The Australian Business Summit Council Inc (ABSC Inc.) hosted its much-anticipated Connect & Cheers: An Evening of Business and Diplomacy in Sydney at The Langham Hotel on 7 August 2025, bringing together over 100 VIPs and guests from government, business, and community leadership.
Blending cultural exchange, international networking, and economic diplomacy in one of Sydney’s most elegant settings, the event was presided over by Dr Frank Alafaci, President of the ABSC Inc., who called it an informal but purposeful space for diplomats and professionals to engage meaningfully.
During his speech, Dr Alafaci explained that the concept for the event came from conversations with diplomats and professionals seeking more accessible, relationship-driven opportunities.
“Consuls General often receive formal invitations and headlines,” he said, “but it is the wider diplomatic and professional community that deserves more opportunities to engage informally — thoughtfully, purposefully, and without the weight of protocol.”
Dr Alafaci also outlined the council’s broader role. As Australia’s premier multisector international trade council, the ABSC Inc connects businesses, diplomats, policymakers, investors, and thought leaders, from boardrooms to global forums. The organisation also publishes EKONOMOS, an international business affairs magazine featuring contributions from ambassadors, executives, and innovators.
The Langham’s refined atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for a night that encouraged both high-level dialogue and personal connection. VIPs and guests were urged to step outside their circles, start new conversations, and explore collaborations.
By evening’s end, there was a strong sentiment that Connect & Cheers should become a recurring fixture on Sydney’s diplomatic and business calendar. With its embrace of cultural diversity, professional ambition, and genuine connection, the event showcased the power of diplomacy and business working hand in hand.
Among the VIPs were His Excellency Mr Ali Saad M H Al-Hajri, Ambassador of the State of Qatar; Mr. Saston Machigere, Deputy Ambassador, Embassy of Zimbabwe; Mr Milan Vagner, Minister/Counsellor, Embassy of the Czech Republic; and Dr Alejandro Rivera Becerra, Counsellor for Economic Affairs, Embassy of Mexico.
Consuls General from the Russian Federation, Italy, Romania, Thailand, and New Zealand attended, as well as Deputy Consuls General from China, Thailand, and Egypt. Representatives from the United States, France, Argentina, Greece, Malaysia, Turkey, Botswana, Qatar, and South Korea added further depth.
Local leaders included Councillor Sylvia Alafaci and Councillor Mas Meuross from the City of Canada Bay.
Eminent business and community figures were also present. Mr. Michael Azzi, President of the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, was acknowledged for his role in strengthening ties between Sydney’s multicultural business community and global diplomacy. Other notable attendees included Dr. Joseph Rizk AM, CEO/Managing Director, Arab Bank Australia Ltd; Mr. Michael Rizk OAM, Head of Trade Relations, Australian Lebanese Chamber of Commerce; Mr. Richard Yuan, Chairman, Australia China Entrepreneurs Club; Mr. John Jiang, President, Australian Dongbei Chinese Chamber of Commerce; Mr. Camil Shalala, Editor-in-Chief, Middle East Times International; and Dr. Patricia Jenkings, President, United Nations Association of Australia (NSW Division).
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