Celebración día del Negociador Internacional 2024, País Invitado Reino de España.

Welcome and Introduction to the Event

Opening Remarks by Stefan Hernández

• Stefan Hernández, a social communicator, welcomes guests and highlights the importance of commercial relations between Colombia and Spain.

• Introduces key guests: Dr. Manuel Valle Muñoz (Economic and Commercial Counselor of the Spanish Embassy in Colombia) and Dr. Enrique Bermejo (Director of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Colombia).

• Mentions live connections with students from various locations including Leticia, Barranquilla, and Cartagena.

Rector's Address

• Dr. Jaime Leal Afanador opens the third edition of International Negotiator Day, expressing gratitude to organizers and participants.

• Emphasizes Spain as the guest country this year, aiming to strengthen international ties amidst global challenges.

• Acknowledges contributions from Dr. Valle Muñoz and Dr. Bermejo towards building alliances with the university.

Significance of International Business Education

Recognition of International Relations Programs

• Highlights Law 556 from 2000 that recognized higher education professions related to international relations in Colombia.

• The university aims to enhance its international business program under the School of Administrative Sciences.

Acknowledgment of Program Leaders

• Recognizes efforts by program leaders, particularly Dr. Sandra Mondragón, for their commitment to student success.

• Notes that there are currently 2,080 students enrolled in the international business program for 2024.

Opportunities for Global Engagement

Vision for Future Leaders

• Stresses that this event is an opportunity to consolidate a society focused on global opportunities.

• Thanks Ana María Alonso for her role in supporting events that foster collaboration between Colombia and Spain.

Role of UNAD's European Section

Introduction by Ana María Alonso

• Ana María Alonso addresses attendees from Madrid, explaining her absence due to responsibilities at UNAD Europe.

Objectives for Internationalization

• Discusses how UNAD Europe acts as a relational platform aimed at fostering internationalization through partnerships with public and private sectors.

Importance of Multicultural Knowledge

• Emphasizes that understanding diverse societies is crucial for effective negotiation strategies in international business contexts.

Creating Competitive Advantages

International Negotiator Day Celebration

Introduction and Welcome

• The event celebrates International Negotiator Day 2024, with congratulations extended to the Cacem for their international business program.

• Dr. Sandra Rocío Mondragón, National Dean of the School of Administrative Sciences, is introduced as the moderator for an interview with Dr. Manuel Valle Muñoz from the Spanish Embassy in Colombia.

Keynote Speaker Introduction

• Dr. Manuel Valle Muñoz is presented as a prominent figure with extensive experience in public administration and private sector roles, including economic advisory positions.

• His qualifications include being an agronomist and holding a master's degree in public administration from Harvard University.

Discussion on Trade Agreements

• The celebration features discussions on significant trade agreements, particularly highlighting Colombia's free trade agreement with the European Union established in 2013.

• Dr. Valle emphasizes that this treaty has benefited Colombian consumers by reducing tariffs and lowering product costs.

Economic Impact of Free Trade

• He asserts that free trade has increased commerce between Spain and Colombia, allowing both countries to benefit economically.

• Dr. Valle advocates for liberal trade policies, citing Spain's historical experiences with competition leading to growth in local industries.

Competitive Advantages and Industry Growth

• He discusses how competition fosters development; Spain now competes globally in sectors like high-speed rail due to embracing competitive markets.

• Emphasizes that barriers to trade can impoverish nations while advocating for support mechanisms like subsidies for local industries instead of protectionism.

Investment Protection Principles

• The conversation shifts towards investment protection principles within international agreements, emphasizing their importance for fostering bilateral investments.

• Dr. Valle highlights a new generation agreement pending ratification by Colombia that aims to enhance protections for investors from both countries.

Conclusion on Business Environment

Investment and Infrastructure Development in Colombia

Importance of Legal Agreements for Investment

• The speaker emphasizes the necessity of legal frameworks that protect the interests of investing companies, ensuring a balanced situation between parties.

• Spain has over 1,000 companies invested in Colombia, particularly strong in infrastructure due to its advanced capabilities in this sector.

Spain's Infrastructure Leadership

• Spain is recognized for having superior infrastructure compared to many Northern European countries, excelling in roads, high-speed trains, and airports.

• Spanish companies have played a crucial role in building global infrastructure, with Latin America being a significant focus due to cultural ties and language.

Sectoral Investments and Security

• Various sectors such as telecommunications, insurance, and banking have invested globally while benefiting from agreements that provide security against potential issues.

• The speaker believes all agreements should be mutually beneficial ("win-win"), highlighting lessons learned from Spain's experiences.

Tourism Cooperation Between Colombia and Spain

• In 2021, an agreement was signed between Colombia and Spain focusing on tourism cooperation aimed at transforming Bogotá into a smart tourist destination.

• Spain ranks as one of the top tourist destinations globally; it received 92 million tourists before the pandemic compared to Colombia's 4.5 million.

Enhancing Tourist Experience through Technology

• The speaker notes that improving safety perceptions and infrastructure will help Colombia attract more tourists by leveraging its natural beauty.

• Spanish methodologies for smart cities are being implemented in Colombian cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali to enhance tourist experiences through better information access.

Future Prospects for Tourism Investment

• Collaboration between Spanish hotel chains and Colombian opportunities is seen as vital for future growth; several chains are expected to invest soon.

The Impact of Investment on Economic Development in Colombia

Security and Economic Growth

• The perception of political security is crucial for economic and tourism development in Colombia, as it influences global user confidence.

Spain-Colombia Alliances in Agribusiness

• Discussion on the various efforts and alliances between Spain and Colombia, particularly focusing on sustainability within agribusiness.

Agricultural Strengths of Spain

• Spain is highlighted as a significant agricultural power, especially in fresh produce, serving as Europe's pantry with advanced technology in greenhouse management and irrigation.

Technological Collaboration Opportunities

• There are existing Spanish companies operating in Colombia, with potential projects like coffee production benefiting from Spanish expertise in olive oil and wine technologies.

Coffee Project Initiative

• A project named "Supr Café" aims to enhance coffee production by training 500 women ex-combatants using advanced technology for quality improvement.

Enhancing Colombian Exports through Technology

Innovative Techniques for Coffee Production

• The project utilizes cutting-edge methods such as X-ray technology to separate coffee beans, showcasing the exchange of industrial experiences between Spain and Colombia.

Importance of Quality Improvement

• Emphasizes that improving product quality can increase profitability for Colombian exports like coffee, bananas, and avocados while highlighting Spain's role as a major buyer.

Sustainability Policies: EU's Farm to Fork Strategy

Compliance with EU Standards

• Spain offers support to help Colombia align with the EU’s "Farm to Fork" policy, ensuring compliance with sustainability standards during export processes.

Circular Economy Initiatives

• Highlights the importance of adopting circular economy practices to minimize waste and maximize resource utilization within agricultural sectors.

Tips for Aspiring International Business Negotiators

Education in Negotiation Skills

• Stresses the necessity of studying negotiation techniques as they are applicable throughout life; emphasizes their relevance beyond formal education settings.

Daily Application of Negotiation

• Reflecting on personal experiences at Harvard where negotiation skills were emphasized; notes that everyday interactions often involve negotiations without conscious awareness.

Real-world Experience Sharing

International Negotiator Day Celebration

Overview of the Event

• The discussion begins with a reference to the Airbus aircraft, highlighting its successful construction by four European governments: Spain, France, Germany, and the UK. This serves as an example of international collaboration despite accusations of dumping.

• Acknowledgment of International Negotiator Day is made by Dr. Manuel, representing the School of Economic Sciences and Business. He emphasizes the importance of negotiation skills throughout one's professional career.

Presentation of "Intelligent and Productive Work"

• Dr. Manuel presents a book titled "Intelligent and Productive Work," which focuses on management principles for effectively managing organizations and human talent in business contexts.

• Gratitude is expressed towards Dr. Leal for his contributions, along with appreciation for being interviewed during this significant event.

Cultural Representation

• The speaker introduces "molas," traditional Colombian crafts symbolizing wisdom from ancestors, as a gift representing Colombia's culture during the celebration.

• The vibrant artistic expressions in Colombia are acknowledged as a point of pride, enhancing cultural appreciation among attendees.

Introduction to Special Guest

• The audience is invited to welcome Dr. Enrique Bermejo, Director of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Colombia, who has over 25 years of international experience in strategic business operations.

• Dr. Bermejo's role includes leading initiatives that strengthen bilateral commercial relations between Spain and Colombia while focusing on operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

Role of the Spanish Chamber in Colombia

• The Spanish Chamber acts as a networking hub for Spanish companies operating in Colombia alongside local businesses; it organizes various events to enhance business relationships.

• A board comprising major Spanish companies facilitates high-level networking opportunities within both institutional and corporate sectors.

Overview of Business Strategies and Innovations

Focus on Improvement and Sustainability

• The chamber aims to identify areas for improvement in member companies while fostering a supportive network to enhance competitive levels.

• A newly established commission focuses on sustainable and responsible business practices, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through new measures and actions.

Global Strategies for Strengthening Business Relations

• Dr. Bermejo emphasizes the importance of building trust and providing guidance to companies entering Colombian or Spanish markets.

• Key strategies include advising on international agreements that benefit trade, promoting exports, offering financial support, and personalized assistance for SMEs.

Innovation Through Technology Adoption

• The integration of information technology is crucial for organizational competitiveness; businesses must adapt to these changes.

• The chamber has led various initiatives promoting innovation, including a successful hackathon aimed at enhancing Colombia's innovation ecosystem.

Importance of Multicultural Perspectives in International Business

• Studying international business with a multicultural focus enriches knowledge, enhances communication skills, and aids in adapting to global markets.

• This approach prepares individuals to tackle challenges and seize opportunities within diverse business environments effectively.

Networking Opportunities in International Negotiation

• Appreciation is expressed towards members of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Colombia for their contributions during the International Negotiator Day celebration.

• An invitation is extended for audience participation via an attendance link shared during the event.

Academic Engagement from Triple Border Region

• Students from the International Business program present insights from the Amazonian triple border area between Colombia, Brazil, and Peru.

International Negotiator Day Celebration

Overview of the Event

• The event highlights the significant role of international negotiators in enhancing commercial and productive relationships within the country.

Greetings from Leticia

• Transitioning to Leticia, 20 students from the International Business program are introduced alongside their director, Mónica Mildret Quintero Saldarriaga, who leads SECAP.

Special Occasion Acknowledgment

• Mónica expresses that today is special as it marks International Negotiator Day, emphasizing a practical exercise for students to strengthen both theoretical and practical aspects of their education.

Student Engagement and Future Prospects

• Students are encouraged to enhance their academic journey through this celebration, which aims to prepare them for future endeavors in international business.

Salutations and Celebrations

• A warm greeting is extended to viewers celebrating International Negotiator Day with enthusiasm.

Activities at Barranquilla

Introduction by Dr. Melia Yolima Padilla

• The scene shifts to Barranquilla where Dr. Melia Yolima Padilla greets attendees alongside students from various regions, celebrating International Negotiator Day.

Importance of Recognition

• Dr. Padilla emphasizes the importance of recognizing international negotiation skills as vital for academic life and professional development in Colombia.

Visit to Cartagena Port

Insights from Dr. Wilton Manuel Mendoza Romero

• At Cartagena's port, Dr. Wilton Manuel Mendoza Romero introduces the location as one of the most efficient ports globally while congratulating international negotiators on their contributions.

Learning Through Experience

• The visit serves as an opportunity for students to engage in "learning in context," applying knowledge gained virtually during real-world experiences at the port.

Conclusion of Celebrations

Acknowledgments and Reflections

• Gratitude is expressed towards participating students, directors, and faculty members who contributed to making International Negotiator Day a success through national disciplinary meetings.

Value of Practical Experience

• Emphasizing that visits like these provide invaluable experiences beyond virtual classrooms, helping students develop essential skills for their careers in international business.

Closing Remarks