The Australian Business Summit Council Inc. (ABSC Inc.) hosted its 2026 Annual Gala Dinner and Official Launch of EKONOMOS Issue 7 at Aqua Luna Waterfront Dining, Drummoyne, New South Wales, on 29 May 2026.

The event attracted almost 300 guests, including ambassadors, high commissioners, business leaders, academics, bankers, legal practitioners, government representatives, community leaders and members of the media.

                                                                                                       

Held at the waterfront venue overlooking the Parramatta River and Sydney Harbour, the evening highlighted ABSC Inc.’s growing role as a platform for international engagement, economic cooperation, business dialogue and cross-cultural collaboration. The event was hosted by Master of Ceremonies Mr John Gatfield OAM, who warmly acknowledged the distinguished diplomatic presence and welcomed guests to an evening celebrating diplomacy, trade, investment, entrepreneurship and multiculturalism.

The diplomatic representation was exceptional, with ambassadors attending from Indonesia, Egypt, Türkiye, Colombia, Romania, Angola, Mongolia, Zimbabwe, Peru, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Kosovo. High Commissioners from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Ghana, Botswana and Mauritius were also present, together with Deputy High Commissioners, Chargés d’Affaires, Consuls-General and other diplomatic representatives from numerous countries.

ABSC Inc. President Dr Frank Alafaci PhD addressed the audience and reflected on the growth of both the Council and EKONOMOS. He emphasised that the magazine was created as more than a business publication. Rather, it serves as an intellectual platform where ambassadors, diplomats, business leaders, academics, entrepreneurs and policymakers can share insights on trade, investment, innovation, leadership and international cooperation.

                                                                                             

Dr Alafaci noted that economic diplomacy has become a defining force in international relations, with trade and investment increasingly serving as instruments for building partnerships, strengthening stability and encouraging long-term cooperation between nations. He also highlighted the significance of Issue 7, which features contributions from twenty-seven distinguished authors across diplomacy, business, academia and professional practice.

A major highlight of the evening was the keynote address by Mr Taylor Nugent, Senior Economist with the National Australia Bank. Mr Nugent provided an insightful analysis of the economic conditions shaping Australia and the global economy, including inflationary pressures, business confidence, labour market trends, consumer activity, trade dynamics and broader macroeconomic developments.

 

 

The evening also featured two outstanding performances by internationally acclaimed tenor Mr Simon Kim. His Italian operatic and traditional repertoire added a rich cultural dimension to the program and reminded guests of the important role the arts play in fostering understanding between people of different backgrounds.

Dr Alafaci formally launched EKONOMOS Issue 7, describing it as the most internationally diverse edition to date. The launch was followed by recognition ceremonies for contributors and sponsors. Hard copies of the magazine and commemorative crystal plaques were presented to article contributors and representatives, as well as sponsors including Alliance Project Group, Arab Bank Australia Limited, EZGrants, Symphonic Management Consulting, Serenade Leather, Blue River Wines, DRS ABCD First Aid Training and TradeWindow.

                                                                                               

The evening concluded with closing remarks from Mr Gatfield, who thanked Dr Frank Alafaci, Councillor Sylvia Alafaci, the ABSC Inc. Board, committee members, volunteers, sponsors, supporters and diplomatic representatives. The event reinforced ABSC Inc.’s belief that meaningful relationships, constructive dialogue and international cooperation remain essential foundations for economic prosperity, peace and mutual understanding.