight innovative approaches to engaging diaspora communities, from skill-sharing initiatives to strategic investments and digital solutions. By showcasing successful case studies, the discussion will emphasize how diaspora expertise can drive inclusive development, bridge inequalities, and create sustainable progress in underserved regions.

Opening Remarks
Mrs. Angel Jones, CEO, Homecoming Revolution, Republic of South Africa
Mr. Vigan Disha, Managing Director of Swiss-Kosovar Business Association, Switzerland

Keynote Address
Dr. Arshad Mahmood, Federal Secretary, Ministry of Overseas of Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Islamic Republic of Pakistan (video message)

Panelists
Mr. Bardhyl Dobra, Deputy-Minister, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Public Administration, Republic of Kosova.
Mr. Djibril Diallo, President & CEO African Renaissance and Diaspora Network, The United States of America
Mr. Bertrand Honore Mani Ndongbou, President of Italian Coordination of Diasporas for International Cooperation, Italian Republic
Ms. Sihana Bejtullahu, Co-Executive Director of Germin, Republic of Kosova
Dr. Ilir Gdeshi, Director of Center for Economic and Social Studies (CESS), Republic of Albania

Moderated by:
Ms. Flaka Ismaili, Program Manager, Citizen Diplomacy Fellowship

This panel will convene government representatives to highlight the critical role of diaspora communities in advancing diaspora engagement and diplomacy. It will showcase how national strategies and government initiatives harness diaspora engagement to tackle global challenges. Panelists will share their countries’ experiences, focusing on innovative policies that foster cross-border collaboration and strengthen global resilience. The session aims to facilitate an exchange of insights, explore effective strategies, and identify opportunities to enhance partnerships among governments, diaspora communities, and international organizations.

Opening Remarks
H.E. Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of
Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Republic of Kosova

Keynote Address

H.E. Jorge Santos, Minister of Communities and Minister of the Sea, Republic of Cabo Verde (video message)

Panelist
Ms. Liza Gashi, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Republic of Kosova
Ms. Silda Anagnosti Cepe, Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Republic of Albania
Mr. Zoran Dimitrovski, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Republic of North Macedonia
Mr. Dario Magdić, Deputy State Secretary, Republic of Croatia
Moderated by:
Mrs. Sashenka Lleshaj, PhD Candidate in Political Science at McGill University

This panel will highlight how diaspora entrepreneurs drive sustainable development in their home countries by creating jobs, promoting innovation, and promoting environmentally responsible practices. Panelists will explore how governments and support networks can help overcome challenges to amplify the impact of diaspora-led sustainable entrepreneurship, focusing on effective strategies for supporting initiatives that contribute to long-term economic growth and sustainability.

Opening Remarks
Mr. Russell Dalgleish, Chairman and Co-Founder of Scottish Business Network, Scotland

Panelists
Mrs. Sytrime Dërvisholli, Executive Director of Prefab Kosova, Republic of Kosova

Mr. César Vargas, General Director of the EU-LATIN Business Forum, Mexico

Prof. Gibril Faal OBE, JP, Director – GK Partners FLIA Visiting Professor in Practice London School of Economics (LSE), Republic of The Gambia

Mr. Vartan Marashlyan, Former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia & Co-Founder of Repeat Armenia, Republic of Armenia
Ms. Carolin Leutloff-Grandits, Senior Researcher of Social Anthropology at the European University Viadrina, Germany

Moderated by:
Ms. Krenare Loxhaj, Rule of Law, Democracy, Good Governance Advisor, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH