On December 6, 2024, Djibril Diallo, President and CEO of the African Renaissance and Diaspora Network (ARDN), departed from New York City en route to Prishtina, Kosovo, to participate in the second annual Ulpiana Forum.

Hosted by Kosovo’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, the forum, taking place from December 9 to December 12, will convene global leaders to address pressing topics such as diaspora diplomacy, migration, and sustainable development in today’s interconnected world.

“The Ulpiana Forum aligns perfectly with ARDN’s mission of advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Diallo remarked. He joins a distinguished roster of leaders to exchange innovative approaches to migration policy and diaspora engagement.


Kosovo: A Crossroads of Tradition and Progress

Kosovo, a country steeped in history and culture, serves as an exemplary venue for this pivotal event. Its capital, Prishtina, embodies a fusion of tradition and modernity, driving global conversations on migration, development, and human rights.

The country’s forward-thinking initiatives, such as the “Made in Kosovo” program, emphasize the significant role of the diaspora in its political and economic progress. Citizen diplomacy initiatives, including fellowship programs and diaspora diplomacy schools, further demonstrate Kosovo’s commitment to empowering its global community.


Strategic Discussions with Kosovo Leadership

Upon his arrival in Prishtina, Diallo held a meeting with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Liza Gashi, to explore collaboration opportunities between ARDN and Kosovo’s initiatives. Accompanied by his Special Assistant, Ibrahima Faye, Diallo praised Kosovo’s innovative strategies for diaspora engagement.

<strong>Djibril Diallo meeting with Liza Gashi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora of Kosovo<strong>

“I was deeply inspired by Minister Gashi’s vision and leadership,” said Diallo. “Kosovo’s commitment to empowering its diaspora and fostering inclusive development is a beacon for nations worldwide.”

Key discussion points included:

  • Diaspora Diplomacy Schools: Programs to train young leaders in civic engagement and leadership under the Global Migration Compact.
  • Citizen Diplomacy Fellowships: Initiatives to create a robust alumni network for sustainable development.
  • The Made in Kosovo Initiative: Highlighting the diaspora’s impact on Kosovo’s political and economic landscape.

Global Impact Through Collaboration

The Ulpiana Forum serves as a pivotal platform for advancing ARDN’s core initiatives, including the Red Card Campaign, which combats discrimination and violence against women and girls by leveraging sports and cultural events. Diallo and Gashi also explored opportunities to:

  • Promote Youth Entrepreneurship: Empowering young innovators to drive economic development.
  • Build Sister-City Relationships: Strengthening connections between African, U.S., and Kosovo cities.
  • Enhance Education and Training: Amplifying technical skills and sharing diaspora success stories.

Diallo emphasized the importance of aligning ARDN’s mission with Kosovo’s initiatives to achieve shared goals in gender equality, private sector development, and inclusive governance.


Inspiring Unity and Action

The 2024 Ulpiana Forum is a call to action for nations to harness the transformative power of migration and diaspora contributions. “Through partnerships like this, we can turn migration into a force for economic, social, and cultural progress,” Diallo stated.

As a featured speaker, Diallo will share insights on ARDN’s impactful initiatives and advocate for strengthened global partnerships to advance sustainable development and social equity.


Looking Toward the Future

The Ulpiana Forum is set to cement Kosovo’s leadership in diaspora diplomacy and innovation. By fostering impactful dialogues and actionable partnerships, the forum aims to inspire countries worldwide to recognize and harness the transformative potential of diaspora communities.

Stay tuned for updates from Prishtina as Djibril Diallo and global leaders work together to shape a more resilient, inclusive, and interconnected future.

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The Wall Street Herald

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