London: In a strategic move to bolster the negotiation capabilities of conflict-affected nations, the g7+ group a coalition of 20 developing countries from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East has approved the establishment of the Rapid Response Advisory Centre. This initiative, formalized during a September meeting, aims to provide immediate, no-cost assistance to member states engaged in critical negotiations concerning natural resources and infrastructure projects.
The primary objective of the Rapid Response Advisory Centre is to offer swift, practical support to g7+ member countries facing urgent national matters, particularly those involving complex international disputes or negotiations. The centre will facilitate access to a roster of external experts who can provide advisory services, ensuring that these nations are well-informed and equipped to navigate the economic and strategic implications of such engagements.
Habib Ur Rehman Mayar, the group's deputy general-secretary, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that it would help member states understand the economic consequences of their negotiations. This support is especially pertinent as many member states possess significant natural resources such as copper, cobalt, lithium, and gold but often lack the technical expertise to secure favorable terms in international agreements.
The establishment of the advisory centre comes at a time when global interest in the resources of conflict-affected regions is intensifying, driven by the global transition towards low-carbon energy solutions. Countries within the g7+ group hold substantial reserves of critical minerals essential for renewable energy technologies, making them attractive partners for international corporations and governments. However, the lack of negotiation capacity has historically led to unfavorable deals, undermining the potential benefits for these nations.
Beyond immediate negotiation support, the Rapid Response Advisory Centre aims to contribute to broader objectives, including conflict resolution and improved access to climate finance. These areas are expected to be focal points at the upcoming COP30 climate summit in Brazil, where discussions will likely center on how to support vulnerable nations in addressing climate change challenges while fostering sustainable development.
Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Timor-Leste, the g7+ group comprises countries such as Afghanistan, Burundi, Chad, Comoros, Côte d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Liberia, Papua New Guinea, São Tomé and Príncipe, Sierra Leone, the Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Sudan, Togo, and Yemen. Collectively, these nations are recognized as fragile or conflict-affected states, and they hold observer status at the United Nations.
The launch of the Rapid Response Advisory Centre marks a proactive step towards empowering these nations to better manage their resources, engage in equitable negotiations, and ultimately, enhance their prospects for peace and development.