GISR Talk Explores Spain’s Foreign Policy Outlook

As part of its Diplomatic Dialogue series, the Global Institute for Strategic Research (GISR) hosted His Excellency Álvaro Renedo Zalba, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to Qatar. Held at Minaretein, the talk attracted members of Qatar’s diplomatic community, academics, students, and policy experts for an engaging discussion on foreign policy, shared priorities and the evolving global landscape.

During the lecture titled ‘Spain’s Foreign Policy Approach,’ Ambassador Zalba discussed his country’s diplomatic role within the European Union and its efforts to promote multilateral engagement, peacebuilding, and sustainable development on the global stage. He particularly emphasized Spain’s approach to multilateralism, human rights, and international law which defines Madrid’s relations across the international community. 

Ambassador Zalba went on to explain that Spain’s strategic framework is informed by analysis of an international context marked by shifts from a rules-based order to power-driven dynamics, the economic efficiency of globalisation to the pursuit of resilience, and from confidence in progress to uncertainty. He also emphasized Spain’s enduring belief in constructive diplomacy, shared prosperity, and the importance of multilateral solutions to complex global challenges.

The discussion underscored the importance of diplomacy as a platform for mutual understanding and collective progress while highlighting the need for stronger guarantees in implementing international law. For students and researchers, the session offered a unique opportunity to engage directly with a senior diplomat and gain insights into the principles and practice of contemporary foreign policy.

Commenting on the dialogue, Dr. Mohamed Ali Chihi, stated: “The Diplomatic Dialogue series serves as a platform for policymakers and leaders in international relations to exchange ideas that contribute to shaping informed perspectives on pressing global issues. Hosting Ambassador Zalba aligns with GISR’s mission to foster meaningful discussions at the intersection of research, diplomacy, and policy.”

The talk reflects HBKU’s role as a leading regional hub for dialogue and debate on public policy that cultivates independent analysis and engagement with policy makers to tackle pertinent global issues.